Snowy Escapes: Top Winter Activities to Enjoy Around Calgary

If you're in or around Calgary, you're in for a treat this season. This article is your ultimate guide to making the most of the snowy months.

We'll cover a range of activities like ice biking at Bowness Park, zipping down the Servus Tube Park, and even trying out an ice fishing tour with Alberta Fishing Charters. And there's so much more!

This guide will help you discover new ways to enjoy the colder months, keeping you active and entertained. Let's get started!

Experience winter in a whole new way at Bowness Park with the introduction of Ice Bikes. This innovative approach to ice skating welcomes all skill levels and ages, providing a safe and stable experience on the frosty grounds.

Think of a bicycle transformed for the ice – the front wheel replaced with skates, and the back wheel surrounded by skates, offering a wide and stable base.

Forget the need for perfect balance, with ice bikes, you can pedal and steer effortlessly, akin to riding a regular bike. These single-speed wonders come with a simple braking mechanism – just pedal backward to glide to a stop.

Bowness Park's Ice Bikes offer a fun and novel way to explore the winter wonderland, making it an activity you won't want to miss this season.

With its user-friendly design and focus on safety, it’s no wonder ice biking is becoming a favorite winter pastime for locals and visitors.

Feel the thrill of gliding down a snowy hill, the wind rushing past your face, and the sound of laughter echoing through the crisp winter air.

That's what awaits you at the Servus Tube Park, one of the largest tube parks in Western Canada. This spot is perfect for families looking to create unforgettable winter memories.

The park offers two types of tubes—regular and large—designed for different heights and weights. Make sure you choose the right fit to enjoy a smooth ride. When riding, remember to sit with your bottom against the floor and hold onto both handles. Safety first!

Located on the northeast side of the Day Lodge parking lot, the entrance is easy to find. If the main lot is full, the west overflow lot provides additional parking with a convenient shuttle service to the park.

Dress warmly! The right winter gear can make all the difference. Think layers, hats or toques, gloves or mittens, and insulated winter boots with good grip. Leave the ski boots, hard shell boots, and steel-toed boots at home, as they’re not allowed in the park.

Ever wanted to try something truly Canadian? How about ice fishing with Alberta Fishing Charters! Located in the beautiful waters of Calgary and Southern Alberta, this adventure is perfect for those seeking a winter wonderland experience.

With over 40 years of fishing expertise, Alberta Fishing Charters delivers exceptional guided fishing trips that are sure to create lasting memories.

Step onto a frozen lake, drill a hole through the ice, and wait for that first nibble. Alberta Fishing Charters offers fully guided ice fishing trips, complete with all the necessary gear and an expert guide to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable day.

Options abound with Alberta Fishing Charters. You can choose from full-day, half-day, or even condensed trips, making it easy to fit this exciting activity into your schedule.

Each trip is fully equipped, so all you need to bring is your enthusiasm! The charter includes all the essential equipment and comfortable seating, leaving you free to focus on the thrill of the catch.

One of the standout features of Alberta Fishing Charters is their dedication to offering personalized experiences. If you're starting your day with an Early Riser Trip from 7 am to 10 am or winding down with a Sunset Trip from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm, there's an option to suit every schedule.

Ice Skating at Bowness Park is a truly iconic winter activity in Calgary, capturing the hearts of locals and visitors. Situated along the Bow River, this park transforms into a magical winter wonderland from mid-November to mid-March.

The highlight, a beautiful lagoon and a 1.6 km skating track that winds through the park's stunning landscape, making it a popular destination during the snowy season.

The Lagoon Experience at Bowness Park is simply enchanting. Located in the eastern part of the park, the lagoon offers ample space for skaters of all ages and skill levels.

For those eager to see more, the park offers a 1.6 km skating track that runs alongside the Bow River. This serene and beautiful trail, surrounded by trees and the tranquil river, offers a unique perspective of the park.

Skating along this path is a must, but be prepared to remove your skates and walk to access the trail as there are no direct connections from the lagoon.

For a mid-skate snack, the Tea House serves delightful sandwiches, cupcakes, coffee, and hot chocolate. There's also the Seasons of Bowness Park restaurant offering both dine-in and take-out options.

But that's not all! Bowness Park offers a range of additional winter activities. Enjoy a picnic with fire pits and BBQs, play a game on the shinny ice rink, or try your hand at the curling rink.

For something new, experience Crokicurl, an exciting outdoor game combining crokinole and curling. There's a variety of activities at Bowness Park, making it a top pick for winter fun in Calgary.

Located in the breathtaking landscapes of Banff, Canmore, and Lake Louise, this activity is perfect for those looking to push their limits and tackle the icy terrain.

Banff Adventures provides a unique opportunity to experience ice climbing with the guidance of certified experts.

The courses are designed to accommodate all skill levels, from complete beginners to those with some experience on steep pitches.

The adventure kicks off with participants being fitted with all the necessary gear: boots, crampons, ice tools, harnesses, and helmets.

The guides start by teaching basic ice climbing techniques and gradually introduce more challenging climbs as everyone gains confidence.

For those with a tight schedule, the half-day ice climbing tour offers around 3 hours of action-packed climbing. It’s a condensed version that still provides an exciting taste of what ice climbing is all about.

On the other hand, the full-day tour spans approximately 6-7 hours and is perfect for those who want an in-depth introduction or to refine their skills.

If you're planning a family or group trip, consider the private full-day tour. Starting at 7:30 am, this option includes up to 8 hours of adventure, with 6-7 hours dedicated to climbing.

The private tour can accommodate up to six people, including children aged 10 and up, making it an excellent choice for a memorable family experience.

For those seeking a thrilling escape from the cold, hitting the slopes for skiing and snowboarding is the way to go!

And in Calgary, WinSport at Canada Olympic Park is the ultimate spot to get your adrenaline pumping while having a blast.

Skiing at WinSport is an exhilarating experience for everyone, from complete newbies to seasoned pros.

The ski lessons here are designed to be engaging, safe, and supportive, making them perfect for adults who are either stepping onto the slopes for the first time or coming back after a break.

For those who prefer a board over skis, WinSport’s snowboarding programs are just as exciting. Beginners can start with the "Never Ever Snowboard" program, which lays down a solid foundation for newcomers.

For a more comprehensive experience, the "Snowboard-in-Three" program offers three lessons, along with a fourth day at Sunshine Village at a discounted rate.

WinSport also offers both private and group lessons. Private lessons are perfect for those who want personalized attention and a customized learning experience, while group lessons provide a social setting where participants can learn and grow together.

To truly savor the snowy splendor of Banff, nothing beats the Paradise Basin Snowmobiling Tour offered by Discover Banff Tours.

Starting your day with an exhilarating practice session on a powerful 65 HP snowmobile sets the stage for an adventure.

Even if you've never been on a snowmobile before, the tour ensures everyone feels comfortable and ready for the journey ahead.

One of the most exciting parts of the tour is the climb to Paradise Basin at 8,000 feet. As you ascend, the groomed trails lead you through enchanting old-growth forests and open slopes.

Along the way, you’ll encounter the remnants of an early 1900s silver mining town at the mountain's summit. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and the stunning 100-foot frozen waterfall, a highlight that leaves many in awe.

For those opting for the full-day tour, a sumptuous BBQ lunch awaits at a cozy alpine cabin. It’s the perfect spot to relax, take in the majestic mountain views, and watch ravens glide overhead.

If you choose the half-day tour, a delicious snack will keep your energy levels up, ensuring you stay fueled for the adventure.

An insider tip for anyone visiting Calgary in the winter: don’t miss riding the Banff Gondola! Amid six stunning mountain ranges with the majestic Bow Valley stretching before you, the views from the Sulphur Mountain summit are simply breathtaking.

One of the standout features of the Banff Gondola is the state-of-the-art summit building. It’s designed to captivate your senses, offering much more than just incredible views.

Indoors, you can explore the Banff Interpretive Centre, a family-friendly hub that provides fun and educational activities for all ages.

Outdoors, the experience truly comes alive. Enhance your visit by witnessing Banff's legendary sunsets at the Sulphur Mountain summit.

The colors as the sun sets behind the Canadian Rockies are a sight to behold. The sky transforms with hues of orange, pink, and purple while you breathe in the crisp mountain air – it’s an unforgettable moment.

And if that's not enough, the Above Banff Theatre adds an additional layer of excitement. Included with your gondola admission, this cinematic journey takes you soaring above mountain peaks and through the Bow Valley.

Witness daring climbers, high-flying skiers, and breathtaking shots of mountain wildlife. It’s an experience that spans generations and leaves a lasting impression.

Banff Adventures has curated a variety of snowmobile tours that suit all levels of experience, from first-timers to experienced riders.

Their expert guides take you through untouched powder, ensuring a mix of fun and exploration. One of the standout options is the Panorama Snowmobile Tour.

It's the most popular, leading you up scenic trails to an 8000ft summit. Once at the top, you can enjoy the panoramic views.

If you're short on time but still crave some adrenaline, the Golden Snowmobile Tour is ideal. This half-day adventure winds through mountain trails, offering a taste of the breathtaking scenery around Golden, BC.

For those who want the ultimate experience, the Kicking Horse Snowmobile Tour is a full-day escapade from Kicking Horse Mountain Resort to Wiseman Lake.

For the more adventurous souls, the Advanced Snowmobile Tours are a must. These tours journey into backcountry terrain with high-performance mountain sleds, giving experienced riders the freedom to explore challenging landscapes where the pros go.

All tours begin with transportation from Banff to Golden or Panorama, ensuring a seamless adventure. The rides use eco-friendly 600cc 4-stroke snowmobiles that come with user-friendly controls and heated hand-grips, making for a comfortable ride.

Along the way, you'll see breathtaking views of three mountain regions, countless lakes, and maybe even some local wildlife!

When it comes to winter adventures near Calgary, nothing quite compares to the magical experience of dogsledding in Banff and Lake Louise.

This exhilarating activity, set against the backdrop of iconic peaks, scenic trails, and frozen lakes, offers a unique way to immerse yourself in the winter wonderland and create memories that last a lifetime.

Running from December to April, dogsled tours in the Banff region are perfect for the whole family, welcoming kids as young as 2 years old.

After bundling up in warm clothing, participants are introduced to the basics of dogsledding before embarking on thrilling runs along carefully selected trails. The views are simply breathtaking, making every moment of the journey an unforgettable experience.

Among the variety of tours available, the Unleash the Musher stands out as the most popular. This two-hour adventure, departing from Canmore, lets participants get hands-on by harnessing the dogs, hooking up the team, and even driving the sled!

For those looking to get further into the tradition, the Great Divide Tour offers a 1.5-hour journey departing from Lake Louise, while the Mountain Musher Tour, another two-hour excursion from Canmore, promises a similarly immersive experience.

Participants should come prepared with proper attire, including ski wear, gloves, and goggles to ensure safety and comfort.

To top off the adventure, tours often include hot chocolate and light refreshments, adding a cozy touch to the cold, invigorating experience.

The Fatbike Frozen Waterfall Tour near Calgary offers an unforgettable experience! Ride a specially equipped fat bike with 4.8-inch wide tires designed to tackle snowy landscapes with ease.

The tour is perfect for those who already have some biking experience and require an intermediate fitness level. Biking on mountain terrain presents an exciting challenge that adds an extra layer of adventure.

As you pedal towards the frozen waterfall, you’ll witness the stunning beauty of the winter landscape, making for an adventure you’ll never forget.

The unique combination of biking and exploring a frozen wonderland is what lands this tour on our list of top winter activities around Calgary.

This winter wonderland offers a variety of other thrilling activities. Enjoy gliding gracefully on snow-covered trails during cross-country ski lessons or join a stargazing tour where the night sky becomes your guide.

For those who love to walk in the snow, participate in a snowshoe tour through peaceful, snow-covered forests, where a certified guide will share the rich history of the Kananaskis Valley.

As winter wraps its frosty blanket around Calgary, there's no shortage of exciting and diverse activities to enjoy. From the unique thrill of ice biking at Bowness Park to the exhilarating rush of tubing at Servus Tube Park, there are options for every preference. 

These activities were chosen because they offer a mix of relaxation, thrill, and unforgettable experiences that are perfect for winter.

For more amazing ideas, visit ActiviFinder Calgary and start planning your next adventure today!