MELANISTIC ADVENTURES

BY: TANEYA ROGERS

Images Courtesy of NiLo

Exploration can be educational, recreational, and even spiritual.

Our Melanistic Adventure Team claimed spaces in the skies, lakes, and glaciers for this installment. While we continue breaking preconceived notions around what activities ‘Life in Black’ should access, this adventure held a deeper meaning.

As we experienced various attractions in Jasper, the stories of the Stoney-Nakoda peoples were told by tour guides. The absence of Indigenous representation among the guides or general staff did not go unnoticed. It resonated that the rich history of a civilization that dates to 8,000 years old, has been condensed and commercialized for our enjoyment, while those that first called these gems, ‘home’, continue to face unspeakable injustices.

Still, standing on lands travelled and preserved by the Stoney-Nakoda Nation is humbling; contemplating the sheer endurance and innovation it took to master this unforgiving terrain and marveling at the spiritual connections with the land, made this Melanistic Adventure an unforgettable experience.

MALIGNE CRUISE

COST: $76/adult • $38/child (5+ years) • Free/child (under 5 years) WHAT’S INVOLVED: This 90-minute tour spans the length of Maligne Lake, known to the Stoney-Nakoda as the Lake of Healing Waters. Docking on Spirit Island, provides a magnificent view of the Hall of the Gods, said to embody the Spirits of Indigenous Ancestors. TIPS: Consider researching the Indigenous history of this beautiful stop point before your visit. Bug repellant is handy. WEBSITE: http://banffjaspercollection.com

JASPER SKYTRAM

COST: $54.60/adult (16+ years) $28.90/child (6-15 years) • Free/child (under 6 years) WHAT’S INVOLVED: A short seven-minute ride on Canada’s longest and highest aerial tramway takes you to altitudes of 2,263 meters for spectacular views of the mountains. Feeling adventurous? Take on the 2-kilometer uphill hike to the summit. TIPS: A camera is a necessity and sturdy nerves as you look down and across the incredible mountainside. WEBSITE: http://jasperskytram.com

MALIGNE CANYON

COST: FREE WHAT’S INVOLVED: Take a gentle two-hour hike on paved and railed paths that follow Jasper Park’s deepest canyon. Six bridges connect along the walk, however bridges one to three offer the most spectacular views of the canyon. TIPS: Water to stay hydrated. Proper footwear is recommended as some spots can be slippery on a wet day. WEBSITE: www.pc.gc.ca

COLUMBIA ICEFIELDS AND SKYWALK

COST: $103/adult • $51.50/child (5+ years) *rates are lower during the week* WHAT’S INVOLVED: The giant Ice Explorer will shuttle you to the ancient Athabasca Glacier; one of six glaciers fed by the Columbia Icefields. Following the informative tour, transfer to the Skywalk – hover 240 meters over the cliffs on a glass walkway. TIPS: Take basic winter gear for the glacier – even in summer, the winds and altitude make for frosty conditions. At the skywalk, be sure to look down. WEBSITE: https://www.banffjaspercollection.com

HOT AIR BALLOON

COST: $300/person • $290/4 or more people • $250/groupon or weekday trips WHAT’S INVOLVED: Imagine floating on a cloud. Step into a 10-person balloon basket and glide softly around the city’s beautiful skyline. This is a great experience for a romantic getaway, a family trip or a team building exercise. Lift off is so peaceful that you barely know that you left the ground. TIPS: Bring a camera, wear a windbreaker, and brace yourself for landing. This is a super fun relaxing adventure. WEBSITE: www.sundanceballoons.com