When winter blankets Canada in snow, the country transforms into a playground for cold-weather enthusiasts. From world-class skiing to unique winter festivals, Canada embraces the snowy season with a passion that's contagious. Here's our guide to the best winter activities across the Great White North.
Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding
Canada boasts some of the world's finest ski resorts, each offering their own unique terrain and atmosphere:
Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia
North America's largest ski resort, Whistler Blackcomb offers over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, a mile-long vertical drop, and a vibrant village atmosphere. Host of the 2010 Winter Olympics alpine events, this world-class destination attracts skiers and snowboarders from around the globe.
Banff Sunshine Village, Alberta
Located in the heart of Banff National Park, Sunshine Village offers breathtaking Rocky Mountain views and Canada's longest non-glacial ski season. The famous "Big 3" (Sunshine Village, Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay) can all be accessed with a single ski pass.
Mont Tremblant, Quebec
This colorful, European-style pedestrian village in the Laurentian Mountains is Eastern Canada's premier ski destination. With 102 trails spread across four mountain faces, it offers variety for all skill levels within a charming, French-inspired setting.
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
For those who prefer a more peaceful winter experience, Canada offers endless cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities:
Gatineau Park, Quebec
Just minutes from downtown Ottawa, this conservation park maintains over 200 km of cross-country ski trails and 60 km of snowshoe trails. The heated shelters along the routes provide welcome warming spots.
Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario
Ontario's oldest provincial park offers excellent marked trails for both activities, with the chance to spot wildlife like moose and wolves against a pristine winter backdrop.
Kananaskis Country, Alberta
Less crowded than nearby Banff, "K-Country" offers hundreds of kilometers of trails with stunning mountain scenery and reliable snow conditions.
Ice Skating
Ice skating is deeply woven into Canadian culture, and the country offers some truly remarkable skating experiences:
Rideau Canal Skateway, Ottawa
The world's largest naturally frozen skating rink, the Rideau Canal Skateway stretches 7.8 km through downtown Ottawa. During Winterlude festival, the canal becomes the centerpiece of winter celebrations, complete with hot chocolate stands and BeaverTail pastry vendors along the route.
Lake Louise, Alberta
Skating on the frozen surface of Lake Louise, surrounded by snow-covered peaks and the majestic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, is a bucket-list experience. Every January, the lake hosts the Ice Magic Festival, featuring intricate ice sculpture competitions.
The Forks, Winnipeg
The Red and Assiniboine Rivers create one of the world's longest naturally frozen skating trails, with creative warming huts designed by international architects adding artistic flair to the experience.
Unique Canadian Winter Experiences
Dog Sledding
Experience the traditional mode of winter transportation in Canada's North. Destinations like Yukon, Northwest Territories, and northern Quebec offer authentic dog sledding experiences ranging from hour-long rides to multi-day expeditions.
Ice Fishing
Join local anglers in the time-honored tradition of ice fishing on frozen lakes across the country. Many operators provide heated huts, equipment, and guidance for catching species like walleye, northern pike, and lake trout.
Northern Lights Viewing
Winter's long nights in northern Canada provide perfect conditions for witnessing the aurora borealis. Yellowknife (Northwest Territories) is considered one of the world's premier aurora viewing locations, with specialized tours that combine northern lights viewing with other winter activities.
Winter Festivals
Canadians know how to celebrate winter with style:
- Quebec Winter Carnival (Quebec City) - The world's largest winter carnival features a spectacular ice palace, night parades, and snow sculptures.
- Winterlude (Ottawa) - This annual festival transforms the capital with ice sculptures, snow playgrounds, and cultural performances.
- Montréal en Lumière - This festival combines gastronomy, arts, and an all-night celebration called Nuit Blanche.
Ice Hotels and Snow Architecture
Experience the magic of staying in structures built entirely of snow and ice:
- Hôtel de Glace near Quebec City - North America's only ice hotel features artistic snow carvings, ice bars, and even a chapel.
- Snow King Festival in Yellowknife - This community-built snow castle hosts concerts, art exhibits, and community events.
Winter Safety Tips
While winter in Canada is magical, it requires proper preparation:
- Dress in layers with moisture-wicking base layers and waterproof outer shells
- Protect extremities with quality gloves, warm socks, and insulated boots
- Stay hydrated even in cold weather
- Check weather forecasts and avalanche risks before backcountry adventures
- Carry emergency supplies when venturing into remote areas
- Learn to recognize the signs of frostbite and hypothermia
Canada's winter offers so much more than just cold temperatures—it's a season of unique adventures and breathtaking beauty. From world-class skiing to skating on frozen canals, winter in Canada provides unforgettable experiences that celebrate the country's northern identity.
Ready to embrace Canada's winter wonderland? Contact Aventure Canada to plan your perfect winter getaway!
