Discover Alberta

A Land of Contrasts

Alberta, located between Canada’s prairies and the towering Rocky Mountains, boasts landscapes that range from rolling grasslands and desert badlands to jagged peaks and turquoise lakes. Two of Canada’s most visited national parks—Banff and Jasper—call this province home, and outdoor adventures like hiking, canoeing, skiing and ice‑walking await in every season^[1].

With over 312 sunny days a year and up to 18 hours of daylight in summer, Alberta’s four distinct seasons provide endless opportunities to explore. Even winters are a dry cold, meaning it’s still comfortable to enjoy snow‑covered landscapes if you dress warmly.

Natural Wonders

From the shimmering turquoise waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake to the expansive glaciers and snow‑capped peaks of Banff National Park, Alberta’s natural wonders seem almost unreal. Brilliant aquamarine lakes, fields thick with wild roses and lupine, and towering pine forests where moose and mountain lions dwell make summer visits spectacular. Wandering along the Icefields Parkway reveals valley after valley of glacier‑clad mountains, while smaller parks like Waterton Lakes showcase vivid autumn foliage and mirrored waters.

Wildlife Encounters

Alberta’s wilderness is alive with animals. In Banff and Jasper you may spot elk, moose, bighorn sheep and even grizzly bears right from the roadside. Jasper National Park is especially good for rarer sightings: caribou, mountain goats, red foxes and even packs of wolves roam its forests. Guided tours led by local Métis guides share stories about the region’s ecology and Indigenous culture while helping visitors discover these animals in their natural habitat.

Four Distinct Seasons

Summer

Summers in Alberta are renowned for long, sunny days. June through August reveal brilliant lakes, wildflowers and lush forests; however, these months are also the busiest. Consider visiting at dawn to enjoy iconic sites like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake without the crowds.

Autumn

From mid‑September to early October, the province transforms into a mosaic of bright yellow meadows, red wild rose bushes and amber‑hued larch trees. Humidity drops compared to summer, offering crystal‑clear skies perfect for hiking. Quiet trails and reflective lakes make this an ideal season for those seeking tranquility.

Winter

Alberta’s winters evoke a sense of frozen majesty: icy tendrils climb deciduous trees, frigid lakes act like polished mirrors and snow‑mantled peaks stand beneath steel‑blue skies. The province can experience temperatures as low as −40 °C (−40 °F), so pack warm layers. From ice‑walking through Maligne Canyon’s crystalline waterfalls and frosted limestone to sleigh rides around Lake Louise under star‑studded skies, winter offers unforgettable adventures.

Activities & Events

Outdoor adventures abound year‑round: hike scenic mountain trails, canoe on turquoise lakes, ski snowy slopes or join an ice‑walk on a frozen creek. In summer, the world‑famous Calgary Stampede takes over the city with hair‑raising chuckwagon races, concerts and cultural parades. Autumn invites hikers to Waterton Lakes and the Icefields Parkway for crisp walks among golden larch trees. Winter highlights include ice climbing at Tangle Falls, dog sledding, and skating or taking a sleigh ride across frozen lakes. Even cities like Calgary offer winter fun, from Olympic luge runs to music festivals during the snowy months.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: For milder conditions and fewer crowds, plan your trip in September—lakes remain unfrozen and you might catch the leaves starting to change. In winter, late February to March offers powdery snow and less biting wind.

What to Pack: Bring layers year‑round. Even summer nights can be cool, while winter temperatures can reach −40 °C, requiring thermal clothing. Don’t forget sun protection—Alberta enjoys more sunny days than any other Canadian province.

Respect Wildlife & Culture: Observe animals from a safe distance and never feed them. When exploring with Indigenous guides, take the opportunity to learn about Métis and First Nations history and traditions.