Winter in Alberta is possibly one of the most beautiful sights ever. From snowy mountain tops to chilly fresh air, it’s the perfect time to be outside. One of the must-do activities is visiting one or all of seven iconic frozen waterfalls in Alberta.
Hikes in the summer are one thing but as the seasons change, so do the sights and sounds of the trails.
Chasing waterfalls during the hottest months of the year is the best but during the winter, things get even more stunning.
There are seven iconic and otherworldly waterfalls around Alberta that you need to visit in the winter.
Most of them completely freeze over and create some of the coolest views. Some people even climb these frozen wonders.
You seriously haven’t experienced a winter in Alberta if you’ve skipped out on an adventure like this.
Just be sure your camera has fresh batteries when you visit because you’ll want to document every moment.
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Johnston Canyon Icewalk
Price: $82
Address: Bow Valley Pkwy, Improvement District No. 9, AB
Why You Need To Go: This tour group will have you gazing upon a 30-meter high waterfall. These gigantic pillars of ice are something everyone needs to see once in their life and once you get there, you’ll understand why.
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Troll Falls
Address: Kananaskis Improvement, AB
Why You Need To Go: This 3.4-kilometre hike is gorgeous and good for all skill levels. During the winter months, this waterfall will completely freeze over. You can go up and touch it, just don’t stick your tongue to it.
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Maligne Canyon Ice Walk
Price: $69
Address: Jasper National Park, AB
Why You Need To Go: This moderate guided trail will take you about three and a half hours to complete and it’s worth every minute. You’ll explore the deepest accessible ice cave that’s filled with waterfalls.
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Crescent Falls
Address: Nordegg, AB
Why You Need To Go: Some people actually climb these waterfalls but it’s only for the experienced. As you stand there and take it all in, the size of the canyon will make you feel incredibly small.
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Siffleur Falls
Address: Improvement District No. 9, AB
Why You Need To Go: Even in the winter months, this waterfall still gushes. Sometimes, just the shell of the main waterfall will freeze creating a cool effect with the rush water underneath. Trust us, you need to see it to believe it.
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Elbow Falls
Address: Kananaskis Improvement, AB
Why You Need To Go: This waterfall may not be the tallest but it doesn’t make it any less beautiful. As you gaze upon the water, you’ll have a backdrop of snowy mountain tops and incredibly tall pine trees. It can get slippery in the area so watch your step.
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Grotto Canyon Trail
Address: Grotto Mountain Pond, Bighorn No. 8, AB
Why You Need To Go: Ice walls galore. This walk will take you to some seriously chilly frozen walls that create incredibly sharp icicles. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a literal ice castle.
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Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.