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Skiing: This had to be the first to be mentioned since this is the best place I have ever skied in the world. There are five major ski resorts within an hours drive of the house; Sunshine Village (they have great Powder here), Norquay (Good for night skiing) Nakiska (For a quieter atmosphere) Fortress Mountain (With two mountains and amazing snow) and of course Lake Louise (The largest ski resort in North America, and Canada's Second biggest tourist attraction alter Niagara Falls) Slightly further a field there are Kicking Horse and Panorama, two more ski resorts just oven an hour away. |
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| Snowboarding: Obviously for those who are too cool for skiing snowboarding is the popular alternative. |
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| Cross Country Skiing: The Canmore Nordic Centre is where the Canadian National Cross Country Ski Team train. It consists of 60km of trails and has just been completely refurbished for the 2005 world cup. If you have always thought about trying cross county skiing for a change, now is your chance. |
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Ice Fishing: 25 minutes south of Canmore, Spray Lakes, offers the opportunity to try out ice fishing amongst a beautiful scenic backdrop. This is an activity we have not tried.
However, there are many tours which offer day trips in heated huts and will even cookyour catch foryoul A local fishing trip organiser is Banff Fishing Unlimited (403-7624936). |
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Dog Sledding: Favorite winter activity is dog sledding, if you love the Alaskan Huskies almost as much as our own dogs. I can see why you would enjoy it as the thrill of running a dog team from the back of a sled makes for an excellent afternoon. However, for the more laid back sitting down and taking in the stunning scenery can also be really enjoyable. I would highly recommend this trip, although I would advise wrapping up warm as it can get really chilly We tend to use Snowy Owl Dog Tours (1-800-311-MUSH) as they are experienced, friendly and provide free beef jerfy and cider on the trip. |
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Ice Skating: Our family love strapping on blades and skating on the wide range of local outdoor ice-rings. Our favourite is the ice skaking rink at lake Louise which is transformed into an ice palace and even has a hockey rink for those who fancy a challenge (its worth it just for the steaming Hot Chocolates!)
Snowshoeing: There is no better way of exploring the tranquil beauty of the Canadian Rockies in the winter than snow shoeing there are various places that you can pick up a guided tour and spend a day in the wilderness, the perfect excuse to warm up at the spa in the evening. |
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Tobogganing: We try to go tobogganing on every winter holiday. This activity is great fun, especially on backlit evenings, after a day of skiing. We really enjoy tobogganing, especially as its great Fun for all ages and no experience is needed. Fairmont Banff Springs (403-762-5333) offers toboggan rentals and there is a fun slope at Cemetery Hill in Canmore. |
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Spas: Obviously, going to a spa is something that can be enjoyed year round, and is often more rewarding after a long day on the, check out the summer activities section for more info on the various local Spas.
Ice Climbing: We have not tried ice climbing, although it seems an exciting activity (but perhaps a bit to scary for us). The frozen Canadian rivers, mountains and waterfalls offer many areas to ice climbing. Mount Yamuska has qualified guides which offer lessons to the inexperienced and challenge the experienced (1-866-CANMOI2E). |
