Nestled between the wind-swept prairies and rugged slopes of the Rocky Mountains, lies the picturesque city of Calgary. Here, western hospitality, diverse cultures, and cosmopolitan flair intersect, embodying the essence of a modern city. Even in the depths of winter, Calgary exudes a warmth that permeates the air—not just from the occasional chinook winds, but also from the genuine hospitality of its residents, evoking a small-town feeling in a city of over 1,400,000 residents.

Set against the iconic backdrop of the Canadian Rockies, this unique setting caters to those seeking the best of both worlds—the liveliness of the city and the tranquility found in the nearby mountains and parks. With such inspiring landscapes it's no wonder that so many creatives and outdoor enthusiasts are drawn here. What’s admirable is how Calgarians embrace the winter months making the most of it, diving into all sorts of outdoor fun within and around the city. From cross-country skiing to winter hiking, outdoor festivals to Indigenous-guided tours, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the area’s beauty during the chilly months.

In partnership with Tourism Calgary we have compiled a list of ideas and experiences to inspire and help you make the most of your visit to Calgary:

Outdoor Activities:

Ice Skating

Skating on an outdoor rink is a favourite past-time for many Calgarians. The City maintains 10 outdoor rinks and there are dozens of other community-run rinks. The best might be the frozen lagoon at Bowness Park, which has fire pits, rentals, and a cafe on-site.

Winsport’s Canada Olympic Park

Hit the slopes and terrain park at Winsport’s Canada Olympic Park, home of the 1988 Winter Olympics. The hill offers expansive views of the city and the Rockies. There are 2 chairlifts offering varied levels of access along with on-site rentals and lessons.

Cross Country Skiing

There are several groomed trails throughout Calgary, some that offer views of the city and others that immerse you in nature. You can find a list of locations here. You can rent all of the gear that you may need at Sports Rent.

Winter Hiking

Embark on a winter hiking adventure through the tranquil landscapes of Fish Creek Provincial Park. This is a great spot to search for wildlife. Be sure to check out the ice falls when you visit! There is also a great restaurant nearby worth checking out called Bow Valley Ranche.

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Events and Architectural Marvels:

Chinook Blast Festival - Jan. 31 - Feb. 17, 2025

This vibrant festival invites visitors to explore a curated collection of local arts, theater, music, sports, culinary delights, markets, and cultural experiences. It's a celebration of the boundless creativity of the local artists and makers, offering a platform to showcase their talents. Wander through interactive exhibits and engage with the community at this vibrant festival.

Central Library

The Central Library is renowned for its innovative and striking architecture. Its eye-catching geometric interior and exterior and expansive glass facade have made it an iconic landmark in Calgary.

Calgary Tower

Standing tall as an iconic symbol of Calgary's skyline, the Calgary Tower offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views from the observation deck. Gain a bird's-eye perspective of the cities bustling downtown and the snow capped mountains.

Urban Exploration and Beyond:

Urban Trail Network

This network of trails spans over 1,000 kilometers (approximately 620 miles). Its status as the most extensive pathway and bikeway system in North America reflects Calgary's dedication to providing accessible and enjoyable outdoor experiences for its residents and visitors.

Indigenous Mountain Guides

Embark on a journey into the mountains or foothills with Zuc'min Guiding, where you can delve into the Indigenous perspectives and rich history of the land on an outdoor adventure. 

In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina First Nation, the Stoney Nakoda (including Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Goodstoney First Nations), the Otipemisiwak Métis Government (Districts 5 and 6), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.