Your Rocky Mountain Winter Bucket List

Discover the magic of the snow-covered mountains and immerse yourself in the Canadian Rockies lifestyle this winter. At the core of each breathtaking encounter the region has to offer, you’re sure to unravel the traditions and culture that are central to this rugged and exciting way of life.

Make Canmore and Kananaskis your go-to getaway with must-do winter experiences that’ll make you feel like a local and leave you with lasting memories.

 

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Check these adventures off your bucket list:

Experience a mountain peak in a whole new and exciting way! Soar above the Rocky Mountain ranges and learn about the area with a helicopter ride from Alpine Helicopters.
Choose from multiple tours such as the sensational Mt. Assiniboine tour that transports you to the “Matterhorn of the Canadian Rockies” which rises majestically to 3,611 meters (11,870 feet) along the Great Divide. A winter experience you will never forget.

Be whisked along the snow-covered trails of the back country and experience the breathtaking strength of a pack of hearty dogs working in tandem. A family-owned business, Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours allows you to meet and connect with their beautiful canines when you visit for a tour. This unique expedition allows you to take in quiet mountain trails as never before, and learn about the rich tradition and history of dog sledding, all while remaining cozy on your sled. 

Insider tip!

Why not combine two amazing winter adventures? Arrive for your sled dog tour in style by helicopter. Soar through the vast snow-covered mountains to arrive on the frozen shore of the stunning Spray Lakes where your guides are awaiting your arrival. Check out all the details.

Explore layers of geological history as you venture deep into Rat’s Nest Cave with Canmore Cave Tours. Located under Grotto Mountain, the cave is completely untouched by development and features 7,000-year-old animal bones and pictographs that have weathered the passage of time. The ancient cave formations allow you to discover the incredible storied past of the animals and humans who came before us, the network of caves below the surface, and to learn about the science of rock formations that create the famous and awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains. With temperatures in the cave hovering around 5 degrees Celsius, this is the perfect adventure for any time of year. 

Explore the trails of Grotto Canyon like you’ve never seen them before with Canadian Rockies Experience’s Grotto Canyon Evening Ice Walk Experience. Under the guise of darkness, amble through the snow-covered forest and be amazed by the shimmer of ice formations as your headlamp highlights the trail to the majestic frozen waterfalls. Bask in the hushed atmosphere of nightfall, and discover the history that lies in this ancient canyon.

The Rockies offer adventure and opportunities to dive deep into the mountain lifestyle and learn about its rich narrative at every turn. Some of the best encounters are spontaneous—don’t go home without experiencing the incredible activities the locals love. Enjoy the sound of jingle bells with a picturesque sleigh ride courtesy of Boundary Ranch, or get up close and personal with the beautiful wolf dogs of Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary.

For the adventurous and active, try your hand at ice climbing, rent a fat bike from Rebound Cycle, fly down the mountain on skis or a tube at Nakiska Ski Resort, or cross-country ski at the Canmore Nordic Centre. Glide on the Canmore pond, and when it’s time to warm up, get cozy with alpine dining just steps away in the charming downtown. Learn more about craft brewing with a tour of Canmore Brewery and Distillery, and discover local artistry through the Carter-Ryan Gallery and Live Art Venue.

Veer off the beaten path and discover what’s really at the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. From November to March (and sometimes even into April), shimmering snow and crisp mountain air are sure to take your breath away as you marvel at the incredible winter experiences Canmore and Kananaskis have to offer.

What are you waiting for? Come explore our winter wonderland and check off your bucket list items.