Alberta doesn’t have an off-season. Each season offers its own surprises, from vibrant landscapes and thrills to nature-inspired wellness offerings and unique accommodations. No matter what time of year or for how long you spend here, you’re sure to leave with memories that last a lifetime.
Get Inspired for Your Getaway to Canada’s Alberta
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Embrace the new and unknown, the exciting experiences and the serene moments. Face your wild in Canada’s Wild Side.
- Discover Alberta’s top outdoor activities in every season.
- Seek spas and wellness in wildly beautiful places.
- Stay in one-of-a-kind accommodations, from sky-watching domes to glamping sites.
Winter Adventures (November to February)
Alberta is the ultimate destination to make the most of Canada’s winters. Everybody can find something here that inspires them to immerse themselves in the snowy season—and something to fuel their adrenaline, too.
From ice skating and snowshoeing to dog sledding and ice climbing, we have no shortage of ways to delight your inner wild child. You won’t want to pass up the opportunity to ski or snowboard at our world-class ski resorts in Banff National Park (Mt. Norquay, Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise) or Jasper National Park (Marmot Basin). Each Rocky Mountain ski resort offers unique charms, excellent snow and has runs for all skill levels.
Winter is also an ideal time to stargaze and chase the northern lights in Alberta. The longer nights increase your chances of spotting the aurora borealis, especially if you visit a Dark Sky Preserve where the skies are protected from light pollution. Plan to stay in Jasper National Park—Canada’s largest accessible Dark Sky Preserve.
Spring Excitement (March to May)
A time of growth and transformation, spring in Alberta is a season for nature lovers. It’s the season for uncrowded attractions, stunning road trips through the Canadian Rockies, and laid-back spring skiing. As warmer days melt winter away, turquoise lakes reappear, waterfalls surge to life and colourful wildflowers begin to decorate the province.
The wildlife is especially active once the snow melts. Animals such as elk, moose, bears and bighorn sheep are often spotted grazing in the wilderness. Joining a wildlife viewing tour can give you a front-row seat to some of these majestic creatures, as well as a deeper appreciation for their delicate habitat.
Want to get outside and enjoy spring’s blue skies? Alberta has a wide range of activities to choose from. Warm up your golf game at one of our scenic courses; we have over 300 to choose from. Or, go biking to explore your surroundings. Our cities and mountains have countless trails to pedal.
Sun-filled summers (June to September)
One of the sunniest places in Canada, Alberta’s summertime energy shines through patio happy hours, vibrant festivals and spirited rodeos (including the world-famous Calgary Stampede every July). Our landscapes are a little greener and our days longer, encouraging you to play from sunrise to sunset.
Hiking showcases the breathtaking diversity of Alberta. A trek in the Canadian Rockies means lush forests and panoramic views of rugged peaks. The turquoise lakes here are incredibly inviting—rent a canoe or paddleboard to get out on gentle water. Trails in the Canadian Badlands are vastly different from the mountain landscapes, but equally remarkable. Here, wind-shaped hoodoos, red canyons and ancient fossil beds hold stories of Jurassic history.
Travellers interested in taking their summer experience to the next level should give camping or glamping a go. You have plenty of options, whether you would prefer to sleep in a tent or Tipi, tour around in an RV, stay in a luxe glamping dome or bike to a backcountry site. Remember to book campgrounds in advance as they can fill up quickly for the summer.
Fall for Alberta (September to November)
Albertans savour every moment of our fleeting fall. As the air grows crisp and autumn colours emerge, locals and visitors alike head outside. Viewing larch trees in the Rockies is essential on your Alberta fall bucket list. These golden trees only paint our mountains for a few weeks every year before their needles drop.
Alberta’s fall vistas become even more unforgettable on a horseback riding tour. Saddle up and see what it’s like to live as a cowboy for a few hours or a few days. Don’t hesitate to bring your kids—many providers are family-friendly. If you’re searching for more stops to round out your family’s trip, consider farmers’ markets, petting zoos and corn mazes. Our province offers plenty of family fun, sure to keep everybody smiling.
Adding Indigenous experiences to your itinerary will further enrich your Alberta visit. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Head-Smashed-In-Buffalo Jump and Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park reveal insight into the Indigenous past, from hunting practices to sacred rock carvings. Those interested in more interactive activities will appreciate providers like Painted Warriors. They blend traditional workshops with modern comforts, teaching skills like archery and animal tracking on a sprawling ranch.
Rest, relax and restore: Alberta wellness retreats
Even the wildest explorers need some downtime. Our spas and wellness centres do wonders for the mind, body and spirit. Everwild Canmore is set against the Canadian Rockies, inviting guests to slow down through curated treatments, guided sauna rituals and invigorating thermotherapy circuits. This Nordic-inspired spa and hotel will leave you feeling rejuvenated and ready for anything.
Further into the Rockies, BASIN Glacial Waters offers a truly elemental experience in Banff National Park. Using pristine glacial water, its guided hot-and-cold circuits awaken all the senses. Take a dip in the infinity pool overlooking Lake Louise, sit back in a Himalayan salt room and indulge in this elevated form of self-care. It’s a powerful place for anyone seeking renewal, clarity and a sense of awe.
Guests craving a more secluded getaway might prefer The Woods Experience. Métis-owned and surrounded by 80 acres of boreal forest, their Wilderness Spa helps you unwind with a wood-fired hot tub, a barrel sauna, cold plunges and open-air relaxation. Visits here are meant to encourage more than rest alone. This retreat was created to ground travellers in a bold, perspective-shifting way.
Unique accommodations: Where to stay in Alberta
Spending the night in Alberta is an adventure on its own. We have something for everyone, from luxury resorts and contemporary hotels to log cabins and quaint B&Bs. You can even sleep in a gingerbread house, pirate ship or princess cottage at Charmed Resorts. These cozy fairytale-themed stays impress with their imaginative designs, delighting both kids and adults.
For a blend of culture and wonder, consider a weekend at the Indigenous-owned Métis Crossing—Alberta’s first major Métis cultural destination. Visitors can enjoy authentic Métis cuisine, participate in traditional workshops, and join guided tours throughout the year. After a full day, cozy up in modern sky-watching domes for a restful sleep below the stars. You might just catch the northern lights.
Skyridge Glamping takes wilderness escapes to new heights. Nestled in Kananaskis Country, these boutique cabins show off Alberta’s iconic mountains through floor-to-ceiling windows. This adults-only retreat brings travellers closer to nature without sacrificing upscale amenities. Each cabin is designed with comfort in mind, featuring king-size beds, gourmet kitchens and spa-like bathrooms.
