If it's a guaranteed white Christmas you're after, Alberta is a sure promise to make all your snowy winter wonderland dreams come true. I fly back and forth to Calgary frequently to visit my boyfriend. The first snow fell in October so ever since, we have been making the most of all the holiday activities in Calgary and the surrounding areas.
Ski Nakiska
$85 per adult for lift ticket
Calgary's closest ski resort, Nakiska is a fantastic place to get out on the slopes and enjoy a day skiing in the sunshine. Nakiska is surrounded by beautiful mountains and, while not a huge hill, is good fun!
Outdoor Ice Skating
free, $12 for skate rentals
What is more romantic and Christmassy than strapping on a pair of skates and twirling around on an outdoor skating rink while snow is falling and Christmas music is playing? Not much!
Snowy Winter Hike
free
Stoney Squaw Trail on Mount Norquay is perfect for a winter hike. The trail winds its way through grand pine and spruce trees leading up to a summit view over Banff and the Cascade mountains. Even under a foot or two of snow, the trail is well-patted down and easy to follow.
Snowy City Walks
free
When the snow falls in the city, bundle up warm and head out for a wintery walk. Take some cute photos on snow-covered roads and take in the magical peace that seems to come with a blanket of snow.
Christmas Market
$12 per adult
There are a number of Christmas Markets and craft markets in and around Calgary to visit, pick up gifts, sip hot cocoa or cider and enjoy the cheer of the season.
Ski Lake Louise
$92 per adult lift ticket
Lake Louise is one of my favourite places in the world in the summer months, and the skiing high up on the slopes of the mountainous village are just as magical in the winter.
Skate on Frozen Lakes
free
The cold weather makes many of the lakes in Banff National Park freeze over. One of these is Johnson Lake, which is just to the east of Banff town. Bring your skates - or not - and join the locals on the self-shoveled rinks.
Wander Banff Town
free
Wandering the sweet little town of Banff is idyllic and quaint. Banff is a wonderful place to relax, grab a coffee, sit down for lunch, go shopping and all in front of a stunning backdrop.
Hi! I’m Jana, a Dutch-German-British-Canadian with a dream of seeing every country in the world. I am a storyteller, photographer and adventurer passionate about documenting and sharing my travels.
