The Rocky Mountains of Alberta are a magnificent sight to
behold in winter, as the Canadian province’s soaring peaks
and coniferous forests become thickly draped in snow and
its lakes transform into glistening sheets of ice. To give you
a taste of the many adventures on offer, these are the top 10
winter experiences for a holiday in the province.
1. Ice Bubbles & Glacier Heli Tour
Take to the skies on a spectacular helicopter flight, soaring
above the mighty mountains and glaciers of the Alberta
Rockies before tucking into a delicious hot lunch back on the
ground. You’ll then be driven to Abraham Lake for a short
hike to discover its famous ice bubbles – an extraordinary
spectacle only seen in the winter months when the lake
freezes over.
2. Johnston Canyon Frozen Falls Adventure
This guided hike takes you along steel catwalks built into the
walls of Johnston Canyon, one of Banff National Park’s most
striking attractions. First, you’ll enter a cave to marvel at the
frozen Lower Falls, before continuing to the mesmerising
Upper Falls, where gigantic icicles form a glittering, frozen
column that extends up to 30 metres. Along the way, you’ll
learn all about the history of the canyon and the wildlife that
inhabits it.
Johnston Canyon in winter (image: Travel Alberta)
3. Maligne Canyon Ice Walk
As the deepest accessible canyon in Jasper National Park,
reaching depths of over 50 metres, Maligne Canyon is a
perfect destination to marvel at awe-inspiring ice formations
and frozen waterfalls up close. On this three-hour tour, you’ll
venture far inside the canyon, passing by countless naturally
frozen sculptures that offer an endless stream of incredible
photo opportunities.
4. Jasper Dark Sky Planetarium
Jasper National Park is home to the world’s largest accessible
dark sky preserve, with minimal light pollution creating
optimal conditions for stargazing and night-sky photography.
Its 38-seat planetarium hosts interactive tours presented by
expert astronomers, while guided tour packages offer the
chance to gaze into space using powerful telescopes. With
a slice of good fortune, the Northern Lights might also make
an appearance.
Stargazing in Alberta
5. Jasper Winter Wildlife and Foodie Tour
Venture out with knowledgeable outdoor guides in search
of Jasper’s famed wildlife amid the stunning landscapes of
the Athabasca Valley. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled
for the likes of elk, deer, mountain goats, and possibly even
wolves. Then, you’ll head back into town for a foodie tour,
stopping by four local restaurants to taste delicious dishes
accompanied by specially selected alcoholic beverages.
6. Lake Louise Sleigh Ride
Cosy up with snug blankets in a traditional horse-drawn
sleigh as you trace the idyllic frozen shore of Lake Louise,
breathing that crisp winter air and taking in sublime views
of the Victoria Glacier and the surrounding mountains.
Whether you’re seeking a fun-filled family outing or a
romantic experience for two, this enchanting journey is sure
to stir the soul.
Lake Louise sleigh ride (image: Travel Alberta)
7. Jasper Dog Sledding
There’s something uniquely exhilarating about gliding across
the snow-blanketed wilderness of the Alberta Rockies by dog
sled – a traditional mode of transport that’s deeply rooted in
Canada’s cultural heritage. After a brief introduction, you’ll
have the opportunity to try your hand at ‘mushing’, driving
your own sled pulled by a team of energetic huskies, or
you may wish to simply sit back and take in the views while
someone else does the steering.
8. Snowshoe Tour
Equipped with snowshoes, designed to distribute your weight for hiking on loosely packed snow, you’ll set off to explore some of Jasper or Banff National Parks’ most beautiful landscapes, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. You’ll learn about the area’s history, geology and ecology while searching for animal tracks and listening for the song of mountain chickadee birds.
Snowshoeing in Banff National Park (Image: Travel Alberta)
9. Banff Gondola
Take a ride on the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur
Mountain for sweeping, panoramic views of the Canadian
Rockies and Bow Valley. The journey takes just eight
minutes, reaching an altitude of 2,281 metres above sea
level. Upon reaching the top, it’s well worth strolling along
the Summit Ridge interpretive boardwalk to access the
ultimate vantage point.
10. Electric Fat Biking
Suitable for experienced cyclists and rookies alike, electric
fat biking is easy to get to grips with, making it an ideal way
for riders of all skill levels to navigate the scenic trails of Banff
National Park. You’ll wind your way between snow-laden
forests, frozen rivers and epic mountain backdrops with
plenty of time for photo stops and fascinating insights from
your expert guide.