North America Archives - Travel with the Smile

Adventure travel guide to Banff National Park

Banff National Park is the most popular national park in Canada. With picturesque alpine lakes, hiking trails to the Canadian Rockies peaks, easy to visit glaciers and many more outdoor possibilities, it’s easy to understand why people want to visit Banff at least...

Rockbound Lake Hike in Banff National Park

A lesser-known hike in the Canadian Rockies will take you to two alpine lakes and summit views. Rockbound Lake Hike is a great day trip in Banff National Park. If you’ve ever driven to Lake Louise, you noticed the long ridge of Castle Mountain on the right side. Who...

Icefields Parkway itinerary: a scenic drive from Lake Louise to Jasper (including map)

One of the world’s most scenic drives. Magnificent… that’s the word that comes to my mind when I think of the Icefields Parkway. The Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) is a 230 km road through the finest landscapes of the Canadian Rockies stretching from Banff National...

Ha Ling Peak Hike vs Mount Lawrence Grassi – which one to choose?

While Ha Ling Peak Hike is the most popular in Canmore, its neighbour Mount Lawrence Grassi offers the same views without the crowds on the trail (but it’s not easy). Read our comparison to choose which one is best for you. Hiking in the Canadian Rockies is more...

Cheapest way to travel across Canada

I can speak from experience that Canada is not the cheapest place to visit. It’s considered expensive. I’m using the word “considered” intentionally because I think Canada is only as expensive as you make it. It is absolutely possible to visit on a budget. This guide...

20 fun outdoor things to do in Canmore, Canada

Canmore is a little known neighbour of Banff and has everything you might be looking for – mountain views, lakes, hikes and plenty of areas to relax after an adventure filled day. I believe there’s plenty to choose from our list of 20 fun outdoor things to do in...

Hiking & Camping at Lake O’Hara: the complete guide to Yoho’s paradise

Lake O’Hara and a surrounding area featuring hiking trails and crystal clear lakes are truly unique alpine experience in Yoho National Park. It is away from the crowds and offers much-needed solitude that people seek in nature. If you want to visit, you need to plan...

How to get from Calgary to Banff: complete breakdown of all options

How to get from Calgary to Banff includes quite a few options. Our article has details about all transportation options with costs breakdown for all budgets. The below detailed breakdown covers several frequently asked questions: how to get to Banff National Park...

Hiking in Jasper National Park: 17 best hikes for all levels

With plenty of hikes to suit every level, mesmerizing lakes, glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife, hiking in Jasper is always inspiring. Our list of best hikes in Jasper is growing every year as we’re coming back for more. After living in Banff National Park for a...

An epic travel guide to the Canadian Rockies

Always wanted to see the mountain peaks, stunning lakes and wildlife of the Rocky Mountains in Canada? We’ve got you covered. Our detailed guide to the Canadian Rockies will help you plan your trip. We cover all the questions you might have: What to do in the Canadian...