A summer trip to Alberta is a dream come true for adventure seekers and nature lovers who like to explore beautiful landscapes and historic towns. You can enjoy a ton of activities in Alberta’s famous destinations, like going hiking around Lake O’Hara, which millions of tourists visit during the summer, or roaming around the town of Drumheller, where you can learn so much about dinosaurs through the interesting fossil exhibits in the area. With so much adventure in store, having a shortage of things to do in Alberta is next to impossible.
However, embarking on a summer vacation entails necessary preparations to avoid sun damage. In 2022, an estimated 9,000 Canadians were diagnosed with melanoma, a kind of skin cancer, which marks an increase from 8,700 cases tallied in 2021. This increasing number prompts the need for sun safety, especially in the great outdoors. That said, here are sun protection tips for a summer in Alberta:
Don’t forget your sunglasses
Alberta is home to famous natural landmarks like Jasper National Park, the largest park in the Canadian Rockies that tourists often visit for outdoor adventures. Here, you can enjoy activities like wildlife exploration and hiking, but these outdoor escapades can also expose your eyes to UV rays that can cause photokeratitis or even cataracts in the long run. To prevent ocular issues that can ruin your trip, be sure to pack sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection, such as the Ray-Ban Wayfarer Classic and Oakley Holbrook. These sunnies also have polarized lenses to block glare and improve visual acuity. Wearing sunglasses allows you to enjoy breathtaking views of Alberta’s incredible landscapes without compromising your vision.
Always apply sunscreen
With over 600 freshwater lakes located in the province, Alberta offers many opportunities to swim or walk on shoreline trails, especially along Lake Louise in Banff National Park, which is known for its turquoise waters and gorgeous mountain views. However, swimming or walking along shoreline trails can expose your skin to harmful UV rays, which can cause sunburn in the short term and skin cancer in the long term. Be sure to always apply sunscreen to prevent sun damage. Tatcha’s Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen is a viable option with SPF 35, but you can also try its Silk Sunscreen, which offers SPF 50 and nourishes your skin with hyaluronic acid and silk that provides hydration.
Pack your sun-protective clothing
Wearing UV-protective clothing is essential for outdoor activities, especially if you plan to go hiking in the famous Horseshoe Canyon, a historic U-shaped area where dinosaurs once roamed. Since higher altitudes also have higher levels of UV index, which can be dangerous in the summer, wearing sun-protective clothing on top of sunscreen guarantees extensive protection from harmful UV rays. You can try sun-protective long-sleeved shirts from Columbia or Coolibar for maximum coverage. These shirts are made of light and comfortable fabrics that block UV to ensure a safe and comfortable hiking experience in the famous mountain ranges of Alberta.
Bring a wide-brimmed hat
According to a CTV News report, Canada is expected to encounter warmer temperatures than normal this summer. A warmer-than-usual summer heat can be brutal, especially if you plan on kayaking in Waterton Lakes National Park, which is famous for its picturesque coastlines and diverse wildlife. Renting a kayak or canoe to explore Alberta’s stunning lakes exposes you to the sun without any shade, which is why a wide-brimmed hat is a perfect companion. A sun hat protects your hair from turning dry and frizzy, and it provides extra protection for exposed skin on your neck and ears. You can check out wide-brimmed hat options from brands like Sunday Afternoons and Lululemon.
Spending the summer in Alberta is filled with priceless memories, just be sure to prioritize sun protection throughout your trip. Pack these sun essentials to help you have an enjoyable travel experience.
Last Updated on by Icy Canada Team