5 Things to do in the Mountains This Winter

Photo via @canmorekananaskis Instagram

Because of COVID-19, there’s not a lot of options for where to take a vacation this winter. So why not take advantage of the beautiful white snow and chilly weather and embark on a little mountain getaway? One of the biggest perks of living in Calgary (in our opinion) is how close we are to the mountains and all they have to offer. So pack up the car, grab some hot chocolate and bundle up for a fun-filled getaway!

1. Adventure Around Canmore

Photo via @visitcanmore Instagram

If you’re looking for a less-touristy, more laid back place to escape, check out the town of Canmore! It offers the same beautiful mountain scenery that Banff does with a multitude of activities for everyone to enjoy! You can take a stroll down Main Street and check out the local boutiques, grab a coffee and a bagel at the infamous Rocky Mountain Bagel Company or take a walk along the Bow River and enjoy the serene mountain atmosphere! The options are endless - plus, if you’re looking to stay overnight, hotels tend to be cheaper in Canmore than Banff, just sayin’!

2. Stay the Night in Banff

Photo via @visit.banff Instagram

What’s more fun and romantic than a little staycation in the beautiful town of Banff? Book a hotel, grab your loved one and hit the road! There’s tons to do in Banff, aside from taking in the stunning scenery, which is why it’s such a popular tourist destination! Want to know the best part? Because of COVID, Banff is a little less busy than normal which makes it a little more relaxing! You can check out the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (and visit their exceptional spa), or venture down to one of the excellent restaurants that Banff offers (we recommend The Block). What better time to hit the mountains than right now?! 

3. Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

Photo via @yamnuskawdsanct Instagram

Looking for something fun to do with the kids this winter? Check out the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary! They are offering a variety of tours every week from Thursday through Monday, where you can visit the big furry friends! It’s educational and fun, and it supports an excellent cause!

4. Snowshoeing at Emerald Lake

Photo via @emeraldlakelodge Instagram

Skiing not your thing? No problem, we got you covered! There’s no better way to get some exercise while enjoying the snowy mountains other than snowshoeing! It’s a lot of fun once you get the hang of it, and you can usually rent snowshoes so there’s no need to buy your own! You can make a little vacation out of it and stay the night at the Emerald Lake Lodge!

5. Ice Skate on Johnson Lake

Photo via @visit.banff Instagram

If you enjoy the outdoors and want a little different atmosphere from the typical outdoor skating rinks, check out Johnson Lake just outside of Banff. You may have to bring a shovel and clear the snow off part of the lake, but it’s worth the scenery of being surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. It’s quite popular in the winter, with many people and families gathering to enjoy the outdoors. Bring some snacks, a thermos of hot chocolate and you’re set!

These are just a few things you can do in the mountains, but the options are endless! Even if you can’t have a beach vacation this year, you can still get away for a relaxing weekend in the mountains. So bundle up, get cozy and enjoy!