Best Spots For Pictures in Alberta by Ally Dittrick

By: Ally Dittrick

Hey adventurers! I’m Ally, an Edmonton based photographer that enjoys escaping to the mountains with my Goldendoodle, Kuta.

He’s just over a year old, and in that year he’s been on more adventures than I have in the past five. With that, I’ve managed to pick up my camera far more often and get creative with my work again. 

Today, thanks to Rocky Mountain Dog, I’m going to share with you our favourite spots for adventuring (and photography)! 

1. Athabasca Glacier

This beautiful place is the PERFECT pit stop along the Icefields Parkway for your four-legged friend to stretch their legs and get a good walk in. You can walk from the parking lot up to the top of the glacier. You’ll probably even luck out and have the entire place to yourself.

2. Pyramid Lake

This place is beyond incredible. If you get the opportunity to come out to Jasper in the winter, you definitely need to put this on your list. The first photo here was our first feature by a major tourism board, Tourism Jasper!

It was so cool to have an adventure with my pup recognized, and see everyone commenting on how they need to get out here with their dog too! PS - if your dog has never been able to see to the bottom of a lake before, be prepared to admire how curious they are! 

3. Jasper Park Lodge

If you need somewhere to stay, the Fairmont should be at the top of your list! Not only is it affordable in the winter, but the staff treats your dog like royalty. You can stroll Lac Beauvert, and even go see Santa’s workshop ;)

4. Town of Canmore

This little mountain town is quiet in the winter, and full of trails to explore.

The second photo was taken at a photography hot-spot in Canmore called Policeman’s Creek, and is where I met the Rocky Mountain Dog team for the first time! Butch is the cutest pup, and I hope you cross their path out in the mountains sometimes. 

5. Town of Banff

Banff is a magical little mountain town in the winter and spring. There are far fewer tourists during these seasons, which makes it a lot less overwhelming for your pup.

Lake Minnewanka is about a ten-minute drive from Banff. You can walk along the shore, and set up a limitless amount of shots with your dog. If you’re lucky, you’ll even have this entire place to yourself! 

Don’t be fooled by the bare streets, this was an early walk along Banff ave! There are so many smells that your dog will love The Banff Dog House carries Rocky Mountain Dog Gear! 

Vermilion Lakes, probably the best place to catch a sunrise with your best friend. Blankets and hot drinks recommended in the winter, this place gets very cold as it’s exposed to the elements. 

6. Nordegg 

Nordegg remains a bit of a hidden gem still. You can camp for free on crown land along Abraham Lake, and you can go on a ton of hikes in the area!

This photo was taken at Crescent Falls - and I 100% recommend only doing this hike with the Rocky Mountain Dog All-Mountain Leash. The trail is very steep and requires you to use a chain to get down/up, and this leash allows you to go hands-free which is safer for yourself and your dog! 

I hope you guys enjoyed this round-up of our favourite photography spots in the Rockies! If you have any other questions or need any other recommendations, feel free to shoot Kuta or myself a message @allykdittrick @lifeofkuta.