Calgary is a great city, but every once in a while we all feel the need to escape. If the adventure bug has you itching, here is a list of winter road trips from Cowtown that are well worth taking. 

And since everyone needs a partner in adventure, we’ve teamed up with Hyundai to put together our picks of some must-hits over the colder months.

hyundai
Via Hyundai

The Hyundai TUCSON is no stranger to the open road, the backroad or the “is this even a road” roads of southern Alberta With more tech, power, space, and Hybrid capabilities, it has everything you need for plenty of weekend getaways this winter & beyond. 

Speaking of beyond, the Hyundai SANTA CRUZ is pushing boundaries by being the first-ever Sport Adventure Vehicle designed with an SUV style and open-bed versatility. Truck by day, SUV by night (or vice versa), the SANTA CRUZ matches every adventure lifestyle.

Ready to roll? Here are 5 winter road trips from Calgary to take this year.

COLUMBIA ICEFIELDS

In the heart of Icefields Parkway lies one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world- and you can explore it for yourself. A trip to the Columbia Icefield will include a ride on a massive Ice Explorer, where you’ll be transported to a spot you can walk, explore, and even drink right from the Athabasca Glacier. So whether you’re passing through on the way to BC or going up for the day, this is one adventure that’s an absolute must. 

ABRAHAM LAKE

abraham lake
Via Shutterstock

Breathe in, lace up your skates, grab the hand of someone special and do a few laps on a sheet of Alberta’s most unique ice. Deep in the mountains, between snow-covered peaks, you’ll find Abraham Lake, a scientific anomaly, a hidden gem, and an Instagram dream. Just a few hour trip from the city, and you’ll be skating on Abraham’s ice bubbles in no time. 

EMERALD LAKE


Minutes from the Town of Hope and just off of Highway 1, is a hidden gem destination that definitely requires more than just a pit stop. The aptly named Emerald Lake sits tucked away in a stunning piece of nature, surrounded by soaring mountains and gem-coloured waters. Plus, Emerald Lake Lodge is the perfect getaway for those looking to kick back, relax, and take in the views while relaxing by the fire. 

WATERTON LAKES / CAMERON FALLS

waterton lakes
Via Shutterstock

West of the city seems to get all the love during the winter months, but we really shouldn’t discount Southern Alberta. Sitting just a few hours from Calgary’s downtown core,  bordering Montana’s Glacier National Park, sits Waterton Lake National Park. The quaint town is the perfect escape, while the surrounding area provides no shortage of things to do. But a first stop in Waterton, definitely must be the stunning Cameron Falls! 

NIKKA YUKO GARDENS

Let us preface this by saying that the Nikka Yuko Gardens are incredibly special. If you’ve never been, let us assure you that it is one of the most beautiful places in not just Alberta, but all of North America, and every winter, though it’s best known for its flower gardens, guests can wander through their stunning winter display of magic, lanterns and lights. Don’t miss it!

Ready to hit the road? After that list, we are too. And before you do, remember to check out the new Hyundai TUCSON and SANTA CRUZ. A road trip is an adventure no matter how you do it, so why not add a Hyundai to your journey and really enjoy the ride

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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