The Calgary shuttle to Banff is a popular means of transportation for visitors to the Canadian Rockies. The shuttle provides an easy and convenient way to get from Calgary to Banff, without having to worry about renting a car or finding parking. There are several companies that operate shuttle services between Calgary and Banff, so it is important to do some research before deciding which one to use. In this blog post, we will provide an overview of the different shuttle services available, as well as tips for first time visitors to the Canadian Rockies.
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History (brief) of Travel between Calgary and Banff
It is believed that the first people to travel between Calgary and Banff were the Indigenous peoples of North America. The most well-known group to travel this route were the Blackfoot, who used it as a hunting and gathering ground. Other groups known to have used the route include the Cree, Stoney, and Blood.
The first non-Indigenous people to travel between Calgary and Banff were likely voyageurs or fur traders, although there is no firm evidence of this.
In the early 1880s, the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) was being built across the country and a route was needed to get through the Rocky Mountains. There were a few options for routes, but the most direct one went through what is now Banff National Park. This eventually led to an increase in tourism to Banff National Park, which is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada.
In 1884, George Nelson Blaker was hired by the CPR to survey a route through the park and construction of the first road from Calgary to Banff began shortly after. The road wasn’t an easy one to build. It went through some of the most rugged terrain in the Rockies and required several bridges to be built across rivers and creeks. Construction took almost two years to complete and cost over $1 million.
Today, the road is known as the Banff-Lake Louise Parkway and is a popular tourist route. It winds through some of the most scenic parts of the Rockies, past glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine lakes. It’s also home to wildlife including elk, bighorn sheep, and bears.
You Have Options When Choosing a Calgary Shuttle to Banff
There are several companies that operate shuttle services between Calgary and Banff, so it is important to do some research before deciding which one to use. Some of the most popular shuttle services include the Rocky Mountain Express, the Banff Airporter, and the Brewster Express.
Each company offers different amenities and pricing options, so it is important to compare them before making a decision. For example, the Rocky Mountain Express says they offer Wi-Fi on board their shuttles, while the Banff Airporter tells it like it is, coverage between Calgary and Banff is spotty and if they can’t do it right, they won’t do it at all. The Brewster Express is typically more expensive than the other two options, but they offer a complimentary pick-up service from your hotel in Calgary.
Our Recommended Calgary Shuttle to Banff: Banff Airporter
The Banff Airporter is another popular option for those looking for a shuttle service between Calgary and Banff. One of the main advantages of the Banff Airporter is their flexible scheduling. They offer multiple departures and arrivals times, so you can easily find a time that works for you. The Banff Airporter also offers a variety of pricing options, depending on how many people are in your group and whether or not you require round-trip transportation.
Brewster Express Features
The Brewster Express is typically more expensive than the other shuttle services, but they offer a complimentary pick-up service from your hotel in Calgary. The Brewster Express offers multiple departures and arrivals times, so you can easily find a time that works for you.
Rocky Mountain Express Features
The Rocky Mountain Express is a popular shuttle service that operates between Calgary and Banff. One of the main features that sets the Rocky Mountain Express apart from other shuttle services is their Wi-Fi on board their shuttles. This is a great option for those who want to stay connected while on the shuttle.
Tips for First Time Visitors to the Canadian Rockies
If you are visiting the Canadian Rockies for the first time, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, it is important to stay hydrated, as the altitude can cause dehydration. Second, be prepared for changes in weather, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains. Third, pack appropriate clothing, as the temperatures can vary greatly depending on the time of year. By following these tips, you will be sure to have a enjoyable and memorable trip to the Canadian Rockies.
Conclusion
Taking the Calgary shuttle to Banff is a great way to visit the Canadian Rockies. There are several companies that operate shuttle services between Calgary and Banff, so it is important to do some research before deciding which one to use. In this blog post, we have provided an overview of the different shuttle services available, as well as tips for first time visitors to the Canadian Rockies. We hope that this information will help you plan your trip and have a great experience in the Rockies!