Trip to Winter Wonderland Trip, Day 3 : Sleigh Ride

Kim did an excellent job reserving many winter activities through the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. We did our best to keep them a surprise from the kids. Our first big event was the sleigh ride which took us a good distance around the lake and stopped at a frozen waterfall. Others were cross-country skiing or snow shoeing along the way. It was fun passing them by, but it sure was chilly! The color of the frozen waterfall, best described as a powder blue or arctic blue, a vividness to it in person. It was a little disconcerting seeing the heavy sleighs and horses stop on the frozen lake itself, as we saw some icy, somewhat clearer patches as we brushed away the surface snow. The sun set quickly as we finished our evening sleigh ride.

Trip to Winter Wonderland Trip, Day 3 : The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

The drive up to the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise was spectacular, with the tall snow-topped trees leading us on our way. This Fairmont is the only hotel directly adjacent to Lake Louise, it made it extra special and convenient staying there for four nights, we would be able to enjoy the scenery and the amenities the resort had to offer. We were blown away by the backdrop of mountains and our suite with balcony. The cousins excitedly greeted each other and posed among the various ice sculptures, just warming up to the activities that lay ahead.

Trip to Winter Wonderland Trip, Day 3 : Banff Village

We woke up early next morning to head to Lake Louise. Kim's family had arrived in Calgary the night before and were on the road as well. The drive took about two hours, the halfway point was close to Banff Village. We took a stroll and had crepes for lunch. Prior to the trip, a couple of my coworkers to me to "keep your ears warm"! That was definitely good advice!

Trip to Winter Wonderland Trip, Day 2 : Calgary Tower

We made reservations at Sky 360, the restaurant located at the top of Calgary Tower. Admission to the tower is included with dinner, and we arrived 30 minutes prior to our meal to take in the city sights. Because the Calgary Tower was constructed in the late 1960's, I did not expect a glass floor viewing area, something that seems to be a trend recently with some landmarks (Grand Canyon Skywalk, Skydeck Chicago) I found out that the glass floor extension was added in 2005. Only Sam took to it readily and comfortably.

The dinner was very special, the restaurant revolves ever so slowly and gives amazing views of Calgary. The service was wonderful, as well as the food. Sam devoured an 8 ounce steak, Steve enjoyed bison ribs, and Anna and I had pasta entrees. Our experience at Calgary Tower and Sky 360 was a big highlight of our entire trip.