12 Bucket List Things to Do in Winter in Edmonton
Edmonton’s winter charm is undeniable, and we’re about to let you in on the city’s best-kept secrets. When the temperature drops, this Alberta gem comes alive with activities that’ll ignite your sense of wonder.
Here’s a list of the most bucket-list-worthy things to do that’ll make you wish the cold season lasted all year long!
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1. Glide Through the Victoria Park IceWay
Edmonton’s Victoria Park IceWay is a 3-loop skating trail that winds through a snow-covered forest, illuminated by twinkling rainbow lights.
The best part? It’s completely free and open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Don’t forget to pack your own skates – there are no rentals on-site.
Insider Tip: Bring a thermos of hot chocolate spiked with Bailey’s for an extra cozy skate. Just don’t tell the kids!
2. Snowshoe & Stargaze at Elk Island Dark Sky Preserve
As a designated Dark Sky Preserve, Elk Island National Park offers some of the best stargazing in the area.
Join a guided nighttime snowshoe tour and marvel at the countless stars twinkling above. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the Northern Lights dancing across the sky.
Insider Tip: Download the Star Walk app before you go.
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3. Shred the Slopes at Rabbit Hill
Rabbit Hill is the largest ski resort in the Edmonton area and offers a perfect mix of runs for all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, you’ll find your groove here.
The resort also offers night skiing, so you can carve up the slopes under the stars. After working up an appetite, refuel at the cozy lodge with a steaming bowl of poutine – because nothing says “Canadian winter” quite like fries, gravy, and cheese curds.
Insider Tip: Hit the slopes on a Tuesday night for their ski deal. $10 lift tickets and $10 rentals? Yes, please!
4. Tube Down the Snow Wave at Sunridge Ski Area
Relive your childhood (or embrace your inner child) at Sunridge Ski Area’s Snow Wave. This tubing paradise offers up to four chutes for high-speed thrills.
Zoom down the hill, feeling the wind in your face and the rush of adrenaline in your veins. No skill required – just plop down in your tube and let gravity do the work.
Insider Tip: Grab a group of friends and link your tubes for a mega-slide experience. Just be prepared for some epic wipeouts at the bottom!
5. Cross-Country Ski in the River Valley
Feel like an Olympian for the day and glide through Edmonton’s stunning River Valley on cross-country skis. With over 10 kilometers of illuminated trails varying in difficulty, it’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned skiers.
The Edmonton Nordic Ski Club maintains these trails, ensuring they’re always in top condition.
Insider Tip: Download the AllTrails app for detailed trail maps and difficulty ratings.
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6. Relax on a Winter Patio
Who says patio season is just for summer? Edmonton’s winter patios are next-level cozy. Check out Little Brick Cafe, nestled in a charming historic house in Riverdale.
Snuggle up under warm blankets, sip on their famous hot chocolate (or spiked hot apple cider for the grown-ups), and feast on comfort food while watching the snow fall.
Insider Tip: Order the eggs benedict. It’s breakfast perfection and don’t forget the bacon.
7. Fat Bike Through the River Valley
Experience Edmonton’s River Valley in a whole new way – on a fat bike! These bikes with oversized tires are perfect for cruising through snowy trails.
Rent one from River Valley Adventure Co. and explore the extensive trail network. The wide tires provide excellent traction, making it a smooth and exhilarating ride even for beginners.
Insider Tip: Stop by Culina To Go in the Muttart Conservatory for a post-ride treat. Their homemade soups and sandwiches are the perfect way to refuel.
8. Catch an Edmonton Oilers Game
No winter visit to Edmonton is complete without experiencing the electric atmosphere of an Oilers game.
Head to Rogers Place and join the sea of orange and blue as you cheer on Connor McDavid and the team. Even if you’re not a huge hockey fan, the energy in the arena is contagious.
Insider Tip: Pregame at CRAFT Beer Market nearby. Their extensive beer selection and hearty pub fare will get you in the perfect mood for some hockey action.
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9. Warm Up at Métis Crossing
Take a day trip to Métis Crossing, about an hour’s drive from Edmonton, for a unique cultural experience. Try your hand at traditional winter activities like trapping and shelter building.
Warm up in a cozy tipi while listening to stories of Métis culture and history. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Alberta’s Indigenous heritage.
Insider Tip: Don’t leave without trying some bannock (traditional fried bread). It’s absolutely delicious and will warm you right up!
10. Attend the Flying Canoe Volant Festival
Celebrate Edmonton’s French-Canadian and Indigenous roots at the Flying Canoe Volant Festival. This magical winter event transforms Mill Creek Ravine into an enchanted forest filled with light installations, music, and interactive art.
Follow the illuminated trail, warm up by fire pits, and indulge in traditional treats like maple taffy on snow.
Insider Tip: Practice your best French accent for ordering “Caribou” – a traditional Québécois alcoholic beverage that’ll warm you right up!
11. Take a Segway Tour Through the Snow
Take a guided Segway tour through the snowy River Valley. Don’t worry if you’ve never ridden one before; these nifty machines are surprisingly easy to handle, even in the snow.
Insider Tip: Wear ski goggles if you have them. They’ll protect your eyes from the wind.
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12. Experience the Silver Skate Festival
Time your visit for the Silver Skate Festival, a 10-day winter extravaganza in February. Hawrelak Park transforms into a winter playground with ice sculptures, snow sculptures, winter sports, and cultural performances.
Strap on your skates and glide across the city’s largest outdoor rink. Don’t miss the magical nighttime Fire Sculpture event – it’s like watching art come to life in flames.
Insider Tip: Bring a thermos of hot mulled wine to sip while you wander. It’ll keep you warm and add a festive touch to your evening!
