Calgary, located in Alberta, Canada, is a city framed by stunning natural scenery. In winter, the city is blanketed in snow, and its surrounding mountains and vast wilderness transform into a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and skiing to biking, every activity here brings you closer to nature and offers a chance to soak in the magic of Calgary’s winter. Today, I’ll take you through the most popular outdoor winter activities in Calgary and help you explore its snowy wonderland.
Part One: Skiing and Snowboarding – A Journey of Speed on the Slopes
The mountainous areas surrounding Calgary provide the perfect environment for skiing and snowboarding. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned expert, you’ll find ski resorts that suit your skill level. Alberta is known for its high-quality snow and top-tier ski resorts, making it one of Canada’s premier ski destinations.
1.1 Fernie Alpine Resort
About a three-hour drive from Calgary, Fernie Alpine Resort is nestled in the stunning Canadian Rockies, surrounded by dramatic peaks and deep powder snow that make it one of North America’s top ski destinations. This world-renowned resort offers ski runs and snowboard zones suitable for all skill levels. From gentle beginner trails winding through snow-covered forests to steep advanced slopes that test the skills of seasoned riders, the resort’s thoughtful layout caters to a diverse audience.
Fernie receives over 30 feet of snow annually, making it a paradise for powder hounds. In addition to skiing, Fernie offers comprehensive snowboarding lessons, private coaching for those looking to refine their technique, and guided snow exploration programs that take you off the beaten path. Other winter activities here include snowshoe hiking through tranquil alpine trails, tubing hills for family fun, and adrenaline-pumping snowmobiling adventures. With cozy lodges, vibrant après-ski options, and mountain views at every turn, Fernie Alpine Resort is more than just a ski destination—it’s a complete winter escape.
1.2 Kananaskis Ski Resort
For a quieter and more pristine skiing experience, Kananaskis Ski Resort is a great option, especially for those seeking solace in nature rather than crowds. Located just west of Calgary in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, this hidden gem is perfect for skiers who appreciate uncrowded slopes and sweeping mountain vistas. Unlike the busier resorts like Banff or Lake Louise, Kananaskis tends to be more tranquil, offering a closer connection to the raw beauty of winter wilderness.
The slope designs here are varied and cater to a range of skill levels, from easy green runs ideal for learners to thrilling black diamonds for experts. The fresh mountain air, the soft crunch of snow beneath your skis, and the serenity of the pine-scented forests make every descent a rejuvenating experience. One of the resort’s major highlights is night skiing—an enchanting opportunity to glide down softly lit slopes under a canopy of stars and crisp alpine silence. Kananaskis also offers snowshoeing trails, scenic winter walks, and cozy lodges where you can warm up by the fire after a day on the snow.
1.3 Banff Sunshine Village
If you’re willing to take a scenic 90-minute drive from Calgary into the iconic Banff National Park, Banff Sunshine Village awaits with its vast terrain and state-of-the-art facilities. Set at a higher elevation than most other Canadian resorts, Sunshine Village offers one of the longest ski seasons in the country—often from early November to late May. With over 3,300 acres of skiable terrain, it provides extensive ski and snowboard trails across three distinct mountains: Goat’s Eye, Lookout Mountain, and Mount Standish.
The resort’s breathtaking alpine scenery, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys, makes every run memorable. Whether you’re carving down wide-open bowls, gliding through gladed tree runs, or challenging yourself on steep double black diamonds, there’s something here for every type of skier or rider. After a thrilling day on the slopes, you can unwind in the resort’s famed natural hot springs or enjoy après-ski drinks and dining in the mountaintop lodges. With its blend of exhilarating outdoor adventure and luxurious relaxation, Banff Sunshine Village truly captures the magic of winter in the Rockies.
Part Two: Hiking – Journey Through Snowy Forests and Valleys
Calgary’s winter landscapes resemble a serene painting, and hiking is one of the best ways to appreciate them. From peaceful forests to challenging mountain trails, winter hiking offers both physical exercise and spiritual renewal.
2.1 Lake Louise Hike
Located in Banff National Park, Lake Louise is one of the most beloved winter hiking destinations near Calgary. The lake freezes over in winter, creating a peaceful and mesmerizing scene with a vast white canvas stretching across the valley floor. Surrounding the lake are snow-covered pines, glistening icicles, and towering peaks that glow golden at sunrise, evoking a fairy tale atmosphere that feels otherworldly.
The hiking trails here are accessible to all experience levels and are well-maintained during the winter months. Ideal for families, photographers, and casual hikers alike, the area features loop routes and viewpoints that showcase the best of the frozen lake and nearby glaciers. Along the way, hikers can stop at cozy lodges like the iconic Fairmont Chateau to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, warm up by a fireplace, or even rent snowshoes for deeper exploration into the nearby backcountry.
2.2 Peter Lougheed Provincial Park
Peter Lougheed Provincial Park is a fantastic winter hiking destination, especially well-suited for snowshoeing and backcountry exploration. Located in the Kananaskis region, it features an extensive network of trails that wind through dense coniferous forests, across frozen streams, and over expansive snowfields where silence reigns and the occasional sighting of wildlife—like moose or snowshoe hares—adds to the magic.
This park is less crowded than more tourist-heavy areas, making it a top choice for those seeking solitude. Popular trails such as the Elk Pass or Rawson Lake trails offer varying degrees of difficulty and elevation gain, giving hikers a chance to choose between leisurely forest walks or more ambitious climbs. Along the way, you’ll encounter natural ice sculptures formed by frozen waterfalls, and panoramic views of white-capped mountains that are truly awe-inspiring. For a more immersive experience, guided winter hikes are sometimes available, providing insight into local ecology and safety tips for winter trekking.
2.3 Bow River Pathway
As Calgary’s most famous urban trail, the Bow River Pathway winds for over 48 kilometers through the city and connects multiple parks and nature reserves. In winter, snow transforms this greenbelt into a quiet, scenic corridor perfect for leisurely strolls or a peaceful morning run. The trail is cleared regularly, making it accessible even in heavy snow, and its gentle grade allows people of all fitness levels to enjoy the route.
You can walk along the riverbanks, listening to the gentle gurgle of the Bow River as it flows under a delicate crust of ice, and admire the snowy cityscape that juxtaposes modern architecture with natural beauty. Landmarks like Prince’s Island Park, Peace Bridge, and the Calgary Zoo become striking under a blanket of white. The trail’s proximity to downtown makes it a perfect way to combine urban exploration with winter hiking. For locals and visitors alike, it’s a reminder of how seamlessly nature is woven into the city’s fabric, offering calm reflection just steps from the urban bustle.
Part Three: Biking – The Thrill of Fat Biking in the Snow
Beyond skiing and hiking, Calgary also offers exhilarating winter biking. Whether you prefer fat bikes or traditional winter-ready bicycles, you’ll find plenty of trails to explore and enjoy the brisk air and snowy terrain.
3.1 Fat Biking Adventures
Fat biking, designed specifically for snowy trails with its wide tires, is growing in popularity around Calgary. Parks and trails in places like Banff and Kananaskis are perfect for these winter rides.
You can rent a fat bike and ride through snow-draped forests, enjoying the freedom and excitement of gliding over powdery paths. These rides offer a unique way to engage with winter while staying active.
3.2 Urban Winter Biking
Calgary’s city center also accommodates winter biking, with dedicated snow-cleared paths for cyclists. These routes allow riders to enjoy the blend of urban architecture and natural winter charm.
The city’s green spaces, riverside trails, and well-maintained roads make urban cycling both scenic and practical, even in the colder months.
3.3 Lake Path Cycling
Winter biking around Calgary’s lakes is an unforgettable experience. Trails near lakes in Banff and Johnston Canyon are especially beautiful in winter. Snow-covered peaks reflect on the frozen water, creating stunning vistas.
Riding through this serene environment offers a peaceful contrast to the intensity of mountain trails and provides an opportunity to slow down and take in the quiet beauty of winter.
Winter in Calgary is nothing short of enchanting. Whether you’re carving down a slope, trekking through a snow-blanketed forest, or pedaling along icy trails, the city offers endless ways to engage with its winter wonderland. Here, outdoor activities aren’t just hobbies—they’re a way to connect with the wild beauty of Alberta. Whether you seek high-adrenaline adventures or tranquil escapes, Calgary’s winter playground has something for everyone.
