Are you a fan of massive mountains, pristine lakes, and stunning vistas? If so, then you will fall in love with the sights, sounds, and activities of the Alberta Rockies. This immaculate and untouched landscape is a spectacle to behold, especially during winter when the region is blanketed with endless stretches of snow-capped mountains.
Riddled with brazen bears, majestic mountain lions, and bighorn sheep; this scenic expanse of land will take your breath away. However, the region has a lot more to offer than some nice views!
Whether you’re visiting Banff, Jasper, Waterton or any other of the impeccable
Alberta National Parks, you’ll be greeted with a long and comprehensive list of recreational activities!
And to give you an idea of what to expect, here are 7 epic things to do in the Alberta Rockies during the winter.
1. Cross Country Skiing
Make your lunch, throw on your layers, and pack your skis for a day of cross country skiing in
Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park. The park offers many recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and in the winter months – skiing. Additionally, the beautiful landscape plays host to many major events – both locally and internationally.
But one of its main attractions is its cross-country skiing. The popularity of which has become evident in the ski-gear many of the locals sport as their everyday clothing.
2. Go for a Hike
Hike
Grassi Lakes for a fairly easy trek with incredible views. The whole hike is only about one or two hours long (depending on athleticism and how often you pause to enjoy the beautiful scenery). The lively landscape of Grassi Lakes is a sight of true beauty.
Many of the locals have been traversing this area since they were children. So if you want to truly get a feel for the communal energy associated with this region, hiking Grassi Lakes is a great way to do it.
3. Rocky Mountain Trail Snowshoeing
Are you an avid explorer by heart? Do you relish adventure? If that’s the case, you won’t want to miss your opportunity to go snowshoeing through the mountain trails of Alberta’s Rocky Mountain National Park! Traverse through the unending forest pathways, take a breather alongside breathtaking views of the scenic topography, and finish with a deeper appreciation for the majestic world we live in.
4. Ice Climbing
If you’re an adrenaline junkie or just someone who enjoys the thrill that comes with trying something new, why not give ice climbing a try?! This intense sport is for beginners and pros, young and old alike. However, if you are new, be sure to have your guides by your side and follow their advice to a tee.
Ice climbing is available in Banff National Park in Alberta during the winter. Feel the rush and the pulsating stimulation associated with climbing up a vertical sheet of ice at 50 feet in the air!
5. Distillery Tour
Warm up on a cold winter’s evening during your visit to a distillery tour. For only $10, you can book a tour and learn about the process of production – and of course – do a taste test to ensure it’s a “quality product”. Visit
Wild Life Distillery for a unique Rocky Mountain experience; with a little bit of alcohol to add to the occasion.
6. Go for an Icewalk
You can go for an exhilarating icewalk, an experience that occurs in The Columbia Icefield. It’s the single biggest ice mass in the Rocky Mountains. This region spans the vast expanse of Alberta and British Columbia. Moreover, the walks are guided and cover the Athabasca Glacier, and the sights are truly breathtaking and unique.
Additionally, if you aren’t prepared with the necessary gear, the tour can provide spikes, boots, hats, and more to ensure that you’re comfortable and properly clothed for the occasion.
7. Banff Upper Hot Springs
Open year-round, the
Banff Upper Hot Springs are a great way to warm up during the cold winter months. For more than 100 years, these steamy mineral water hot springs have been hosting tourists, backpackers, and visitors from all walks of life, and from all over the world.
The Banff Upper Hot Springs are enjoyable regardless of the time of year. However, this sentiment is amplified when the winter season grips the area. Take a dip in a natural hot spring, and experience winter from a new perspective. You won’t believe how these pleasant reservoirs can relieve pain, boost circulation, and make you feel at peace.
Final Thoughts
The Rocky Mountain National Parks in Alberta is a place of joy and adventure for everyone. With so many things to do and places to see, no two days will be the same. And for this reason, it will be the adventure and vacation trip of a lifetime.
