Top 34 Stunning Destinations to Explore in Alberta

Alberta is Canada’s most picturesque province. While I may have a personal bias since I was born in Alberta and have visited numerous times, it is difficult to overlook the allure of the Rocky Mountains, the Badlands, and the shimmering glacial lakes. Given our fondness for Alberta, we aspire to highlight the most stunning destinations within the province for your consideration.

Home to the Canadian Rockies, Alberta is distinguished by five national parks and six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing some of the finest landscapes in Western Canada. If you are organizing a visit to Alberta, ensure you include these remarkable locations in your itinerary.

• Best Places to Visit in Alberta
• 1. Banff National Park
• 2. Lake Louise
• 3. Banff Hot Springs in Banff National Park
• 4. Lake Louise Ski Resort
• 5. Lake Minnewanka
• 6. Castle Mountain
• 7. Moraine Lake
• 9. Jasper National Park
• 10. Northern Lights at Lake Annette
• 11. Maligne Canyon
• 13. Icefields Parkway
• 14. Columbia Icefield Skywalk
• 15. Athabasca Glacier
• 16. Bow Lake
• 17. Peyto Lake
• 18. Alberta Badlands
• 19. Hoodoos of Drumheller
• 20. Royal Tyrrell Museum
• 21. Dinosaur Provincial Park
• 22. Waterton Lakes National Park
• 23. Pincher Creek – Southern Alberta
• 25. Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump
• 29. Johnston Canyon
• 32. West Edmonton Mall
• 34. Wood Buffalo National Park
• How to Get to Alberta, Canada

Best Places to Visit in Alberta

We have extensively explored Alberta throughout all seasons, and it is undoubtedly a remarkable year-round destination, considered one of the most beautiful locations globally. Regardless of whether you visit Alberta in the winter, summer, spring, or fall, its natural splendor will leave you in awe.

The most practical way to navigate Alberta is by automobile. Having a vehicle allows you to conveniently stop at scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, and attractions scattered throughout the province. Car rentals are conveniently available at Calgary Airport, enabling you to embark on a memorable adventure.

1. Banff National Park

Banff National Park is the oldest national park in Canada and has captivated visitors since 1885. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, it presents breathtaking vistas, glacial lakes, and backcountry exploration opportunities. Upon witnessing the majestic Victoria Glacier reflecting in the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, you are likely to be completely mesmerized by this iconic Canadian landscape.

This park is also home to a plethora of waterfalls, glaciers, and diverse wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Before we proceed from Banff National Park, let us overview the top attractions in the vicinity, which correspondingly rank among the finest locations to visit in Alberta.

2. Lake Louise

Lake Louise is situated within Banff National Park, yet it merits recognition as a destination unto itself. In the summer, you can rent a canoe and paddle upon the glacial waters encircled by the Canadian Rockies. During winter, Lake Louise transforms into one of the most picturesque outdoor skating venues on the planet. Seize the opportunity to glide across one of Canada’s iconic locations.

The charm of Lake Louise is undeniable, offering summer hiking trails and winter snowshoeing opportunities. A favored treks includes the Lake Agnes Tea House Trek, a 3.5 km (2.2 miles) hike leading to a historic tea house that has been welcoming guests since 1905, complete with a delightful rustic atmosphere and seating with views overlooking Lake Agnes.

3. Banff Hot Springs in Banff National Park

The Banff Hot Springs initially drew tourists to the national park upon their discovery by Canadian Pacific Railway workers in 1883.

This locale boasts one of the most stunning hot springs, encircled by the Canadian Rockies. The temperature of the springs varies from 37°C to 40°C (98°F to 104°F), presenting an ideal setting for relaxation.

Where to stay in Banff:

• Mount Royal Hotel – Centrally located within walking distance of many attractions
• Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel – The original Grand Dame of Banff.

4. Lake Louise Ski Resort

Lake Louise Ski Resort ranks among the premier winter destinations in Alberta. This distinguished resort was the venue for the 1988 Winter Olympics. During the winter months, Lake Louise Ski Resort presents a plethora of adventures alongside skiing, including cross-country skiing, dog sledding, skijoring, pond hockey, and snowshoeing.

Where to Stay in Lake Louise:

• Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel is positioned directly on Lake Louise
• Deer Lodge – Ideally located next to the Fairmont

5. Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka is the largest lake located in Banff National Park, extending over 21 kilometers (13 miles) in length and reaching depths of up to 142 meters (466 feet). Like many of the park’s lakes, it is enveloped by the Canadian Rockies. Read more: 16 Best Banff Hikes To Discover

The term “Minnewanka” originates from the Stoney Nakoda First Nations people and signifies “Water of the Spirits.” We recommend embarking on a boat tour during the summer, as the knowledgeable guides will share the fascinating legend of the Mermen believed to inhabit Lake Minnewanka.

6. Castle Mountain

Castle Mountain is one of the most distinctive formations in Banff National Park. Positioned between Banff Town and Lake Louise, its unique shape bears a resemblance to a castle, thus earning its name. The area is ideal for hiking and rock climbing. For those lacking alpine experience, the mountain can be appreciated from the Trans Canada Highway at Castle Junction.

7. Moraine Lake

A trip to Lake Louise would be incomplete without a hike to Moraine Lake. This breathtaking sight has adorned the back of the former Canadian $20 bill and has drawn outdoor enthusiasts for decades.

The optimal time to experience Moraine Lake is at sunrise; however, access has recently become more challenging. Currently, visitation at sunrise is exclusively permitted via the Parks Canada Shuttle. Individuals who are cycling or participating in an organized tour may still access Moraine Lake during this time. The lake is conveniently located just an hour’s drive from the town of Banff.

8. Banff Town

9. Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park stands as the largest national park within the Canadian Rocky Mountains, rich in untouched natural beauty and wildlife. While equally stunning as Banff National Park, Jasper is typically less congested and offers numerous outdoor activities.

The park is abundant with sites to explore, necessitating a multi-day visit. Jasper features diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, and opportunities to witness the aurora borealis and waterfalls. Additionally, there are extensive hiking trails, turquoise lakes, and canyons to discover. Read more: 38 Best Things to do in Jasper Canada

10. Northern Lights at Lake Annette

The northern lights can be admired throughout Alberta, though Jasper is particularly renowned for its Dark Sky Festival in October, making it a premier locale for observing the Aurora Borealis. Winter provides the ideal conditions for stargazing, as prolonged darkness enhances visibility of the stars.

On one occasion, we ventured to Lake Annette from the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in the early hours, witnessing a breathtaking display of northern lights reflected on the tranquil waters. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is the leading accommodation choice in Jasper, providing picturesque views of Lac Beauvert and a variety of lodging options including log cabins, expansive lakeside houses, and hotel rooms in the main building.

11. Maligne Canyon

Maligne Canyon is a stunning river canyon that plunges 50 meters (154 feet) into the ground. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Jasper along the 46 km (miles) Maligne Lake Drive, this is a highly sought-after destination, and for good reasons. As the deepest canyon in Jasper National Park, it is adorned with remarkably scenic trails offering breathtaking views. Arriving early in the day is advisable to escape the crowds!

In the summer, this is an excellent location for hiking, showcasing waterfalls cascading through the canyon. In contrast, winter transforms it into a wonderland, filled with frozen waterfalls. Ice walk tours are available during which you can observe these frozen waterfalls and ice caves.

12. Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake ranks as one of the most frequented locations within Jasper National Park. There are numerous hiking trails and scenic overlooks; however, the highlight here is to embark on a boat cruise to Spirit Island, an ideal photographic tableau.

This excursion provides ample time to reach Maligne Lake, known as the longest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. Read more: 14 Best Hikes in Jasper National Park – Alberta Canada

Notable activities in Jasper encompass engaging in a food tour of Jasper Town, visiting Pyramid Lake at dawn, hiking to Sunwapta Falls, and stopping by the picturesque Athabasca Falls.

13. Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway connects Banff and Jasper National Parks and is celebrated as one of the most picturesque drives worldwide. It is genuinely among the ultimate road trips globally, with an abundance of sights to explore along the route, making it advisable to allocate a couple of days for exploration.

Be sure to stop at the Athabasca Glacier at the Columbia Icefields, one of the largest non-polar icefields globally, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains from the Icefields Skywalk.

Further details can be found at Driving the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper Alberta. If you do not have a vehicle, consider joining a sightseeing tour to appreciate the highlights of the Icefields Parkway.

14. Columbia Icefield Skywalk

The Columbia Icefields Skywalk has rapidly emerged as the most remarkable viewpoint in Alberta. Just a short distance from the visitor center at Columbia Icefield, the Skywalk is an essential attraction. This glass-bottomed walkway, extending 280 meters (918 feet) above the canyon, surrounded by glaciers and mountains, offers stunning vistas!

15. Athabasca Glacier

The Athabasca Glacier can be observed from the visitor center, with trails leading for a closer inspection of this majestic glacier. However, we highly recommend joining a tour for a more immersive experience of the glacier’s magnificence. Discover this Columbia Icefield Half Day Tour here from Jasper.

16. Bow Lake

Numerous pullouts and viewpoints are scattered along the Icefields Parkway, featuring iconic Alberta lakes such as Peyto Lake as well as the breathtaking reflections of Bow Lake. Located at the foot of Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake is renowned for its stunning reflections. You can take a leisurely hike around the lake or consider staying at Num Ti Jah Lodge, conveniently situated along Bow Lake, which serves as an excellent base for exploration.

17. Peyto Lake

The Icefields Parkway features numerous lakes where visitors can pause to appreciate the beauty. Peyto Lake, a stunning glacier-fed lake, captures attention with its vibrant blue-green hue, attributed to the rock flour (fine sediment) carried into the lake by melting glaciers.

This area provides magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, and several hiking trails, with the Bow Summit Trail being a preferred option. Be on the lookout for elk, moose, deer, and even bears during your visit. Easily accessible from the nearby Icefields Parkway, Peyto Lake remains a must-stop for travelers journeying from Banff to Jasper National Park.

Num Ti Jah Lodge offers a historic accommodation experience situated directly along Bow Lake, making it an exceptional starting point for those exploring both Banff and Jasper National Parks.

18. Alberta Badlands

The Alberta Badlands offer a stark contrast to the Rocky Mountains region, showcasing a lunar-like landscape filled with unique exploration opportunities. Scenic viewpoints, such as Horse Thief Canyon and Horseshoe Canyon, provide remarkable sights. The Hoodoos of Drumheller are a must-see, while the Royal Tyrrell Museum ranks among our top museums globally. Read more: Things to do in Drumheller, Alberta

19. Hoodoos of Drumheller

The ancient hoodoo rock formations, located alongside the road between Dinosaur Provincial Park and Drumheller, have formed over centuries through processes of erosion caused by freezing, thawing, and wind.

Over time, the sandstone has weathered into elongated chimney-like structures that remain standing due to the hard rock “hat” that protects them from total erosion. They stand out as one of Alberta’s unique natural features. To learn more, visit our post on The Hoodoos of Drumheller.

20. Royal Tyrrell Museum

Situated in the heart of Drumheller, the Royal Tyrrell Museum ranks as one of the world’s premier dinosaur museums, captivating visitors for hours with its extensive exhibits.

It boasts the largest and most diverse assemblage of fossils globally, including over 160,000 specimens on display, encompassing everything from dinosaur skeletons and fossils to ancient marine creatures and prehistoric flora.

21. Dinosaur Provincial Park

While navigating the dinosaur trail, a tour of Dinosaur Provincial Park is indispensable. Not only is it extraordinarily beautiful, but it also stands as one of the planet’s most fossil-rich sites where genuine specimens can be observed from excavations.

The Centrosaurus Quarry Hike offers an opportunity to view a significant concentration of dinosaur fossils, which previously served as an excavation site, leaving researchers with enough information while allowing visitors to appreciate the remnants. Guided tours can be arranged at the park’s visitor center. Read more: A Visit to Dinosaur Provincial Park

Where to stay in the Alberta Badlands

• Dinosaur Provincial Park Glamping and Campground
• Heartwood Inn and Spa

22. Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park, also referred to as Waterton – Glacier International Peace Park, is a remarkable destination within Alberta. It borders the United States and shares landscapes with Glacier National Park.

Waterton Lakes and Glacier National Park collectively hold the distinction of being the only national parks worldwide designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Peace Park, and a Biosphere Reserve. Witnessing a herd of wild buffalo, hiking to Red Rocks Canyon, observing grizzly bears and cougars, and visiting the Prince Albert Hotel are notable activities during your visit. For planning information, refer to Waterton Lakes National Park here.

The Prince of Wales Hotel functions as a National Historic Site, centrally located within Waterton Lakes National Park, and is among the park’s most iconic locations, representing a perfect luxury retreat. Check out the best places to visit in Wales.

23. Pincher Creek – Southern Alberta

Pincher Creek, a small community in Southern Alberta, serves as an excellent base for exploring Waterton Lakes National Park, situated approximately one hour away.

This area epitomizes the convergence of prairies and the Rocky Mountains, set against a striking backdrop. Wind farms punctuate the plains, while dramatic mountains complete the picturesque scenery. The landscape is dotted with grazing cattle and large hay bales. It embodies the quintessential Alberta travel experience. Pincher Creek is an ideal place to establish a base for several days of exploration in Crowsnest Pass.

25. Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump

Located just 15 minutes from Fort MacLeod is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump. Dating back 6000 years, this site was traditionally used by Indigenous Peoples to channel herds of buffalo over the cliff’s edge.

26. Calgary

Calgary is Alberta’s largest city, and any visit to the province would be incomplete without dedicating at least two days to exploring the city. While it is home to the annual Calgary Stampede, there are numerous other attractions to enjoy beyond the chuck wagon races and bull riding.

Having hosted the 1988 Olympics, Calgary features Canada Olympic Park, offering a multitude of outdoor activities applicable both in the winter and summer months. Read more: Canada Olympic Park – Fun in Calgary Alberta

With an abundance of activities to engage in, we recommend allocating a couple of days to Calgary. Located along the Bow River, the city offers numerous outdoor attractions while simultaneously exhibiting urban charm with a thriving culinary scene. Read more: 21 Best Things to do in Calgary, Alberta

27. Calgary Tower

Our dedicated article outlines the Top Activities in Calgary, Alberta. However, it is essential to mention one of its leading attractions. When visiting Calgary, a trip to the Calgary Tower is imperative, as it stands as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—akin to the importance of CN Tower in Toronto.

The Annual Calgary Stampede occurs each summer; nevertheless, you can experience the cowboy culture at any time of year. Upon arriving at the airport, you will be greeted by hostesses wearing cowboy hats and boots, ready to display the warmth of Western hospitality.

Where to stay in Calgary:

• Le Germain Hotel
• Delta Hotels by Marriott
• Westin Calgary

28. Canmore

Certainly, we cannot overlook Canmore when discussing the best places in Alberta. This former coal mining township has transformed into an outdoor enthusiast’s haven. Nestled between Calgary and Banff, it offers a wealth of hiking, biking, and snowshoe trails, alongside splendid views of the Three Sisters. This location is ideal for rock climbing during the summer months and ice climbing in the winter.

The Yamnuska Wolf Dog Sanctuary is a noteworthy attraction, and you should also engage in some climbing for spectacular aerial views. Read more: The Best Things to do in Canmore, Alberta

29. Johnston Canyon

The picturesque Johnston Canyon Icewalk is equally as breathtaking in the winter as in the summer. During winter, it becomes an enchanted landscape filled with frozen waterfalls. The frigid temperatures create enchanting vistas within the canyons, caves, and crevices, imparting a magical quality to the surroundings.

Ice climbers can tackle the shimmering canyon walls while others opt for the ice walk, allowing them to traverse ice caves and admire the frozen waterfalls. Read more: The Best Things to do in Banff, Alberta

• Stoneridge Mountain Resort

30. Kananaskis

Kananaskis is frequently overlooked in favor of Banff or Jasper; however, it stands as one of the most splendid destinations within Alberta, showcasing equally stunning views. Nestled between Calgary and Banff, it presents an excellent option for a weekend getaway. Be sure to treat yourself at the spa at Kananaskis Mountain Lodge.

31. Edmonton