Snow Fun in Edmonton: 10 Must-Try Winter Activities

If you’re looking for some exciting and unique winter activities, you’ve come to the right place. From snowboarding at Rabbit Hill to ice fishing trips, we’ve picked activities that are not only fun but also diverse to suit all kinds of adventurers.

Why did we choose these specific activities? Well, Edmonton is a city that truly shines during the winter months.

These activities showcase the best of what the city has to offer, from adrenaline-pumping adventures to peaceful nature escapes. Let's start!

Rabbit Hill Snow Resort, Edmonton’s go-to spot for epic snowboarding adventures! Located in the stunning North Saskatchewan River valley, Rabbit Hill has been a favorite for winter sports lovers for over 60 years.

With more than 40 acres of ski and snowboard trails, a heart-pounding tube park, and one of Western Canada’s top terrain parks, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some snowy fun.

What makes Rabbit Hill truly special is its commitment to making snowboarding accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Their award-winning Snow School offers personalized lessons for all ages and skill levels.

For those looking to hit the slopes with friends or classmates, Rabbit Hill’s school and group programs are the way to go.

Planning a group trip? Rabbit Hill makes it easy with comprehensive supervisor information and a friendly staff ready to assist with any questions.

They ensure that everything runs smoothly, so you can focus on having an amazing time. Visitors often praise the helpful and welcoming atmosphere, making it a top choice for a winter adventure.

Snow Valley Edmonton, snugly situated in Whitemud Park, has been the go-to spot for skiing and snowboarding for over 60 years.

This beloved destination offers an array of thrilling experiences for all ages and skill levels. The slopes are always well-groomed, ensuring a smooth ride regardless of your experience level.

For those just getting into winter sports, Snow Valley makes it easy with their rental equipment packages. This is a cost-efficient way to start skiing or snowboarding without the hefty upfront investment.

Each package includes everything you need, from skis or snowboards to boots, and even helmets, ensuring you stay safe while having fun. It’s the perfect way to test the waters, especially if you're planning to take lessons.

Speaking of lessons, Snow Valley’s award-winning Snow School is a highlight. They offer lessons for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities, led by nationally certified instructors.

They offer both group lessons, which are great for social learners, and private lessons for those seeking personalized instruction.

Sunridge Ski Area's Snow Tubing Park is a winter wonderland for thrill-seekers of all ages. As the biggest snow tubing park in the Edmonton area, it offers three well-maintained chutes that promise an exhilarating ride down the slopes.

A notable feature of Sunridge is the carpet lift, which effortlessly transports riders up the hill, allowing them to spend more time enjoying the downhill excitement.

Even children as young as four years old can join in on the fun, provided they meet the height requirement of 42 inches.

Sunridge offers a variety of time slots to accommodate visitors, including weekends, holidays, and Friday evenings. These are:

• 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
• 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM
• 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday evenings

When planning a trip to Sunridge, it's advisable to come prepared with appropriate winter clothing, footwear, and other essentials like drinking water and snacks.

Sunridge Ski Area not only offers a thrilling snow tubing experience but also provides a variety of other winter activities.

To truly enjoy the winter magic of Edmonton, a visit to Elk Island National Park is a must. Located just 35 minutes east of the city, this natural wonderland is a UNESCO designated Biosphere Reserve that promises a breathtaking escape from the urban hustle.

Winter transforms Elk Island into a serene paradise where wildlife viewing is at its peak. With no leaves on the trees, spotting the park’s resident deer, elk, moose, or bison becomes much easier.

The park is home to more than 250 bird species, making it a birdwatcher's dream even in the colder months.

One of the best ways to experience the park’s beauty is by snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. The rolling, snow-covered landscape of the Beaver Hills provides a tranquil setting for gliding across the fresh snow.

If you're up for a bit more adventure, why not spend the afternoon tobogganing, throwing snowballs, and searching for animal tracks? It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature while having fun.

End your day with a cozy fire in one of the park’s cook shelters. The warmth of the flames is the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

And if you’re feeling bold, Elk Island also offers winter camping opportunities. Camping under the stars here can be an unforgettable experience, especially with the chance of seeing the northern lights.

For those who love the magic of winter, the Victoria Park IceWay offers an experience like no other. Gliding through a three-loop skating trail situated in the majestic forests of Victoria Park is a delight.

The trail, illuminated by rainbow-colored lights, transforms the area into an enchanted wonderland—an essential destination for anyone in Edmonton during the colder months.

When temperatures drop, this park becomes the go-to destination for winter fun. Skating enthusiasts can take a lap around its 400-metre Olympic-sized oval or venture onto the IceWay, which feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.

Public skating is available daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the best part? It's absolutely FREE! While there are no rentals on-site, there are plenty of amenities to make your visit comfortable. Bathrooms, lockers, and a changing room are available for those needing to gear up.

Parking is plentiful, with options in the Victoria Park main parking lot, the Victoria Park east lot, and at the Victoria Golf Course. Even during busy times, visitors can find a spot to leave their cars and head off for some icy fun.

One visitor noted the area's beauty, especially in the evening, mentioning that there's music playing, and a few fire pits set up to warm up by after a long skate.

Another visitor highlighted the well-maintained facilities, including a clean and warm skate house with well-kept bathrooms.

The 2km loop extending into the trees might not have perfect ice, but it's skatable and adds a bit of adventure to your skating experience.

Many believe ice climbing is only for expert adventurers, but in Edmonton, this exhilarating sport is accessible to everyone!

The thrill of ascending frozen waterfalls and ice-covered cliffs is available to both seasoned climbers and beginners alike.

For those eager to start without prior experience, the drop-in sessions are a fantastic option. You don't need to book in advance, just show up, purchase a pass, and rent the necessary gear right at the ticket kiosk.

The Intro to Ice Climbing course is perfect for beginners and requires no prior knowledge. Over 1.5 hours, plus an additional half-hour for gearing up, you’ll learn about equipment usage, belaying, and basic techniques.

For a more personalized experience, there are private lessons for all skill levels. These sessions can focus on specific areas like belaying, equipment handling, or climbing techniques customized to your experience.

The 1.5-hour lessons are available for individuals or groups, providing flexibility and a tailored learning experience.

If you have some ice climbing experience, the Intro to Drytooling course is highly recommended. This course requires you to top rope belay and have prior ice climbing experience.

It covers advanced movement techniques, different hooking techniques, tool management, and proper stein pulling on a competition plywood wall. It’s a great way to sharpen your skills for both indoor and outdoor climbing.

During the winter months, the facility also hosts a range of events and competitions. Climbers from all levels come together for leagues and championships, offering a chance to test their skills, compete, and celebrate the sport.

Ever heard of ice biking? Riding a bike, but on ice! Laurier Park in Edmonton has introduced this cool activity, and it's quickly becoming a favorite winter pastime.

Instead of a front wheel, these bikes have mini-skis, making them perfect for gliding on the ice.

What makes ice biking at Laurier Park even more special is its accessibility. These bikes are designed to be stable, which means individuals who are hesitant to skate or have physical disabilities can still join in the fun.

You can find these ice bikes available for free on Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons. Specific times to remember: Fridays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Additionally, if you happen to be there after 6 p.m., you can enjoy free hot chocolate by the warming fires – a perfect way to keep warm and cozy.

The park’s winter-city initiative is all about getting people outside and enjoying public spaces, even in the chilly months.

Located at 13221 Buena Vista Road, Laurier Park offers more than just ice biking. There are plenty of other activities on and off the ice, encouraging families to enjoy the winter season in Edmonton.

Glide effortlessly through Edmonton's stunning River Valley on a Segway! The folks at River Valley Adventure Co have crafted an experience that combines adventure, nature, and a touch of urban exploration.

Located in the heart of North America's Largest Urban Parkland, River Valley Adventure Co provides Segway tours for all skill levels.

Beginners can start with the Beginner Segway Adventure where certified trainers guide participants aged 14 and up through the skills needed for a safe and enjoyable ride.

After a 30-minute training session, riders embark on a journey through the beautiful River Valley, soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds Edmonton.

If 60 minutes of fun isn't enough, no worries! You can extend your adventure to 90 minutes by adding an extra half-hour for a nominal fee.

Additionally, once you've completed the beginner adventure, you earn a River Valley Adventure Co. Segway PT Operator's License.

For those looking for a more exclusive experience, the Private VIP Segway Adventures are a real treat. These tours are for small groups of 2 to 10 people, offering a personalized exploration of Edmonton's wonders.

Speaking of food, let's not forget the Culinary Experience tours. These Segway trips are a must for food enthusiasts, guiding riders through Edmonton's downtown core to uncover the city's best culinary treasures.

If you're looking for a magical winter adventure, the Ice Castle in Hawrelak Park is hard to miss. This stunning attraction has become a primary winter highlight in Edmonton, drawing visitors from around the world to its icy splendor.

Step into a Narnia-like winter wonderland with icicles, tunnels, slides, frozen waterfalls, and mesmerizing LED lights. The castle's stunning beauty is perfect for family outings, romantic dates, or fun adventures with friends.

The Ice Castle offers a variety of features that make it unique. From ice-carved tunnels and slides to frozen thrones and fountains, there's a wide array of attractions to enjoy.

The LED light installations add an extra layer of enchantment, especially when visiting at night. Each visit feels like entering a dreamland.

To make the most of your visit, it's essential to plan ahead. The castles are expected to open in late December and, weather permitting, will remain open until at least the end of February

When you visit, you'll find several smaller ice structures throughout the exhibit, rather than one giant castle. This layout allows visitors to explore different areas, even when it's busy.

For a comfortable and enjoyable visit, dress warmly in winter boots, mittens, and snow pants for the kids. Don’t forget your camera to capture the magic!

Ever tried ice-fishing? It’s a winter activity that’s both exciting and relaxing, and it’s become a popular pastime in Edmonton.

If you’re looking to spice up your winter, an ice-fishing trip with Reel Angling Adventures is a must!

They provide all the necessary equipment and tackle, so even if you’ve never fished before, you’ll be set. The tours are led by experienced guides who ensure you have a productive and enjoyable day on the ice.

Participants can expect to catch a variety of fish, including Walleye (Pickerel), Pike, Perch, Burbot, Whitefish, and Rainbow Trout. The thrill of pulling up a big Pike through a hole in the ice is unforgettable!

Reel Angling Adventures also offers a hearty lunch, snacks, and beverages to keep you fueled throughout the day. And it’s perfect for groups of all sizes.

Now, let’s talk about the lakes. These trips take place on several lakes around Edmonton, each offering its own unique fishing opportunities:

• Hanmore Lake: Just 1.5 hours northeast of Edmonton, known for Northern Pike action, with Perch, Burbot, and Lake Whitefish also up for grabs.
• Lac La Nonne: About an hour north, offering Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Burbot, and Lake Whitefish.
• Long Island Lake: Located 35 km north of Westlock, abundant with Northern Pike and Yellow Perch.
• Pigeon Lake: A 1.5-hour drive south, home to Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Lake Whitefish, and Burbot.

Feeling adventurous? Try the Northern Alberta Guided Fishing Adventure, a three-day package at Peerless and Graham Lake, known for excellent Northern Pike, Walleye, and Lake Trout fishing.

Reel Angling Adventures also offers customized fishing vacation packages, ranging from one-day trips to multi-day excursions.

So, there you have it! Edmonton is a winter wonderland with a mix of activities to suit everyone. If you're an adrenaline junkie who loves snowboarding at Rabbit Hill or a nature lover eager to visit Elk Island National Park, there's an activity for you. 

Remember, winter is the perfect season to step out of your comfort zone and try new things. For more incredible ideas and activities, check out ActiviFinder Edmonton.