See the Rockies in winter
Canada in the cold has a special appeal, writes Mercedes Maguire
White-capped mountains, glistening ice lakes and snowy villages twinkling at night – the Canadian Rockies are a magical winter wonderland. And with Alberta towns such as Banff and Jasper less crowded, the region’s ski resorts offering one of the longest seasons in the world, and activities such as snow-shoeing and dog-sledding for nonskiers, it’s an alluring winter holiday prospect.
Chilly but cheaper
Winters in the Canadian Rockies are not just spectacular, they’re cheaper. For example, you can save up to 50 per cent on full-day lift tickets (from $93 a person) to ski Marmot Basin in Jasper any day. And save up to 35 per cent on a stay at Banff, Lake Louise and Mt Norquay from around $110 a night (SkiBig3.com). But get in fast as you must book by the end of today (November 1).
Getting around
If you plan to drive in the Rockies in winter, a few things need to be considered. Snow tyres or chains are required by law in many parts, such as sections of Banff and Kootenay national parks. Kevin Henderson of Tourism Jasper says you should always check the Parks Canada website (pc.gc.ca) for road closures and safety information. “You don’t need to venture far to be in avalanche terrain,” Henderson says.
But Paula Garcia Ciurana of Banff & Lake Louise Tourism says public transport is easy and convenient. “Banff ’s public transit bus system gets you just about anywhere in
Banff and there are shuttles between Calgary International Airport and Banff and Lake Louise and connecting shuttles to Jasper.”
The rail way
The Rocky Mountaineer train may be closed over winter, but VIA Rail’s train from Vancouver to Jasper offers a front-row seat through the region, proving much in the Rockies is at its best in winter.
“Winter in Jasper doesn’t just mean you can experience landmark spots with fewer crowds, it also means in some cases, you can experience them in an entirely unique way,”
Henderson says. “For example, when the water that gushes through Maligne Canyon drains and freezes in the winter, ice-cleatequipped travellers can walk along and through these channels.”
Think in layers
It’s tempting to overpack for extreme winter weather, but you don’t need to take every coat you own. Instead, says Garcia Ciurana, it’s about packing smart. “Layers are essential in Banff National Park through most seasons, but particularly winter,” she says. You need thermals for a base layer, long-sleeved tops for a second layer, fleece or jumper for mid-layer and jacket or coat for outer layer.
Rent it
Much of what you need for a Canadian winter can be hired there to save money and luggage space. If you plan to drive, ensure snow tyres or chains are included in the car rental. And don’t presume your car comes with them; you have to ask and may have to pay extra. Choose guided experiences that include items like ice cleats, helmets and even proper snow boots.