Canadian Rockies
The Canadian Rockies can feel a bit like a world camping convention in the summer. Over the school holidays, the mountains are overrun by RVs and Lake Louise is busier than the lido down at Tooting Bec. In other words, it’s not the most wilderness-y experience. The area is beautiful, but bursting at the seams with family travellers and excitable kids.
In September, Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise are still pretty busy, but they are far less noisy once the school term begins. There may be more of a chill in the air, but the cooler weather creates good hiking conditions. The salmon-run also starts in September, drawing bears onto the riverbanks in search of a snack. If you’ve ever dreamt of watching a bear catch a salmon in its paws, now’s your chance.