As the summer season is at its peak many families are heading out on vacation. For some this may mean a weeklong trip putting thousands of kilometers behind them. For other families, this may not be the case but, that doesn't mean there will be no summer vacation. Mini vacations or day trips discovering the attractions in and around B.C. and Southern Alberta is something that is fun, enriching and creates summer vacation memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether or not your family is planning on taking a big summer vacation, be sure to check out some of these places to go that are just a day away.
Elk Valley Regional Park is a beautiful park with a fire pit, covered eating area, ball diamonds and big open fields. The park is surrounded by mountain peaks and is peaceful and pristine.
Grave Lake and Sulpher Springs are located between Sparwood and Elkford are always a popular places to go. Grave Lake is always stunning sitting just in front of a backdrop of mountains. A picnic lunch and brave children who love the cool water make this a great place to spend a hot summer afternoon. Sulpher Springs is not for the faint. The warm water is soothing being located in the middle of the forest, creating a serene and peaceful experience, once you get used to the smell.
Fernie Alpine Resort and Annex Park. At Fernie Alpine Resort families can always find something new to do during summer, whether it's going on a horseback ride, taking the chairlift to view the sights, having a relaxing lunch at the Lost Boys Cafe or going on a leisurely hike, being outdoors is always something that every family will enjoy. Grabbing an ice cream and heading to Annex Park is something our kids most enjoy.
Frank Slide is always awe inspiring. Whether you have been there once or many times the magnitude of destruction that has taken place seems to fascinate everyone who visits. There is always something new to check out at the interpretive center or take a walk on one of the many trails trying to picture what the village looked like before the slide.
Fort Steele, is an amazing turn back in time. Children can participate in many hands on activities and learn a lot about pioneers and their heritage. There are wagon rides, old fashion theater shows, old fashion candy, and train rides to keep even the most energetic child entertained all day.
Waterton Lake National Park offers everything imaginable in a day away vacation. Not only are you guaranteed to see wildlife there are many lakes, creeks and picnic spots to set down and enjoy the scenery. Families can horseback ride, take a float onto Cameron Lake, take a walk through the beautiful Red Rock Canyon, dine at any one of the amazing little restaurants or check out the quaint and unique little shops on main street, just to name a few things. A cooling mist from the waterfalls is always a great end to a Waterton vacation.
To find out more things to do that are only a day away visit local Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Centers and play tourist in your back yard. Or better yet, pack a lunch, hit the road and see where it takes you.
If your family has had a great experience on a mini, day away vacation, let us know about it. Email blackrocknews@thefreepress.ca and we will share you story.