Discover the Natural Wonders of Alberta with GoTravelDaily
Alberta is home to some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on the planet: rugged snow-capped mountains, massive glaciers, thick forests, impossibly blue lakes, vast prairies, and other-worldly badlands filled with dinosaur bones. It’s a nature lover’s paradise, but that’s only one side of this remarkable destination.
First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples have lived on and cared for these lands for thousands of years and are still present here. Alberta is rich with Indigenous places and experiences. Its two largest cities, Edmonton and Calgary, are extremely multicultural, each with its unique cosmopolitan flair. Meanwhile, cowboy culture lives on in small towns, farms, and ranches that dot the prairie regions.
There’s much to love about Alberta. It’s a destination so packed with possibilities that it can be difficult to decide where to start. Below is guidance on how to make the most of your visit to this extraordinary Canadian province.
How Many Days Do You Need in Alberta?
Ideally, you’ll spend at least two or three days exploring Calgary or Edmonton. While this won’t give you enough time to see everything, it’s sufficient to hit some highlights. Tack on extra time if you’re visiting iconic regional events.
If you’re open to a fast-paced itinerary, you could explore the Canadian Rockies in Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper in about a week. This timeframe allows for two to three days in the Banff and Lake Louise area, one day to drive the scenic Icefields Parkway, and two to three days discovering Jasper. Additionally, plan for at least two more days to explore the Canadian Badlands region, where you’ll uncover a stunning landscape filled with dinosaur fossils and breathtaking formations.
What Is the #1 Tourist Attraction in Alberta?
Established in 1885, Banff National Park was Canada’s first national park and is one of the country’s top travel destinations, attracting over four million visitors each year. The park offers diverse experiences for everyone—adventurers, families, and culture seekers alike. You can soak in the healing waters of Banff Hot Springs, hike amidst rugged mountain scenery, or explore some of the most beautiful lakes on the planet, including Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
When Should I Visit Alberta?
Alberta is a four-season destination, making it ideal to visit anytime. The warmest months are from June to September, with average temperatures between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Consequently, summer becomes the busiest travel season, with hotel prices peaking.
Winters are cold, averaging -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F), but this is an excellent time for winter sports enthusiasts. Shoulder seasons, including fall (October to November) and spring (May to June), often provide lower prices and smaller crowds, although some facilities might be closed during this time.
Where Should You Stay in Alberta?
Alberta provides a wide range of accommodation options. Many hostels offer private rooms with bathrooms at significantly reduced rates compared to hotels. Parks Canada and Alberta Parks offer comfort camping sites, which can range from equipped tents to fully outfitted cabins. Bed and breakfasts are wonderful mid-range options that also allow you to connect with locals.
In major cities, you can find accommodations varying from budget-friendly family-owned motels to high-end luxury hotels. Unique stays, such as backcountry lodges accessible by hiking or skiing, offer authentic experiences in nature. Similarly, ranch or farm stays let you immerse yourself in cowboy culture.
Is It Easy to Get Around in Alberta?
Being a vast province, Alberta necessitates a car for visiting remote areas, smaller towns, and national parks. However, public transit is robust in Edmonton, Calgary, and Banff. In these cities, taxi and rideshare services like Uber are readily available, along with a highly walkable infrastructure that encourages exploring on foot.
Top Things to Do in Alberta
Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks, which include Banff and Jasper, as well as other national parks, preserve stunning mountain landscapes.
- Dinosaur Provincial Park is renowned for its extraordinary landscape and fossil findings that date back millions of years.
- Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump tells the story of the Indigenous Plains People and their historical buffalo hunting practices.
- Waterton Glacier International Peace Park features beautiful landscapes protecting unique flora and fauna.
- Wood Buffalo National Park harbors the largest undisturbed grasslands in North America.
- Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park offers insights into Indigenous culture through its rock art.
Outdoor Activities in Kananaskis Provincial Park
Kananaskis provides excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing. This stunning park is just off the route from Calgary to Banff and features breathtaking mountain views. You can rent bikes or skis from local outfitters, or participate in trail rides and dogsledding.
Explore Banff National Park
As Canada’s first national park, Banff offers spectacular activities year-round, from winter ice skating to summer paddleboarding on pristine lakes. Enjoying the hot springs, hiking trails, and diverse culinary experiences ensures a memorable visit.
Drive the Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway, spanning 230km (143 miles), is one of the world’s most breathtaking drives. You’ll encounter numerous glaciers and natural wonders along this scenic route, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Engage with Indigenous Tourism Experiences
Alberta is rich in Indigenous tourism, with multiple experiences available that celebrate the cultural heritage of its First Nations communities. Visitors can partake in various events, workshops, and cultural sites that provide deep insights into Indigenous traditions and practices.
Adventure in Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park is an adventure seeker’s paradise. Its rugged terrain and incredible natural beauty offer countless activities like hiking, canoeing, and wildlife watching, ensuring that everyone can find a favorite adventure.
Fossil Exploration in the Canadian Badlands
The Canadian Badlands boast some of the world’s richest fossil beds. Participating in guided tours gives you a chance to engage with paleontologists while searching for dinosaur remains at notable locations like Dinosaur Provincial Park.
Experience Calgary and Edmonton
In Calgary, explore the extensive pathway network by bike and take in iconic landmarks. Meanwhile, Edmonton’s North Saskatchewan River Valley is the largest urban parkland in North America, offering pathways, outdoor activities, and exploration opportunities through its natural beauty.
Financial Planning for Your Trip to Alberta
Prices for accommodations can vary based on location and timing, but booking early and avoiding peak season will help save costs. Additionally, parks may require passes for entry, but many activities within offer free experiences. Below are some average expenses to consider:
- Hotel: $100 to $375 CAD per room per night
- Private double room in a hostel: $65 CAD per night
- Coffee: $2 CAD
- Entrée at a mid-range restaurant: $25 to $40 CAD
- Glass of wine: $8 to $10 CAD
- Museum admission: $14 to $21 CAD
- Public transit single ticket: $3 to $5 CAD
- Park admission fees may apply
Major Airports in Alberta
Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Edmonton International Airport (YEG) serve as the primary gateways to Alberta. They provide convenient access to major tourist attractions, including Banff and Jasper National Parks.
Train Services in the Alberta Rockies
Via Rail operates a service connecting Edmonton and Jasper, offering scenic views during the journey. Additionally, the luxury Rocky Mountaineer train presents an upscale way to experience the Canadian Rockies, combining breathtaking scenery with sumptuous dining and comfort.
Prepare for Variable Weather
Weather conditions in Alberta can change rapidly, particularly in mountainous regions. It is recommended to pack layers regardless of when you visit to ensure comfort in varying temperatures.
