Canada - Day 6 - Banff to Canmore via Spray Lakes

30.6 miles, 2316’ climbing, 🐺1 wolf, some deer, no bears

It was cold, and there was still snow on the ground when we woke up. Tents were wet.  We packed up as best we could, no real hurry. Matt planned to go north,  and we planned to a check the weather, and take a short ride south on the GNBR so we could thoroughly dry our gear out. We decided to see the cave hot springs in Banff before leaving town, but we found it was closed for the week when we arrived. Instead we took a slow pedal up to Sundance canyon on a paved trail by the river. Lo and behold, we spotted a wolf across the water. He retreated when he saw us, but we got a good look and a decent pic. Back in Banff we had an early lunch, then headed up the GNBR towards Spray Lakes. In spite of all the rain, the trail was in great condition with only shallow puddles to cross. About 4 miles from town, our route joined the tour divide route which we traversed the last two years, and it brought back a lot of memories of those events. In 12 miles, we saw 4 mountain bikers and a few hikers, it really felt like we were alone. 

Eventually we reached the cutoff to Canmore where we admired a beautiful reservoir before making the quick descent to town. I think we’re at a lower elevation than Banff, do we didn’t gain many route miles on our ride today. Also it’s a huge climb back to the trail.

Our hotel in Canmore is pretty nice. We chatted with a couple from Toronto in the hot tub, then walked to the market to get groceries. Back in our room, we ate dinner while cheering on the Oilers in the Stanley Cup finals (like the locals). We washed every item of clothing we have, so that will be nice on the next couple days.