As the weather starts to warm and the ice starts to melt, adventure abounds in Alberta! Springtime brings new hikes, spring skiing and wildlife sightings!

With one of the longest ski seasons in North America, the ski resorts throughout Alberta’s Canadian Rockies stay open through May, allowing visitors to SkiBig 3 in Banff and Lake Louise or Marmot Basin in Jasper to continue hitting the slopes!

The warm weather also brings the return of some wildlife to Alberta! Alberta is home to over 600 species of wildlife including the iconic Bison, elk, moose and deer. Native birds induce Golden eagles, whooping cranes, and snowy owls! While visitors are likely to sight wildlife on their own adventures, there are also tours dedicated to wildlife sighting including indigenous-owned Jasper Tour Company, Canmore Trails and Tales and Malinge Adventures – Wildlife Tours.

While open all year, spring is an incredible time to visit Métis Crossing! Settled along the  North Saskatchewan River, springtime visitors can paddle the North Saskatchewan River in a voyageur canoe, hone your archery skills or tour the buffalo paddock. The Historical Village, which includes some of the original buildings, allows visitors to immerse themselves in Métis culture as interpreters are on hand to share stories, answer questions and even teach Métis crafts! Consider staying at the Lodge at Métis Crossing to make the most of the experience.

Travel south to Waterton Lakes National Park to see the budding wildflowers in late spring. This national park is home to over 400 species of budding flowers, decorating the landscape in a stunning array of hues! Several hiking trails traverse the park, allowing novice and experienced hikers to get loose themselves in the vibrant and aromatic flowers. After a hike, take a relaxing boat tour of the lake!