The snow is falling and the outdoors is calling! The coldest time of year doesn’t have to mean days spent indoors playing tired board games. Give new meaning to family time and add to your list of amazing things to do in the winter in Alberta with these great local ideas. Don’t forget the hand warmers!
Have a cool time on the ice
Breathe in the chilly air and discover the thrill of the tug on your fishing line. Every generation of your family can enjoy the many hotspots for ice fishing in Alberta. Grandparents, parents, and kids can make incredible memories just by getting outdoors together and exploring our backyard with fun things to do in the winter in Alberta. Ask grandpa to recount his favourite fishing tale!
Head out to Winchell Lake, just north of Cochrane, for ice fishing in the open air. The water is stocked with Rainbow Trout, and surrounded by beautiful wilderness, creating a quiet atmosphere to enjoy the serenity of ice fishing in Alberta with your family.
Starting in December, ice fishing huts dot Ghost Lake, creating a picturesque winter scene with a wild mountain backdrop. Here you’re likely to catch Bull Trout, Brook Trout, Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout, Cutthroat Trout, and Brown Trout. The winds whipping across the lake can be unforgiving in the dead of winter, so bring extra layers and come prepared with the right tools to make your fishing hole. Remember to exercise caution when on the ice and don’t attempt to drive on the lake when ice fishing in Alberta.
There’s snowplace like Cochrane’s trails
Stay high and dry as you stroll through Cochrane’s idyllic, snow-powdered landscapes. Just like the paws of the lynx that call the Canadian Rocky Mountains home, snowshoes take up more surface area to help support your body weight and ultimately keep you from sinking in the snow.
Indigenous peoples have long known the benefits of using snowshoes to travel and explore in the winter, and you can easily try them out for yourself. Rent a pair at Big Hill Cycle, or take out a pair from the Cochrane Public Library, free with your library card.
The whole family will love wandering through the expansive Historic Cochrane Ranche Site, taking photos, and pausing for a break at the top of the hill to bask in the sweeping views.
For a change of pace, explore the Perrenoud Wildlife Habitat, just north of Cochrane. The area is home to many animals and birds, so watch for tracks and wonderful photo opportunities. You’ll also find a great place for geocaching, nestled between gently rolling hills.
Chill out with a snack
Before or after your day of adventuring, stop by a local cafe for hearty eats and delicious treats to keep you satiated. Cochrane Baking Company serves up warm, freshly baked bread, and mouth-watering pastries and desserts sure to make your day a little sweeter.
Have a winterful day with your whole family
Keep every generation of your family entertained with new and exciting things to do in Alberta in the winter. Cochrane has many free, local options so you can get outside and try out your next favourite snowy weather activity. Gather your whole clan and start exploring with us today!
