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From Calgary to the Clouds: The Most Breathtaking Mountain Drives in Alberta

One of the best and most iconic mountain drives from Calgary, Alberta is the route to Lake Louise via the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) — especially if you continue north toward Jasper. But even just getting to Banff and Lake Louise is a spectacular experience. Here are your top options, ranked for scenery, accessibility, and wow factor:

🏆 1. Calgary → Banff → Lake Louise → Icefields Parkway (to Jasper)

Route: Hwy 1 (Trans-Canada) west to Lake Louise → Hwy 93 North (Icefields Parkway)
Why it’s the best:

• World-famous for good reason — stunning peaks, turquoise lakes, glaciers, and wildlife.

• Highlights: Banff, Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, Athabasca Glacier, Columbia Icefield, Sunwapta Falls, Athabasca Falls.

• Ideal for day trips, weekend getaways, or full road trips.

• Consistently ranked among the most scenic drives in the world.

🥈 2. Calgary → Kananaskis Country (Highway 40 / Smith-Dorrien Trail)

Route: Hwy 1 west → Hwy 40 south through Kananaskis → Option to loop via Canmore on Smith-Dorrien Trail
Why it’s amazing:

• Less crowded than Banff, more rugged and wild.

• Highlights: Barrier Lake, Highwood Pass (highest paved pass in Canada), Spray Lakes, grizzly country.

• Gorgeous in late spring to fall (Highwood Pass section is closed in winter for wildlife).

🥉 3. Calgary → Yoho National Park (via Hwy 1 through Banff)

Route: Hwy 1 west → Past Lake Louise into Yoho, BC
Why it’s worth it:

• Often overshadowed by Banff, but Yoho offers less touristy but equally jaw-dropping beauty.

• Highlights: Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Spiral Tunnels, Natural Bridge.

• Quick to access from Lake Louise — ideal for a day trip from Calgary with some epic stops.

Honorable Mention:

🚗 Calgary → Canmore → Bow Valley Trail (Hwy 1A)

• Scenic, less rushed alternative to the Trans-Canada Highway.

• Quaint stops in Exshaw, Seebe, and cool local cafes in Canmore.

• Great for a half-day cruise or photography trip.

TL;DR:

🏞️ The Icefields Parkway (Lake Louise to Jasper) is the best mountain drive from Calgary — world-class views, endless highlights, and unforgettable stops.

Is your vehicle ready to tackle these mountain drives? Our expert staff can make sure you enjoy the drive, instead of breaking down in tough mountain conditions. Trust the ecxpets and book your vehicle maintenance with us today!

The Dale Adams Team

Smart Vehicle Maintenance That Saves You Thousands

When it comes to vehicle maintenance that truly pays for itself, you're looking at services that prevent bigger, more expensive problems, extend the life of your vehicle, and keep it running efficiently and safely.

Here are the top maintenance items that save you money in the long run:

🔧 1. Regular Oil Changes

• Keeps your engine properly lubricated and prevents wear.

• Skipping oil changes can lead to engine sludge, overheating, and even complete engine failure.

• Pays off by avoiding $3,000–$10,000 engine replacements.

💨 2. Tire Maintenance (Rotation, Balancing, Pressure)

• Even tire wear = longer tire life (a full set can cost $800+).

• Proper inflation improves fuel economy and handling.

• Prevents blowouts and uneven tread that can lead to suspension issues.

🚗 3. Brake Inspections & Pad Replacements

• Replacing brake pads regularly (~$150–$300) is far cheaper than damaging rotors or calipers.

• Worn brakes reduce stopping power and can be dangerous.

• Ignoring brake issues can easily lead to $1,000+ repairs or worse — accidents.

💡 4. Fluid Checks & Top-Ups

• Coolant, transmission, brake, and power steering fluids all play key roles.

• Low or dirty fluids cause expensive component damage (like overheating, slipping transmission).

• A $100 fluid flush is much cheaper than a $4,000 transmission replacement.

🔌 5. Battery and Electrical Checks

• A weak battery can damage your starter or alternator.

• Replacing a battery costs ~$150, but skipping checks could cause breakdowns and electrical issues.

🛞 6. Wheel Alignments

• Keeps your car handling properly and reduces tire wear.

• Misalignment causes drag, hurting gas mileage and making tires wear faster.

• A ~$100 alignment can prevent hundreds in premature tire replacement.

🔍 7. Regular Inspections (Like the AMA or Out-of-Province Inspections)

• Identifies small problems before they become major mechanical failures.

• Especially helpful for older vehicles or before buying/selling a used car.

• Peace of mind and resale value boost included.

💨 8. Air Filter & Cabin Filter Replacements

• Engine air filters help with fuel efficiency and performance.

• Cabin filters protect your HVAC system and air quality.

• Dirty filters make your engine work harder, hurting mileage and power.

📅 9. Timing Belt or Chain Replacement (As Recommended)

• Ignoring this can cause your engine to catastrophically fail.

• These are scheduled major maintenance items but critical to long-term reliability.

• Spending ~$1,000 on a timing belt beats $4,000–$8,000 on engine repairs.

Summary:

🛠️ Preventative maintenance is cheaper than repairs.
If you're maintaining your oil, tires, fluids, brakes, and catching problems early, you're saving thousands over the life of your vehicle — and driving a safer, more reliable car.

Dale Adams has only expert mechanics and we work on some of the top performance vehicles in the world. You can trust the team that performance and vintage vehicle owners trust their 'babies' with. Book your regular maintenance today and avoid costly future repairs.

The Dale Adams Team

Grit, Gravel, and Guts: What Every Albertan Mountain Driver Should Know

As we at Dale Adams are based in Calgary, Alberta, the gateway to the Rocky Mountains, it is important that local drivers headed to the mountains understand the safety and maintenance tips associated with driving in extreme conditions. Weather, road conditions, animals and loose rocks are always present, as well as extreme climbs and descents. Are you and your vehicle ready for the summer mountain season? Check out this helpful and quick read to guide you in your travels. Book your seasonal maintenance now and make sure your vehicle is ready for what the powerful Rockies has to offer!

The 2025 Shelby Super Snake is the pinnacle of our performance cars based on Ford's next generation S650 Mustang sports car.

Shelby's new Super Snake Mustang ushers in a new era of automotive excitement, boasting a range of thrilling features designed to redefine performance for the next generation S650 Mustang. With a striking all-new look, this iteration of the Super Snake stands out as the most engineered and driver-focused production model to date. Its heart-pounding performance is driven by an impressive 830+ horsepower supercharged V8 engine*, meticulously calibrated to deliver exhilarating power and performance.

“The Shelby GT350 and the Shelby GT350R are back for 2025,” said Gary Patterson, President of Shelby American. “Just as Carroll Shelby envisioned in 1965, this sports car is designed to be exhilarating and competitive on both the street and track. The Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT350R each have unique personalities that are very different from our halo Shelby Super Snake. The 2025 Shelby GT350 models are pure sports car, while the Shelby Super Snake is the highest performance super car in our lineup.”
Get your quote at Dale Adams Automotive Today!

The U.S. tariffs on Canadian automobiles and parts present a multifaceted challenge to Canada's automotive industry. They threaten to disrupt established manufacturing processes, increase costs for producers and consumers, and potentially lead to job losses and economic downturns in affected regions. Addressing these challenges will require strategic responses from industry stakeholders and policymakers to mitigate the adverse effects and ensure the industry's resilience.

Dale Adams Automotive: The Only Shelby Mod Shop in Western Canada Authorized to Build the 2025 Shelby GT350

The automotive world is buzzing with excitement as Shelby American unveiled the highly anticipated 2025 Shelby GT350 at the Barrett-Jackson event in Scottsdale, Arizona. This marks a monumental milestone, occurring almost 60 years after the original GT350 was introduced by Carroll Shelby in 1965. The 2025 model is the most powerful Shelby GT350 ever built, boasting an impressive 810 horsepower and a range of enhancements that make it a true performance powerhouse.

For automotive enthusiasts in Western Canada, there’s even more reason to celebrate. Dale Adams Automotive, located in Calgary, Alberta, is the only authorized Shelby Mod Shop in Western Canada certified to build the new Shelby GT350. This exclusive distinction means that Canadian muscle car fans can now experience the thrill of owning an officially licensed Shelby GT350 built by a trusted and experienced team right here at home.

The 2025 Shelby GT350: A Legend Reborn

The new Shelby GT350 stays true to its legendary heritage while incorporating cutting-edge technology and modern design elements. Shelby American collaborated with top industry experts to create a sports car that delivers exhilarating performance on both the street and track.

Key Features of the 2025 Shelby GT350:

• Two Power Options: Choose between the 5.0L V8 engine producing 480 horsepower or the supercharged version delivering a jaw-dropping 810 horsepower.

• Transmission Choices: Available with both manual and automatic transmissions, offering flexibility for different driving styles.

• Performance Upgrades: Enhanced suspension, exhaust tuning, improved aerodynamics, and striking new styling features.

• Limited Production: Only 562 units will be built worldwide, echoing the exclusivity of the original 1965 Shelby GT350.

• Shelby GT350R: For those craving an even more track-focused experience, the GT350R features 830+ horsepower, a six-speed manual transmission, carbon fiber components, race-ready suspension, and braking systems.

What Makes this Build Special?

What makes the GT350 truly special is its carefully crafted design and performance enhancements. The team at Shelby American has increased horsepower by 70%, refined the aerodynamics, and upgraded the suspension to ensure everyday drivability without compromising on power and precision. The vehicle pays homage to its roots with 60th-anniversary badges, carbon fiber accents, and the functional aluminum hood with heat extraction.

The Shelby GT350R: Built for the Track

For those seeking the ultimate track-ready experience, the 2025 Shelby GT350R is engineered for serious weekend warriors. Limited to just 36 units, this model features high-performance components, including:

• A full carbon fiber interior tub with optional racing seats

• Trans AM spec high-speed carbon fiber Aero package

• Fully adjustable JRI race struts and shocks

• ProSystems Alcon racing brakes for superior stopping power

Each GT350R will be built in collaboration with Turn Key Automotive/Motorsports in Michigan, ensuring exceptional performance and quality.

The Exclusive Opportunity for Western Canada at Dale Adams Automotive

As an officially licensed Shelby Mod Shop , Dale Adams Automotive is proud to bring the 2025 Shelby GT350 to Western Canada. Our team of experts is trained and equipped to build these exceptional vehicles to Shelby American’s exacting standards, offering Canadian enthusiasts an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of automotive history.

With our reputation for high-performance upgrades, muscle car restoration, and vintage vehicle expertise, we are thrilled to be the exclusive builder of the new Shelby GT350 in Western Canada. Whether you're looking to cruise Calgary’s streets in style or push the limits on the track, the GT350 is the perfect blend of heritage and innovation.

Secure Your 2025 Shelby GT350 Today

The 2025 Shelby GT350 is set to be one of the most sought-after performance vehicles of the year, with limited production numbers ensuring exclusivity. Don’t miss your chance to own this legendary muscle car built right here at Dale Adams Automotive.

Contact us today to learn more about how you can reserve your Shelby GT350 and experience the thrill of driving an American icon.

For inquiries and reservations, use the contact form on this website, visit  Dale Adams Automotive in Calgary, Alberta, or call us at 403-777-4777.

Experience the legend. Drive the future. The 2025 Shelby GT350 is here.

Download the Brochure For Specs and More Information (676kb PDF)

Why Trusting a Local Garage Like Dale Adams Automotive Beats Big Corporate Shops

When it comes to maintaining or repairing your vehicle, the choice between a small, trusted local garage and a large corporate shop can make all the difference in your experience and your car’s performance. At Dale Adams Automotive, serving Calgary, Alberta, since 1977, we’ve built our reputation on trust, quality, and personalized service. Here’s why choosing a local garage like ours often surpasses what corporate chains can offer.

Ford Mustang GTD Shatters Records at Nürburgring: What It Means for Your Mustang's Potential

When the Ford Mustang GTD recently completed a lap at the legendary Nürburgring in just 6:57.685, it didn’t just make headlines—it made history. Ford set a new American production car record on one of the most grueling racetracks in the world, a feat that cements the Mustang’s reputation as a powerhouse of engineering, performance, and raw muscle. For fans of performance cars and Ford enthusiasts alike, this was an electrifying moment that showcased the Mustang’s incredible capabilities.

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