"A classic mountain national park centered on an iconic mountain town, characterized by evergreen forests, towering peaks and glacial-fed lakes; visitors can explore the town and park, take in views where a prominent peak looms overhead, and access nearby scenic features such as a distinctive nearby mountain and a famous lakeside destination depending on route choices." - Katie Nadworny Katie Nadworny Katie Nadworny is an Istanbul-based writer who specializes in stories at the intersection of culture and politics in Turkey, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. She has lived in Turkey for nearly a decade and has traveled extensively around the region. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"One of Canada’s most celebrated outdoor spaces, with mountains, cascading waterfalls, lush pine forests, and turquoise lakes like the iconic Lake Louise. Alli Widman highlights abundant outdoor activities—hiking, biking, rock climbing, kayaking, fishing, and trail running—and notes the presence of natural hot springs for post-adventure relaxation." - Lauren Dana Ellman Lauren Dana Ellman Lauren Dana Ellman is a New York-based writer and editor who specializes in travel, lifestyle, food, and shopping content. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A Canadian national park filled with stunning scenery and crystalline lakes, with Lake Louise standing out as perhaps the most relaxing spot thanks to perfectly blue waters and mountain views. Outdoor visitors can hike up to the Lake Agnes Tea House, a full-service cafe tucked into the mountains, or opt for luxurious accommodations in one of the park's grand hotels for a restful base." - Andrea Romano Andrea Romano Andrea Romano is a writer and editor in New York City. For the last eight years, she has been a lifestyle journalist for Mashable, Brit+Co, Reviewed, Bustle, and Travel + Leisure. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Located in the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is famous for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, turquoise lakes, and diverse wildlife. It provides several campgrounds that are ideal for both seasoned adventurers and families."
"A sprawling national park celebrated for jagged peaks, glaciers, turquoise lakes and picturesque alpine villages, it shines in winter when crowds thin and the landscape becomes a ‘water-and-ice’ wonderland. Winter runs roughly November through May, with mid-December to February prime for ice conditions and February–March offering the best snowpack; visitors need a park day pass (online or at entrances) which also grants access to neighboring national parks. Development is limited near the towns, so it’s easy to enjoy resort comforts while stepping directly into wild terrain, with seasonal highlights including the SnowDays festival, world-class ice climbing, extensive cross-country trails and multiple in-park ski areas." - Evie Carrick Evie Carrick Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines