Beginners’ Guide to Winter Activities in the Foothills

Winter in Alberta’s Foothills is truly magical. Snow‑dusted landscapes, crisp air, and small-town charm make it the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts — even beginners! Whether you’re planning a day trip or a cozy weekend getaway, here’s your ultimate guide to enjoying winter in the Foothills.

Photo via Travel Alberta

1. Hit the Trails: Hiking, Snowshoeing & Cross‑Country Skiing

The Foothills are full of beginner-friendly trails perfect for winter adventures:

• Mesa Butte / Longview Trails – gentle walks with scenic snowy views.

• Bragg Creek Multi-Use Trails – peaceful forest trails ideal for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

• High River Walking Trails – easy loops for a quick winter stroll.

Gear Rentals:

• Bragg Creek Country Hardware / Moose Mountain General Store offers cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals — perfect for beginners who want to try winter sports without investing in gear.

  
  

Tips for Beginners:

• Dress in layers and wear waterproof boots.

• Bring hot drinks or snacks in a thermos.

• Stick to marked trails and check weather before heading out.

2. Fat-Biking Adventures

For a fun and slightly different winter experience, try fat-biking through snow-covered trails:

• Outbound Elements — Bragg Creek  offers fat-bike rentals for beginners.

• Fat bikes have wide tires perfect for riding in snow, making them stable and beginner-friendly.

• Trails in Bragg Creek are ideal for a scenic winter ride.

Tips for Beginners:

• Dress in layers — cycling can warm you up quickly!

• Start on easier trails and stick to groomed paths until you’re comfortable.

• Wear a helmet and bring gloves for warmth and safety.

Photo via Travel Alberta

3. Winter Ranch Adventures

For a unique winter experience, saddle up and explore the Foothills from horseback:

• Moose Mountain Ranch: Offers guided winter trail rides, forest snowshoe hikes, and even pond skating + bonfires. Ideal for a full-day or weekend getaway with gear and instruction included.

• Homeplace Ranch: Beginner-friendly rides through snow-covered meadows and ridge trails. Learn riding basics while enjoying the beauty of the Foothills in winter.

Tips for Beginners:

• Choose guided rides for extra support.

• Dress warmly and wear layers under riding gear.

• Consider staying overnight if the ranch offers lodging — it’s a full winter escape!

Photo Via Moose Mountain Ranch

4. Ice Skating & Winter Sports

Winter is skating season in the Foothills! From tree-lined rinks to rural outdoor spots, there’s a perfect ice spot for everyone:

• Glide through small-town charm at Bragg Creek Community Rink and Diamond Valley.

• Enjoy the Longview Outdoor Rink for a peaceful, rural vibe.

• Check out multiple Okotoks rinks or the new High River Outdoor Rink.

  
  

Most rinks are weather-dependent but are often open by mid-December — get ready to lace up and enjoy the season!

Other Winter Sports:

• Try broomball, snowshoe hockey, or ice fishing at local lakes.

• Keep it short and fun — beginners can spend an hour or two and still enjoy the experience.

Photo Via Unsplash

5. Combine Indoor & Outdoor for a Full Day

For beginners, a balanced day works best:

1. Morning: short snowshoe hike, fat-bike ride, or guided ranch ride

2. Midday: warm up at a café or grab lunch

3. Afternoon: indoor activity like a museum, art gallery, or brewery tasting

Examples:

• Narrow Road Creperie — High River 

• Little Apple Café — Longview 

• Bomber Command Museum — Nanton 

Pro Tips for Beginners:

• Start small — choose a short trail, fat-bike route, or 1–2-hour activity first.

• Rent gear instead of buying if you’re new to winter sports.

• Check daylight hours — winter days are short!

• Layer up and bring hot drinks.