You Need to Try These Winter Walks and Hikes in Alberta

The hiking season in Alberta doesn’t end when winter arrives. In fact, some of the province’s best trails are even more beautiful under a blanket of sparkling snow. Many of these trails are ideal for beginners and families, and you can even explore some on a guided experience. A successful winter hiking excursion just requires a little preparation – check out the handy gear checklist and safety tips at the end of this story.

Note: Dogs are welcome on these trails but must be on a leash.

Calgary

This may be Alberta’s largest city, but there’s no shortage of natural beauty. There’s an extensive trail network to explore year-round, plus one of the largest urban parks in North America, all without venturing too far from the city’s best amenities and attractions.

Bow Valley Ranch Loop, Fish Creek Provincial Park

Length: 1.8 km (1.1 mi)

Elevation Gain: 24 m (78 ft)

Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America, stretching 19 km (12 mi) east to west. There are more than 80 kms (50 miles) or trails throughout the park, and the Bow Valley Ranch Loop is a favourite among locals and visitors. It’s an easy paved loop that travels through a forest grove and wetlands — you’ll even spot ice caves.

Elbow River Pathway: Stanley Park to Sandy Beach

Length: 5.8 km (3.6 mi)

Elevation Gain: 62 m (203 ft)

The Elbow River Pathway runs through the city, and this section from Stanley Park to Sandy Beach makes for an enjoyable winter walk. There are a couple of off-leash areas for your canine companion to enjoy, and the scenery of the Britannia Slopes and Sandy Beach is a beautiful piece of nature in the city. Be prepared to walk up the slopes if you want to stop for a coffee or a bite in the Britannia neighbourhood.

Edmonton

Alberta’s capital is known as a Winter City for good reason. There’s plenty of snowy fun to be had, especially in the North Saskatchewan River Valley, which is larger than Central Park in New York City.

Funicular to Walterdale Loop

Length: 6 km (3.7 mi)

Elevation: 25 m (82 ft)

The 100 Street Funicular is a distinct city landmark that connects downtown Edmonton and the North Saskatchewan River Valley. The glass-enclosed funicular functions like an elevator and creates an accessible way to navigate the slope into the valley. After taking in the view from the top of the funicular, take a ride down to cross the historic Low Level bridge and begin the trail, which winds through tree-covered scenery along the river. You’ll finish your hike by crossing the Walterdale Bridge and strolling through the Rossdale neighbourhood.

Walterdale Bridge to Tawatinâ Bridge

Length: 7.1 km (4.4 mi)

Elevation Gain: 133 m (436 ft)

Why not combine hiking with art? This moderate out-and-back trail incorporates the Tawatinâ Bridge, which spans 260 metres and features more than 400 pieces of stunning Indigenous art. Nature lovers will also be treated to gorgeous views of the North Saskatchewan River and snowy vistas. Don’t forget to wear sturdy footwear with crampons on this hike, as the trail can be icy.

Mill Creek Loop

Length: 5.8 km (3.6 mi)

Elevation Gain: 115 m (377 ft)

This easy loop through the Mill Creek Ravine is a popular year-round destination for hikers, runners and walkers of all ages. The trail is moderately flat, and there are off-leash areas for dogs to roam. The loop runs along the namesake creek, and you’ll find several footbridge crossings along the way. Keep in mind that you’ll need to access stairs to climb out of the ravine.

Canmore & Kananaskis Country

A short drive from Calgary is all that’s between you and the Canadian Rockies. Canmore and Kananaskis Country are replete with quieter trails and scenery that’s equally as stunning as what you’ll find in Banff National Park.
Don’t forget: You’ll need a Conservation Pass to explore Kananaskis Country. The passes can be purchased online or at a Kananaskis Visitor Centre. Day and annual passes are available.

Grotto Canyon

Length: 7.1 km (4.4 mi)

Elevation Gain: 395 m (1,295 ft)

A frozen waterfall? Check. A cave? Check. Thousand-year-old pictographs? Check. Grotto Canyon, found about 10 minutes from the town of Canmore, isn’t short on incredible scenery as you hike through the stone-walled canyon. It’s a favourite hike among families and it gets busy on weekends. You can explore it on your own or opt for a guided ice walk with Discover Banff Tours, complete with provided ice cleats and hiking poles, or learn about the land from an Indigenous perspective with Buffalo Stone Woman.

Troll Falls

Length: 4.7 km (2.9 mi)

Elevation Gain: 227 m (745 ft)

Troll Falls is a short hike that’s a perfect choice for families and beginners, and it’s located just a short drive from Kananaskis Village. The trail treats visitors to picturesque mountain views and a snowy trail flanked by aspen trees. The big payoff comes at the end when you get to take in the beauty of a frozen waterfall. The parking lot can get busy, so it’s recommended to visit this trail early in the day.

Chester Lake

Length: 9.2 km (5.7 mi)

Elevation Gain: 300 m (1,000 ft)

Chester Lake in Kananaskis Country is considered to be a moderate hike, and this trail doubles as an official snowshoeing route. It’s one of the most popular winter trails in the region, and it looks like a winter wonderland, complete with snow-dusted evergreen trees and soaring mountain peaks. The snow can get deep, so it may be helpful to hike a day or two post-snowfall to allow time for snowshoers to pack it down.

Banff National Park

Canada’s first national park is one of the province’s most popular hiking destinations. There are trails for all experience levels, and you’re never far from breathtaking views. Visit these trails early in the day when they’re less busy.

Johnston Canyon

Length: 5.5 km (3.4 mi) to Upper Falls

Elevation Gain: 274 m (899 ft) to Upper Falls

It won’t take long to see why Johnston Canyon is one of the most beloved trails in Banff National Park. It’s stunning in any season, but the winter scenery is on another level. The steel catwalks built into the canyon walls provide an easy route to the magical frozen Johnston Canyon Upper Falls — the main attraction of the hike. The canyon is fun to explore on your own, but you can also join a guided ice walk with Discover Banff Tours. They provide winter hiking essentials like poles and ice cleats, and there will be hot chocolate waiting for you afterwards.

Peyto Lake Viewpoint

Length: 1.3 km (0.8 mi)

Elevation Gain: 78 m (256 ft)

Peyto Lake is a must-see in Banff National Park. The wolf-shaped lake draws countless visitors every year, and the paved trail makes for a quick winter hike to a picturesque view overlooking the lake. The trail begins with a moderate incline, so be prepared for a short climb. But the scene waiting for you from the viewpoint is worth the effort.

Johnson Lake

Length: 2.9 km (1.8 mi)

Elevation Gain: 69 m (226 ft)

Johnson Lake is a gentle winter hike that’s ideal for families looking to explore the outdoors without venturing too far from the town of Banff. You’ll be treated to beautiful views of Cascade Mountain and Mount Rundle as you navigate the trail, which passes by some of Alberta’s oldest Douglas fir trees. Johnson Lake is also a favourite ice-skating spot if you’re keen to enjoy some ice time.

Tunnel Mountain

Length: 4.3 km (2.7 mi)

Elevation Gain: 262 m (860 ft)

Hike to the summit of a mountain without leaving town. Tunnel Mountain is often one of the first summits hikers of all ages and experience levels check off their list, and the short hike delivers epic views of the Banff townsite, the Fairmont Banff Springs and the Bow Valley — plus, there are big, red Parks Canada chairs at the top to take a moment and soak it all in. The trail is doable for children, but it’s rated as moderate. The descent can be icy, so plan accordingly with proper footwear and crampons.

Jasper National Park

Venture further into Alberta’s Northern Rockies and experience the more untouched wilderness of Jasper National Park. Adventures await, and the town of Jasper is a charming mountain retreat.

Pyramid Lake Overlook Loop

Length: 5.3 km (3.3 mi)

Elevation Gain: 75 m (246 ft)

A steep beginning on this trail leads to some of the best views of Pyramid Lake. Plenty of tree cover provides shelter from the wind on this moderate trail, and hiking poles are recommended. Keep an eye out for deer, too.

Lake Annette Loop

Length: 2.4 km (1.5 mi)

Elevation Gain: None

This short, family-friendly loop in Jasper National Park is newly paved and wheelchair accessible — plus, there’s signage at wheelchair height with information about the area and accessible washroom facilities. The forest trail is in a peaceful setting where you’ll find exceptional views of Lake Annette and nearby mountains. Stop at one of the benches along the trail to take it all in. Note that bicycles are not allowed on this trail.

Old Fort Point Loop

Length 3.8 km (2.4 mi)

Elevation Gain: 130 m (427 ft)

Try following this loop trail in a clockwise direction to avoid starting with a steeper uphill hike. The trail is considered moderately challenging but boasts incredible views of the town of Jasper. There’s even a quick detour off the main trail to red Parks Canada chairs that offer an opportunity for a break and taking in 360-degree views.

Mary Schäffer Loop

Length: 3.2 km (2 mi)

Elevation Gain: None

Who doesn’t like choice? The Mary Schäffer Loop can be hiked in both directions. Either way, you’ll take in the winter wonderland of Maligne Lake, the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies and home to Spirit Island. This loop trail is also enjoyable for all ages.

Winter hiking gear

Conditions in Alberta can change quickly throughout the day. Here are some packing essentials to stay warm and safe on your winter adventures.

• Merino wool base layer top and pants
• Wool socks
• Mid layer (Fleece jacket or sweater)
• Waterproof and windproof shell jacket
• Waterproof and windproof hiking pants
• Waterproof and insulated hiking boots
• Crampons (Also called microspikes)
• Water bottle (At least two litres, and keep it insulated to avoid freezing)
• Hiking poles
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Fire-making kit
• Signalling devices
• First aid kit
• GPS or compass (Don’t rely on cell phone signals)
• Emergency shelter
• Snacks
• Headlamp (The sun sets earlier in the winter)
• Daypack

Avalanche safety

Avalanche terrain isn’t secluded in the backcountry of the Canadian Rockies. An avalanche can happen on even the most travelled terrain, and awareness is the key to staying safe. Heavy snowfall (30 cm or more within 48 hours), wind and warm temperatures can create avalanche conditions, and you should become familiar with the signs of snowpack instability. Always check conditions before venturing out and heed avalanche forecasts. Avalanche Canada has important information and online training to better understand avalanche safety.