Around Banff

In 1887 Banff receives National Park status, and five years later Lake Louise is added to the Rocky Mountains Park . By 1895, Kootenay Lakes Forest Park (now known as Waterton Lakes National Park ) is established. In 1900 Bill and Jim Brewster begin their guiding and outfitting company, building the area's tourist trade. In 1902, Rocky Mountains Park is expanded to its current size. In 1920, BC donates lands of Kootenay to be Canada 's 10th National Park.

After the Second World War, booming populations in western Canada and the expansion of air and car travel increased awareness of the Rocky Mountains. In 1956, the Trans-Canada Highway is completed through to Yoho and continued westward. In 1961, the Icefields Parkway is upgraded to a paved road and by 1970, the Yellowhead Highway officially opens to join Edmonton, Jasper and British Columbia.