Winter Activities in the Canadian Rockies

Winter in Alberta is the opportunity to experience the great outdoors, in its entire splendor. From skiing to aerial tours, Alberta offers something for everyone.

Aerial sightseeing is available by fixed wing aircraft or helicopter. Whether you just want to see the area from a different vantage point or you want to ski down an untouched slope, the tour operators are standing by to guide your flight.

Canyon Ice Walks and Ice Climbing are unreachable during the summer months but with a touch of snow they become winter fantasies. The irresistible challenge of iridescent canyon walls and chambers lure enthusiasts from all countries and corners. Guided walks in Banff's Johnson Canyon and Jasper's Maligne Canyon can be organized through most hotels. For the more adventurous climber, ice climbing is both challenging and thrilling. Yamnuska Mountain Adventures offers guided ice climbing as well as weekend and five day training courses.

Dog sledding is operated out of Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, Rocky Mountain House and point north. Learn how to harness, hook-up and drive the team or just relax with camera at the ready. Trips vary in length from just a few hours to an all day tour. They also offer moonlight runs and meals are provided on the trail.

Ice Fishing also known as vertical jigging, is available for all skill levels. Although most of the fish caught are whitefish, you may also catch pike, walleye, trout and burbot. Depending on ice conditions, fishing can be done on most lakes and streams and runs from December through April. Local fishers build sheds or drill holes and drop a line depending on the local regulations. Spray Lake is one of the most popular fishing spots. And don't forget to cook up that fish when you get back to the shore. Alberta also offers ice fishing derbies and contestants build fires on the lakes to keep warm while they wait for the big catch.

Although Canada can't claim the Northern lights as their own, the Northern lights are easily visible from many spots in Alberta including Fort McMurray, Slave Lake, Peace River and Grande Prairie. Stop by and enjoy the constantly changing colorful show in the night sky.

Ice-skating is offered in must urban centers and towns. Calgary offers a natural outdoor skating area within sight of the city limits. Many other cities offer parks and recreation areas where you can skate on natural lakes. Just remember to exercise extreme caution when skating on a local waterway.

Sleigh rides are available in Banff both day and night. Book a two-seater for something romantic or a larger sleigh to take the whole family along. Brewster offers a whole package, which includes sleigh ride to and from a cowboy barbeque and barn dance.

Winter Railway tours give you a trip through the mountains and a view like no other. Only available in December and January it is the ultimate way to experience the Rockies. Take advantage of this chance to sit back and relax and enjoy the view.

Whether you want to visit the Canadian Rockies as a romantic getaway or a family vacation, there is surely something for everyone to enjoy. So, pack your long underwear and plenty or warm socks and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.