Alberta is home to so much natural beauty and countless vibrant cities! If you are choosing to visit or if you live here, take the time to experience all that Alberta has to offer. Challenge yourself to range of outdoor activities that you can find year-round or follow the festival scene. However you choose to spend your time, Alberta will give you the space to create unforgettable memories.
Hiking
Alberta has stunning mountain landscapes across all national parks. Explore the hiking trails available in places like Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Kananaskis Country, and Waterton Lakes National Park. Some notable hikes in these areas include the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail, Wilcox Pass, and Johnston Canyon.
Wildlife Viewing
Alberta is rich in wildlife, and there are many opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitats. Keep an eye out for animals like bears, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats. Take a wildlife tour or venture out to areas like the David Thompson Highway for the best chances of spotting wildlife.
Camping
With a range of campgrounds and backcountry camping options, you can set up your tent in stunning locations like Two Jack Lakeside Campground, Tunnel Mountain Campground, or Dinosaur Provincial Park. Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, swim in the natural lakes and rivers, and sleep under the stars.
Canoeing/Kayaking
The lakes and rivers throughout Alberta are perfect for paddling. Rent a canoe or kayak and see the calm waters of places like Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Maligne Lake, or the Bow River. You can also go on guided canoe tours for a unique perspective where you can learn more about an area’s natural and cultural history.
Whitewater Rafting
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, try whitewater rafting in Alberta. The Kicking Horse River and the Kananaskis River offer thrilling rapids and guided rafting trips for different skill levels and ages.
Fishing
The fishing opportunities in Alberta are without comparison. Cast your line into rivers, lakes, and streams to catch species like trout, pike, walleye, and whitefish. Remember to obtain the necessary fishing license and follow regulations that may be specific to the region you find yourself in.
Cycling
Alberta’s scenic landscapes are perfect for cyclists. The paved trails in cities like Calgary and Edmonton and the mountain biking trails in the Rockies create more than one opportunity to see Alberta from your bike. Try places like the Legacy Trail in Canmore and the Bow River Pathway in Calgary for the most popular cycling routes.
Horseback Riding
Experience the beauty of Alberta’s landscapes on horseback. Join a guided trail ride through the mountains or explore the foothills on horseback for a unique outdoor adventure.
Rock Climbing
Alberta’s mountains provide opportunities for rock climbing adventures. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, there are routes available for various skill levels. Climbing in the Ghost River Valley, Lake Louise, or the Canmore area will bring you to the spectacular views you’re craving after a climb.
Calgary Stampede
Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” the Calgary Stampede is a world-famous rodeo held every year in July. It features rodeo events, live music, wagon races, agricultural showcases, and a vibrant carnival atmosphere.
Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival
This festival celebrates mountain culture, adventure, and exploration through film screenings, book presentations, and guest speakers. It takes place each October and showcases inspiring stories of outdoor adventures, mountaineering, and environmental issues connecting you with the stories of the region.
Big Valley Jamboree
Big Valley Jamboree is a country music festival held in Camrose every August. It features top country music artists, camping, and a remarkable atmosphere that country music fans cannot get enough of. After you go once, you’ll just keep wanting to go back!
GlobalFest
GlobalFest is a multicultural festival held in August each year in Calgary, featuring international fireworks displays, cultural pavilions, live music, and food from around the world. Celebrating Calgary’s cultural diversity promotes understanding and inclusion that will build strong community bonds.
Folk Music Festival
With several chances to attend, these festivals showcase a wide range of folk, roots, and world music. It features both established and emerging artists from around the globe and offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. You can follow this festival as it travels from city to city visiting Calgary, Canmore and Edmonton throughout the summer with new artists performing each time.
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Jasper Dark Sky Festival
Held in October, the Jasper Dark Sky Festival celebrates the night sky and astronomy. It includes stargazing events, educational workshops, keynote speakers, and outdoor activities focused on the wonders of the cosmos.
Take a road trip on the Icefields Parkway
Drive along the iconic Icefields Parkway, a scenic highway connecting Jasper and Banff National Parks. Enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and waterfalls along the way.
Visit Banff National Park
Discover the stunning landscapes of Banff, known for its majestic mountains, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife. You can go hiking, biking, camping, or wander through the local town filled with restaurants and small shops.
Explore Jasper National Park
Another beautiful national park in Alberta, Jasper offers breathtaking scenery, glacier-fed lakes, and opportunities for outdoor adventures. Don’t miss attractions like Athabasca Falls and the Columbia Icefield when you visit!
Visit Drumheller
Explore the unique badlands landscape in Drumheller and visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which showcases a huge collection of dinosaur fossils making it the “Dinosaur Capital of the World”! The striking landscapes and exhibitions are perfect for the science lovers in your family.
Head into the Major Cities
As the capital city of Alberta, Edmonton has attractions like the West Edmonton Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the world, or the Edmonton Valley Zoo. You can also visit the vibrant city of Calgary. Check out the Calgary Tower for panoramic views, or the Calgary Zoo and the Glenbow Museum.
Pick and choose from this list to build your ultimate adventure through Alberta. By diving into one activity every weekend or using a full week to explore the province, you will be able to experience the best of Alberta! There is so much that this province has to offer across all ages and will captivate tourists and locals alike.
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