Banff and the much needed sweatshirt!
Leave the stilettos behind gals, summertime in Banff requires only great hiking shoes and walking/gym shoes. However, if like me, you couldn’t possibly think of leaving home without a fashionable pair, throw in cute and casual wedges or flats, for that spur- of-the-moment dinner date.
Having traveled to Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal and Calgary, I wasn’t sure what to expect from Banff, UNESCO World Heritage site. It brought to mind past visions of Yosemite, Whistler and Tahoe; the town having a quaint, smaller ski-village-feel. The mood relaxed, and dare I say, “granola”? Nonetheless, the locals were so charming and friendly, we found it to be a wonderfully cozy visit!
Of course, I packed for hiking (a MUST here), including Keens, wicking tanks by lululemon and North Face light weight hiking capris. What I didn’t expect was that I would need to go shopping the first day for a couple sweatshirts, one with wicking and one lined with fur for warmth. And,OMG, a bear bell to wear on my wrist! Who knew while hiking I would put on the multiple layers just in time for the sun to come out at 8000 feet and then to shed them all? Trekking uphill on our 5 hr, 2500-something incline, over rocks and snow (yes, in July), it was all very worth it. In the evening however, I was able to sport a couple of feminine ensembles, even though I felt a little over-dressed. But, a fashionistas gotta do what a fashionistas gotta do, right?!
I look forward to our next trip to Banff during the winter ski season when I can pack my on-trend fur cuffs. Wonderful dinners, fabulous spa day at Fairmont Banff Springs and wading in the sulfur pool…all good, eh?




