Welcome to Banff National Park!

Today was the day that the Big Mountain Challenge began. It’s crazy that it’s finally starting! I met Dan at the airport and waited for our ride to the Banff Springs Hotel. According to our itinerary, “few hotels in the world can rival the majesty, hospitality and scenery of The Fairmont Banff Springs“. And it’s so true! Thanks to Brewster Travel Canada, Dan and I were able to board the shuttle to Banff. 

We checked in only to find out that we had been upgraded to a fancier room in the Stanley Thompson Wing. Wow! When we entered the room, the phone rang almost immediately. It was Don, the VIP Concierge, asking us if our stay had been okay so far. It certainly had been. It was a bit surreal when he said he dealt with celebrities and high profiled guests. Dan and I looked at each other thinking, “Are we high profile??”. We chuckled. The room itself is pretty incredible- two queen sized beds in one room; a very large bathroom; a living room with flat screen TV, fireplace, and a Keurig coffee maker; and a quite impressive view of the mountains. How wonderful! 

The rest of the day was spent wandering around Banff, taking in the sights, sounds and beauty; stopping at Saltlik for dinner; and shopping for some extra gear for our big hikes. There was much laughter, catching up with Dan, and re-living the experience so far that resulted in this amazing opportunity. In a few hours, we begin the first mountain: Cascade. I’m pretty excited! Considering it’s almost 1 am and that the hike starts at 6 am, I should get to bed now. Thanks Banff Lake Louise Tourism for organizing a great first day! Goodnight :).