This first volume in ” The Aspiring Hiker`s Guide” series is meant to encourage beginner & intermediate hikers, backpackers & scramblers to step into & explore the backcountry in Banff National Park, Lake Louise, Jasper National Park, Kananaskis Country & the Icefields Parkway with both confidence & excitement. Many aspects of venturing into these areas are investigated, including expert advice on gear, clothing, food & equipment; procedures related to safety & etiquette; & considerations as to physical fitness & first aid. Routes & trails are detailed with colour photographs & maps, GPS co-ordinates, elevation gain charts, distances, natural landmarks & tips on arriving at the destination safely. Best routes to summits are described in detail to prevent confusion & injury. As well, the general histories of the trails, routes & naming conventions for some mountains are presented so as to add an element of understanding & intrigue as to what was experienced by the First Peoples & early European explorers who set foot in these beautifully wild areas of western Canada.