Top 3 Winter Road Trips to Take if You’re From Alberta

Living in Alberta means endless opportunities for epic winter road trips. Whether you’re cruising through snow-covered forests or heading up to the mountains for a weekend getaway, Alberta’s got it all. So, if you’re itching to hit the road this winter, House of Cars is sharing three must-do trips that’ll have you packing your bags and warming up the car in no time.

1. Banff and Lake Louise: The Classic Winter Wonderland

When it comes to travelling Alberta winter road trips, you can’t leave out the iconic Banff and Lake Louise. Located just an hour and a half from Calgary, this road trip is an absolute no-brainer. The scenic drive through the Bow Valley Parkway alone is worth the trip, with its snow-covered trees and wildlife sightings.

Once you get to Banff, there’s no shortage of winter activities. Go ice skating on Lake Louise, hit the slopes at Sunshine Village, or soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Banff is pure magic in the winter, and the drive there is nothing short of breathtaking.

Why It’s Perfect for Winter:

• Distance: Just a short drive from Calgary and other towns & cities and it’s perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.
• Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, skating, and hot springs.
• Pro Tip: If you’ve got an SUV, you’re set for the snowy, winding roads!
• Save on Hotels: Hotels are cheaper in Banff and Lake Louise during this time, so take advantage of the savings.

2. Jasper: For the Road Less Travelled

If you’re looking for a quieter, more laid-back winter destination, Jasper is your go-to. The Icefields Parkway, which connects Lake Louise to Jasper, is one of the most scenic drives in the world, especially in winter. Picture towering snow-capped mountains, frozen waterfalls, and plenty of spots to pull over and snap a few pics.

Jasper itself offers endless winter activities, from skiing at Marmot Basin to exploring the frozen Maligne Canyon. Plus, it’s a dark-sky preserve, meaning the star-gazing here is out of this world. Not to mention, Jasper is a bit more low-key compared to Banff, so you can enjoy the winter beauty without the tourist crowds.

Why It’s Perfect for Winter:

• Distance: Around 4 hours from Edmonton or 5 hours from Calgary.
• Activities: Maligne Canyon ice walks, skiing, and stargazing.
• Pro Tip: If you’re heading up the Icefields Parkway, make sure your vehicle has good winter tires. AWD doesn’t hurt either!

3. Canmore and Kananaskis: The Underrated Gem

Just under an hour from Calgary, Canmore and Kananaskis offer some of Alberta’s best winter road trip vibes without the hustle and bustle of Banff. Canmore’s got a cute downtown area filled with shops and cafes, perfect for a cozy stop before heading out to Kananaskis Country for winter hikes or cross-country skiing.

Kananaskis is also a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet in the mountains. The snow-covered trails and frozen lakes make for an epic winter backdrop, whether you’re hitting the trails or just cruising through.

And if you’re into trying some ice climbing, Johnston Canyon is just a short drive away. You can climb up some impressive frozen waterfalls.

Why It’s Perfect for Winter:

• Distance: Less than an hour from Calgary, great for a quick day trip.
• Activities: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and relaxing in Canmore.
• Pro Tip: The roads here can get a bit icy, but with a trusty SUV, you’ll have no problem getting around.

Ready to Hit the Road?

No matter which of these Alberta winter road trips you choose, you’re in for some stunning scenery and epic adventures.

But before you go, make sure your ride is up for the challenge. If you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle Alberta’s winter roads, swing by House of Cars and check out our selection of used SUVs.

With hundreds of options built for snowy conditions and ready to take on Alberta’s winter, you’ll be cruising through the Rockies in no time.

Plus, we’ve got easy financing options that won’t break the bank. Visit our website or stop by one of our Alberta locations to find your next winter road trip vehicle!