Winter Wonderland | Best Places to Visit in Alberta During the Winter

Canadian winters can be long and brutally cold, but we don’t have to let cabin fever take over. Alberta is home to some great outdoor and indoor places to visit that will have you wanting winter to stay longer. Are you wanting relaxation and quiet? Extreme winter sports? Backcountry camping? Snowmobiling trails? Alberta has it all. If you’re looking for some of the best places to visit in Alberta during the winter, then keep reading. 

The Iron Horse Trail 

If you’re a brave the cold, thrill-seeking, keep the adventures outdoors kind of person, then the Iron Horse Trail is one of the best places to visit in Alberta during the winter. Explore 300kms of groomed trails through stunning boreal forests in Alberta’s Lakeland. The Iron Horse Trail is a historical piece of the Canadian Railway that has been transformed into an adventure for all ages. Walk, snowshoe, cross-country ski, snowmobile or ride horseback down the trail and discover the history, the wildlife and the welcoming communities along the trail. Not to mention the good chance you just might see the Aurora Borealis dancing in the beautiful, winter night sky. You’ll cross trestle bridges, discover old towns, find still-standing railway stations and more. There is enough trail to keep the adventure going all winter long.

Mountain Towns | Banff & Jasper

Two stunning mountain towns nestled in the Canadian Rockies with cozy atmospheres, Banff & Jasper are a must-see. Hike a trail, skate on a frozen lake, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride,  experience the warmth of a natural spring or head indoors for some great eats and tasty treats. The 360-degree mountain view will not disappoint either. After dark, look to the sky and experience some of the most breathtaking night skies around. With such little light pollution, thousands of stars are visible with the naked eye. 

Ice Castles | Edmonton

Surround yourself in a winter wonderland when you visit the Edmonton Ice Castles. Located just east of downtown Edmonton in Hawrelak Park, this acre of handcrafted frozen artwork is by far one of the best places to visit in Alberta during the winter. Find your way through the ice maze, walk through the castle at night for a colourful experience and don’t forget your camera. 

The Lakeland 

Alberta’s Lakeland is home to endless winter activities and adventures. Try backcountry camping or a winter cabin. Ski, snowshoe, tube, snowmobile or spend endless hours on the lake ice fishing. You’ll find comfortable accommodations in one of their many bed & breakfasts, indoor markets to visit year-round, local restaurants with delicious food and local theatre performances.

Alberta is known for its year-round camping, rocky mountain ranges, ice fishing and winter sports. We have only listed a few of the best places to visit in Alberta during the winter, but you won’t be disappointed with whatever adventure you choose.