Early Autumn at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

I decided on a driving visit from Calgary to Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. I wanted to try the David Thompson Highway this time instead of the usual Banff-Jasper Highway 93 both ways. The highlight of using the David Thompson was the beautiful Big Horn Dam and Lake in the foothills.

Up my sleeve, I wanted to visit to the new Parks Canada-Brewster SKYWALK installation - the already famous glass-floored outlook jutting from the cliff face into the Sunwapta Valley. I only looked down once! This year was also the 50th Anniversary of the Jasper Tramway. Being confident with my daylight time, I also made stops at both Sunwapta and Athabasca Falls where many beautiful photos were taken.

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge was always my parents favourite retreat. I can easily see why, and can't believe that 2013 was my first visit. This year was a return visit. Just walking the property and looking onto Lake Beauvert and surrounding mountains can take your breath away. In the Grand Lodge, the best views are in the Emerald Lounge and in the Cavell Dining Room.

This year, it was only steps from my room to lakeside and about a 5 minute walk to the Grand Lodge - I wish it was longer. But that's what after brunch walks are for!

Next year, I think I'll take in the Dark Skies Festival and cast my eyes from the mountain tops to the heavens.