Winter Experiences

Frozen lake with bubbles and an ice skater with mountains in the background. — In a lesser-known part of the Canadian Rockies, Abraham Lake is a frozen expanse of icy bubbles from mid-December through February.

Bundle up for a chilled-out Canadian adventure this winter

There’s a different feeling in the air during an Alberta winter, and no, it's not just the temperature. Fewer people, clear skies and an increased sense of adventure make outdoor activities truly epic. Hikes become snowshoe excursions, the northern lights come out to play, and natural attractions like canyons and lakes become entirely new experiences.

In our cities and towns, find festivals that embrace the snowy season and spas to rejuvenate you. Whatever you do in Alberta this winter, you'll tap into your wild side.

Iconic winter activities in Alberta

Alpine skiing. Nordic skiing. Dog sledding. Skating on mountain lakes. There’s no end to the winter activities here, and if you find yourself living off hot chocolate and adrenaline for your entire stay, we wouldn’t blame you. Just remember to head inside once in a while to warm those toes up!

A group of backcountry skiers skinning up a ridge towards the sun that is peaking over the summit.

Perfect tracks and views to match

Tackle the challenge that is backcountry skiing and snowboarding with fully certified guides in the mountains of Banff National Park. Or stick to the world-class mountain resorts (many are open into spring!).

Skiing & Snowboarding

A family dog sledding on an open snow covered trail with mountains in the background.

Try Alberta's take on dog sledding

Dog sledding is a heart-pounding way to take in the scenery and connect with nature. Book a guided experience and meet the pups who love to pull sleds.

Dog Sledding

Person looking up at night sky and Northern lights

Winter is primetime for aurora-chasing

Alberta is home to wild, dark skies. On clear winter nights, your chances of spotting the northern lights among a field of stars jump.

Northern Lights & Stargazing

More to do in the snow

View from a sled a team of dogs is pulling on a snow covered trail beside a river.

Dog Sledding

Hiking

Ice Skating

Northern lights in the winter nights sky above a floating dock on a lake with mountains in the background.

Northern Lights & Stargazing

Skiing & Snowboarding

A snowmobiler driving through deep powdery snow in Crowsnest Pass, surrounded by snow-covered evergreens.

Snowmobiling

Snowshoeing

Tour group taking photos from inside a tour bus of mountain goats on the highway in Jasper National Park.

Wildlife Viewing

Natural attractions

A whole other world to explore

Alberta doesn’t just look good in the summer. Nope, this postcard-worthy province might look even better with a fresh dusting of snow. Plus, all the incredible sights, trails, lakes and mountains take on a completely new vibe. Come see for yourself.

See Natural Attractions

Clamber your way up the catwalks to the towering frozen waterfall in Johnston Canyon.

Northern lights stretch across the sky over a lake in Wood Buffalo National Park. — Watch the night come to life with the glow of the northern lights.

Family getting of a bus on the Columbia Icefield Glacier tour — Get up close and personal with the Columbia Icefield on a tour.

A couple sit on the methane bubbles under a frozen lake while admiring the sunset. — Catch a glimpse of the famous ice bubbles while you skate Abraham Lake’s frozen surface.

Indigenous cultures

A season of rest and regeneration

In many Indigenous cultures, winter is a time for physical and spiritual healing. It’s also a chance for connection with the natural world during a time of year that lends itself to reflection. Explore hands-on winter experiences from Indigenous tourism operators across Alberta.

Indigenous-led winter experiences

Two ice climbers being supported by two people at the base while ice climbing in Nordegg.

Girth Hitch Guiding

Based near stunning Abraham Lake (known for its captivating ice bubbles), Girth Hitch Guiding leads groups on winter ice climbing adventures. Feel the thrill of learning to climb a frozen waterfall or explore a frosty canyon.

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The Woods Experience

Find deep relaxation and rejuvenation in the wood-fired hot tub and sauna, cold plunge and cozy lounge at The Woods Experience. Disconnect from the world when you stay in a charming wood cabin complete with electric heater and wood stove.

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Métis Crossing

Métis Crossing boasts snowshoeing tours, craft lessons, bison herds and more. After a full day on the land, wind down in your sky-watching dome to sleep below the stars—and maybe even catch the northern lights.

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A woman walks through a large hot pool and looks out the window toward Lake Louise at BASIN Glacial Waters spa.

Warm up and relax deeply

Treat those winter-weary muscles to a day of hydrotherapy after a day on the slopes. Or unplug completely from the world and decompress in a barrel sauna in the wilderness. Whatever wellness means to you, Alberta has a way to indulge.

It doesn't get more Alberta than this

There are some experiences that are so Albertan that we just had to call them out. These are some of the best ways to truly connect with that wild feeling people get in this place. A connection with the people and the land that is hard to replicate anywhere else.