About Summerthought Publishing
Based in Banff, Canada, since 1971, Summerthought is a family-run, independent publisher committed to producing non-fiction books about Alberta.
We strive to publish unique and imaginative books that enhance experiences in Alberta for both locals and visitors.
As residents of Alberta, we identify with the local market, which translates to understanding the needs of retailers and the customers they serve.
History of Summerthought Publishing
In 1965, Peter and Barbara Steiner opened the Banff Book & Art Den in Banff, Alberta. Within a few years, Peter and bookstore manager Jon Whyte agreed to form a company that would publish a hiking guide to the Canadian Rockies, along with other regional books. Since summer was the only busy season in Banff in those days, most business ideas were hatched during winter, hence “Summerthought” as the name for their publishing company.
With the publication of the Canadian Rockies Trail Guide in 1971, Summerthought Publishing was officially launched. Over the next 35 years, the company operated as a subsidiary of the Banff Book & Art Den, publishing other books written by well-known local authorities including Jon Whyte, Eleanor Luxton, Rick Kunelius, Esther Fraser, Bob Sandford, Ted Hart, Erling Strom, and Rick Langshaw.
In 2006, the founders of Summerthought were looking to sell, but in the time-honoured spirit of independent book publishing were intent on keeping the Canadian Rockies Trail Guide out of the hands of the larger publishing houses. At the same time, Andrew Hempstead was looking for a challenge related to Andrew’s 17 years as a full-time travel writer, but one that allowed more time together with their young family in Banff. The sale was an ideal scenario for both parties, and in early 2006 the deal was done, with Summerthought remaining in Alberta and independent.
As of 2025, Summerthought has over 30 non-fiction Canadian Rockies and Alberta books in print.
The first edition of the Canadian Rockies Trail Guide was published in 1971.
Land Acknowledgment
In the spirit of reconciliation, Summerthought Publishing acknowledges that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.
Financial Acknowledgments
Summerthought Publishing gratefully acknowledges the financial support, including for the development of this website, of the Government of Alberta through the Alberta Media Fund.
Summerthought Publishing acknowledges the financial support the Government of Canada through the Canada Book Fund.
Summerthought Publishing acknowledges the financial support of the Access Copyright Foundation.
