Kananaskis Country is a beautiful mountain oasis just waiting to be discovered. But with less structure than places like Banff or Jasper, how do you connect with the mountains? Here are 5 things to do in Kananaskis Country this winter.

1. Dogsledding

Have you experienced dogsledding? It’s fast, it’s fun, and it’s full of furry faces just waiting for some love and attention. Stay warm in the sled or get the experience of driving the team – there’s a custom experience waiting for you with Mad Dogs & Englishmen. Check out their amazing terrain at Fortress Mountain, a location where many movies were filmed.

Travel Alberta / C&B Advertising

2. Cross-Country Skiing

Kananaskis is known for its fantastic network of groomed cross-country ski trails. Find trails for every level of skier in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, at the Mount Shark Trail System near Mount Engadine Lodge, or at the Canmore Nordic Centre, where everyone from Olympians to first timers can get out and enjoy cross-country skiing.

Explore Canmore and Kananaskis

3. Snowshoeing

If you’re looking for a slower pace to enjoy the scenery, break out the snowshoes and enjoy a classic Canadian winter activity. Some great snowshoe trails in K-Country are Chester Lake, Hogarth Lakes, and Ribbon Creek. Want a guided experience? Check out the Snowcat Snowshoe Adventure from White Mountain Adventures for an out-of-this-world guided snowshoe with epic scenery.

Travel Alberta / North Grove Creative

4. Winter Hiking

Just because there’s snow on the ground doesn’t mean hiking season is over. Strap on some spikes, grab some poles, and explore some of the easier hikes in Kananaskis. We recommend Troll Falls near Kananaskis Village. See the frozen waterfalls for some true winter magic. Don’t have winter hiking gear? Rent it from nearby Kananaskis Outfitters.

Troll Falls is beautiful in any season

5. Heli Tours

Don’t want to get too physical? See the mountains with a bird’s eye view on a heli-tour from Alpine Helicopters. Tours leave from the base in Canmore as well as the base at the Stoney Nakoda Resort, giving you lots of tour options. No matter what you choose, you’ll have to pick your jaw up off the floor once you experience these views.

Travel Alberta / Lauren Moran @lolomoran

Safety First

Playing in the mountains during the winter comes with its own risks. The weather can be unpredictable (and generally colder than “in town”). There is an avalanche risk on any sloped terrain. Check avalanche.ca for up-to-date information, and make sure you are prepared with extra layers, extra food, and a communication device in case of emergency. Consider taking an Avalanche Safety course before you go play in the snow!

Kate Barker