The Canadian Rocky Mountains are stunning at any time of the year, but there’s something magical that occurs when they are covered in a blanket of glistening snow. The entire area becomes a winter wonderland of captivating beauty that’s surrounded with majestic snow capped mountains, frozen lakes and dense snowy landscapes. It’s the perfect setting for an array of winter activities.
Majestic Rundle Mounain
An icon of Banff National Park, it’s grandeur would be hard to miss as this is the view as seen from the Trans Canada Highway that passes by.
Peyto Lake
Accessed from the Icefields Parkway. It can be a bit of a trek to get up to the lookout at Peyto Lake in the winter, but as you can see the view is well worth it!
Traditional Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides
Relax on a scenic sleigh ride along the shoreline trail of Lake Louise.
Bow Lake
Marvel at the immenseness and solitude of frozen Bow Lake and Bow glacier.
The Chateau Lake Louise
Enjoy a meal while gazing at views like this from the iconic Chateau Lake Louise hotel.
Old Fashion Hockey
Enjoy a game of hockey the way it was meant to be played.
Emerald Lake
Take in the beauty and tranquility of Emerald Lake.
Deep Snow
Get a sense of what a Rocky Mountain winter is really like.
The Bow Valley Parkway
Take a scenic drive along the Bow Valley Parkway, the road that runs parallel to the Trans Canada Highway between Lake Louise and Banff.
Dog Sledding
Take a memorable dog sled tour through a striking winter scenery. There’s companies offering tours near Lake Louise and in Kananaskis Country just outside of Canmore.
Johnston Canyon
Hike through the frozen wonderland of Johnston Canyon.
Bighorn Sheep
Catch glimpses of bighorn sheep, just some of the wildlife that can be spotted year round in the parks. In the winter they can often be seen on the portion of the Lake Minnwanka Scenic Drive that is open.
Vermillion Lakes
Walk or drive down Vermillion Lakes Road located on the edge of the Banff townsite. Get creative with your camera capturing images of the frozen lakes and Mount Rundle in the background.
Cozy Lounges
Curl up and relax next to a roaring fire after a day of outdoor activities. This particular one is at the Deer Lodge in Lake Louise.
The Charming Town Of Banff
Get into the holiday spirit with all the lights and festive window displays along Banff Avenue.
Lake Louise
Revel in the breathtaking beauty of Lake Louise.
The Banff Springs Hotel
Spend a cozy winter evening in the historic “Castle of the Rockies”
Snow Art
Enjoy all the interesting and natural art that nature creates from snow and ice.
Skiing
Enjoy a day on the slopes while taking in epic views like this one from the Lake Louise Ski Resort.
Photography
Take advantage of the endless opportunites to photograph the beautiful winter scenery.
Ice Skating
Glide along the ice on one of the world’s most scenic outdoor skating rinks in Lake Louise.
Glacier Lakes
In early winter if there’s a snowfall that occurs before the lakes freeze it’s possible to see glacier coloured water contrasted by the snow covered shoreline. Such as this scene at Grassi Lakes in Canmore.
Herds Of Elk
You might get lucky and see a herd of elk, like this one along the Bow River banks in Canmore.
Grotto Canyon
Take a hike through the deep walled Grotto Canyon.
Blue Skies
It may be cold, but the Rocky Mountain winters do have many days of beautiful blue skies that make outdoor activities even more enjoyable.
Rustic Cabins
Spend and night in the ambience of a rustic cabin nestled in the wilderness like the Baker Creek Chalets.
The Bow River
Take a stroll along one of the scenic trails along the banks of the Bow River like this setting in Canmore.
Ice Climbing
For the adventure seekers there’s many opportunities for ice climbing in the mountains. This spot in Johnston Canyon is very popular.
Snoeshowing
There’s plenty of terrain to try out snowshoeing, it’s quite easy to get the hang of even as a beginner.
The Lake Louise Ice Magic Festival
Time your visit to attend all the activities and viewing of the sculptures at the Lake Lousie Ice Magic Festival, held in the later January each year.
Hot Cocoa
Come inside and warm up at one of the many establishments serving hot cocoa and treats.
Romantic Walks
Grab your loved one and take a romantic walk, the lakeshore trail along Lake Louise is the perfect spot.
Giant Icicles
Look in awe at the giant icicles hanging from the rooftop of many buildings, but stay safe and don’t get underneath them!
Ice Castles
The Chateau Lake Louise hotel constructs a castle out of ice on the lake. It’s a different design each year. It’s usually built in early December when the lake becomes solid enough to hold it.
Snow-Capped Trees
There’s nothing prettier than a scene of snow covered trees like this scene along the Bow Valley Parkway.
Snow Angels
Use the endless landscape of snow to make snow angels, you’re never too old to give it a try!
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