Now’s your chance to make Alberta’s jaw-dropping natural wonders a part of your winter vacation plans.
Alberta’s lesser known spectacles range from a hot springs retreat in the Rockies to a surreal frozen lake phenomenon and a hidden slice of Sahara-like sand dunes in the wilderness, and these destinations showcase the province as a land of contrasts and otherworldly beauty.
For travelers craving adventure or looking to be awed by nature, Alberta’s “wow factor” is irresistible. Details on these gems are below:
Nature’s Frozen Lava Lamp at Abraham Lake
- A winter visit to Abraham Lake offers a bucket-list experience unlike any other: walking on “frozen lava lamps.” This man-made lake outside Banff National Park freezes over in January and February, trapping methane bubbles under the ice. The effect is mesmerizing—pearl-like orbs frozen in time, often visible thanks to the area’s strong winds that keep snow off the crystal-clear ice. Guided tours ensure safe access while also revealing fascinating details about the lake’s unique ecosystem and geological quirks.
Soak in the Rockies’ Hottest Spa
- Miette Hot Springs in Jasper National Park is where wellness meets the wild. Bighorn sheep might wander past as visitors unwind in the hottest natural hot springs in the Canadian Rockies, with water bubbling to 54°C before cooling to a perfect 40°C. The mineral-rich waters, rich in sulphate and magnesium, soothe tired muscles while snow-capped peaks provide a stunning natural backdrop. Open May through October, the scenic drive to the springs doubles as a wildlife safari, making this both a rejuvenating and immersive experience.
Alberta’s Hidden Sahara: The Athabasca Dunes
- Imagine stumbling onto a slice of the Sahara in northern Canada. That’s the Athabasca Dunes Ecological Reserve, a towering expanse of pristine quartz sand dunes sculpted over 8,000 years. Accessible only by foot, this off-the-grid marvel feels otherworldly, with the wind constantly reshaping the landscape to ensure no two visits are alike. Surrounded by the boreal forest and Lake Athabasca, the dunes offer unparalleled opportunities for exploration—and an unexpected story of geological drama in Canada’s northern wilderness.
