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Winter Activities
Discover the magic of winter in Kananaskis, Alberta. From snowshoeing and fat-tire biking to cross-country skiing and dog sledding, there’s something for every winter enthusiast to enjoy amidst the breathtaking winter landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.
Things to do in Kananaskis in Winter
The winter season is long in the Canadian Rockies, with snow often piling up between December to early May. Those willing to embrace our legendary Alberta winters are treated to some of the most unique and rewarding experiences and memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. Kananaskis and Spray Valley Provincial Park provide a range of winter adventures, including snowshoeing, fat tire biking, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, dog sledding, and more, all just minutes from Mount Engadine Lodge.
Snowshoeing
Explore the stunning winter landscapes of Kananaskis on snowshoes, following trails through snow-covered forests and alpine meadows with the help of our Snowshoeing Guide.
With a pair of snowshoes, an indigenous invention and symbol of Canadian culture, you can traverse the mountain valleys and trails without worrying about getting stuck up to your waist in snow.
With snowshoe rentals available for all guests and scenic trails at the doorstep of the lodge, it’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Fat-Tire Biking
If speed is what you’re after, you can swap out the snowshoes for a fat tire bike.
Fat tire biking is a heart pounding thrill as you pedal along the frozen trails and feel the cold wind on your face. The most unique way to experience the winter trails, your adrenaline is sure to get racing as your back tire drifts and slides around corners.
Check out our Mountain Biking Guide for more information on local trails and tips for biking in Kananaskis.
Cross-Country Skiing
Glide through pristine valleys and snow-covered forests on cross-country skis, with peak conditions between late-December to early April. Kananaskis offers some of the best cross-country skiing in Canada, providing unforgettable winter adventures for all skill levels.
With incredible groomed and backcountry trails at Mount Engadine’s doorstep, plus on-site Cross-Country Ski Rentals for guests, Mount Engadine is truly a cross-country skiers paradise.
Check out our Cross-Country Skiing Guide for information on our favourite trails, plus handy tips for Cross-Country Skiing in Kananaskis.
Winter Stargazing
Mount Engadine guests are treated to some of the best stargazing in Kananaskis thanks our remote location with clear, dark skies. Free from light pollution, we are able to get incredible views of constellations, the Milky Way, and even the occasional Northern Lights – especially in the winter thanks to longer hours of darkness and clear skies.
Guests can take advantage of our snowshoe rentals to go on a winter stargazing adventure through the Mount Engadine meadow valley with a stunning mountain backdrop. See our Stargazing Guide for more information.
Dog Sledding
For a truly unforgettable adventure, experience the thrill of dog sledding – one of Canada’s most iconic winter activities. Speed through snowy trails led by a team of well-trained sled dogs, immersing yourself in the magic of the wilderness.
Ice Fishing
If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed, let the good folks at Wapiti Sports & Outfitters guide you on an ice-fishing tour on the frozen Spray Lakes. Spend a peaceful day ice fishing on the frozen lakes and learn the ins and outs of this traditional winter activity while surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Skiing & Snowboarding
Hit the slopes at nearby Nakiska, a popular ski resort in Kananaskis. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Nakiska also has a tubing park that is great fun for the whole family!
Helicopter Tours
Winter is a beautiful time of year for a helicopter tour. Soar above the Canadian Rockies on a winter helicopter tour, offering breathtaking aerial views of snow-covered peaks, frozen lakes, and untouched wilderness.
Outdoor Fire Pit
While our outdoor fire pit is available year-round, cool fall evenings are the best time to enjoy a cozy outdoor fire. When the day is done, wrap yourself in a blanket and settle by the fire. Enjoy a local craft beer or your favourite cocktail, toast marshmallows, and exchange stories with other guests from around the world.
Tobogganing
Glide down the valley right from Mount Engadine Lodge! Tobogganing is fun for adults and kids alike. Bring your own, or borrow our toboggan from the front desk during your stay.
Ice Skating
Spray Lakes can offer some incredible ice skating in the winter. However, this is considered “wild skating” as it is not maintained or monitored, so skating is at your own risk. It’s essential to monitor the weather and make sure the ice is thick enough to skate on (at least 15-20cm deep according to Parks Canada), and it is always a good idea to bring safety gear like ice picks, a rope, a personal floatation device, and a heat-reflective emergency blanket.
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Seasonal Highlights
Chinook Weather System
While the temperature can dip pretty low in the winter, Alberta is famous for it’s sunny blue skies. If you’re lucky, you may also visit during a chinook, a unique weather system, which brings warm, almost summer-like temperatures in the middle of the winter. But no matter the temperature, there will always be a piping mug of hot cocoa (or something stronger) waiting for you at the end of the day at Mount Engadine Lodge!
Frozen Methane Bubbles
A rare phenomenon that occurs in Alberta lakes in the winter when water-dwelling bacteria feed or decaying organic matter and expel methane gas, and then the water freezes, suspending large white bubbles in the ice. This spectacle is most commonly seen between mid-January to mid-February. The key is to catch it when the lakes are not covered in snow – if you end up catching a Chinook that melts the snow you may be lucky enough to see the bubbles! Two of the best spots to see this phenomenon in Kananaskis are at Spray Lakes and Barrier Lake (as photographed by the well-known local photographer Paul Zizka).
Northern Lights
Kananaskis, and the area around Mount Engadine in particular, is excellent for stargazing. Even though it is not officially one of Canada’s Dark Sky Preserves, it is far from any sources of light pollution, allowing for clear, dark skies and stunning displays of celestial wonders. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Canada is between October to March, as there are long-dark nights and geomagnetic activity tends to be higher. Learn more in our Stargazing Guide.
Looking for a basecamp for your Kananaskis adventures this winter? Consider an all-inclusive stay at our rustic mountain lodge, cabins, and glamping tents – with stunning views and pristine trails right at your doorstep.