Discover a place where the wilderness is still wild and rugged landscapes sprawl out in every direction.

Ride the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain to get a view of Banff and the Bow Valley like no other.

Experience the jagged peaks of the Canadian Rockies

Get out there. Like, really out there. Alberta’s mountains offer near-limitless hiking, from easy meandering trails to multi-day adventures that will test your mettle. The Canadian Rockies are also home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, easily explored on foot, from the car or any other way you wish.

Breathtaking backdrops and astonishing alpine lakes

There are enough alpine lakes in Alberta to fill your entire stay, each with their own unique shade of water and mountainous surroundings. Immerse yourself in these postcard-worthy destinations as you embark on all kinds of outdoor adventures, or take in the sights from behind the wheel at an easily accessible roadside viewpoint.

Yes, the colour of Moraine Lake is real, thanks to glacial silt in the water.

Wildlife awaits

Vibrant, wondrous and abundant wildlife is around every corner. See bears in their natural habitat, observe soaring golden eagles riding thermal currents and spot iconic moose while you roam the mountains.

Explore Alberta’s wildlife

Black bear cub climbing a tree
Black bear cubs really rock the cute factor, but keep an eye out for mama bear!
Elk on the road to Two Jack Lake in Banff
You might hear these two elk clashing before you see them, antlers bashing on a quiet winter day.

11 truly wild regions

We’re famous for our mountains, but adventure seekers will find a bounty of natural wonders all over Alberta. Our 11 unique regions mean you can roam open prairie, dip a toe in an alpine lake, stumble across a dinosaur bone and walk frozen glaciers all in one trip.

Explore all of Alberta’s regions

Buffalo standing in the forest in Wood Buffalo National Park.

Did you know?

Want to go deep into the Canadian wilds? Alberta is home to the world’s largest intact wilderness — Wood Buffalo National Park, slightly larger than the size of Switzerland.

Frequently asked questions

If you’re looking to see the sights when it’s warm, June through the end of September is your best bet. Looking for winter attractions? December through early March is predictably cold and wintry.

Alberta is lucky to have a little bit of everything. Mountains border the west, while prairies and badlands stretch out to the east. Head north and you’ll find deep forests and boundless untouched wilderness.

While we’re most famous for our mountainous regions, there are 11 regions in total, from ancient badlands to untouched northern forests. Check out our 11 distinct regions to learn more.

You have the opportunity to see all types of wildlife while exploring Alberta, from golden eagles to ground squirrels to grizzly bears. It can vary depending on where you are in Alberta and the time of year. Check out our Wildlife Viewing page to learn more about what animals you may see. 

There are over 1,800 named peaks in Alberta alone, with more in the neighbouring province of British Columbia. Looking for things to do in Alberta’s mountain landscapes? Visit our Canadian Rockies page for all the details.

With over 600 lakes, Alberta is home to many bodies of water, from small alpine ponds to massive man made reservoirs. Not sure where to start? Our Lakes & Rivers guide is a great spot

Alberta is 661,848 km² (411,253 mi2). To put that in perspective, that’s 64% larger than the state of California.

Alberta is ready to explore however you see fit. Rent a car and set out on your own or book a tour and relax while someone else does the navigating. You can also hike, bike, paddle or use any other mode of transportation you can think of. Our list of itineraries can help you narrow down a plan of action and mode of transportation that works for you.