2026 Alberta Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

#winterescape No boards, no music, no city noise — just a frozen lake, endless peaks, and that deep winter silence you only get in the Rockies. The ice is real, the views are unreal, and every glide feels like part of the landscape, not just something you’re doing in it.❄️⛸️ 📍Gap Lake is one of those places where you don’t rush. You skate slowly, stop often, and just take it all in. And if you’re lucky, a train might pass by along the tracks nearby — wave to the driver and enjoy the most random, wholesome winter moment 🚆👋 One important thing to know before you go: you need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass to park in the area 🎫 Pure winter magic. No crowds, no rush — just you, the ice, and the mountains ✨❄️ #GapLake #Kananaskis #IceSkatingCanada #NaturalIceRink #CanadianWinter #RockyMountains #WinterVibes #ExploreAlberta #SkatingWithAView #WinterMagic

#hellohalloween Fall in the Canadian Rockies is pure magic, and nothing captures it better than larch season. For just a few short weeks in late September, the alpine forests around Banff and Lake Louise transform into a golden paradise, as the larch trees trade their green needles for a stunning shade of yellow. It’s one of the most spectacular seasonal shows in Canada🇨🇦. 💯The best hike to experience this beauty is the Sentinel Pass trail at Moraine Lake🏞. ➡️Starting with the turquoise waters, the trail climbs steadily through larch forests. ➡️Once you reach Larch Valley, you’re surrounded by golden trees glowing against rugged mountain peaks—an unforgettable sight. ➡️From there, pushing up to Sentinel Pass rewards you with sweeping panoramas of Paradise Valley and beyond. Though it’s a challenging hike, the effort is well worth it during larch season. 🌲🍁 Perfect hike to experience fall in Canada 🇨🇦 #canada #canadahike #morainelake #larchseason #fallincanada

Bear’s Hump – A Short Hike with Big Views! 🥾 Looking for a quick hike that packs a punch? Bear’s Hump is the perfect choice! This easy-to-moderate trail is short but rewards you with stunning panoramic views of Waterton town, the lake, and surrounding mountains. 🏔️💙 ⏱️ Trail Info: Length: ~1.4 km (round trip) Time: 30–60 minutes depending on pace Difficulty: Easy to moderate 🌸 What to Expect: Towering trees 🌲, wildflowers 🌼, chipmunks 🦫, and maybe even a deer 🦌 along the way. A viewpoint at the top that’s perfect for photos 📸. But be ready: it's VERY windy on top, as if you are on extreme height 💨. 💡 Tip: Go early in the morning or before sunset to avoid crowds and catch the lake shimmering in golden light 🌅✨. It's a popular spot, might be a lot of people. 🚶♀️ Why It’s Special: Even though it’s short, Bear’s Hump gives you a bird’s-eye view of the town and lake – ideal if you’re short on time but still want a “mountain adventure.” 🏞️ #waterton #hike #canada

Perched dramatically on a hill overlooking Upper Waterton Lake, the Prince of Wales Hotel is easily the most iconic sight in the park – and one of Canada’s most photographed hotels! 📸✨ 🏨 Historic Charm – Built in 1927, this grand old hotel will transport you back in time with its rustic elegance and Scottish-inspired style. ☕ Afternoon Tea with a View – Treat yourself to their famous afternoon tea 🍵🧁 while soaking in jaw-dropping lake and mountain views right from your table. 📷 Photo Spot Alert – Even if you’re not staying overnight, it’s worth stopping by just for the views from the hilltop 🌄 (sunrise and sunset here are magical!). 🛏️ Stay Overnight – If you do splurge for a room, you’ll wake up to sweeping panoramas 🌅 and get to experience the hotel’s vintage charm after the day visitors leave. 🌬️ Fun Fact: The wind here is no joke 💨 – Waterton is one of the windiest places in Canada, so hold onto your hat while snapping photos! 🎩📸 💡 Tip: The hotel is open seasonally (spring–fall), so plan your visit accordingly. #waterton #canadatravel #alberta #nationalpark #afternoontea #canadatravel

Banff National Park is truly the most beautiful place in Canada. I went there in winter time when it is the most beautiful time there and fewer people are. To save money, I lived in Canmore and took a bus to travel around in Banff. Here are some sites that I visited: 🏔️Three Sisters, Canmore🏔️ Even just in Canmore, you can see many beautiful mountains. The Three Sisters are the most famous ones. The people there are very nice and friendly because most locals live in Canmore not Banff, so you get to enjoy the warmth of the locals while living in Canmore surrounded by mountains. 🏔️Banff National Park🏔️ 📍Lake Louise Lake Louise is truly a place that will make you feel like you’re in a painting. The unique turquoise color of the lake is definitely what makes the lake so beautiful. It is beyond the description of words. You have to visit it yourself to experience the wonder. 📍Johnston Canyon At Johnston Canyon, you get to see all kinds of amazing views, including canyon, creek, waterfall, and even cliffs made with ice! Some of the waterfall is even frozen into ice sticks. The total length of the hike is about 2.6km, so you can complete it without too much effort. However, in winter time the road is covered with ice, so it’s quite slippery. Please bring shoes that have spikes when you visit. 📍Tunnel Mountain If you want to hike the easiest mountain in Banff, Tunnel Mountain is a relatively easy one for travellers. It’s amazing to elevate yourself to this height and have a broad view of the landscape, which really opens up my mind and heart for more new things coming into my life. 🏞️Beautiful lake view to visit🏞️ 📍Moraine Lake 📍Two Jack Lake 📍Lake Minnewanka 📍Vermilion Lakes 📍Bow Falls 🏠Accommodation: Party Hostel- Canmore Hotel Hostel This is a hostel that you get to make friends easily because downstairs is the restaurant and bar. You can have karaoke, delicious meals, billiards, and meet many friendly people from around the world as well as the locals. 📍738 8 St, Canmore, Alberta, T1W 2B6, Canada 🚍Transportation Bus is available and affordable in this area. I really can never forget the beautiful scenery and feeling I get from Banff National Park. It is a must-visit place if you have the chance to go to Canada. There are still so many mountains I haven’t hiked there. I really have to go back again to explore more. Explore Banff yourself and choose the mountains that you’re resonated with the most to immerse yourself in nature💗🏞️ #banff #banffnationalpark #canadatrip #canada #canadatravel #nature #naturelovers #hiking #snow #lake #naturewonders

#roadtrips Highway 40 in Alberta, also known as the Kananaskis Trail, is an epic road trip destination! This scenic route takes you through the stunning Kananaskis Country, offering breathtaking mountain views, lush forests, and plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities. Some highlights along the way include: 1. Peter Lougheed Provincial Park - Great for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the beautiful lakes and trails. 2. Highwood Pass - The highest paved road in Canada, offering incredible panoramic views. 3. Barrier Lake - A perfect spot for a relaxing break, with opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. 4. Elbow Falls - A beautiful waterfall that's easily accessible and perfect for a quick stop. It's a fantastic drive if you love nature and want to experience some of Alberta's best landscapes!

How can you not fall in love with this place? A quick trip to this paradise. So far the most beautiful place I've ever seen. It is the best time of the year to visit. Last two weeks of September offers you the opportunity to see the fall colors. Hello autumn. ❤️ #fallingforfall #campingglamping #fallsadventure #urbanexplorer #helloautumn #canada #alberta #calgary #lakes

Known as the dinosaur capital of the world, Drumheller is located in the heart of the Canadian Badlands. In the late 1800’s, while searching for coal amidst the rolling coulees near the Red Deer River, a dinosaur skull was found. Visit the Royal Tyrrell museum to see a wide variety of dinosaur and fossil exhibits, or visit the Atlas Coal Mine, a National Historic Site. #summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

#tripaway If I could add 1 more place to the Wonders of the World, it would be Alberta without any hesitation. The serenity of turquoise lakes and the majesty of the Rocky Mountains would not leave even the most well-travelled tourist indifferent. And you can see lots of bears and chipmunks :) #tripaway

The snow season is coming. Do you have a sense of impatience when you enjoy the fluffy champagne powder snow and the beautiful scenery? The three ski resorts in Banff National Park have the light and soft powder snow that the global ski lovers are fond of and can exhibit the skiing style in the famous world cultural heritage site. What a pleasure.

#canadatrip Cadomin rests quietly at the edge of Alberta’s wild heart, where limestone ridges rise like ancient sentinels and the wind carries whispers of a mining past. Tucked between forested slopes and open sky, this hidden hamlet hums with the raw beauty of the Rockies—untamed, unhurried, and steeped in solitude. Wander its gravel roads or follow the trails that wind through wildflower meadows and fossil-rich hillsides. Whether you're watching bighorn sheep scale the cliffs or stargazing beneath a velvet sky, Cadomin offers more than escape—it offers stillness. It’s where the mountains breathe, one quiet gust at a time.

Epic Alberta Adventure: Banff National Park & Ice Skating Under the Stars 🇨🇦✨ Alberta is where wild nature meets magical vibes—and this trip to Banff proves it! Picture this: night skating on an outdoor rink surrounded by sparkling lights, towering snowy peaks, and pure mountain silence. Yep, that’s an unforgettable winter wonderland. Must-See Places in Banff: ⛸️ Outdoor Ice Rink, Banff National Park (Central Park, Banff Ave, Banff, AB - open until 10pm winter season): The spot for skating with epic views. Go at dusk to catch the mountain glow and festive lights! Couples and families—don’t miss the romantic, cozy scene (and snap that envy-inducing photo). Locals tip: bring your own skates to skip the rental line. 🌲 Nature-Vision Trails: Hiking or walking nearby? Try the Bow River Trail (starts near Central Park)—easy access, Insta-ready scenery, and a chance to spot wildlife (local dogs sometimes join in!). Practical Tips for Banff: - Dress in layers, even on sunny days. The temp drops FAST after sunset! - The rink is pet-friendly—if you’re traveling with dogs, they’re welcome near the ice (cats… maybe not so much 🐾). - Go weekday evenings for fewer crowds and prime photo ops. - Parking fills up quickly near Central Park (free lots on Bow Ave). Getting Around: Renting a car is easiest, but Banff’s Roam Transit buses are cheap, heated, and cover all central sights. Food Hack: Warm up with hot cocoa or late-night poutine from Eddie Burger + Bar (137 Banff Ave, open till 10pm). For a real treat, head to Park Distillery next door for campfire-inspired cocktails. Alberta Essentials: No visa for U.S. passport holders, but bring a credit card for all purchases (cash is rarely needed). Weather’s wildly changeable—stash sunscreen and lip balm next to your mittens! #BanffMagic #AlbertaAdventure #IceSkatingGoals #NatureVision #CanadaTravel

Once you’ve been, others will just be compromises 👏 🍃 Whether you’re seeking championship-level challenges or dreaming of swinging amidst lakes and mountains, this list has got you covered. 🇨🇦 Canada’s Top 5 Must-Play Golf Courses 😀 ☑️ Glen Abbey Golf Club (Ontario) Designed by Jack Nicklaus; host of the Canadian Open; famous for the "Valley Holes" (holes 11-15) and the island green on hole 3. Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) Experience: Championship-level test with rolling fairways and challenging greens. Swing in a picturesque valley for a fully immersive experience. ☑️ Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course (Alberta) Designed by Stanley Thompson; 27-hole layout; located inside Banff National Park, surrounded by snowy mountains, often with wild elk wandering nearby. Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) Experience: Unparalleled natural scenery, like playing in a painting. The uniquely designed "Devil’s Cauldron" hole is impressively memorable. ☑️ Capilano Golf and Country Club (British Columbia) Designed by Stanley Thompson; private club; nestled in the forests of West Vancouver, fairways roll through Douglas fir trees with views of the North Shore Mountains. Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) Experience: A private and highly challenging mountain course, every hole demands strategic play. ☑️ Shaughnessy Golf & Country Club (British Columbia) Located in Vancouver; former host of the Canadian Open and CP Women’s Open; tree-lined fairways and undulating greens require precise shots. Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) Experience: Classic urban golf experience with impeccable course maintenance. Elegantly designed and challenging, it’s a perfect venue to test your skills. ☑️ Furry Creek Golf Course (British Columbia) Located beside the Sea-to-Sky Highway on a cliff overlooking Howe Sound; the tee on hole 17 hangs over a 100-meter cliff, with a green like an island extending into the sea, offering breathtaking ocean views. Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) Experience: Dramatic scenery, especially unforgettable at hole 17. The course design can be controversial, but the unbeatable ocean views make it totally worth it. 💡 Practical Course Information & Tips · Booking Tips: For popular courses like Capilano and Furry Creek, it’s recommended to start monitoring and booking tee times two months in advance. · Best Season: Canada’s golf prime season is from May to October. However, the West Coast (BC) has a mild climate, allowing some courses to be playable year-round. ✨ Playing golf in Canada is more than just the score—it’s a deep dialogue with magnificent nature. Whether teeing off at the foot of the Rockies or putting on a Pacific cliff, these unique experiences are the true charm of golf on this land.

#hellohalloween #stunningview Discover the stunning Elbow Falls, located in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada. This picturesque waterfall features the Elbow River cascading over rocks, surrounded by lush greenery and rugged terrain. Perfect for hiking, photography, or a peaceful picnic, it’s a serene escape from the everyday hustle. The soothing sound of rushing water and crisp mountain air make it a must-visit natural attraction for anyone exploring the Canadian Rockies. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Elbow Falls offers a memorable outdoor experience. #hellohalloween

#hellohalloween Johnston Canyon Lower Falls in Alberta continues to impress with its dramatic scenery and peaceful atmosphere. The trail follows the canyon floor, offering unique perspectives of the rushing waters and towering cliffs above. Wooden walkways and viewing platforms provide safe spots to pause, admire, and capture photos of the cascading waterfall. The mist from the falls creates a refreshing coolness, especially on warm days, while the surrounding forest adds a sense of calm and serenity. Birdsong and the gentle roar of water combine to create a relaxing natural soundtrack. The hike is suitable for most visitors, making it an ideal adventure for families and nature lovers alike. Johnston Canyon Lower Falls is not just a waterfall, it is an immersive experience that showcases the raw beauty of Alberta’s wilderness in an accessible and unforgettable way.

#hellohalloween Johnston Canyon Lower Falls in Alberta offers a captivating escape into nature. The hike to the lower falls is accessible yet full of charm, winding through a canyon carved over thousands of years. Wooden catwalks and bridges make it easy to traverse while giving stunning views of rushing water and dramatic rock walls. The sound of the waterfall grows louder as you approach, creating a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere. Along the trail, you may spot moss covered rocks, small wildlife, and the vibrant colors of the surrounding forest. Even on busy days, the natural beauty makes it easy to find a moment of solitude. Johnston Canyon Lower Falls is perfect for a half day adventure that combines easy hiking, breathtaking scenery, and the soothing presence of flowing water in the heart of Alberta.

#hellohalloween Banff in Alberta is a breathtaking destination where nature’s beauty feels endless. Surrounded by towering mountains, turquoise lakes, and dense forests, the town is a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are unforgettable spots, offering crystal clear waters framed by dramatic peaks. Hiking trails of all levels let you explore valleys, waterfalls, and alpine meadows, while winter brings opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing. The town of Banff itself is charming, with cozy cafes, local shops, and warm hospitality that make every stay welcoming. Wildlife sightings add to the sense of wonder, from elk grazing nearby to birds in vibrant colors. Whether you come for outdoor adventure, peaceful scenery, or simply to soak in the mountain air, Banff captures the heart of Alberta with its stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences.

Nestled between towering peaks and crystal-clear lakes, Waterton townsite is a cozy little gem that feels like stepping into a mountain postcard. 🏡💙 🌸 Stroll Through Town – Wander the charming streets, pop into local cafés ☕, grab an ice cream 🍦, and browse the cute souvenir shops 🛍️. 🛳️ Take the Cruise to Montana – Hop on the scenic boat cruise to Goat Haunt, Montana and back (about $89 CAD). It’s the perfect way to see Upper Waterton Lake, spot wildlife 🦅, and even cross into the U.S. for a short stop! 🚲 Rent a Bike or Kayak – Explore the lakeshore 🚴♀️ or paddle out on Upper Waterton Lake 🛶 for those breathtaking views. 🦌 Wildlife Spotting – Keep an eye out for deer 🦌 wandering the streets – they’re practically locals here! 🏨 Stay Overnight – From rustic cabins 🪵 to lakeside hotels 🏨, it’s worth spending a night to enjoy sunrise and sunset over the mountains 🌅. 🍽️ Eat with a View – Many restaurants offer mountain or lake views while you dine 🥗🍷. 💡 Tip: The town is small – park your car and explore on foot 🚶♀️. Don’t forget to watch the night sky ✨ – Waterton is a Dark Sky Preserve! 🌌 📍 Waterton is perfect for a weekend getaway – a mix of relaxation, adventure, and those iconic Rocky Mountain vibes! 🏞️❤️ #waterton #nationalparks #alberta #canada #canadatravel

#holidayitinerary Alberta is one of the best places in North America to see wildlife in their natural habitats, from mountain goats to moose. Night skies in places like Jasper Dark Sky Preserve are among the clearest for stargazing and aurora watching. Accessibility for Travelers. Well-connected highways and airports (Calgary & Edmonton). Tourist-friendly with clear signage, services, and accommodations ranging from luxury lodges to backcountry campsites. Calgary: Vibrant city with a strong food scene, festivals, and easy mountain access. Edmonton: Known for West Edmonton Mall, arts festivals, and a growing craft brewery culture. #travel #couplestrip

#holidayitinerary Alberta is one of Canada’s hiking paradises — from the jagged Rockies in the west to the rolling foothills and badlands further east, it offers trails for every style and skill level. 1. Banff National Park Popular trails: Plain of Six Glaciers – Moderate alpine hike with teahouse stop. Lake Agnes Tea House – Shorter, scenic, great for mixed groups. Sulphur Mountain – Can hike up and gondola down for a break. Why go: Iconic turquoise lakes (Lake Louise, Moraine Lake), glacier views, wildlife. #travel #couplestrip

🏞️【A Gem of the Canadian Rockies! Immerse Yourself in Nature at Banff National Park】 Located in Alberta, Banff National Park is Canada's oldest national park, showcasing the breathtaking scenery of the Canadian Rockies. From emerald green lakes and snow-capped mountains to encounters with wildlife, every view feels like a scene from a movie 🎬✨. I visited during the summer, and the reflection of the mountains on Lake Louise's surface was so stunning it left me speechless. You can enjoy hiking, canoeing, and even hot springs, all while feeling your soul unwind amidst nature 🌿🛶. Pro tip: Visit popular spots early in the morning! Parking lots can get crowded, so aim for the peaceful morning hours. Staying in the town of Banff ensures convenient access. 📍Access: About 1.5 hours by car from Calgary International Airport. Shuttle buses to Banff are also available. Perfect for those seeking to be surrounded by nature, chasing spectacular views, or looking for an active getaway. Make your next trip a journey to Banff National Park to experience "true nature"!⛰️✨

Waterton, Alberta is a breathtaking escape into nature’s finest work. The vibrant layers of Red Rock Canyon left us in awe—deep red cliffs carved by time and water, surrounded by lush greenery. Every turn felt like a postcard. A scenic drive to Fernie added to the charm, with mountain views, winding roads, and peaceful forest trails. The entire journey was a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. An unforgettable experience in one of Canada’s most beautiful hidden gems. #travel #naturalwonders #canada #friendstrip

Majestic views of rocky mountains in Alberta

Very beautiful place. Recommend🇨🇦

#magicalxmastrip #canada #alberta 1. Scenery That Will Ruin You for Life Imagine this: you pull up to Lake Louise or Moraine Lake, and BAM—turquoise water so perfect it looks photoshopped. Good luck going back to regular lakes after this. Alberta’s landscapes are like that friend who’s too good-looking. You’ll be obsessed, but also slightly annoyed that your backyard will never compare. 2. Year-Round Adventures (and Humbling Moments) Summer? Hike trails that’ll make you question your fitness level. Winter? Strap on some skis or try snowshoeing, where falling face-first into fluffy snow is practically a rite of passage. No matter the season, Alberta offers activities that are equal parts awe-inspiring and humbling (bring Band-Aids for your pride). 3. The Northern Lights: Nature’s Free Disco Why hit the club when you can watch the sky throw its own glow party? The aurora borealis in Alberta is like a cosmic rave—minus the cover charge. Pack your camera, layer up, and prepare to scream, “Is this real life?!” into the night. 4. Cities That Keep It Weird (and Fun) Calgary has a giant cowboy hat obsession (ahem, the Stampede), and Edmonton is home to a mall so massive it has a waterpark, penguins, and mini-golf. It’s like Alberta’s cities decided to compete in a “Who Can Be More Extra?” contest—and you’re the winner. 5. The Locals Will Adopt You Albertans are so friendly, you’ll leave wondering if you accidentally joined a new family. Whether they’re giving you secret trail tips or debating where to find the best poutine, these folks will make you feel like you belong—cowboy boots optional. Alberta isn’t just a vacation—it’s a wild, hilarious ride through epic scenery, quirky adventures, and the friendliest people on Earth. Don’t overthink it. Just go.

#northamericatrip 1. Jaw-Dropping National Parks Alberta is home to some of the most iconic national parks in the world, including Banff and Jasper. From the turquoise waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake to the towering glaciers along the Icefields Parkway, these parks are outdoor playgrounds offering hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenery so stunning it feels unreal. 2. Epic Adventures for Every Season No matter the time of year, Alberta offers endless opportunities for adventure. In the summer, go kayaking on Emerald Lake or hiking in Kananaskis Country. Come winter, ski or snowboard at world-class resorts like Lake Louise and Sunshine Village, or try snowshoeing and ice walking on frozen canyons. Spring and fall bring quieter trails, colorful foliage, and equally impressive views. 3. The Northern Lights Want to tick the aurora borealis off your bucket list? Alberta is one of the best places to catch the northern lights. Head to Wood Buffalo National Park or even just outside Edmonton for a chance to see the skies light up in dazzling displays of green, purple, and pink. 4. Vibrant Cities with Character Alberta isn’t just wilderness—its cities are full of culture, food, and fun. Calgary, the home of the Stampede, blends modern vibes with a cowboy spirit, while Edmonton boasts a thriving arts scene, North America’s largest mall, and a gateway to aurora viewing. 5. The Friendliest Locals Albertans are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming spirit. Whether you’re seeking tips on hidden trails or just a good chat at a local café, you’ll feel right at home among the locals who are as down-to-earth as the province’s stunning landscapes. Alberta isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that combines adventure, beauty, and charm in every corner.

#northamericatrip Alberta is a paradise for kayakers, offering everything from tranquil lakes to rushing rivers surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned paddler, there’s no shortage of places to explore. For beginners, Alberta’s iconic turquoise lakes are perfect. Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in Banff National Park offer calm waters and jaw-dropping mountain backdrops. You can rent a kayak on-site and glide across the glacier-fed lakes, where every paddle feels like a postcard moment. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, try Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, just across the border in B.C., but close enough to make your Alberta adventure complete. For a more adventurous paddle, head to Abraham Lake in David Thompson Country. Known for its stunning color and the famous methane bubbles in winter, it’s a surreal spot for kayaking, especially in the early morning when the water is still. River kayaking enthusiasts will love the Bow River, which flows from the Rockies through Calgary. Beginners can stick to calmer sections, while experienced paddlers might enjoy the thrill of navigating light rapids near Canmore. No matter where you go, always prioritize safety. Check the weather, wear a lifejacket, and be prepared for cold water, especially in glacier-fed lakes. Alberta’s paddling season typically runs from late spring to early fall, so make the most of it. Kayaking in Alberta isn’t just a sport—it’s a way to connect with the province’s stunning wilderness, one paddle stroke at a time.

#magicalxmastrip #alberta #canada Alberta’s natural beauty is like Mother Nature showing off her Instagram filters. The province is a nonstop color explosion, and each season cranks up the drama to make sure you fall head over hiking boots in love. Let’s start with summer. Picture this: you roll up to Lake Louise, and BAM! That turquoise water is so bright it looks fake. You’ll think someone spilled Gatorade in there, but nope, it’s just glacial magic. Nearby, Moraine Lake is so photogenic you’ll find yourself apologizing to every body of water back home for not being nearly as stunning. Come fall, Alberta cranks up the golden hour vibes. The aspen and birch trees turn into shimmering gold coins, making even the laziest trails look like they’re paved with treasure. Hike the Larch Valley trail in Banff, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into nature’s version of a runway show—cue the larch trees strutting their golden needles while the snow-dusted peaks serve fierce background energy. Winter arrives, and suddenly everything is a snowy fairytale. Alberta doesn’t just do white—it does icy blue frozen waterfalls and Abraham Lake’s bubble art. Those methane bubbles under the ice look so cool you’ll forget you’re freezing your face off. Plus, every tree looks like it’s auditioning for a holiday card.