When Walter Wilcox stood at the shores of Moraine Lake in 1889 and penned "No scene has given me an equal impression of inspiring solitude and rugged grandeur". He had no idea of the impact,this jewel of the Rockies would have on untold millions of visitors and hikers alike. This gem of the Rockies and the Valley of The Ten Peaks had been depicted on the Canadian 20 dollar bill {now a collectors item}. The lodge at Moraine Lake is a a full service establishment in a tranquil setting, that has possibilities for your honeymoon. For me, this is clearly my favorite mountain lake and is readily accessible for and by all. Drive time from Banff is approx. 60 min.

The spectacular rushing waters of Banff's Bow Falls are a 10 meter high cascading torrent that all season long is an ever changing natural wonder. A majestic ice sculpture in winter, to a rushing torrent, come the spring runoff, the scene is never quite the same. This has been a standard in Banff, as a wedding site for many a bride and groom. The views are spectacular either toward the falls or down stream looking toward the Fairholme range. The falls never dissapoint. Drive time from anywhere in Banff is 5 min.

This expansive and grand view from Norquay meadow or known locally as the 'green spot' is a South facing vantage point, from which to overlook the Banff townsite , Mount Rundle to the East, Sulphur Mountain to the South East and Vermillion Lakes to the South. With abundant wild life on route and stunning views, this winding 6km. drive or{4 miles}, climb's it's way to Banff's first ski hill, established approx.1918. The meadow is in excess of 300 m over Banff's altitude of 1320 meters thus making it a cool mile high. Drive time from Banff is 10 min. then a 1 min walk. An overwhelming view, easily reached by all.

The approximately 9 min. gondola trip to the sub peak of Sulphur mountain is a breathtaking ride. It will give you a sense of the majestic scale of the Rocky Mtns. and the Bow Valley watershed.With an ultimate elevation of 2,285 m. or 7,540 ft., give or take a bit for erosion, is easily the quickest way to feel like a mountaineer. The new vista trail board walk will take you to Sanson peak and the now retired meteorological station that was frequented by Norman Sanson for more than 30 years. During this time he logged in more than 1,000 ascents as Banff's meteoroligist. Sometimes breezy but always stunning, this will give your wedding photo's a new meaning to spectacular. It is a 10 min. drive from Banff, and has lot's of parking. The more rigorous route is the 1 hr. + walk, just don't wear your good clothes.

When the Banff Springs hotel opened it's doors in 1914 it was to much fanfare. The past century has seen celebrity's ,diplomats, royalty and many other notables pass through it's hallowed halls. With cathedral like Mt. Stephen Hall and a variety of beautiful rooms for your wedding ceremony, this hotel has much to offer. The stunning views overlooking the Bow River, and the famous, Par 71, Stanley Thompson designed golf course, this stunning hotel rings of a bygone era of finery and refinement. An old world charm with all the modern amenities. The Willowsream Spa is rated one of the finest in the world and can pamper a bride and groom like no other. Access to Banff is a 5 min. drive or a casual 15 min. walk into town. Located just above the Bow Falls there are many tranquill hiking trails that lead to the Bow River and into Banff as well. This is the Grande Dame of hotels.

Buffalo Mountain Lodge is set on the northern end of Sleeping Buffalo Mtn./ Tunnel Mtn. This fine lodge holds the Wapiti Room, that will provide you with a rustic yet sophisticated setting for your wedding day. This beautiful log structure with grand fireplace has a mountain oriented feeling. Set into the trees, this is a mountain lodge that has world class dining as well as outdoor charisma. The meadow behind the hotel can also offer you an outdoor setting with all the comforts of home close at hand. A 5 min. drive to town and all it's amenities give you the best of both worlds. Biking and hiking are at your back door.

Chateau Lake Louise located at the foot of emerald green Lake Louise and the Plain of Six Glaciers. is as stunning a setting as you could find anyhere in the world. Built in it's present state in the 1930's and situated in Banff National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Park, is in close proximity to the overwhelming mountain drive to the Columbia Icefields. This area has an appeal to mountain lovers and outdoor enthusiast's alike. Every season has something to take breath away. Winter with the skating rink and ice castle, complete with stunning ice carvings, to long warm summer days and cool mountain mornings, but don't forget the fall season, with the aspen and larch trees turning a golden yellow. Allow a 40 min. drive from Banff. Pack your walking boots or shoes, you can stretch your legs here.