Prevailing wind patterns along the Kananaskis Valley mean Barrier Lake is usually windy with rolling waves and whitecaps. Layer on the fact that it's usually very busy and Barrier Lake was NOT on our list for our first season of kayaking adventures. But as a Plan B option on a cool and rainy day, it worked well.
When water levels are high enough, the first and second Vermilion Lakes are connected by a channel that parallels Vermilion Lakes Road. Together, the two lakes create about a 10 km paddling loop, with lots of opportunities for bird spotting/photography, surrounded by beautiful mountains.
There's a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem that comes from doing it yourself! And sometimes, after doing something yourself for the first time, you realize you're better off paying someone else to do it for you going forward. Competency isn't just about learning/knowing how to do things. It's about knowing the value of your time and the value you get back from expending your time.
After a great day paddling Upper Kananaskis Lake, we headed for another big lake for our next kayaking adventure. Lake Minnewanka is the longest lake in Banff National Park, and a popular choice for mountain biking, hiking, boating, scuba diving, backcountry camping, photography and skating!
The trip counter on the Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail between Canmore and Banff registered the one millionth trip milestone in mid-June. There was absolutely NO fanfare or media coverage that I've been able to find! But it's a great excuse to share our top recommendations for cycling adventures that include the Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail.