As the winter season approaches, many people start to look for exciting places to visit and explore. Calgary, a vibrant city in Alberta, Canada, offers a plethora of options for winter enthusiasts. From snow-covered mountains to frozen lakes, and from cozy cafes to bustling markets, Calgary and its surrounding areas have something for everyone. In this article, we will take you on a journey to discover the best places to visit near Calgary in winter.
Why Visit Calgary in Winter?
Calgary is a winter wonderland, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy snow sports, festive events, and cozy getaways. The city’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains and the Canadian Badlands makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding regions. Additionally, Calgary’s vibrant cultural scene, with its many museums, galleries, and performance venues, offers a unique experience during the winter months. Whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill-seeker, or a foodie, Calgary has something to offer.
Top Places to Visit Near Calgary in Winter
In this article, we will explore the top places to visit near Calgary in winter, including:
- Johnston Canyon and Ink Pots
- Banff National Park
- Kananaskis Country
- Lake Louise
- Calgary Zoo
- Heritage Park Historical Village
- Calaway Park
Get ready to experience the magic of winter in Calgary and its surrounding areas. From snowshoeing and ice skating to dog sledding and skiing, there’s something for everyone in this winter wonderland.
Places To Visit Near Calgary In Winter
Calgary, a city in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offers a wide range of exciting winter activities and attractions for visitors. From skiing and snowshoeing to ice skating and hot springs, there’s something for everyone in this winter wonderland. Here are some of the top places to visit near Calgary in the winter:
Skiing and Snowboarding
Calgary is surrounded by world-class ski resorts, offering a variety of trails for all skill levels. Some of the top ski resorts near Calgary include:
- Nakiska Ski Resort: Located just 45 minutes west of Calgary, Nakiska offers 26 trails and 1,000 acres of skiable terrain.
- Lake Louise Ski Resort: About an hour and a half west of Calgary, Lake Louise features 4,200 acres of skiable terrain and 145 trails.
- Banff Sunshine Village: Located in Banff National Park, about an hour and a half west of Calgary, Sunshine Village offers 3,300 acres of skiable terrain and 145 trails.
Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking
If skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the winter landscape near Calgary. Snowshoeing and winter hiking are great ways to explore the beautiful trails and scenery of the Canadian Rockies. Some popular spots for snowshoeing and winter hiking include: (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near Yellowstone)
- Johnston Canyon: Located in Banff National Park, Johnston Canyon is a popular spot for snowshoeing and winter hiking, with stunning views of the canyon and frozen waterfalls.
- Canmore Nordic Centre: Just 20 minutes west of Calgary, the Canmore Nordic Centre offers 60 km of groomed trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
- Kananaskis Country: This scenic area, about 45 minutes west of Calgary, offers numerous trails for snowshoeing and winter hiking, including the popular Troll Falls trail.
Ice Skating and Hot Springs
Calgary has several outdoor ice skating rinks and hot springs where you can relax and unwind after a day of winter activities. Some popular spots include:
- Prince’s Island Park: This popular park in Calgary features an outdoor ice skating rink and a scenic trail system for snowshoeing and winter hiking.
- Canmore Nordic Centre: In addition to its snowshoeing trails, the Canmore Nordic Centre also features an outdoor ice skating rink and a hot pool.
- Radium Hot Springs: Located about an hour and a half west of Calgary, Radium Hot Springs offers a natural hot spring and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Other Winter Activities
Calgary also offers a range of other winter activities, including dog sledding, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and ice climbing. Some popular spots for these activities include:
- Calaway Park: This amusement park in Calgary features a range of winter activities, including dog sledding and horse-drawn sleigh rides.
- Ice climbing: Several companies in Calgary offer guided ice climbing tours in the nearby mountains.
- Sleigh rides: Several stables in the Calgary area offer horse-drawn sleigh rides through the snow-covered countryside.
Winter Festivals and Events
Calgary hosts a range of winter festivals and events throughout the year, including the Calgary Winter Festival, the Banff Winter Carnival, and the Lake Louise Winter Carnival. These events offer a fun and festive way to experience the winter season in Calgary. Some highlights include:
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Calgary Winter Festival | February | This festival features live music, food vendors, and a range of winter activities, including ice skating and snowshoeing. |
| Banff Winter Carnival | February | This festival features live music, fireworks, and a range of winter activities, including ice climbing and dog sledding. |
| Lake Louise Winter Carnival | February | This festival features live music, food vendors, and a range of winter activities, including ice skating and snowshoeing. |
In conclusion, Calgary is a winter wonderland that offers a wide range of exciting activities and attractions for visitors. From skiing and snowshoeing to ice skating and hot springs, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. So why not plan a trip to Calgary this winter and experience the magic of the Canadian Rockies for yourself?
As the winter season approaches, Calgary offers a plethora of exciting places to visit and activities to enjoy. From the breathtaking natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies to the vibrant city life of Calgary itself, there’s something for everyone in this winter wonderland.
In this article, we explored some of the top places to visit near Calgary in winter. We started by highlighting the stunning Lake Louise, where visitors can enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. We also discussed the charming town of Banff, with its rich history, cultural attractions, and world-class skiing. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Brasov)
We also touched on the scenic drives and hiking trails of Kananaskis Country, which offer a chance to experience the beauty of the Rockies without having to venture too far from Calgary. And for those looking for a more urban experience, we recommended visiting the Glenbow Museum, the Calgary Zoo, and the Calgary Tower, all of which offer a unique perspective on the city and its history.
In conclusion, Calgary and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of exciting places to visit and activities to enjoy during the winter season. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or simply a chance to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies, there’s something for everyone in this winter wonderland.
We hope this article has provided you with some inspiration and ideas for planning your next winter getaway to Calgary. With its unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, Calgary is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the best of winter in the Canadian Rockies.
Here are five FAQs related to ‘Places To Visit Near Calgary In Winter’:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular winter destinations near Calgary?
Some popular winter destinations near Calgary include Banff National Park, Lake Louise, Canmore, and Kananaskis Country. These destinations offer a range of winter activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating, as well as stunning winter landscapes and cozy mountain towns to explore.
Are there any winter festivals or events near Calgary that I should attend?
Yes, there are several winter festivals and events near Calgary that you might enjoy. For example, the Banff Winter Carnival is a popular event that features ice sculpture competitions, snowshoeing, and other winter activities. The Calgary Winter Festival is another event that takes place in the city and features live music, food vendors, and ice skating. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Obidos Portugal)
Can I go hiking in the winter near Calgary?
Yes, there are many hiking trails near Calgary that are suitable for winter hiking. However, it’s important to dress warmly and bring appropriate gear, such as crampons and an ice axe, as the trails can be slippery and icy. Some popular winter hiking destinations near Calgary include the Elbow Falls Trail, the Prairie Mountain Trail, and the Chester Lake Trail.
Are there any winter sports or activities that I can do near Calgary?
Yes, there are many winter sports and activities that you can do near Calgary. For example, you can go skiing or snowboarding at one of the many ski resorts in the area, such as Lake Louise or Nakiska. You can also go ice skating, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing at one of the many parks and trails near the city. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can try dog sledding or ice climbing.
Do I need to bring any special gear or equipment when visiting these places in the winter?
Yes, it’s a good idea to bring some special gear or equipment when visiting these places in the winter. For example, you should bring warm clothing, such as a parka and insulated pants, as well as warm gloves and a hat. You should also bring crampons and an ice axe if you plan to go hiking or snowshoeing, as well as goggles and a helmet if you plan to go skiing or snowboarding. It’s also a good idea to bring a first aid kit and a map, as well as a phone and a camera to capture the beautiful winter landscapes.