Winter is a magical time of year in Alberta, Canada. Known for its stunning natural beauty and adventurous spirit, this province offers a wide variety of exciting winter activities for visitors to experience. From skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing and dog sledding, there are plenty of things to do and see for tourists of all ages and interests. In this article, we will explore the 20 best winter activities in Alberta, so you can plan the perfect winter vacation.
1. Skiing and Snowboarding
There is no shortage of fantastic skiing and snowboarding destinations in Alberta, making it a top choice for winter sports enthusiasts. Some of the best ski resorts in the province include Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper National Park. These resorts offer a wide range of terrain options, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging runs for more experienced skiers and snowboarders.
2. Snowshoeing
If you are looking for a quieter winter activity, snowshoeing is a great option. There are countless trails throughout the province to explore, from easy scenic strolls to more challenging mountain treks. Snowshoeing is a great way to enjoy Alberta’s stunning natural beauty and get some exercise at the same time.
3. Ice Skating
Ice skating is a classic Canadian winter activity and Alberta has plenty of wonderful indoor and outdoor rinks to choose from. From the iconic Lake Louise to Olympic Plaza in Calgary, there are numerous rinks throughout the province where you can lace up your skates and glide across the ice.
4. Snowmobiling
Adrenaline junkies will love snowmobiling in Alberta. The province has an extensive network of snowmobile trails, ensuring that there are plenty of places to explore. Some of the most popular areas for snowmobiling include the Crowsnest Pass and the Kananaskis Country.
5. Ice Fishing
For those looking for a more relaxing winter activity, ice fishing is an excellent choice. Alberta’s lakes and rivers freeze over in the winter, providing the perfect opportunity to catch some fish. Some of the most popular spots for ice fishing include Lac La Biche and Lesser Slave Lake.
6. Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is an unforgettable experience that allows you to explore Alberta’s winter wonderland in a unique way. Several companies in the province offer dog sledding tours, including Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours in Canmore and Howling Dog Tours in Banff.
7. Ice Climbing
For the ultimate winter adventure, try ice climbing. Alberta has some of the best ice climbing destinations in the world, including the impressive frozen waterfalls of the Canadian Rockies. Some popular ice climbing spots include the Weeping Wall and Johnston Canyon.
8. Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is a great way to experience Alberta’s stunning winter scenery. The province has an extensive network of cross-country ski trails that range from easy to challenging. Some of the best cross-country skiing destinations in Alberta include Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park and Elk Island National Park.
9. Fat Biking
Fat biking is a unique winter activity that has become increasingly popular in recent years. These bikes are specifically designed for riding over snow and ice, allowing you to explore areas that are inaccessible by regular bikes. Some of the best fat biking trails in Alberta include Fish Creek Provincial Park and the Canmore Nordic Centre.
10. Tobogganing
Tobogganing is a fun and low-cost winter activity that is great for families. There are plenty of hills throughout the province to slide down, including the popular hills at Bowness Park in Calgary and the hills at Signal Hill in Edmonton.
11. Winter Hiking
Hiking may not be the first activity that comes to mind during the winter months, but it can be a magical experience. Snow-covered trails offer a unique perspective on Alberta’s natural beauty and there are plenty of trails that are accessible year-round. Some of the best winter hiking trails in Alberta include the Larch Valley Trail in Banff and the Cline River Canyon Trail in Nordegg.
12. Snowboarding at Night
Some ski resorts in Alberta offer night skiing and snowboarding, allowing you to hit the slopes after dark. The hills are often quieter at night, providing a unique and peaceful atmosphere. The most popular night skiing destinations in Alberta include Mount Norquay in Banff and Rabbit Hill Snow Resort in Edmonton.
13. Skijoring
Skijoring is a fun and unique winter activity that involves being pulled behind a horse or dog while skiing. It’s a great way to enjoy the winter scenery while getting some exercise at the same time. Some companies in Alberta offer skijoring tours, including Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours in Canmore.
14. Ice Skating in the Mountains
Ice skating in the mountains is a unique experience that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The lakes in Banff National Park are particularly popular for ice skating, including Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
15. Bobsledding
If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, try bobsledding. The iconic track at the Calgary Olympic Park is open to the public during the winter months, allowing you to experience the thrill of hurtling down the track at high speeds.
16. Northern Lights Viewing
Alberta is one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights. The Aurora Borealis is often visible from November to March, and there are several places in the province where you can see the lights, including Jasper National Park and Elk Island National Park.
17. Ice Sculpting
Ice sculpting is a creative and unique winter activity that is popular in several towns throughout Alberta. The Ice on White Festival in Hinton is one of the most popular ice sculpting events in the province, featuring dozens of stunning sculptures.
18. Snow Tubing
Snow tubing is a fun and exciting way to enjoy the winter weather. Many ski resorts in Alberta offer tubing hills, allowing you to race down the hill on an inflatable tube. Some of the best tubing hills in Alberta include Nakiska Ski Resort and Snow Valley Ski Club.
19. Ice Walks
Ice walks provide a unique perspective on Alberta’s frozen landscapes. Guided tours are available in several locations throughout the province, including Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park and Maligne Canyon in Jasper National Park.
20. Winter Festivals
Finally, Alberta is home to several winter festivals that celebrate the season in style. The Canmore Winter Carnival, Lake Louise Ice Magic Festival, and Jasper in January are just a few of the many festivals that take place each winter.
In conclusion, Alberta is a winter wonderland that offers an endless variety of activities and experiences. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this province has something for everyone. From skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing and dog sledding, there are plenty of things to do and see during the winter months. So grab your winter gear, head to Alberta, and experience the magic of a Canadian winter.
