The Adventure Travel Trade Association’s (ATTA) annual AdventureELEVATE event has become an important event for North American adventure travel professionals working in the industry to attend. In 2018, AdventureELEVATE will take place 13-15 March, and while the event itself is packed with professional value, the event’s destination makes the decision to attend even easier.
Nestled in the Rockies, Banff and Lake Louise offer a stunning backdrop teeming with adventure activities, making AdventureELEVATE the perfect excuse to visit. Here’s what we’re most excited about.
Legitimate adventure awaits.
Many destinations offer opportunities for hiking and cycling, but Banff truly elevates the definition of year-round adventure. From heli-tours to horseback riding to ice climbing, rafting, and caving, this is one of those places where there truly is something for everybody. During AdventureELEVATE’s Day of Adventures, delegates will have a chance to experience some of these adventure activities for themselves. Best of all, the Day of Adventure is free for delegates.
Exploration is affordable.
Destination representatives have generously arranged for several discounts that AdventureELEVATE delegates can take advantage of while in the area. Before or after ELEVATE, extend your experience and go ice climbing, backcountry skiing, ice walking, dog sledding, or caving. Book a sleigh ride or jump on the rental discounts. For those who crave a day of relaxation, we’ve got you covered: Discounted room rates and spa treatments are the perfect excuse to take some down time before heading back to work.
All the skiing.
Whether you’re a beginner or expert, skiers and snowboarders alike will find something to suit their skill level. Banff and Lake Louise actually have three world-class ski and snowboard areas: Mt. Norquay, the Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Sunshine Village. Mt. Norquay is particularly popular with families while Sunshine Village offers some of the most extreme in-bounds terrain in Canada. And with 139 runs, Lake Louise Ski Resort is outfitted with diverse terrain for all skiers and snowboarders. One lift ticket gives you access to all three ski parks, and ELEVATE delegates receive 30% off their lift tickets.
It’s so much more than skiing!
Throughout the spring, there is still so much to do in this wintery wonderland. Well into May, visitors can go ice walking, trail riding, and even tubing. Snowshoeing is a popular activity, including areas in the backcountry that can only be reached via helicopter or snowmobile. Natural hot springs are an easy way to embrace relaxation, and for those eager to appreciate the stunning views, four sightseeing gondolas and ridgeline walks at the top may be in order.
Cowboy culture!
Saddle up and explore Banff and Lake Louise with a trail or carriage ride. Intrepid travelers can take stable tours and excursions on horseback and even experience what it is like to be a cowboy for a day. And at a local Western-themed saloon, visitors can try their hand at mechanical bull riding and a bit of line dancing as well.
An easy mix of work and play.
Many adventure travel professionals work in the industry because they have a personal passion for it. So it’s probably no surprise that one of the questions the ATTA often fields regardless of where in the world we hold events is, “Where can I run/swim/hike while I’m here?” Banff provides a simple solution for AdventureELEVATE delegates: A number of hiking trails are located near the event’s facilities — including a hike to the top of Tunnel Mountain — so delegates can easily go for a long run before breakfast. Guests at the Banff Centre will also have access to the Sally Borden facility, which includes a gym, running track, pool, climbing wall, and basketball courts.
Cooking up an impressive culinary scene.
In addition to adventure travel, Banff and Lake Louise are known for their wining and dining. Sign up for a brewery and distillery tour, wine tasting, or cocktail making session, or seek out a cooking class or chef-led tasting experience. And, of course, what better way to end a day of physical activity than with après, which is practically a lifestyle in the area. Gather some friends or colleagues to catch up over drinks and appetizers as another satisfying day comes to an end.
Are you ready to pack your bags? Reserve your spot at AdventureELEVATE today.