Maps

Specialty map shops are the best source for accurate, high-quality maps; in Calgary and Edmonton, contact Map Town (Calgary: 400 5th Ave. SW, 403/266-2241; Edmonton: 10344 105th St., 780/429-2600). By request they can send out a catalog of maps designed specifically for hiking (topographical maps), camping (road/access maps), fishing (hydrographic charts of more than 100 lakes), and canoeing (river details such as gradients). They can also supply Alberta wall maps, Canada wall maps, thematic maps, historical maps, and aerial photography. These maps are also available over the counter at some sport and camping stores. Gem Trek (www.gemtrek.com) produces some of the best and most useful maps you’re ever likely to find. They specialize in the Canadian Rockies, and the maps are available throughout the region. MapArt (www.mapart.com) produces a variety of maps for Alberta, including an annual Road Atlas of Alberta.

Tourist Offices

The best source of up-to-date information on all accommodations, attractions, and events is Travel Alberta (P.O. Box 2500, Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2Z4, 780/427-4321 or 800/252-3782, www.travelalberta.com). All major routes into the province have a Travel Alberta Information Centre, which is generally open in summer only (you must pay for road maps). Each town has a tourist information center, each with its own hours, and usually open June–August. When these centers are closed, head to the chamber of commerce (Mon.–Fri. only year-round) for information.

Online Travel Planning

The Travel Alberta website (www.travelalberta.com) provides links to regional tourist associations and local information centers. Only websites managed by official tourism offices are listed in this book. Found Locally is an Internet-based company that provides Web surfers with a wealth of information on Alberta’s two largest cities, Calgary and Edmonton. The websites cover all aspects of entertainment and recreation, such as attractions, sporting events, concerts, movies, and hundreds of accommodations and restaurants. The restaurant listings are particularly comprehensive, with cuisine, price range, and business hours listed. The site also features daily weather information, transportation routings, and even notification of where the police have set up their latest photo-radar speed traps. Access the sites at www.foundlocally.com/calgary and www.foundlocally.com/edmonton.

© Andrew Hempstead, from Moon Western Canada, 3rd Edition