Petyo Lake is one of the most stunning vistas in any of the national parks I’ve visited. I’ve been to this point three times and three times it’s been stunning. Banff is the prettiest place I’ve been in North America and Petyo Lake is one of the best views in Banff.

The first time I visited, I was taking my time and soaking in the scenery. A tour bus arrives. A bus full of Japanese tourists quickly exit the bus, hastily snap a their pictures and within five minutes have rebounded the bus and the bus pulls away. I found it incredible that anyone would only spend 5 minutes appreciating this vista but wanting to be able to take my time anywhere I want is why I prefer to travel independently.