The cold winter months have a reputation for nasty weather, bitter temperatures, and such short daylight hours that it’s impossible to get anything done. But there’s a beautiful side to winter that’s unmatched in any other season. The mountains look dashing when dressed in snow, and the sunrises and sunsets this time of year are unreal. There’s also a stillness to the season that brings everything into a crisp focus. Love it or hate it, winter is gorgeous, and it’s full of iconic sights that come alive this time of year.

Here are some of our favourite winter places, and some of the best ways to get there.

Mount Rundle

You’ve seen this timeless image. The jagged ridgeline of Mount Rundle, often reflected on a perfectly still, calm lake. We’ve even used images like this on the cover of this magazine! It’s classic Banff, and, honestly, it’s easy to see – it’s one of the mountains that frames the townsite!

The lake reflection is taken from Vermilion Lakes, just outside of town. Rent a fat bike and bike Vermilion Lakes Road (leave from the train station). You’ll be there in minutes.

Some other ways to see this iconic mountain in all its glory include a sleigh ride with Banff Trail Riders – try their two-person cutter or personal family tour for an intimate experience!

Travel Alberta | Sean Byrne @byrnephotography

Johnston Canyon

Frozen waterfalls, tall cliffs, and ancient fossils, what’s not to love about Johnston Canyon? A trip through the catwalks in the middle of this canyon is an experience like no other, and during the winter, everything comes alive with sparkling snow and icy waterways. Keep an eye out for ice climbers or simply enjoy the views.

Located outside of town on the Bow Valley Parkway, getting to Johnston Canyon requires some drivetime. Luckily, icewalk tours from Discover Banff Tours include transportation, ice cleats, snacks, and excellent guides who can tell you the stories of this amazing place. Want a unique perspective on this tour? Try it at night! The waterfalls sparkle in the headlamps and walking back in the starlight is a fantastic experience that you won’t soon forget.

Travel Alberta | John Price @johnpricephotography

Lake Louise

Ahh, Lake Louise. This beautiful spot is also known as Horâ Juthin Îmne, which roughly means “lake of the little fishes.” But no matter what you call it, this place will take your breath away.

Getting to Lake Louise can be a lesson in patience because of high traffic volume and limited space in the village. Take ROAM Transit to Lake Louise or look into a charter shuttle. To experience this place at its finest, try a sleigh ride with Brewster Adventures or take a different perspective with a day at Lake Louise Ski Resort.

Banff & Lake Louise Tourism (BLLT) | Jake Dyson @jakedyson

Spray Lakes

Kananaskis Country is the hidden playground of the Canadian Rockies. Despite the unifying name, Kananaskis Country is made up of provincial parks, protected areas, and public lands to create a mountain playground that’s almost the size of Prince Edward Island! This place is huge – but perhaps a great, scenic starting point is Spray Lakes near the town of Canmore.

This iconic setting has been featured in several famous movies, and filming in Kananaskis Country continues to this day. Getting here can be tricky, but most outfitters provide shuttles for safe access and a fun activity when you get there. Try a dogsled adventure from Mad Dogs and Englishmen or see the area from the sky with a heli-tour from Alpine Helicopters. Rent Nordic skis or snowshoes for a DIY mountain adventure that will take your breath away.

Travel Alberta | MIke Seehagel @mikeseehagel

Pyramid Lake

One of Jasper’s iconic lakes, Pyramid Lake boasts magnificent mountain views and a bridge to Pyramid Island that has been the backdrop for many Jasper photoshoots. Accessing the lake is easy, it’s just a 5 km drive from the townsite along aptly named Pyramid Lake Road.

At the lake, there is so much to do. Try skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking. You can DIY the adventure, or you can rent gear from Pyramid Lake Lodge. There are even sleigh rides from Jasper Stables on the lake! While you’re there, warm up with Jasper’s finest regional flavours at Aalto.

Travel Alberta | Peter O’Hara

Lake Windermere

In beautiful British Columbia, Lake Windermere is an attraction in both summer and winter. With outdoor activities in all seasons, there is something for everyone at this lake, and it’s always calling outdoor enthusiasts. The Lake Windermere Whiteway is the longest skating track in the world! It circles the lake, offering mountain views every direction you look.

There are three official entry points onto the Whiteway – one at Kinsmen beach in Invermere, one at the Invermere Bay Condos, and one at Windermere beach. After skating, warm up with great food at Fuze Food & Smoothie Bar in Invermere or visit the bistro at Coy’s Par 3 in Fairmont Hot Springs on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Kootenay Rockies Tourism | Mitch Winton

Calgary Skyline

Sometimes you just want to spend time in the city. Wander under the city lights before taking in some evening entertainment. Visit Werklund Centre for fantastic performances in theatre, art, music, and more. Or stop by Esker Foundation and discover the world of contemporary art, completely for free.

If you’re not downtown, take a step back and admire the city skyline. Rent cross-country skis and take a tour on the track set routes at the City of Calgary golf courses. It’s a great way to get some exercise and fresh air without ever leaving the city. Don’t forget to take in the view!

Travel Alberta | Cakewalk Media

Kate Barker