Five Must-do Winter Experiences in Central Alberta

Winter in Alberta means a chance to play in fluffy snow – whether it's on skis, by bike or on foot – and explore jaw-dropping scenery. Central Alberta is something of a hidden gem with seemingly no end of winter activities to try this season. Bonus: there are smaller crowds than some of the province's more well-known winter destinations. Here are five must-do winter experiences in the region.

Hit the slopes

The Canadian Rockies are best known for skiing, but the central region of Alberta also offers options for skiers and boarders of all levels. Canyon Ski Resort is one of the largest outside the Rockies. It's conveniently located less than half an hour from Red Deer, so it's a quick road trip if you're looking to make the city your home base for a winter weekend. There are more than 80 acres to explore, with 23 groomed runs to ride, plus a terrain park if you're feeling adventurous. There's even night skiing if you want to experience the resort in a new way. The tube park is a fun experience for all ages if you want to skip the skis and boards.

But that's not the only place to find skiing in Central Alberta. A quick drive east of Wetaskiwin will get you to Gwynne Valley Ski Area, a beginner-friendly resort that's ideal for a weekend day trip. Remember, lift tickets must be booked online before arriving. Or check out Medicine Lodge Ski Area, just west of Bentley, which is a volunteer-run ski area that's been operating since 1962. It offers 11 runs for all levels.

No gear? All three resorts offer rentals and even lessons if you need to sharpen your skills on the slopes.

See the famous ice bubbles

You've likely seen the Abraham Lake ice bubbles on Instagram, and they're even better in real life. The bubbles are out in full force from mid-January to early February. You can go see them on your own (always check the ice conditions before venturing out and wear proper footwear) or opt for a guided experience that knocks off two bucket-list-worthy adventures in one day. Canadian Rockies Escapes has you covered with a range of tours, including a combined Ice Bubbles + Frozen Waterfalls tour and a Heli + Ice Bubble Escape tour.

Explore the Nordegg area

The ice bubbles are one of the crown jewels of the Nordegg area, but you can plan an adventure-filled day (or more) of activities while you're there. Up for a full-day exploration? Join Canadian Rockies Escapes for the ultimate winter escape, including an ice bubble tour paired with a helicopter flight and snowshoe experience on day one, followed on day two by exploring the area's beautiful frozen waterfalls.

This year-round recreation area is known as David Thompson Country, named after the famed Canadian explorer who travelled through and mapped the region in the early 1800s.

For something on the shorter side, try the two-and-a-half-hour Cline River Canyon hike and see some picturesque, ice-covered scenery along the way. Block off half a day for the full experience, which includes hot chocolate to warm up at the end. Experienced guides will come along on both hikes, and they'll make sure you have cleats or snowshoes, depending on the conditions.

Play at Sylvan Lake

Sylvan Lake is often thought of as a summer destination, but there's plenty to see and do when the snow falls. Rent some snowshoes and hiking poles and crunch through the snow. There are no official trails in town, but you can make your way along the lake shore or explore the nearby Jarvis Bay Provincial Park. If gliding on ice is more your speed, you can skate on the lake. There are three maintained rinks on the lake, and each has a specific purpose. For example, one is big enough for a pick-up game of shinny while another is strictly for skating. The winter village along the lakeshore lights up every night for some extra winter magic, too. Afterwards, warm up at one of the many local restaurants along the lakeshore.

If you're up for a day on the (frozen) lake, test your skills with some ice fishing. Sylvan Lake is home to some of the best fishing around. If you don't have any of the gear, don't sweat it. Sun Sport Rentals can get you outfitted with everything you need, including a shelter. Don't forget to get a fishing license and check the ice thickness.

Try out winter sports in Sundre

Snowmobiling is a popular winter pastime among locals in Alberta, but you'll often need your own machine to hit the trails. If you want to give the sport a try, you're in luck in Sundre. Mountain's Edge Cycle and Sled offers snowmobile rentals, so you can take a sled for a ride without the price tag of purchasing one. Don't forget a helmet.

If you'd rather hit the trails in a non-motorized fashion, rent some cross-country skis or a fat bike from the Sundre Bike N Ski Club. The club also maintains a network of trails, so you can count on groomed terrain for your ski or ride.