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winter hiking

Articles, Canada, Gear Reviews, Outdoor Adventure

Winter Travel Essentials: 5 Must-Have Gear Items for Canadian Adventures

Canadian winters are absolutely beautiful and they are something that I think everyone needs to experience at least once in their lives. From festive Christmas markets to snowy hikes in the rockies, winter brings a whole new level of magic to the outdoors. Fluffy, sparkling snow, frozen lakes, and cozy cabins make the season unforgettable. When planning a winter adventure, being prepared is key in order to stay warm, safe, and comfortable while making the most of all the season has to offer. From layering the right clothing to bringing reliable gear for hot drinks and outdoor adventures, having the right winter travel essentials can make your experience both enjoyable and memorable. Over the years I’ve learned some of the …

Kelsey Olsen
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An image of a couple standing in front of the frozen Star Creek Falls in Crowsnest Pass, Alberta, Canada.
The frozen falls are just one of the highlights of the Star Creek Falls ice walk. Photo by Heather Davis.
Alberta, Articles, Canada, Canada Provinces, Experiences, Outdoor Adventure, Things To Do

Star Creek Falls Ice Walk

There’s something magical about seeing a deep craggy canyon from the ground up and the Star Creek Falls ice walk lets you do that and much more. It’s a chance to see the power of erosion from an entirely new angle. You technically have to walk on water to get the view – which in summer, spring or fall is impossible. That’s what makes winter so special. When the creek is frozen, you can make your way carefully along the ice taking in the geology and the incredible ice formations that showcase nature’s artistry. There are affiliate links in this post. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, Wander Woman Travel Magazine may receive a small …

Debbie Olsen
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An image of a couple standing in front of one of the Grassi Lakes - Canmore winter hikes and snowshoe trails
An image of a couple standing in front of one of the Grassi Lakes – Canmore winter hikes and snowshoe trails
Alberta, Articles, Canada, Canada Provinces, Experiences, Hike, Outdoor Adventure, Things To Do

Winter Hikes & Snowshoe Trails Near Canmore

Midway between Kananaskis Country and Banff National Park, the charming town of Canmore makes a great base for exploring the Canadian Rockies in winter. It’s a destination that absolutely sparkles when the snow falls. One of the best ways to enjoy the frosty season is to get outside and enjoy Canmore winter hikes and snowshoe trails. There are plenty of wonderful pathways and trails both inside and outside Banff National Park to explore and the scenery can’t be beat. Here are some suggested Canmore winter hikes and snowshoe trails outside the national park. There are affiliate links in this post. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, Wander Woman Travel Magazine may receive a small commission …

Debbie Olsen
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An image of two people looking at the ice formations in Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park - Johnston Canyon Winter Hike
The ice formations are spectacular in Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park in winter. Johnston Canyon is one of the highlights of the Bow Valley Parkway in any season. Photo by Greg Olsen
Articles, Outdoor Adventure

Johnston Canyon Winter Hike & Ink Pots

Banff’s Johnston Canyon winter hike and ink pots hike can be combined in a single day! The ice formations and spectacular. It’s one of the prettiest hikes in the Canadian Rockies.

Carleigh and Brady Olsen
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An image of two people hiking along the trail to the ink pots in Banff National Park - Microspikes for Hiking review
Hiking to the inkpots in Banff National Park was made way easier by wearing ice cleats – Microspikes for Hiking review
Gear Reviews, Travel Better

Microspikes for Hiking Product Review

If you have ever been hiking in the mountains in the winter, you will know that ice cleats can be invaluable. On a recent family hike, we outfitted everyone with slip-on microspikes for hiking and it made a real difference. Here’s our review and some tips for using MaxxDry GripOns Canadian Tire ice cleats.

Greg Olsen
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An image of a troll doll on a tree
Troll dolls mark the trail to Troll Falls.
Articles, Outdoor Adventure

Hiking to Troll Falls

Troll Falls is one of the quick and easy Kananaskis hikes that has a stunning payoff. Not far from Kananaskis Village in Alberta, Canada, this hike is only 3.4 km round-trip with basically no elevation change – something that’s hard to find in the Canadian Rockies. The hike can be completed in 1 to 2 hours and has a rewarding view of a stunning waterfall at the end! There are affiliate links in this post. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, Wander Woman Travel Magazine may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Related: Check out our post about the Prairie Mountain Hike.  Troll Falls – One of the Top Family-Friendly Kananaskis Hikes …

Carleigh and Brady Olsen
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