Banff National Park, Canada

Happy Independence Day, USA! Nick and I enjoyed the holiday in Banff National Park, Canada (yes, we realize we weren't being very patriotic, but it was one of the few times we were able to make the trip without taking extra vacation days). We stayed in Canmore, which is just outside the park (on the border of Alberta and British Columbia) and it was about a 6 hour drive for us from home. The Canadian Rockies were absolutely beautiful! We got to see some wildlife and even managed to do several easier hikes with Ellie. Some highlights of the trip included a walk around Lake Louise, Mistaya Canyon hike, Lake Hector hike, and a gondola ride up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. Banff, itself, is an adorable little town located inside the park. It has lots of shops, lodges, and a bunch of really great restaurants. It is definitely a sight to see and we recommend the trip! The only downfall to our weekend was that we discovered the day we got home that Eliana had a double ear infection (the altitude changes probably didn't help!). But she seems to be doing better! Here are some photos from our trip: