Based myself in Canmore and made daily trips to Banff for hiking and sightseeing. I wasn't prepared for how stunning the Rocky Mountains would be—easily one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. The jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, and endless wilderness felt almost surreal.
What surprised me just as much was the food and hospitality. Expected great nature, but the culinary scene and how welcoming everyone was really caught me off guard. Perfect combination of breathtaking landscapes and unexpectedly good everything else. Canmore made for a great base—quieter than Banff town but still close to all the trails and viewpoints.