Tunnel Mountain Drive in the Winter...

One of the first "hikes" that I did when I first came to town with my friend Katie was the path along the Bow River (parallel to Buffalo Street), up around Surprise Corner and then onto Tunnel Mountain Drive. It seemed like one of the longest walks of my life...especially since we turned around near the end and ran back the other way after an unknown animal walked across the path in front of us...

I've since learned that we were only 5 minutes away from the end of Tunnel Mountain Drive and that it really isn't a hike...it is more of a walk :)

It has become a favourite walk for me in the winter time. The road is closed once it starts snowing and walking along it leaves you feeling totally surrounded by nature. The walk ends when you reach Tunnel Mountain Road and you are forced back to reality as you see other humans, cars, etc.

The entire walk can take up to two hours and there is a lot of snow (usually). So make sure you dress warmly, wear the appropriate foot wear and do this walk while you are in Banff..it is worth it!