Recreation

Christie, Jack. 52 Best Day Trips from Vancouver. Vancouver: Douglas & McIntyre, 2007. Although the organization of this book is sometimes difficult to follow, it is the most comprehensive guide available to all recreational opportunities in the vicinity of Vancouver [1], especially the provincial parks. Jack Christie is a prolific author who also writes Best Weekend Getaways from Vancouver and The Whistler Book (both published by Douglas & McIntyre, Vancouver).

Corbett, Bill. Best of Alberta: Day Trips from Calgary. Vancouver: Whitecap Books, 2006. Multiple books have been written about the things to do and see in Banff [2], which this book covers, along with dozens of ideas for day-tripping south and north of the famous park and all within a two-hour drive of Calgary [3].

Gadd, Ben. The Canadian Hiker’s and Backpacker’s Handbook. Vancouver: Whitecap Books, 2008. Whether you’re interested in learning the basics or are a seasoned traveler, this is the best book for reading up on your backcountry and hiking skills.

Gersh-Young, Marjorie. Hot Springs and Hot Pools of the Northwest. Santa Cruz: Aqua Thermal Access, 2008. Details the most popular hot springs including those in British Columbia [4], including both commercial and undeveloped sites. A short history, directions, and practicalities are given for each one.

Mitchell, Barry. Alberta’s Trout Highway. Red Deer: Nomad Creek Books, 2001. “Alberta’s Trout Highway” is the Forestry Trunk Road (Hwy. 40), which runs the length of Alberta [5]’s foothills. Entertaining and useful descriptions of Mitchell’s favorite fishing holes are accompanied by maps and plenty of background information.

Patton, Brian, and Bart Robinson. Canadian Rockies Trail Guide. Banff: Summerthought Publishing, 2007. Now in its eighth edition, this is the ultimate authority for hiking in the Canadian Rockies [6]. It covers 230 trails and 3,400 kilometers (2,100 miles) in the mountain national parks as well as in surrounding provincial parks. A full page is devoted to each trail, making it the most comprehensive hiking book available.