There’s nothing quite like embarking on a winter road trip through Alberta’s stunning landscapes. Our 5-day adventure took us from Edmonton to Jasper and back, making it an unforgettable Family Day long weekend getaway in February.
To kick-start our wintertime escapade, we flew into Edmonton from Vancouver and rented a vehicle equipped with snow tires – a must-have for navigating the province’s snowy roads.
Our first stop was Elk Island National Park, just a 30-minute drive outside of Edmonton. As one of the flattest national parks in Canada, it offered breathtaking vistas and the chance to spot bison roaming free. We spent some time exploring on foot, but it wasn’t until we were leaving the park that we got an unexpected treat – a herd of bison strolled alongside our vehicle, providing an unforgettable experience.
Edmonton – Vegan & Gluten Free Eats
Edmonton offers a delightful array of vegan and gluten-free dining options. When in the city, be sure to visit Moth Café, Kanu Café, Cafe Mosaics, Tres Carnales Taqueria – each offering its own unique take on plant-based cuisine. My personal highlight was discovering the gluten-free chai pancakes at Moth Café, which left me in awe of their culinary prowess.
Kanu Café, meanwhile, is a haven for raw vegan enthusiasts. We indulged in an array of dishes, including kimchee dumplings, nachos, and a delectable burger – every bite a testament to the café’s commitment to quality and flavor.
Ice Castles
For an unforgettable experience, head to the Ice Castles where hundreds of thousands of carefully farmed icicles are transformed into intricate ice sculptures by skilled artists. The creations include majestic frozen thrones, sparkling fountains, winding tunnels, thrilling slides, and towering structures that will leave you in awe. As night falls, the sculptures are aglow with color-changing LED lights, casting a magical ambiance over the entire area. I had the pleasure of visiting the Ice Castles in Edmonton and can confidently say it’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Alberta during the winter months. A big thank you to Josh for capturing my adventure on camera, allowing me to relive the experience through his stunning photographs.
Fairmont Hotel Macdonald
In the heart of Edmonton, Fairmont Hotel Macdonald offers a luxurious getaway with its perfect blend of charm and elegance. As one might expect from a Fairmont hotel, the staff is warm and welcoming. Upon arrival, I always make it a point to check out the fitness facilities, and I was impressed by the high-quality gym on offer. The hotel’s central location allows for easy exploration of downtown Edmonton, though I must admit that braving the sub-zero temperatures we experienced during my stay was quite an adventure!
Alberta Road Trip – Edmonton to Jasper
The journey from Edmonton to Jasper is approximately four hours long, but the time flies by as the scenery unfolds. As you hit the two-hour mark, the landscape transforms into a breathtaking panorama of mountains, making every minute feel like an eternity. Weather conditions can affect travel time; however, on a clear and sunny day like ours, the drive was remarkably swift. If the roads are snowy, it’s likely to take a bit longer to reach Jasper. To make the most of your drive, I recommend creating a playlist that gets you in the right mood. You can check out my go-to driving tunes below.
Jasper Food Tour
Embark on an epicurean adventure in Jasper by joining one of the city’s renowned food tours. I opted for the Downtown Foodie Tour, which treated me to a culinary journey across four downtown eateries. At each stop, I savored a carefully curated menu item accompanied by a thoughtfully paired beverage. The experience proved to be an unforgettable afternoon delight.
Sleigh Ride at Pyramid Lake
In Jasper, one of the most beloved wintertime activities is taking a leisurely sleigh ride at Pyramid Lake. Our experience with the Jasper Riding Stables was nothing short of enchanting. The jingling bells and serene winter landscapes combined to create an atmosphere of pure joy. However, don’t forget to bundle up warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly during the ride.
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
In Jasper, there’s no better place to rest your head than the iconic Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, this resort offers an unparalleled retreat experience. While it’s just 15 minutes from town, you’ll feel like you’re a world away as you settle into one of its charming cabins, complete with cozy fireplaces perfect for unwinding after a day spent playing in the snow. And when you need to get moving, the lodge’s state-of-the-art pool and gym offer stunning views of the surrounding waters, providing the ultimate spot to stay active while taking in the natural beauty of your surroundings.
Outdoor Ice Skating
One of the highlights of my stay at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge was the opportunity to hit the outdoor skating rink on Lake Mildred. As I’d been eagerly anticipating this winter activity, it did not disappoint. The facility offers separate areas for hockey enthusiasts and figure skaters alike, as well as a carefully cleared path that allows you to skate around the entire lake.
Check out my Alberta Trip Vlog!
For a fun-filled winter getaway, I highly recommend checking out my previous blog post on ‘7 Things to Do in Jasper – Winter Fun’. The article provides valuable insights and recommendations for making the most of your trip to this picturesque Canadian town during the cold winter months.
Dog Sledding
Our exhilarating dog sledding adventure began with a pickup from our accommodation, courtesy of Cold Fire Creek Dog Sledding. However, on the day we ventured out, their team conveniently set up operations at Pyramid Lake, making it an effortless and accessible experience for us.
Maligne Canyon Ice Walk
For thrill-seekers, the Maligne Canyon Ice Walk is an unmissable experience. Be prepared for frigid temperatures, even on sunny days, as you explore the canyon’s breathtaking ice formations and frozen waterfalls. If your trip coincides with clear skies, you might be treated to a spectacular display of the northern lights – I was unlucky, but hope to return soon and catch the aurora in all its glory.
In addition to the Ice Walk, Jasper also offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities at Marmot Basin. This resort boasts one of the highest elevations in Canada, making it a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts.
Jasper – Vegan & Gluten Free Eats
When exploring Jasper, I highly recommend checking out these fantastic spots that cater to gluten-free dietary needs. You’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Must-visit places include ORSO Trattoria at the Fairmont, Coco’s Cafe, Sunhouse Cafe, Bear Paw Bakery, and Jasper Downstream. Evil Dave’s Grill is also a great spot to grab a bite. Remember that this post has been sponsored by Tourism Jasper and Travel Alberta, but rest assured that my opinions and thoughts are entirely genuine. Thank you for supporting the brands that support me, allowing me to continue sharing my travel experiences with you.