There is no denying that Edmonton is a winter city! (Now icy too!) I have always heard that Edmonton winters are something to dread. However, this is not true for all the winter enthusiasts out there! From gliding across icy rinks to rolling down a snowy hill, here are some fun outdoor winter activities you can enjoy with your family!
Tobogganing
This is one of the best winter activities for those who love speed. Toboggan hills are maintained by the City of Edmonton and can be found at Government House Park, Whitemud Park North, Rundle Park, Emily Murphy Park, and Gallagher Park. View the current conditions of all of Edmonton’s hills here:
https://www.edmonton.ca/activities_parks_recreation/toboggan-hills
Make Maple Taffy
Make maple syrup taffy or tire d’erable with only two ingredients: maple syrup and snow! Check out this recipe to try this classic Canadian snack:
https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/190467/maple-syrup-taffy/
Build Quinzhees together
Work together to build an igloo or snow fort! When I was young, I spent countless nights in my backyard building Quinzhees and playing in them. Check out this video to learn how you can build one:
https://www.bullmoosepatrol.com/bmp/2016/11/14/quinzheesnow-shelters
Christmas lights at the Alberta Legislature
The Alberta Legislature Grounds are beautifully decorated and look enchanting during the holiday season. Take a walk with your family to view all the lights, snap pretty pictures, and stay cozy with a cup of hot chocolate!
Ice on Whyte
Ice on Whyte is a celebration that happens on Edmonton’s busiest avenue and gives you a chance to learn how to sculpt and carve ice. There is even a “Lil Chippers” sculpting lesson for children. To learn more about the Christmas lights and Ice on Whyte visit: https://roadtripalberta.com/things-to-do-in-edmonton-winter/
Segway the day away
Explore North America’s longest continuous trail systems in the heart of Edmonton’s River valley. Make your way into the wild no matter the weather on a Segway tour! To learn more, click here: https://www.rivervalleyadventure.com/
Ski it to believe it
If you have never gone skiing or snowboarding and are eager to learn more, Snow Valley Ski Club is a great place to build new skills and try out the sport. Here is a list of places you can ski or snowboard in Edmonton this winter: https://urbanoutdoors.com/snowboarding-skiing-near-edmonton/
Hit the trails
Who said you can’t do anything outdoors in winter? Stop by a local café for a hot cup of tea or coffee and embark on your adventure through Edmonton’s winding trails!
10 trails worth walking in Edmonton are listed here: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/hiking-trails-edmonton-rebecca-ellis-makennah-walker-danielle-weiss-1.5865593
Whether you choose to stay warm in your house or go outdoors for fun activities, Crossroads Family Services wishes you a safe and happy winter!