Summertime is for sweaty hikes and spicy Caesars.
At this time of year, our mountainous backyard is more inviting than ever — and the alpine lakes, snow-capped peaks, lush woods and flower-filled meadows are all just a short drive away. And, of course, relaxing on a sunny patio with a refreshing cold beverage after the hard effort is unbeatable. Here are four hikes to have on your radar this summer, plus four great options for a post-hike Caesar.
Hike Lake Agnes Teahouse Then Visit Banded Peak Base Camp — Lake Louise
The Hike: Lake Agnes Teahouse, an iconic hike in Lake Louise that’s just over seven km in total, winds past the emerald-coloured lake and up wooded switchbacks to the picturesque teahouse built in 1901.
The Après-Hike Appeal: Heralded as one of the best patios in Banff National Park, Banded Peak Base Camp is an inviting restaurant at the base of the Lake Louise ski hill. (It’s only a 12-minute drive from the trailhead.) Pair your drink with some barbecue, like the Cubano or pulled pork sandwich.
Order This: The Smoked Bacon Caesar is the perfect mix of sweet, sour and spicy. It’s made with Wyborowa vodka and smoked hot sauce and is garnished with smoked candy bacon.
Boom Lake Followed by Summit Restaurant — Banff/Kananaskis
The Hike: Boom Lake in Banff National Park offers incredible views without too much challenging elevation gain. The hike is just over 10 km round-trip with a gradual ascent and ends at an idyllic alpine lake surrounded by mountain peaks.
The Après-Hike Appeal: Stop at the Summit Restaurant, located in the Kananaskis Country Golf Course’s clubhouse, on your drive back into Calgary from Banff. The restaurant boasts two patios — the Mt. Kidd and Mt. Lorette patios — and both provide picturesque vistas of the mountains for you to enjoy as you sip your Caesar.
Order This: The Boundary Ranch Caesar can’t be missed: it’s got just the right amount of salty, savoury and spicy.
Scale Ha Ling Peak Then Relax at Table Food + Drink — Canmore
The Hike: Ha Ling Peak is the StairMaster of Canmore. This popular trail is now more accessible, thanks to recent trail upgrades and the addition of steps. This eight-km hike is still challenging though, so be sure you pack enough water and wear sensible shoes.
The Après-Hike Appeal: Located in the recently renovated Coast Canmore Hotel and Conference Centre, Table provides stylish interior for your après-hike drink.
Order This: Order the Table Caesar and choose either gin or vodka for your cocktail. And make sure you’re hungry — this drink comes garnished with local meat and cheese.
Visit Fish Creek Provincial Park Before Unwinding in Your Backyard — Calgary
The Hike: Plan an urban hike through Fish Creek Provincial Park, hike a section of its loose gravel trails to work up a sweat, and enjoy those views of the Bow River.
The Après-Hike Appeal: Is there anything more relaxing than kicking back and relaxing on your deck on a sunny summer afternoon?
Make This: Prepare a Caesar your way! Start with either gin or vodka as a base, then add the essential ingredient for any Caesar — Mott’s® Clamato® — along with Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lime juice and a dash of pepper, and enjoy responsibly.
The Caesar, a conceived-in-Calgary drink, is the ideal summer drink and Mott’s® Clamato® is an essential ingredient in any Caesar. For more information on Mott’s® Clamato® products, visit mottsclamato.ca. Isn’t it time for a Caesar?
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