Alberta has some of the best spots in the world to explore “the great outdoors” but some stand above the rest (literally).
With an abundance of mountains, lakes, hiking trails, forests and even ghost towns, there really is something for everyone who loves to explore.
Some of these 9 spots have helped put Alberta on the map, with travellers coming from all over the world to admire their beauty. Others are more secret gems known and loved by locals, but all of them are worth the trek!
For your own safety, please make sure you are prepared before heading out on your next adventure. Information on how to prepare for your trip and stay safe while on your hike is available from Albertaparks.ca and AdventureSmart.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise (Shutterstock)
Here’s a spot that people all over the world have on their must-see bucket lists. Perfectly nestled into the Rocky Mountains with perfect glacier water, it truly is a sight to behold.
With its signature turquoise water, there is no mistaking this one-of-a-kind beauty. You can visit during any season and get a different, breathtaking experience each time.
Larch Valley
Larch Valley (Shutterstock)
This gem of Alberta’s outdoor experience does most of its showing off during the fall season.
But it is certainly worth the wait.
The best time to experience the colours is in September, though that also means there will be a handful of other travellers to share the popular trail with.
Make sure you call ahead to make sure there’s space in the overflow lots by Moraine Lake. There’s a free shuttle that takes you to the trailhead from there, but the lines might be long at that time of year.
A small sacrifice to make for a breathtaking day trip.
Quarry Lake Park
Quarry Lake Park (Shutterstock)
The backdrop for many weddings, Quarry Lake Park is always stunning.
Perhaps no park shows off all that Alberta’s outdoors has to offer in one trip better than Quarry Park.
The lake is amazing — it sits at the base of the Rocky Mountains, and it is surrounded by a stunning green space, giving you a great three-for-one scenery deal.
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake (Zhukova Valentyna/Shutterstock)
If social media likes are what you’re after, this gorgeous lake will guarantee you as many likes as you can handle.
Moraine Lake is another lake that benefits from glacier melt. The summer months are when this gem is in all of its glory.
Castle Falls
Castle Falls (Shutterstock)
It doesn’t take much to see why these falls get their royal name.
The perfect place for a day in the water, Castle Falls is tucked away enough that you shouldn’t be bothered by a crowd at the swimming hole. You’ll feel like you have found the best secret in the province.
Lake Minnewanka
Lake Minnewanka (Shutterstock)
Lake Minnewanka might be the most underrated outdoor spot in all of Alberta.
Outdoor enthusiasts can go canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and even ice diving in and around its expansive waters. All while taking in natural beauty as far as the eye can see.
Johnston Canyon
Michael Shake/Shutterstock
Whether you’re looking for a longer hike to get you sweating or a short and scenic walk to see some waterfalls, Johnston Canyon has it all.
There are three main areas you can walk to, and all of them are worth seeing, but you’ll easily be satisfied after the first location if you can’t do a long hike. The ink pots are at the end of the trail, which is approximately 2 hours in one direction, or you can take a short half-hour walk to the lower falls and get some majestic views! It’s one of the area’s most popular hikes, so make sure to get there early so you can get a parking spot!
Waterton Lakes
Waterton Lakes National Park (Shutterstock)
Waterton Lakes National Park has so much for every outdoor adventurer in Alberta.
Nearly 60 hiking trails make this a popular destination, so try to avoid peak times like summer weekends. But if you can’t get around the crowded times, it’s still well-worth the visit.
Waterton Lakes National Park was named in honour of Squire Charles Waterton, a British Naturalist, and was the fourth national park in Canada, established in 1895.
Tunnel Mountain
Tunnel Mountain (Shutterstock)
A hike of just 2.3 km gets you some of the best views in the world. It is a must-do if you’re visiting the town of Banff.
The amazing views and relative ease of the hike make this a great spot if you are spending a few days in the town and want to get some great pics in.