I’ve been swamped to the extreme as of lately, so I’m handing the reigns over to the good guys & gals at ExploreRockies to tell you about some of the best things to see and do while exploring Banff. These guys live and breathe the Rockies, so you know you’re getting the information straight from the horses mouth!

When you plan your next holiday, if you are looking for beautiful scenery and a family vacation that no one will ever forget, look no further than magnificent Banff, Canada. Banff is located in the friendly province of Alberta, nestled into the Canadian Rockies. Sitting pretty at an impressive 1383 meters (4537 feet), it is the second-highest city in the country and offers something for everyone.

The Columbia Icefield

The Columbia Icefield is a spectacle to behold. It lies at the southern end of Jasper National  Park and receives up to a staggering seven meters (275 in) of snow a year. It is the home of  eight glaciers: Athabasca Glacier, Castleguard Glacier, Columbia Glacier, Dome Glacier,  Stufield Glacier, and Saskatchewan Glacier.

Lake Louise

The Banff Gondola

Skiing

Banff is one of the indisputably best locations in the entire world to go skiing. It consistently  ranks among peoples’ favourites alongside the Swiss Alps and the fantastic runs in the United  States in Colorado and Utah.

Hiking

Gap Adventures is a multi-national adventure travel company that’s been around since 1991. Since Day One they have been promoting social and eco-friendly travel to each of their many locations, which believe it or not, now includes all seven continents on Earth. Gap continues, to this day, to be the leader in eco-tourism and bringing travellers out of their shell and into the world.

As of recently not only can you experience the the thrill that Gap offers, you can do so with the benefit of Flight Centres travel consultants. They’ll be there for you, helping you make the crucial decisions needed to make your trip a successful one.

Flight Centre and Gap Adventures take care of just about everything, so the hardest part of it all is deciding where you want to go next. Gap Travel currently offers more than 1000 adventure tours, so the best thing you can do is research and ask questions. Thankfully Flight Centre makes that simple as well. You can easily browse through every tour that is offered and find out the specifics. From price, to length of time, to what you’ll see and what you’ll be doing when you’re there.

One thing I love about this partnership they have setup, is the information they have available for you. Upon finding a tour you’re interested in, clicking ‘More information’ will bring you to a page with a tour summary, details on the itinerary, the difficulty of the tour, the dates and rates, as well as a contact number which you can call if you have any other questions. For those not in a hurry, you can also inquire online, something that’s crucial in this day and age, however something that is often overlooked by booking companies.

So what am I getting at? Well, if you’re new to travel, and want to experience something a little outside the realm of normality, booking a Gap Adventure through Flight Centre can be an amazing wall to lean on while you’re adjusting to your newfound surroundings. You can never have too much help when making a big decision like travel!

Crashed Ice is what you get when you amp up a bunch of hockey players on Red Bull, tell them to race to the bottom of an icy hill, and be a hero. At all costs. Mayhem, adrenaline, speed, and nasty spills typically ensue. Fans describe it as a mix of hockey, downhill skating, and boardercross.

The Crashed Ice courses typically take place in an urban environment with thousands of people lining up along the course to get a glimpse of some of the action.

The Next Crashed Ice Event!

Crashed Ice’s next event is March 20th, 2010 in Quebec City! If you have the opportunity to check it out. Please go. For me. I wish to every deity, demi-god, or semi influential political figure that someday I’ll be able to go down a Crashed Ice Course. Every bone in my body aches to be hurt by this piece of architectural ingenuity. In the meantime, I have a date with a lot of drinks on March 20th at the nearest pub. Cheer loud!

Contact Billetech at 1 877 643-8131 or visit www.billetech.com for tickets ($30 + taxes).

Check out last years Crashed Ice in Quebec City and try to not want to be there…you can’t can you?

1. Craven Country Jamboree

Craven Country Jamboree is Canada’s longest running multi-day music festival. Known locally as just “Craven”, this unique festival is located on the same plot of land for 25 years, smack-dab in the middle of the Qu’Appelle Valley. 23,500 fans flock to the small town of Craven, Saskatchewan to catch four days of some of the worlds best Country Music.

The 2009 lineup included George Strait, Taylor Swift, Clint Black, Kellie Pickler, Billy Ray Cyrus, and the Charlie Daniels Band. Whether you’re into Country Music or not, if you like drinking (heavily), you’ll fit in just fine here. Don’t forget to bring a cowboy hat, a tent you have no sentimental feelings about, and a few cases of Pilsner.

Check out Craven’s website and watch for the 2010 lineup being announced soon.

Photo by Tim Wiest

2. Regina Folk Fest

Come the 2nd weekend of August, downtown Regina’s Victoria Park is flooded with 20, 000 people seeking to catch a glimpse of their favourite folk and indie bands. This festival has been going on for over 40 years, and in recent years has been scoring some huge names in the indie/folk scene. Recently they were able to get Blue Rodeo, Michael Franti, Iron & Wine, Bedouin Soundclash, Steve Earle, Feist, Nihaz, Buck 65 and many more. Tickets are relatively cheap considering how many bands you’re able to see, and when the music isn’t playing there are countless workshops you can attend, along with children’s activities going on to keep every member of the family entertained.

Check out the Regina Folk Fest website for more information.

3. Hot Summer Days at the Lake

Those who have never been to Canada have a strange assumption that’s it’s always cold up here. Toss in a unfamiliar province name like Saskatchewan, and within one sentence you’ve gone from being a regular guy or girl to being an expert in Igloo and Quinzhee Design.(Read How to build an Igloo) Fact of the matter is, come summer time, this place get’s hot. Between the months of June and September, the weather in Saskatchewan will stay well above 30 degrees Celsius  for weeks on end, and occasionally make it all the way up to 40. With over 100,000 lakes scattered across this square shaped province, you’re sure to find somewhere close by to cool off.

If your staying in Regina, you’re best bet is to check out Last Mountain Lake. It’s roughly 40 km North West of Regina. This lake is 70 km long, and only 2 km wide at it’s widest portions. Local favourites of Last Mountain Lake include Regina Beach, Grandview Beach, and Rowan’s Ravine Provincial Park, which has a marina for boaters and sea-dooers, a full service campground, a small restaurant, and every campers favourite…mini golf.

4. Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding in the Prairies

The thought of downhill skiing or snowboarding in the prairies has boggled the mind of many a non-flat-landers alike. “How is it downhill if it’s always flat?” – Glad you asked Kemo Sabe – Saskatchewan is home to thousands of valleys and hills, some of which are large enough to ski or snowboard down. The demand for winter activities in Saskatchewan has caused several Ski Resorts to pop up around Saskatchewan. Including Mission Ridge, 40 Minutes from Regina (near Fort Qu’Appelle),  Wapiti, located north of the of Melfort, and Table Mountain Regional Park, located 16km west of Battleford.

I’ve personally been going to Mission Ridge for years. It gets a good amount of snow, occasionally icy, but that’s to be expected given Saskatchewan’s climate. It’s home to several rails, boxes, kickers, and a half pipe. These little ski resorts are cheap compared to the lift tickets in the Rockies, and if you’re just getting started, or need to keep the “itch” at bay until your next trip to the Rockies, they’re the perfect choice.

5. Pond Hockey / Shinny

Located in just about every city or town in Saskatchewan is a pond, lake, stream, river, or something that will freeze over by winter. Rent, borrow, or steal some skates and a hockey stick, and you’ve made the cut to one of Saskatchewans favourite winter pastimes. The trick to getting a good Pond Hockey game going is to either wait until the Ceremonial Stick Throwing, or start your own pile and scream “Shinny!“.  The Ceremonial Stick Throwing is where all participants throw their sticks into a pile. One blindfolded pond hockey player then kneels in front of the large pile of hockey sticks, and begins throwing one to the left, one to the right. One to the left, and one to the right. And repeat. Once all of the sticks are gone; the teams are made. Retrieve your stick and commence getting your “Game On.”

Saskatchewan has a superb habit of having very clear winter nights. There isn’t really anything like looking up from a hockey rink into a starlit sky. The sound of skates tearing into the ice, pucks hitting sticks, the sight of your breathe leaving your mouth, and the cold feeling you get in your lungs once you inhale. Sooth your frozen aching feet with a warm cup of mocha and you’ve got yourself a perfect Saskatchewan evening.

6. Saskatchewan Roughriders

Throwing the ol’ pig skin around isn’t just an American thing. In fact, the CFL (Canadian Football League) is one of the most followed leagues in Canada, next to the NHL. This surge in popularity, along with our passion for drinking & partying, has earned ‘Rider Fans a reputation amongst other cities. Whether your in it for for sport, the heritage, or just an excuse to slap an emptied watermelon on your head and hammer back a dozen beers, you’ll find somewhere to fit in amongst the masses of Rider Nation. The Saskatchewan Roughriders play their home games at Mosaic Stadiums Taylor Field, located in downtown Regina. Be sure to show up a few hours ahead of the game for the pre-game entertainment, and remember to cheer loud as you walk down the Green mile.

I’m sure if I thought hard enough I could come up with a few other reasons, but six is my favourite number, so stopping here just feels right. The idea for this post came from the many conversations I’ve had with people who know absolutely nothing about Saskatchewan aside from it being flat. Hopefully this will give you something to talk about next time you run into somebody from Saskatchewan. Just a tip: Scream “RIDERS” or “CRAVEN” to any group of drunks to make instant friends. 60% of the time, it works every time.

My favourite skit the Gemini’s did a couple years back

1. Dog Sledding

Take a guided trip and command your own team of dogs. There are several options to choose from in different areas of Canada. Be sure you’re ready to brave the cold. Overnight trips are available as well. Dog Sledding trips are perfect for families and couples, or anyone who wants to see some of the most remote parts of Canada.

2. Tobogganing

Tobogganing (or sledding) is one of the most popular things to do in the winter. Grab a crazy carpet, GT, wooden toboggan, anything that’ll let you slide, and aimlessly propel yourself downhill. Get ready for face washes, snow in your boots, ice burn, and tingling fingers. But like the heat in the kitchen, if you can’t take the cold, stay out of the snow.

3. Snowmobiling

Many provinces, such as Ontario, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan, have an intricate network of trails for snowmobiles. Many of which are groomed as well. Find your nearest ski doo rental shop and hop on a Polaris. The thrill is that of riding a motorcycling all terrain through the snow. It’s awesomeness won’t let you down.

4. Ice Fishing

Canadians have an unhealthy obsession with fishing. Spring, summer, fall, and even winter, there’s always something to catch. Drive to the nearest lake and expect to see a village of wooden shocks on top of the ice. Many Fishing Supply Stores will have their own shack, and some even rent them out. Be sure to bring coffee or hot mocha.

5. Snow shoeing

Snowshoes are one of those great inventions that made the Settlers in Canada extremely thankful to have. Several parks around Canada offer guided tours, including Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay and Glacier National Park. Although not nearly as thrilling as snowboarding or skiing, this activity is great for snapping pictures of the Canadian terrain.

6. Skiing & Snowboarding

Most skiing and snowboarding activities take place on the west coast of Canada, between Alberta and British Columbia. Rentals are available at nearly every ski shop once you make it into one of the many mountain villages. Rentals are occasionally done right at mountain as well. Canada has some of the best mountains for skiing and snowboarding, so be sure to give it a go during the winter.

7. Cross Country Skiing

Picture yourself skiing down a mountain. Now picture that there is no mountain and you’re pushing yourself through the flat snow. Doesn’t sound all that awesome does it? Well believe it or not this is still a popular sport in Canada, and can offer some great views of Canada’s winter landscape. Be prepared for a sore body as this is an extreme workout for people who’ve never done it before. Bring a camera along as you should have plenty of time to snap a few pictures while waiting to catch your breath.

8. Build an Igloo / Quinzhee

Having the ability to construct a shelter out of nothing but snow and ice is a valuable skill to have. Despite the fact that it can take a good few hours out in the snow to complete one, once you’ve got everything finished, there is nothing like relaxing in the hollow sound of a Quinzhee or Igloo. As a kid I used to build a couple of these every winter. Until I got bored and put my smash-face on. They make the perfect forts for snowball fights and can keep you warm in the harsh winter conditions of Canada.

9. Snowball Fights

The art of molding a perfect snowball is a skill most Canadians possess. It’s something we acquire from birth really. We can tell you which snow to use, which to avoid, and how to properly remove the frozen sheet of snow which gives access to the hidden ‘good stuff’. In recent years, snowball fights have been banned at most schools, and there are always a few nutty parents screaming devil’s play at the sight of kids hurling snow and ice at one another. This hasn’t stopped snowball fights from happening. Whether it’s getting in a snowball fight with some random kids at a park, or taking part in a drunken snowball fight after a night out of partying, you should always be on your toes and be ready for a snowball fight to break out. Avoid picking up that frozen block of ice to throw, breaking faces is one of the few rules of war. Dirty snowballs are sometimes fair game, just try not to be the first to throw them.

10. Pond Hockey / Skating

By late December, most ponds and lakes have frozen over, and the cities have finished their public skating rinks in the parks, giving people another surface to play on. Whether it’s a quick game of hockey, or just practicing your sweet Elvis Stojko moves, you’ll have a good time out on the ice. There’s something magical about the sound of blades tearing through ice, the sound of pucks hitting the boards, the swish and spray of someone putting on the breaks, and the sight of your own breathe following you wherever you go. Depending on where you are, public skating rinks and ponds are nearly everywhere. Just be sure to watch for signs indicating ‘Thin Ice’, and never skate on pond or lake ice alone.

Sunshine Village, Banff National Park, Alberta

Sunshine village is located a short 15 minute drive from Banff, it’s one of the most popular ski resorts for Albertans, due to it’s close proximity to Calgary. Sunshine Ski & Snowboard resorts spans the continental divide, which defines the Alberta-BC border in the Rocky Mountains. In order to access Sunshine village, an eight person high-speed gondola transports guests from the Car Park all the way up to Upper village in 18 minutes. Once at upper village, you have your choice of ten chairlifts, and a grand total of 107+ trails around the alpine valley, formed by three mountains. Goat’s Eye Mountain, Lookout Mountain, and Mount Standish. All of which make up Sunshine Village.

Sunshine Village covers 3, 358 Acres (or 13.6 square kilometers) of skiable terrain in Alberta, and B.C. The highest point of elevation is at a cozy 2, 730m (or 8, 957 ft). However, the primary skiing and snowboarding area around Sunshine Village is based at 2, 160m (7, 087 ft) which provides roughly 570m (1, 870 ft) of vertical terrain to the top of Lookout Mountain.

Average annual snow fall is up to thirty-three feet (9+m). Ski season at Sunshine Village begins in early November, and typically finishes in late May, on Victoria Day long weekend. The majority of travelers stay in the City of Banff and drive to Sunshine in the morning. There is a $15 bus to all guests staying in Banff, or you can take that bus for free with a “Tri-area lift ticket”. That bus ticket is good for three nearby resorts as well. Banff@Norquay, Lake Louise Mountain Resort, and Sunshine Village)

Check out the Sunshine Village website for more information.

Whistler-Blackcomb, British Columbia

Nestled in Whistler, British Columbia, this resort is one of Canada’s most famous. At one point, these two mountains were seperate ski operations, however in 1997 they merged and have been in full operation with one another since 2003. Combined, they are the largest ski area in North America, offering 8, 171 acres (33 square kilometers) of ski and snowboarding area. That’s a whopping 54% larger than Vail, the second largest. Whistler Blackcomb has some of the largest vertical Skiing in North America. Blackcomb proudly boasts having the most at 1, 565m, but they like to round it up to an even Mile.

As you may or may not know, Whistler Blackcomb will be hosting the alpine skiing events for the 2010 Winter Olympics, which includes Downhill, Super-G, Giant slalom, super combined, as well as slalom. In addition to the great skiing and snowboarding, Whistler Village is found at the base of Whistler Mountain. The Village has tons to offer. Including shops, entertainment venues, restaurants, hotels, condos, and a handful of different bars. The perfect place to experience a weekend out in Canada.

Check out the Whistler-Blackcomb website for more information.

Panorama Mountain Village, British Columbia

Panorama is a ski and golf resort, found in the Purcell Mountains of BC. Founded in 1962 by a group of friends, it has since grown into a popular tourist destination for British Columbians and Ski and Snowboarding Tourists. In terms of size, Panorama ranks somewhere in the top ten, with 2, 847 acres (11.52 square kilometers) of skiing area. As for vertical drop, it ranks 5th behind Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Whistler-Blackcomb, Jackson Hole, and Kicking Horse.

At the bottom of the hill are countess condos, a golf coarse, restaurantes, bars, and a small grocery store. Snowfall at panorama isn’t quite as high as some of the other mountains, with roughly 189 inches per year, however, it makes the best out of every inch of snow it gets. The terrain park is top notch, and there’s always some hidden runs to find. Panorama Mountain Village is found 18 kilometers from Invermere.

Check out Panorama Mountain Village website for more information.

Revelstoke, British Columbia

Revelstoke Mountain Resort is the up-and-comer in Canada. Located on Mount Mackenzie, found just out of Revelstoke BC, the resort is currently about the same size as other major resorts, such as Vail and Panorama. However, upon completion, this Mountain Resort will have 10, 000 acres, which will make it the largest in North America. The mountain receives an average of 1, 200cm (472in) of snow per year, roughly 20% more than whistler. So all you powder-junkies should remember that. Due to its higher altitude and location, the snow here tends to be a better, more consistent quality of snow. Construction has been continuous for the past few years, however, despite the minor detours you may encounter, this mountain is definitely one to check out when traveling Canada.

Check out the Revelstoke website for more information.

Fernie Alpine Resort, British Columbia

Despite it’s smaller size compared to some of the other Mountains in this list, it makes up for it in snowfall alone. Fernie is famous for it’s powder skiing, and that alone is enough to drag out thousands of skiiers and snowboarders each year. Annual snowfall is roughly 875cm (28.7ft) Fernie has 10 lifts, operating 112 different trails. Each as awesome as the next. Fernie has always been an underdog, but it has begun to grow in popularity over recent years. If you’re in and around Fernie, be sure to grab a lift ticket and check this one out.

Check out The Fernie Alpine Resort website for more information.

Kicking Horse Resort, British Columbia

With a mean name like that, one can only expect this mountain to rock. Thankfully, it does. Kicking Horse Resort is one of the newer ski resorts in BC, located 14km outside of Golden, BC. It currently ranks fourth highest in Vertical Drop in North America, 6 feet shy of Jackson Hole. It includes 2, 750 acres (11.1 square km) of skiable terrain.

The name derives from the nearby Kicking Horse River, which is famous for it’s white water rafting. Something you should definitely do if you’re in the area. Kicking horse has some great backcountry, along with two bowls, Crystal Bowl, and Bowl Over. Crystal bowl is large and open, it’s more intermediate, and is the easest way down from the gondola. Bowl Over is pretty open, but much seeper, and usually peppered with moguls. However, in 2007, a trail was made to give some more advanced skiing and snowboarding into Bowl Over.

Kicking Horse is a snowboarders paradise, there are plenty of hidden trails only accessible by some serious hiking. So pack some water, perhaps some munchies, because the further you hike, the more expert these runs become. Kicking Horse also has a Grizzly Bear Refuge, and if you’re lucky, you might be able to spot Boo, one of two orphaned cubs who were brought there in 2003. Boo’s sister however, didn’t make it past her first winte. Bear tours are offered during the summer.Kicking Horse continues to add chairlifts and furthers the amount of runs accessible by lift. They’re currently installing 9 more lifts, which will expand the skiable areas by another 4, 000 acres.

Check out the Kicking Horse Resort for more information.

Big White, British Columbia

Big White Mountain is a bit of a secret spot for many skiiers and snowboarders. While the crowds flock to Banff or Whistler, many seek to find trails less crowded, without sacrificing the quality of the experience. Big White fills that niche perfectly. It has a village very similar to Whistlers, full of restaurantes, pizzarias, bars, steak houses, bakeries, but on a smaller scale. Big White is a very family friendly mountain with all the extra’s to provide people any age a good time. Keen on ice skating? They got that. Wanna feel the rush of a tube park? They got that too. One thing you might notice is Big White is a sort of a “Nouveau Australia”. Many South Pacificers (New Zealanders & Australians) call this placehome during the winter. Some for work, some for training, others just there to ride.

Big White gets some of the best snow in Canada, sporting a mean 750cm of powder falling annually. They’re a completely “Ski-in Ski-Out” Resort. No matter if you’re skiing on a budget, or spending some serious John A MacDonalds, you’ll get this convenience included in your accommodation. Big White is also super easy to get to, with Kelowna International Airport being only one hour away from the mountain, you can fly in and be skiing before lunch. This mountain comes highly recommended by locals.

Check out Big White’s website for more information.

Am I missing some of your favourite mountains in Canada? Please comment, I’d love to check them out.

Kicking Horse River

First up is Kicking Horse River, located in the Canadian Rockies of South Eastern British Columbia. Hundreds of thousands of happy rafters have experienced the thrill of the Kicking Horse river. There are several river rafting tour operators in this area. Each will give you the low-down on how to stay safe while getting your raft on. They also provide you with all of the proper equipment you’ll need. Kicking Horse River offers some amazing rafting. Most tours will take you through over 14 sets of rapids along the way. The towering canyon walls and beautiful scenery is just the cherry on top for this trip.

White Water Rafting Tours for Kicking Horse River Include:

• Kootenay River Runners
• Alpine Rafting
• Glacier Raft Company
• Wild Water Adventure
  

Kipawa River, Quebec

The Kipawa River has been rated as one of Eastern Canada’s best intermediate whitewater rivers. The Kipawa River is a 16 km run, from Lake Kipawa down to Lake Temiscaming. With 18 named rapids and a 90 foot waterfall, you’re guaranteed to feel the power behind this river. Unfortunately, this section of Whitewater is in danger as there are several proposals by Hydro-Quebec to driver & dam the river, thereby eliminating some of the best white water rafting in Canada. Rafting the Kipawa will only set you back about $100, so it should be in any backpackers budget.

Check out Esprit River Rafting for more info.

Shubenacadie River, Nova Scotia

The Shubenacadie River is one of Canada’s white water rafting oddities. At first glance, the river will seem like a dull muddy river. Once you get past the mudflats and sandbars, you’ll come across the mouth of the river. This is where things start going backwards. Litterally. Shubenacadie River is one of the only places to tidal bore raft in Canada. For those unfamiliar with Tidal Bore Rafting, it’s where the tides, in this case from the Bay of Fundy, come rushing in. Instead of riding downstream rapids. However, in this case, you’re rafting on the worlds highest tides. The tides travel inland at roughly 50 km per hour, and with a little luck on you’re side, you could be hitting sixteen-foot waves. There’s plenty enough force in this weird river to keep the adrenaline going.

• Tidal Bore Rafting Park & Cottages
• Shubenacadie River Adventure Tours Ltd
• Shubenacadie River Runners

Fraser River, British Columbia

Fraser River is the longest, and arguably the most famous river in British Columbia. There are a several Class 3 rapids along the ride, definitely enough to keep your heart pumping. The main reason why this is one of the best rivers for whitewater rafting is the scenery. This rafting trip will give you a superb view of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Top it all off with Rearguard Falls, and if you’re in the right season (Mid July to Late August) you’ll also be able to see some spawning Chinook Salmon. Also the cost for rafting this river is quite a bit lower than several of the more popular rivers.

Check out:

• Mount Robson Whitewater Rafting -Free Camping with the purchase of a rafting trip
• Kumsheen Rafting Resort
• Hyak Wilderness Adventures
• Reo Rafting

Ottawa River, Ontario/Quebec

One of Canada’s most famous whitewater rafting destinations. The Ottawa river gives you a hands on view of the Canadian Wilderness. With high volume rapids, you have the option of going down the Middle & Main channels of the Ottawa River. Or why not go all out and tackle them both? If you decide to take it all in, bring an extra pair of underwear, as this will be a solid two-day trip. The river itself is over 1400 km in length. However, for anyone looking for thrill, there are a set 12 kilometers that you’ll be truly looking forward to. There are a few different tour operators who will take you and a group along for the adventure.

Check them out:

Wilderness Tours
River Runners
Owl Rafting
Esprit River Rafting

Fraser River, British Columbia

This river is the longest, and arguably the most famous river in British Columbia. There are a several Class 3 rapids along the ride, definitely enough to keep your heart pumping. The main reason why this is one of the best rivers to whitewater raft is the scenery. This rafting trip will give you a superb view of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Top it all off with Rearguard Falls, and if you’re in the right season (Mid July to Late August) you’ll also be able to see some spawning Chinook Salmon.

Check out Mount Robson Whitewater Rafting – They give Free Camping with the purchase of a rafting trip (Score one for the budget!)

So slap on your Spielberg hat, and get filming. Submit your entry here (Contest closes November 22, 2009)

Although bungee jumping isn’t an ordinary pass time for most Canadians, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the rush of falling towards the planet while you’re traveling in Canada. You’re not going to find the biggest bungee jumps here, but the locations that offer bungee jumping are one hundred percent worth checking out. From the cliffs of Quebec, to the freezing rivers of Whistler, each bungee location in Canada offers a great view, and a great ride.

Great Canadian Bungee

The highest Bungee Jump in Canada, this 200-foot behemoth is the perfect option for adrenaline junkies. The Great Canadian Bungee is located at the edge of a cliff, the drop to the bottom will overwhelm you with a wall of solid limestone that drops into a 160 foot deep aqua blue lagoon, larger than three combined football fields. After your fall back to Earth, decompress that adrenaline on the hidden beach in Wakefield, Quebec. Perfect way to slow that heart rate back down.

Whistler Bungee Jumping

Open year round, Whistler is a perfect choice for trying your hand at Bungee Jumping. Located just 15 minutes out of Whistler Village (highway 99), Whistler Bungee gives you the opportunity to hurl yourself off a tower over a beautiful gorge, and fall 160 feet just above a shall river. The highest jump in BC, and easily one of the most beautiful. Nothing like watching the Rocky Mountains while screaming all the way down.

Center of Gravity – West Edmonton Mall

The West Edmonton Mall is the hub of Northern Alberta, with all the ample room in this huge mall, it would only make sense to allow people the ability to jump from the ceiling above the massive wave pool in the World Water Park. If you’re looking for an audience to see your triumphant 100 foot fall, this is the place to do it. The entire Water Park stops to watch as Bungee Jumpers fall, and scream. Center of Gravity is the World’s largest indoor Bungee Jump.

Nanaimo Bungee Jump

Take a jump off Nanaimo’s 150 foot high bridge found above Nanaimo River. This Bungee is ranked as on of the top 100 things to do in Canada by 2006 National Post Survey. Vancouver Island is such a beautiful part of Canada, what better way to see it than atop of the bridge. With over 190, 000 people having felt the rush of diving head first off this bridge, why not help Nanaimo Bungee Jump hit 200, 000.

Ottawa River Bungee

Ottawa river is the perfect place to stop in the summer. There’s plenty to see, and lots to do. For those wanting to get their blood pumping, Ottawa River Bungee is your source for adrenaline. Their man made tower sits at over 150 feet above the Ottawa River. Easily one of the best ways to cool off on a hot summer day. Book your bungee with your white water rafting, and save some of that hard earned money of yours.

Z-tripping operates weekends between 10:00am and 5:00pm, and will accept booking of 10 or more people throughout the summer.

Rates
Individual – $33
Additional same-day rides – $20
Groups: (12 – 39) – $27/person
Groups: (40+) – $25/person
Group capacity 24 people/hour

Make your booking here