If you are like my family, you may find your summers more busy than not. For us, with newly rolled sod and a big growing garden the ‘usual’ summer vacation is not going to be in the plans this year. But, that doesn’t mean there will be no summer vacation. I find myself, and my children really enjoying mini vacations, day trips discovering the attractions in and around B.C. and Southern Alberta. It also seems that getting to know what’s around the area is a really positive learning experience as well as a great “close to home” reminder of the fun we have had.
Whether or not your family is planning on taking a big summer vacation, be sure to check out some of our favourite places to go that are just a day away.
Grave Lake, located just between Sparwood and Elkford is always a popular place to go as it is the closest to home. The 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.
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. We always find something new to check out at the interpretive center and take walks on one of the many trails trying to picture what the village looked like before the slide.
Fort Steele, this place hold a special place in my heart as it is where my husband and I were married, but it also is full of fun and inexpensive thing for families to do. 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.
These are just some of the places we enjoy. 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 your story.