Winter in Calgary: Outdoor Adventures and Activities to Embrace the Snow

Winter can get a bad rap, let’s face it. Calgary does become a wonderland of snowy adventures for those who like the chill.  The best part about this city is that they know how to throw a winter party.

 

You are invited! Well, forget the hibernation plans, and roll out the winter gear, because Calgary has something for every explorer.

 

 

Make sure to check airport parking deals before travelling and book accordingly.

 

Thrill of the Hill: Confederation Park sledding

 

Confession time: Once, I thought sledding was for kids. I then went to Confederation Park (well, a hill actually) and let me tell you, that inner child came ROARING back. It is a sprawling park for winter fun with dedicated areas for the afternoon of laughter and adrenaline.

 

If you don’t have a cheap sled, grab a cardboard box and improvise, while finding a good incline and waiting for some epic winter wipeouts (all in good fun, of course).

 

Pro-Tip: Bring thermos mugs and some hot chocolate.  End of sledding run, nothing warms up a cup of cocoa than steaming!  Bonus points if you bring marshmallows for a mini campfire (check park regulations on fire pits!).

Gliding into Winter: Skating at Olympic Plaza

Well, maybe sledding isn’t your thing.  Calgary caters to all winter warriors, no worries.  Go to the Olympic Plaza, right in the centre of downtown and get your inner skater on! 

 

If you're lucky enough to live somewhere with an outdoor rink, it's a winter wonderland come to life, surrounded by twinkling lights and festive cheer.  Put on your skates, find some friends and glide under the Calgary sky.

 

Pro-Tip:  If you just finished skating, are you feeling peckish?  Now’s the time to explore the pretty cafes and restaurants in the area that are open for warm beverages and delicious treats. 

 

 

Add a touch of luxury to your trip by book Meet And Greet Stansted.

 

Beyond the City Limits: Skiing the Canadian Rockies

 

Calgary is blessed with a unique advantage: The beautiful Canadian Rockies are only a short drive from our location. 

 

For the serious skier and snowboarder, this means more slopes and stunning views to be had than one can shake a stick at.  Just a few ski resorts located near the building, and each of them is unique in its own way. 

 

Lake Louise Ski Resort has spectacular turquoise glacial lakes and a great steep slope while Sunshine Village has great views and some of the longest ski seasons in the country.

 

Pro-Tip:  Take time and ensure you select a resort that will challenge you according to your ability.  There are many options in renting, beginners lessons, and childcare for families who visit the most of the resorts. 

 

Do not leave the sunscreen and sunglasses behind – the winter sun is particularly intense in the mountains.

 

Winter Activities for the Non Extroverted Person

 

Perhaps dominating hills is not exactly what you would like to do (or drink) during the winter season.  Don’t worry though, Calgary has its share of snuggle seekers as well!  Here's how you can embrace winter without breaking a sweat:

 

●       Winter Hikes:  The winter is right for active, refreshing walks in the fresh air.  Some of the features that most parks provide include good trails for use for treading on the snowy terrains. Fish Creek Provincial Park is a regional attraction site where people can expect to see the beauty of the Bow River Valley.

 

●       Snowshoeing:  It also enables one to move further into the winter wonderland without putting too much effort.  Go rent a pair of snow shoes and have a quiet time in any close by park.

 

●       Calgary ZooLights:  Wrap up and visit the Calgary Zoo and watch the venue turn into a spectacle of winter festivities.  Take a walk through a Christmas light display, animated characters and may even get to see some animals enjoy the cold weather as well.

 

●       Cozy Cafes and Local Brews:  Relax and take a book, enjoy the ‘hygge,’ and look for a nice little café with a toasty fire going.  Savor a cup of coffee or a glass of a local craft beer and enjoy a tasty winter sweet treat.