ALBERTA
TRAVEL GUIDE

Alberta is worth visiting at any time of year, but the experience you get is very different.

Each season brings different weather, temperatures, and crowd levels, so it’s worth knowing what to expect before you go.

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Below, we lay out the pros and cons of visiting in each season to help you decide when to plan your trip.

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Spring (April to May)

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Pros: Wildflowers start to bloom, wildlife is active after winter, and some hiking trails begin to open. Fewer crowds than in summer.

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Cons: Weather can be unpredictable, with lingering snow in the mountains and muddy trails in lower areas.

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Summer (June to August)​

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Pros: Warm weather (generally), long daylight hours, and full access to mountain trails and lakes. Lots of events going on.

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Cons: Weather can change quickly even in summer. Popular spots can be busy, especially in national parks. Accommodation is more expensive.

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Autumn (September to November)​

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Pros: Cool air, golden larch trees in the Rockies, and quieter hiking trails. Early snow in the mountains adds beautiful scenery.

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Cons: Some attractions and services close by mid-October. Days are shorter and temperatures drop.

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Winter (December to March)​

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Pros: Excellent skiing and snowboarding, snowy mountain scenery, and fewer visitors in the national parks outside ski areas.

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Cons: Very cold temperatures, especially in January. Some roads have limited access.

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Special Events

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One of Alberta’s biggest events is the Calgary Stampede, held every July. This 10-day celebration of rodeo, live music, and Western culture draws visitors from around the world.

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Other events like Jasper in January, the Ice Magic Festival in Lake Louise, and Banff’s SnowDays make winter trips extra special.