Winter Magic Romance in the Rockies

+51° 15' 31.87" N -115° 50' 6.29" W travelalberta.com WINTER winter magic On Alberta's Snowmobile Trails

Romance in the Rockies Perfect getaways in Authentic Mountain Lodges Cool Ideas for Winter Fun

When nature wraps itself in a thick, snowy Kick off the season at the WinterStart Winter fun continues indoors. Release your blanket and the mercury plunges, it’s Festival in Banff-Lake Louise. Watch the inner Jedi Knight at the Star Wars Exhibition tempting to slip into hibernation mode, but top alpine skiers compete in the World Cup when it comes to Edmonton’s Telus World you really should resist. Waiting out winter Downhill races. Find out why the two day of Science centre. In Calgary, introduce the is a sure route to cabin fever and a lingering cross country ski festival affectionately family to the symphony at the sci fi themed, case of the winter blahs. Any true Albertan known as “the Birkie” is so popular. Drive Space the Final Frontier. knows that instead of hiding out, it’s best to an ice road. Try comfort ice fishing. Learn embrace the special delights of the season – to mush. Discover Jasper in January. in all their wondrous forms. You get the picture.

02 travelalberta.com CONTENTS

Six Icy Adventures 4

Ski Local This Winter 6

Winter Magic On Alberta's Snowmobile Trails 10

Why Spa Rhymes With Ahhh 12

Winter Escapes 14

Winter Play Time 20

Get Out And Do It This Winter 22

Romance In The Rockies 25

Ice Road To The North 28

Ice Fishing In Style 31

No Cost Family Fun This Winter 32

Culinary Creature Comforts 35

In these pages, we’ve put together some Doggone Fun 37 ideas that will inspire you to step outside your door this winter. Read on, make plans, get going, and enjoy the season! Star Wars Identities: For all sorts of winter adventures, visit The Exhibition 39 travelalberta.com | 1-800-ALBERTA six icy adventures

By Heather Egger Sylvan Lake has you towards the ice playground to climb Here in Alberta, we know how to have fun in through the ice tunnels and whoosh down the winter – even if we need to bundle up to a 5 KM skating the slide. Jan 18-27, 2013 do it. In fact, we celebrate it with ice festivals track that banfflakelouise.com | 403-762-8421 and activities all over the province. Here are six is one of the Maligne Canyon Ice Walk, Jasper icy adventures to check off your list this winter. longest Strap on a pair of cleats and descend into Festival of Speed, Lac La Biche in Canada the deepest canyon in Jasper National From the side of the icy track, you cheer Park to walk among the bright blue frozen on the cars, snowmobiles, quads and waterfalls and natural ice sculptures. If you motorcycles as they speed around the go at night, you’ll discover another world frozen lake. You consider challenging your altogether – your head-lamp illuminating the buddies to an amateur drag race, until ice and creating an ethereal glow. Take a you see how fast these adrenaline junkies moment to turn off the lights and appreciate actually go. Maybe you’ll stick to a game a sky packed full of stars in Canada’s largest of shinny before hitting the local pub with dark sky preserve. about a hundred of your new best friends. jasper.travel | 780-852-6236 Mar 2-3, 2013 Ice on Whyte, Edmonton laclabicheregion.ab.ca | 877-623-9696 After lunch at one of the many restaurants Ice Magic, Lake Louise on super cool Whyte Avenue, you make As you stroll the boardwalk of iconic Lake your way to the tenth anniversary of this Louise, glittering blocks of ice are being family festival. Learn how to make an ice magically transformed into translucent lantern, watch some carving demos, grab scenes of adorable animals, shining knights a hot chocolate and take in some local and even fierce dinosaurs. Talented carvers musicians. Unleash the kiddies in the play come from around the globe to compete area where they can climb up, over, down in this annual event, now in its 19th year. and through the ice tunnels and slides. You pause at each sculpture, but only for As twilight settles, wander through the a minute, since the little ones are dragging twinkling lit-up sculptures and settle awhile

4 travelalberta.com by the ice chimney to watch the glow of the snow-peaked mountains all around you. fire inside. Jan 25-Feb 3, 2013 As if you needed more reasons for a game iceonwhyte.ca | 780-758-5878 of shinny – you are playing it in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Twenty-nine Silver Skate Festival, Edmonton lucky teams and their fans will gather at the Edmonton’s longest running winter Fairmont Lake Louise to play, skate and festival is set in one of its most beautiful luxuriate – come join the party. river valley parks. The frozen pond at Mar 1-3, 2013 Hawrelak Park is one of the city’s most banfflakelouise.com | 403-762-8421 popular places for outdoor skating and for ten days this winter will host skating Popular Sylvan Lake also hosts a Pond races and marathons, a snow sculpture Hockey Tournament in February, so you can competition, orienteering courses, food plan a road trip with the team and double tents and live music. To see everything your bragging rights. that’s going on, we suggest grabbing a Mar 1-3, 2013 hot chocolate and some warm bannock sylvanlakepondhockey.ca | 403-877-2199 with jam for a horse-drawn sleigh ride Skate Under the Stars, around the sparkling park. Then you can Anywhere in Alberta decide what to do first – skate, slide, eat A wonderful winter activity in Alberta is or meander through the snow and fire bundling up and strapping on skates for sculpture gardens. Feb 15-24, 2013 a go around a frozen pond. Practice your silverskatefestival.org | 780-488-1960 WWW.ICEONWHYTE.CAWWW.ICEONWHYTE.CA figure eights and backwards crossovers Lake Louise Pond Hockey Classic under crisp clear skies and then head Your breath makes billowing clouds as you inside for a cuddle by the fire. Some of the break away from the pack and power to province’s most popular natural rinks are JanuaryJanuary 25 25 to to the net. As you revel in the glory of your the stunning Lake Louise, Bower Ponds in FebruaryFebruary 3, 3, 2013 2013 gorgeous goal, you take a moment to Red Deer, Bowness Lagoon in Calgary and catch your breath and drink in the towering Muskoseepi Park in Grande Prairie.

ICEICE CARVING CARVING COMPETITION COMPETITION ICEICE CARVINGS CARVINGS SNOWSNOW CARVINGS CARVINGS GIANTGIANT ICE ICE SLIDE SLIDE CHILDREN’SCHILDREN’S PLAY PLAY AREA AREA LIVELIVE MUSIC MUSIC FASHIONFASHION FOODFOOD ANDAND MORE! MORE!

EndEnd of ofSteel Steel Park Park GatewayGateway Blvd Blvd & &Tommy Tommy Banks Banks Way Way EdmontonEdmonton

PRESENTEDPRESENTED BY: BY:

WWW.STAYEDMONTONSOUTH.COMWWW.STAYEDMONTONSOUTH.COM travelalberta.com 5 SKI LOCAL THIS WINTER

slopes! These calm corners are far less family time intimidating and ideal for taking up skiing in Alberta or snowboarding with your whole family. Almost all the hills offer a ski/snowboard included. If you’re like me, it’s definitely school and some include private lessons. worth visiting some of Alberta’s not-so- intimidating local slopes. Rural ski areas Calling all Freestylers offer great value, fewer line-ups and a place Several of the rural hills also have state of to practice without all the pressure. the art terrain parks complete with half pipes and even natural luge tracks. These are Starting Out or Starting Over Maybe you’re just learning to ski or By Colleen Seto snowboard, or it’s been a while since you Flying down the mountain, plunging strapped on the ol’ planks. Or maybe you through fresh powder and weaving around want to introduce your little ones to skiing sky-scraping trees, I think, “Wow, Alberta without breaking the bank or worrying they’ll has the best skiing and snowboarding in get swallowed up by a massive mountain. the world!” At least, I would think that if I Whatever the case, Alberta’s rural ski hills wasn’t white-knuckling it all the way down are calling your name. the mountain, praying that I make it to the Away from our mountain parks, there bottom in one piece. are more than 20 ski areas for all levels Let’s face it. Not everyone is ready to hurl of expertise, not just my own personal themselves down the world’s best, myself favourites – beginner zones and bunny

6 travelalberta.com great places to practice your tricks, catch some air, and if you’re feeling gutsy, take a Camrose shot at the 360. in Here are a Few Action Freestyler Favourites: • Vista Ridge, near Fort McMurray vistaridge.ab.ca | 780-743-8651

• Nighthawk Recreation Area, outside Grande Prairie gonitehawk.com | 888-754-6778

• Tawatinaw Valley, in Westlock skitawatinawvalley.com | 866-698-2212 Ski by Night Inhaling the crisp night air as I carve, or more Some local fan favourites: precisely, snowplow my way down the slopes is something I really enjoy. One of the biggest Pass Powderkeg Ski Area, Winter Events in Camrose perks of rural ski hills is night skiing, which Crowsnest Pass Festival of Trees -Nov. 23-25 adds a whole new dimension of excitement, passpowderkeg.com | not to mention convenience – there’s nothing 403-562-8334 Canadian Bull Congress - better than getting in a few runs after a long day parked in front of a computer. Canyon Ski Resort, near Red Deer Jan. 18-19 canyonski.ca | 403-346-7003 No matter where you are in the province, Fox Challenge Martial Arts there’s a hill nearby that I bet you haven’t Fairview Ski Hill, Peace Country Tournament -Feb. 9 tried before. Most offer packages that are skifairview.com | 780-835-4725 family and budget friendly. Spring Classic Pro Rodeo - To find the hill closest to you, or to discover Rabbit Hill Snow Resort, Edmonton March 15-17 - - new areas worth making into a road trip, rabbithill.com | 780-955-2440 Camrose...a Natural Choice visit goskialberta.com for Your 2013 Convention

...Accommodation availability of over 500 rooms

...Various sizes of meeting / banquet rooms

...RV Campground open 365 days

...And things to do...groomed cross country ski trails – hockey—curling—outdoor skating rinks— cheery coffee houses—theatre—casino— boutique shopping—& more

www.tourismcamrose.com

07 travelalberta.com travelalberta.com 7 From the slides to the rink to far away galaxies, Edmonton Destination Hotels makes it easy for you to choose Choose your adventure and save! In just a few clicks you can book your hotel room and reserve tickets to some of the city’s most exciting attractions. Not only Your Edmonton is it fast and easy, you’ll save money, too. Hurry—your adventure awaits! 2013 Tim Hortons Brier March 2–10, 2013 Join the record- breaking crowds of curling fans at Rexall Adventure! Place to cheer on the best in Canadian West Edmonton Mall Men’s Curling. World Waterpark, home of the new Cyclone waterslide, is just one of many fantastic things to do at Canada’s most famous Shopping Centre.

TELUS World of Science – Edmonton Oct 27, 2012 – Apr 1, 2013 Discover the forces that shape you through the characters ™, and see 200 of Star Wars objects from the Lucasfilm Archives, including Darth Vader’s costume.

Visit the Art Gallery of Alberta, authorization. under Used reserved. rights All TM. & Ltd. Lucasfilm 2012 © Muttart Conservatory, Royal Alberta Museum, and 12 more attractions with just one Pass! Hurry! Tickets are selling fast!

Book your adventure now! www.edmontondestinationhotels.com Or Call Toll-Free: 1 (877) 213-8368 From the slides to the rink to far away galaxies, Edmonton Destination Hotels makes it easy for you to choose Choose your adventure and save! In just a few clicks you can book your hotel room and reserve tickets to some of the city’s most exciting attractions. Not only Your Edmonton is it fast and easy, you’ll save money, too. Hurry—your adventure awaits! 2013 Tim Hortons Brier March 2–10, 2013 Join the record- breaking crowds of curling fans at Rexall Adventure! Place to cheer on the best in Canadian West Edmonton Mall Men’s Curling. World Waterpark, home of the new Cyclone waterslide, is just one of many fantastic things to do at Canada’s most famous Shopping Centre.

Book your adventure now! www.edmontondestinationhotels.com Or Call Toll-Free:travelalberta.com 1 (877) 213-8368 09 Winter Magic on Alberta's Snowmobile Trails

By Mike Fisher It’s a bluebird day, last night’s fresh snow The best trails sparkling on the tree boughs, perfect for are the ones sledding. I plug my helmet into a port on my that aren’t as Ski-Doo MXZ 1200, activating the electric well known defrost in my helmet visor. I grab my smart phone, scan the QR code on signage to Trail Blazers. But we’re looking to find some get the portable map of Eagle Trail here trails that are hidden gems, too. in the staging area just 10 minutes north As soon as we’re out of the staging area, of Whitecourt on Hwy 32, and zip it into we’re into the spruce and pine trees. We my pocket. wind through them, heading for fresh Then I hit the electric start and turn on powder. After 20 minutes, we stop at the the handlebar warmers before easing the Athabasca Lookout rest area with its 164-horsepower machine out of staging, picnic table and fire pit overlooking the leading a group of five sledders who’ve also Athabasca River and the town of come to mark this trail off their bucket list of Whitecourt to take in the stunning view. must-do rides in Alberta. Just off the trail, we see a mother moose After all, Whitecourt (177 KM northwest and her calf. Unflinching, they stare at us of Edmonton) is the Official Snowmobile as we pass by. I’ll be bragging to my Capital of Alberta, home to the Whitecourt friends about this one.

10 travelalberta.com Trails and Terrains With 34 volunteer-led sledding clubs and 5,000 KM of mapped and marked snowmobile trails, Alberta offers breathtaking scenic terrain – mountains, prairies, forests, lakes and rivers – that you’d have to travel across Canada to find otherwise. So says Chris Brookes, Executive Director of the Alberta Snowmobile Association. “The best thing you can do is join a club and meet like-minded Memories are people in this very social and inclusive winter recreational activity,” he says. “It’s a great way to find the best trails, too, and the ones Better when that aren’t as well known. And we have top-notch accommodation Shared perched at the edge of wilderness.” Sheraton is where friends and family gather. Take a West Central Alberta break from the ordinary with The Golden Triangle is a 354 KM riding area that has some of the special getaway rates that deepest and thickest powder outside of the mountains. It includes allow you to see more and spend less. both central and northern Alberta.

Eagle Trail (about an hour and a half, with stops) intersects with the Save 40% Golden Triangle Trail (a 10 hour ride), which connects Fox Creek, on your Swan Hills and Whitecourt. second night

Southern Alberta The Crowsnest region in the south, home to the Crow Snow Book at Sheratonsuites.com/travelalberta Riders, features hundreds of kilometres of trail riding in the foothills and mountains. ©2012 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, Sheraton and their logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates. Lost Creek Trail is a six hour return ride to the Lost Creek snowmobile shelter. Start at the York Creek staging area on the south side of the town of Coleman. You will experience rolling hills with some twists and turns. Along the way there’s some dead standing timber where you might see hawks and owls. Northern Alberta Alberta’s north country features boreal forests, lakes and huge stretches of untouched snow.

Big Mountain Snowmobile Area, C Loop has a staging area off Hwy 666, about 20 minutes south of Grande Prairie, where you start this three hour ride. The first few kilometres are straight up, and then you get some ups and downs when traversing across the creek bank of Big Mountain Creek.

At the top of the loop there is a straightaway that leads to the banks of the Smoky River, showing a deep, carved valley with beautiful vistas.

Wherever you go, snowmobiling in Alberta is a wild and wonderful ride.

A full list of Alberta snowmobile clubs is available at the Alberta Snowmobile Association (ASA) website.

altasnowmobile.ab.ca | 780-427-2695

Most of the clubs have contact information including representatives’ telephone numbers and emails, and some have websites.

travelalberta.com 11 Why Spa Rhymes Don’t hibernate! with ahhh Rejuvenate! By Joanne Elves Don’t you think you deserve just a little TLC? You’ve been on your feet all day, sightseeing or shopping, or hiking frosty trails to frozen waterfalls, or maybe it’s been a perfect powder day on the slopes. Your body is crying out for some ahhh time. Or, maybe it’s time to pamper that special someone with some ahhh time of their own. Either way, there are plenty of spas and hot springs in Alberta to revive that spring in your step. Mountain Magic Feel your body melt with every step into the soothing naturally hot water of the historic Banff Upper Hot Springs – where ahhh in Alberta all began. Tip your head back as you soak and let the snowflakes melt on your tongue. Plan tomorrow’s adventures as the minerals of the springs relax your aching muscles. Then step into a massage at the adjacent Pleiades Massage in the original bathhouse next door. Urban Escapes Regional Spas are Oh-la-la SPA LISTINGS While the family makes a splash at the World Been out bashing snowdrifts near Grand Waterpark at West Edmonton Mall, drop Prairie? Then it’s time to explore the benefits Banff Upper Hot Springs, Banff your shopping bags and slip quietly into one of the unique body wraps and scrubs at hotsprings.ca | 800-767-1611 of the mall’s spas to find some inner peace. The L Spa and Wellness Centre Pleiades Massage, Banff Full body treatments await but a manicure in the Podollan Inn. pleiadesmassage.com | 403-760-2500 and pedicure will do nicely today. A mid-winter retreat to The Heartwood Inn West Edmonton Mall, Edmonton In Calgary, spend a tropical morning in and Spa in Drumheller offers a variety of spa wem.ca | 780-444-5321 the rejuvenated indoor Devonian Gardens packages – and the best B&B breakfast for and take that feeling into the afternoon, Ambiance Spa, Medicine Hat miles around. unwinding in a eucalyptus scented steam ambiancespa.ca | 403-487-5411 Ambiance Spa in Medicine Hat invites you room. Within walking distance of the Calgary Heartwood Inn and Spa, Drumheller Tower are Calgary’s finest spas offering to take one of their many custom ‘spa innsatheartwood.com | 888-823-6495 everything you need for that ahhh feeling. journeys’ – pure indulgence and so worth it! L Spa, Grand Prairie Treat yourself or treat a friend, but Spoil your teen with her own oh-la-la lspa.ca | 780-830-0302 don’t forget there is always the gift of experience at The Solace Spa and Salon in togetherness. A couples’ massage is a Red Deer where many of the treatments are Solace Spa and Salon, Red Deer great way to rejuvenate, on so many levels. designed with young women in mind. solacewellness.com | 403-357-1100

12 travelalberta.com Don’t hibernate! Rejuvenate!

travelalberta.com 13 winter escapes Check out travelalberta.com for more great vacation ideas. Soak in the Rockies Slip away for a relaxing retreat to the Rocky Mountains this winter at Charlton’s Cedar Court. Enjoy the classic comforts of an alpine style hotel in the heart of Banff. Indulge in a delicious continental breakfast and soak your troubles away with a trip to the Banff Upper Hot Springs. n’s n’s

o Starting At Package includes • One night accommodation in a deluxe guestroom r Co urt rlt $ • Two adult passes to the Banff Upper Hot Springs a a 109 • Daily continental breakfast h ed C

C 513 Banff Avenue, Banff www.charltonresorts.com 1-800-661-1225 or 403-762-4485 [email protected] Valid until Apr 30, 2013. Plus taxes, per night, based on double occupancy in a deluxe room. Guestroom upgrades available for a minimal fee. Subject to availability. Price varies on seasonality. Please quote promotional code: TWR Stay & Play Choose the package that best suits your family! Our spacious suites offer fully equipped kitchens, separate living rooms with dining areas and private balconies. Our amenities include indoor pool o n and fitness room, covered parking and Rutherford’s Restaurant and Lounge in the heart of downtown Edmonton.

Starting At Package includes use

dm o nt • One night accommodation $ • Plus your choice of either of the following:

Ho 99 - A $20 Rutherford’s food voucher per day - A free upgrade to the next room category st E st - Free parking for one vehicle 10205-100 Avenue, Edmonton - Passes to West Edmonton Mall Waterpark www.coasthotels.com Coa 1-800-663-1144 [email protected] Valid until Dec 30, 2012. Plus taxes, based on single or double occupancy. Subject to availability. Valid Friday, Saturday and holiday weekends. Rockies Winter Escape See everything that the Rockies have to offer at your own pace. This five night self drive holiday is packed with amazing activities, and offers a substantial amount of free time to discover the hidden jewels of the Rockies. The wide variety of activities will ensure there is never a dull moment during your trip! ns o n

o Starting At Package includes

ti • Two nights of accommodation in Banff

a $ • Heli snowshoeing adventure c 908 • Johnston Canyon ice walk a • Two nights of accommodation in Jasper V Anders • Dogsledding excursion 301, 1117-1 Street SW, Calgary • One night of accommodation in Edmonton www.canadatravelsolution.com 1-866-814-7378 or 403-245-6200 [email protected] Valid Nov 2012-Mar 2013. Plus taxes, per person. Blackout periods apply Dec 24, 2012-Jan 2, 2013.

14 travelalberta.com Winter Wonderland Relax and enjoy the best of the Rockies at Banff’s finest family accommodation. ir ir lets a h s F Starting At a Package includes • Two nights accommodation $ • One “Cook Your Own” breakfast kit

ugl 360 • Two adult passes to the Banff Upper Hot Springs rt rt & C • Two adult passes to the Banff Gondola o • One $40 dinner voucher for a downtown restaurant Do 525 Tunnel Mountain Road, Banff www.douglasfir.com R es 1-800-661-9267 [email protected] Valid Nov 12-Dec 19, 2012 and Jan 6-Feb 14, 2013. Plus taxes. Based on two adults in a studio suite. Subject to availability. Winter Indulgence l Take a getaway to the Rockies and stay at the Delta Banff Royal Canadian Lodge. Sip some sparkling a wine while enjoying your own in-room gas fireplace. In the evening redeem your dinner credit at the y Evergreen Restaurant offering regional ingredients embracing the best of Canada. Wake-up the following dge morning to a full Canadian breakfast before a day in winter wonderland.

Starting At Package includes n Lo

nff Ro nff • One night accommodation in a Premier Room with gas fireplace a $ • A bottle of sparkling wine upon arrival

di 199 • Full plated Canadian breakfast (in restaurant)

a • $25 Evergreen Restaurant dinner credit a Ba

n • Complimentary parking 459 Banff Avenue, Banff elt Ca www.deltabanff.com D 1-800-661-1379 or 403-762-3307 [email protected] Valid until Apr 30, 2013. Plus taxes, based on double occupancy. Subject to availability. Guestroom upgrades available for a minimal fee. Gratuities not included. Dinner credit has no cash value. Price varies on seasonality. Please quote promotional code: TWR

l l Explore the Rockies Experience exceptional comfort and warm hospitality at the Banff International Hotel, located in n a downtown Banff, in the heart of Banff National Park. Enjoy all the comforts of a modern hotel including o complimentary wireless internet access, flat screen televisions, a fitness facility, indoor whirlpool and ti dry cedar sauna.

Starting At Package includes • Two nights accommodation in a superior room $ • Two adult passes to Banff Upper Hot Springs

Ho tel • Two adult passes to Banff Gondola a ntern 261 • All taxes and fees 333 Banff Avenue, Banff www.banffinternational.com 1-800-665-5666 or 403-762-5666 I nff Ba [email protected] Valid Nov 1-Dec 22, 2012. Based on double occupancy in a superior room. Subject to availability.

Shopaholics Getaway tel tel Shop Cross Iron Mills, a shopping experience that offers over 200 premium brands and outlets. Then drop at the Coast Plaza Hotel where you can relax in a spacious guestroom, enjoy cocktails at

entre Barrington’s Lounge and indulge in breakfast at Horizon’s Bistro. a Ho z a Starting At Package includes • One night's accommodation in a Comfort room $ • $75 shopping voucher to Cross Iron Mills Shopping Centre 169 • Breakfast for two st Pl st • Complimentary beverages in Barrington’s Lounge

nference C nference 1316-33 Street NE, Calgary www.calgaryplaza.com 1-800-661-1464 or 403-248-8888 he Coa he

& Co [email protected] T Valid Nov 1, 2012-Jan 31, 2013. Weekends only (Friday, Saturday, Sunday).

travelalberta.com 15 Slide into Family Fun! Welcome to Southern Alberta’s only four-star hotel. Featuring twin giant waterslides, full service Casino, luxury day spa, restaurants, lounges and so much more! We have something for the entire family. Come dge dge relax and enjoy some family fun. t Lo Starting At Package includes o & Spa sin • One night accommodation $ • Complimentary use of our giant indoor waterslide park, hot tub, lane pool, 99 kiddies pool & sauna 1051 Ross Glen Drive SE, rt, Ca rt, Medicine Hat o

edicine Ha edicine www.medhatlodge.com 1-800-661-8095 or 403-529-2222 M R es [email protected] Valid until Mar 30, 2013. Plus taxes, subject to availability. Blackout date: Dec 31, 2012. Stay and Park Come stay and park at the Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel. This package includes one night accommodation and parking for one vehicle in our gated parkade. o n tel tel

Starting At Package includes

dm o nt • One night accommodation a Ho $ • Parking for one vehicle in our gated parkade z 99 a st E st

Pl 10155-105 Street, Edmonton www.coastedmontonplaza.com Coa 1-800-663-1144 [email protected] Valid most Friday, Saturday and holiday weekends until Jan 12, 2013. Plus taxes, based on single or double occupancy. Subject to availability. Get-Outta-Town ! Escape the norm and venture into the backcountry of Banff National Park! A gentle cross-country ski or snowshoe takes you to our remote lodge nestled along a gentle curve of Brewster Creek. The sheltered 10KM or 16KM trail is packed, track set, and suitable for any skier. nce a

Starting At Package includes und dge • One night backcountry accommodation $ • Hearty western supper, breakfast and packed lunch

Lo 183 Located in the backcountry of nff S nff Banff National Park

Ba www.xcskisundance.com 1-800-661-8352 [email protected] Valid Feb 1-Mar 31, 2013. Per person, plus taxes, snow and trail conditions permitting. Relax in the Rockies Get away for a relaxing retreat to the Canadian Rockies this fall at the High Country Inn. Enjoy two night’s

nn accommodation with a delicious deluxe continental breakfast both mornings and one fabulous dinner at Ticino’s Restaurant or El Toro’s. Then ease your cares away with passes to the Banff Upper Hot Springs.

Starting At Package includes • Two nights accommodation in a standard room $ • Deluxe continental breakfast for two (both mornings) 269 • One dinner for two at Ticino’s or El Toro’s • Two Passes for the Banff Upper Hot Springs 419 Banff Avenue, Banff untry I igh Co untry www.banffhighcountryinn.com H 1-800-661-1244 [email protected] Valid Jan 1-May 16, 2013. Plus taxes, based on double occupancy, subject to availability. Limited menu. Present coupon at time of booking and upon check-in.

16 travelalberta.com Scrooge Ski Package If you want to pinch a few pennies, and still give your spirit a lift, this unique Jasper ski get-away is right for you! rk a

Starting At Package includes • One night accommodation in P a in dges $ • Marmot Basin lift ticket 149 • Lunch at Marmot Basin Lo

unt • Breakfast & dinner at Mountain Park Lodges 200 Connaught Drive, Jasper Mo www.mpljasper.com 1-888-852-7737 [email protected] Valid Opening Day – Dec 16, 2012. Plus taxes, per person, based on double occupancy. Based on a standard room at the Amethyst Lodge. Other room types and prices available. Limited menu, limited availability. Winter Escape Two big days and two big nights in the Rocky Mountains. urs

Starting At Package includes • Stress free family getaway with two nights accommodation in us To $ the mystic mountains 395 • Two days skiing • Transportation in a luxury motor coach with a relaxing atmosphere 902-11834 Kingsway Avenue, gic B • Transportation departs from Edmonton Edmonton • All taxes and park fees

Ma www.magicbus.ca 1-800-814-4886 or 780-478-0429 [email protected] Valid New Years Eve in Banff Dec 30, 2012-Jan 1, 2013. Jasper in Jan 25-27, 2013. Banff in Mar 15-17, 2013. Based on double occupancy. Valid on dates specified only. Snow Fun! Be our guest and experience Alberta at your own pace with our low winter rates. Thinking of hitting the

V slopes or dreaming of a cozy winter vacation? CanaDream has the answer. Our RV’s are insulated and offer full facilities in temperatures as low as -30C. Isn’t it time you got away from it all? Call now! m R

a Starting At Package includes • Up to five nights rental of RV re $ • Convenience kits (Bedding, linens, towels, dishes, cookware)

aD 549 • Additional driver • 100 KMs per rental night & first fill of propane n • Preparation fees & VIP insurance 2510 27 Street NE, Calgary

Ca • US Travel www.canadream.com 1-866-816-1840 [email protected] Valid Nov 1, 2012-Mar 31, 2013. Plus taxes. Valid for bookings from Calgary in an MHA vehicle. Our regular rates apply for additional nights. Escape and Unwind On your next business trip to Calgary, plan to relax. Our Corporate Escape and Unwind package includes l everything you need: $40 dinner voucher, one in-room movie of your choosing and a full buffet breakfast a ry y for two adults. a

lg Starting At Package includes v e Ro • One night in a deluxe queen room $ • $40 dinner voucher 185 • Breakfast buffet for two • One in-room movie tel Ca tel

xecuti 2828 23 Street NE, Calgary Ho

E www.executivehotels.net/calgary 1-877-769-2562 [email protected] Valid Nov 2012-Apr 2013. Plus taxes, based on two adults. Gratuities not included. Additional person charges apply. Room upgrades available for additional fee.

travelalberta.com 17 Romance Package Celebrate your proposal, anniversary or special occasion in style with a 20 minute private helicopter experience and a one-hour guided stop in the wilderness with champagne service. urs Snowshoes are available. Mention code W14812 when booking to receive $50 towards the gift shop.

skis / / skis Starting At Package includes eli To • Private helicopter flight for two $ • Guide during wilderness stop 695 • Champagne • Snowshoes

Ka n a Nakoda Heli Port / Cline River www.kheli.com / www.icefieldheli.com cefield H

I 403-881-2500 / 403-721-2100 [email protected] / [email protected] Valid until Dec 31, 2013. Per couple. Weather permitting. Submerge, Sleep & Savour Submerge yourselves in the Banff Upper Hot Springs which is only 20 minutes away. Sleep in one of our unique rooms at the Inn and wake up refreshed and ready to savour one of our delicious breakfasts like nn our famous stuffed french toast! wn I wn Starting At Package includes o • One night stay at the Georgetown Inn $ • Two tickets to the Banff Upper Hot Springs 159 • Breakfast for two rget

o 1101 Bow Valley Trail, Canmore www.georgetowninn.ca G e 1-866-695-5955 [email protected] Valid Jan 3-Jun 25, 2013. Plus taxes, based on two adults, subject to availability. Gratuities not included. Not valid on holiday long weekends. Totally Two Tubular ls Want a family getaway in Canmore? Then scrape off your car, drive to the mountains and come enjoy our “Totally Two Tubular” package! Enjoy one night in a fully equipped chalet then the next morning a half day oo of tubing! Mount Norquay is only 20 minutes away. After, come and soak in our hot pool or go for a swim in our year round outdoor, heated swimming pool. t P rings rings Starting At Package includes • One night stay at Mystic Springs Chalets & Hot Pools $ • Two adult tickets and two children’s tickets for tubing at Mount Norquay 244 • Two pool noodles ystic Sp ystic

lets & Ho 140 Kananaskis Way, Canmore M a www.mysticsprings.ca

h 1-866-446-9784

C [email protected] Valid Jan 3-Apr 15, 2013. Plus taxes, subject to availability. Gratuities not included. Not valid on holiday weekends. Rendezvous in the Rockies Spend a cozy romantic getaway at the luxurious Silver Creek Lodge in Canmore. Stay warm in front of our fireplaces and enjoy the taste of Rockies fusion and Asian flavours with a $50 dinner voucher at the dge Wild Orchid Asian Bistro.

Starting At Package includes • One night stay in a one bedroom suite reek Lo reek $175 • $50 dinner voucher for the Wild Orchid Asian Bistro in Silver Creek Lodge

er C er 1818 Mountain Avenue, Canmore v www.silvercreekcanmore.ca il

S 1-877-598-4242 [email protected] Valid Jan 2-Jun 25, 2013. Plus taxes, based on two adults in a one bedroom suite, subject to availability. Not valid on holiday weekends. Gratuities not included.

18 travelalberta.com Cat Ski N’ Sleep One day Cat Skiing on the Powder Stagecoach, one day of skiing on Castle Mountain and two nights accommodation. in a in unt rt Starting At Package includes o • One day of Cat Skiing on the Powder Stagecoach at Castle Mountain $ • One day of skiing on Castle Mountain Resort es 215 • Two nights accommodation in a standard hotel room at R Castle Mountain Ski Lodge and Hostel stle Mo stle Pincher Creek www.skicastle.ca Ca 403-627-5101 [email protected] Valid 2012-2013 winter season excluding Dec 26, 2012-Jan 6, 2013 and Feb 15-17, 2013. Per person, per day. Based on double occupancy in a standard hotel room. Snow Days Midweek discount off room and lift tickets. nn lift tickets and estern 30% OFF regular room rates p er I

s Package includes • 30% off lift tickets J a est W • 30% off regular room rates

B 98 Geike Street, Jasper www.bestwesternjasperinn.com 1-800-661-1933 [email protected] Valid Nov 16, 2012-Apr 30, 2013. Not valid on holidays / Friday or Saturday nights. Twinkling Christmas at the Zoo Join us this winter season for a deal that is sure to warm up the whole family. Book a standard room and receive a hot buffet breakfast for four before heading off to a fun filled day exploring the Calgary Zoo. nn nn Warm up with a hot chocolate thermos to take to the park and in the evening spend time enjoying our heated indoor pool and waterslide. Hurry now to save your spot this wonderful winter season.

Starting At Package includes • One night accommodation $ • Uninterrupted fun in our waterpark with a 100 foot waterslide • Complimentary hot buffet breakfast ice Plus I Plus ice 159 nd S uites

v • Two adult tickets and two children’s tickets to the Calgary zoo

a • Children’s thermos and hot chocolate 3503 114 Ave SE, Calgary er

S www.serviceplusinns.com 403-256-5352 [email protected] Valid Nov 1, 2012-Jan 31, 2013. Per night, plus taxes, based on a family of four. Some conditions and blackouts dates may apply. Ask us about upgrading to a family suite. The Calgary Zoo is open year round, Zoolights operating from November 23rd-January 5th. Winter in Paradise Escape to the peace and tranquility of Waterton Lakes National Park in winter. Experience the adventure of backcountry tour skiing, cross country skiing or snowshoeing in this pristine Alberta park. rt kes kes o

Starting At n La Package includes • One night stay in a standard room o $ • Breakfast for two at Vimy’s Lounge & Grill 139 • Your choice of cross country ski rentals, backcountry touring ski rentals or

dge R es dge snowshoe rentals for two tert 101 Clematis Avenue, Waterton Park Lo

Wa www.watertonlakeslodge.com 1-888-985-6343 [email protected] Valid Nov 1-Dec 21, 2012; Feb 18-May 15, 2013. Plus taxes. Not valid with any other promotion. Subject to availability. Gratuities not included. Not valid on holiday long weekends. Rate of $69 for second night and consecutive night stays.

travelalberta.com 19 Winter play time By Michelle Bodnar seats existed – certainly nothing like it next original production, Balletlujah! My first trip to see a live performance of in my humble town of birth. I spent the A Tribute to the Music of k.d. lang. any description was on the occasion of performance gazing in awe at the fanciful Many of us will remember her incredible my 10th birthday. My parents wanted to do costumes, delighting in the orchestra and rendition of Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujuah at something special to recognize the life- the grace of the dancers, and speechless the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games. changing event of me turning double digits, at the entire intricate spectacle. Christmas I can hardly wait to see how the dancers and so an outing of equal magnitude was came in a respectable second that year. will interpret her stirring vocals. Book well planned. Coming from a small town, outings Today, I still live in that small town, and in advance – this will be a sell out! were big with my family. This one involved a now I plan the outings for my own children. Edmonton: May 3-4, 2013 two-hour, crack-of-dawn drive to Edmonton Step out this winter and take the family to Calgary: May 9-11, 2013 on a Saturday morning, checking in at a something you can’t find in your own back albertaballet.com | modest hotel near downtown, and having yard. Memories are waiting to be made. 780-428-6839 | 403-245-4549 a birthday brunch – complete with my very own grown-up Shirley Temple “cocktail.” All About Ballet Canadian Premiere of: So far, I was fairly impressed. Back at the The Kite Runner hotel, we changed into our Sunday best Calgary and Edmonton Calgary and Edmonton and headed out for a matinee performance This year, the Alberta Ballet will perform of Alberta Ballet’s The Nutcracker. The Nutcracker in Edmonton, Dec. 14-16 Based on the novel by Khaled Hossein, The theatre was the most amazing place I and in Calgary, Dec. 20-24. But stay this play will lift you up, then let you go, had encountered in all of my 10 years. tuned for some genuine Alberta magic. just like the wind that bears main character I could hardly believe such a palace of The miraculous music of Alberta-born Amir’s kite. Immerse yourself in the bustling plush carpets, brass railings and box k.d. lang is the fitting inspiration for their streets of Kabul, where lamb kabobs sizzle

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20 travelalberta.com A AByzantine Byzantine Winter Winter Festival Festival

JANUARYJANUARY 12 12 & & 13, 13, 2013 2013

BetweenBetween 90-94 90-94 Street Street on on 118 118 Ave Ave Edmonton,Edmonton, AB AB and Afghani coffee is served from Around the Province ExperienceExperience the the taste, taste, sights sights and and morning to night, for this uplifting story soundssounds of ofthe the olde olde new new year year of redemption. Dracula Calgary: Jan 29-Feb 24, 2013 Red Deer Edmonton: Mar 9-31, 2013 Dracula is the all-time king of the vampires. theatrecalgary.com | 403-294-7447 Red Deer College’s production of Steven If Music be the Food of Love, Dietz’s play closely follows the plot of Play on! Bram Stoker’s original novel – which started the vampire phenomenon back Calgary in 1897. The undead, as we all know, The Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra remain most popular today. will present Space, the Final Frontier, DanceDance mummers mummers FIre FIWOreWOrKsr K s Fu NFu N Feb 7-9, 2013 featuring music from the sound tracks of rdc.ab.ca/showtime | 800-661-8793 Avatar, Battlestar Galactica, Star Wars, Star Trek, Superman and Independence Hometown – The Musical Day. It will be hosted by Jonathan Frakes of Star Trek fame and promises to be Fort McMurray a blockbuster evening. This is a great If you live in Fort McMurray, it’s likely opportunity to introduce your teenagers to someone you know is in this production. live symphony music. Impress your Trekkie This original hometown effort features a friends when you tell the story of meeting cast of more than 100 local performers. ICEICE SLIDE SLIDE street street HO HcKOeycK ey et HNIetHNIc FOODc FOODs s The Commander William T. Riker of the The finale of Keyano College’s four Starship Enterprise at the performance’s play Drama Series stars Fort McMurray after-party. Feb 20, 2013 itself, and features stories of the cpo-live.com | 403-571-0849 characters of Wood Buffalo. Feb 14-23, 2013 Symphony Sensations keyano.ca/theatre | 780-791-4990 Edmonton Two Violins, featuring Brothers Chooi Peg and the Yeti promises to be a magical experience. Very Lethbridge soon it will be difficult to get tickets to ARTART SALE SALE mus musIc I c Ice I ce& s &NOW sNOW scu scuLPtureLPture see just one of the brothers – never mind Written for audiences of small people both. Conductor Williams Eddins leads with big imaginations, New West Theatre violin prodigies Nikki and Timothy and the presents the story of Peg, a fearless Edmonton Symphony Orchestra through eight-year-old who sets out to climb works inspired by water, gathering the notes Mount Everest and refuses to let anything together to carry you away on a cascade of get in her way… including a yeti. heavenly music. Feb 22, 2013 Dec 26, 2012-Jan 5, 2013 edmontonsymphony.com | 800-563-5081 newwesttheatre.com | 403-329-7328

DeepFreezeFest.caDeepFreezeFest.catravelalberta.com 21 FAIRY TALES Get Out and Do MONSTERS and the Genetic it This Winter Imagination

By Heather Egger STAR WARS Identities: The Exhibition It’s winter! Time to get active! Sitting around Telus World of Science, Edmonton a cozy log fire is for afterward. Whether You and thousands of other Jedi Knights you’re an avid powder hound or a die-hard have travelled at light speed to browse STAR WARS fan; ready for about the best through over 200 props, costumes, models festive lights display in the known universe, and artwork on one of the collection’s two or crazy about folks in silly costumes on cross country skis, we’ve got something going on in Alberta this winter that fireside September 29, 2012– tales are made of. January 2, 2013 In Between Home Games Inspired by literature, science fiction and scientific genetic experimentation, leading You settle in your seat with a drink and international artists have conceived fantastical a dog, all ready for an evening of loud humanlike, animal or hybrid creatures to cheering, hard hits and incredible speed. symbolize life’s mysteries, desires and fears. The puck drops and the arena fills with This exhibition has been organized by the thunderous cheers, the slice of sticks on ice Frist Center for the Visual Arts, Nashville, Tennessee and the scrape of sprinting skates. A home game in Alberta – how did you get so lucky?

We live for hockey here. But as much as we wish it weren’t so, sometimes there is just

From top to bottom: André Ethier, Untitled (detail), 2007. no hockey on. So in between games, we’ll Private Collection, New York. © André Ethier, image courtesy Derek Eller Gallery, NYC; Mark Hosford, Haunting 3 (detail), keep the party going at one of these cool 2008. Digital video disc. Courtesy of the artist; David Altmejd Sans titre. L’idée dure de l’homme lui sort par la tête (detail), winter happenings. Feel free to wear your 2007 © David Altmejd, Courtesy Galerie de l’UQAM, Montréal, and Andrea Rosen Gallery, New York jersey – you won’t be alone.

22 travelalberta.com * Don’t try this at home.

stops in Canada. Through the displays Jasper in January you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Every January, this cozy mountain town your favourite characters, but the highlight heats up for two weeks of live music, epic will be creating your very own Star Wars snowball battles, family activities and parties hero in the multimedia Identity Quest * See 1.5 million Christmas on practically every corner. Join in daily exhibit. Who will you be? The possibilities, canyon walks, wildlife tours and snowshoe lights at the Calgary Zoo. like the universe, are endless. hikes. At night, stay close to town and Runs until Apr 1, 2013 Experience Calgary’s favourite appreciate the incredible starry sky in this edmontonscience.com | 780-451-3344 newly-designated Dark Sky Preserve. holiday tradition November 23 – Lake Louise World Cup Downhill You’ll also find terrific deals on January 5, from 6:00pm to 9:00pm and WinterStart Festival accommodation during the festival – nightly. Be amazed this year as we feature NEW light and figure The world’s top alpine skiers race down more money for goodies at the displays for everyone to enjoy. the hill at unbelievable speeds as you Bear’s Paw Bakery! Tickets at calgaryzoo.com/zoolights watch from the finish area at the base of Runs Jan 11-27, 2013 the mountain. After the races, you stroll JinJ.ca | 780-852-6236 the festival area, indulging in a hot Athabasca Annual Christmas beverage, admiring glittering ice Bird Count, Athabasca Country sculptures and taking a breather by the Even with snow covering the forest, you bonfire. Good thing you have two whole can still hear the chirping of thousands of weekends to immerse yourself in this birds. Dazzling blues, yellows and reds flash mountain bliss – men’s events run against the white and if you’re really lucky Nov 24-25, 2012 and women's events you’ll catch sight of a majestic Bald Eagle run Nov 30-Dec 2, 2012 banfflakelouise.com | 403-762-8421 Continued on page 24 STARWARSIDENTITIES.COM Continued from page 23 or a family of woodpeckers. You are in prime birding country – so get your life list ready. And besides adding a bunch of types to your ”OUT OF THIS WORLD!” personal inventory, you’ll be contributing to two national science – The Gazette databases. Happens Dec 27, 2012 ”UNLEASH YOUR INNER CHILD, athabascacountry.com | 877-211-8669 YOU CAN, AT STAR WARS IDENTITIES” – The National Post Alberta’s Last Sea Dragon, Royal Tyrrell Museum ”QUITE IMPRESSIVE” Kids (and big people) who love dinosaurs will want to spend the – CBC News whole day here, admiring one of the world’s largest collections ”AMAZING!” – The SPACE CHANNEL of massive skeletons, watching scientists work on fossils in the prep lab and coming face to… tail, then face, with their newest © 2012 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All rights reserved. Used under authorization. reserved. All rights TM. & Ltd. Lucasfilm © 2012 addition: a 12 metre long sea dragon. Along the way, your little AT TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE – EDMONTON UNTIL APRIL 1, 2013 palaeontologists-in-training will learn how scientists discover Presented by: For Tickets & Hotel Packages where a creature lived, how old it is and what caused its death. visit www.telusworldofscienceedmonton.com tyrrellmuseum.com | 403-823-7707 Canadian Birkebeiner, East of Edmonton This annual event is Canada’s largest classical format cross country ski festival. Running along the east edge of Elk Island National Park Come to Calgary for and through the rolling Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Recreation Area, the 55 KM route attracts skiers who take the loppet’s Norwegian heritage seriously – well, as serious as you can be in a pair of horns. There are courses for all ages and abilities and an evening banquet where racers collect their awards, share their stories and feast like Vikings. Takes place Feb 8-9, 2013 canadianbirkie.com | 780-430-7153 at the Deerfoot Inn & Casino Zoolights, Calgary Zoo starting at As you wander the grounds, a million and a half tiny lights twinkle, sparkle and bounce off the snow. Animated light sculptures glow ++ and move as you pass by. Cradling a hot chocolate, you listen $179 to the carollers and warm up at a crackling bonfire. Be sure to INCLUDES get some face time with the big guy himself, via SantaVision, • One Luxury Family Suite • $40 Food and Beverage Gift Certificate • before snow bowling and visiting reindeer in the kid’s area. • Unlimited Fun for the Whole Family in our Massive Waterpark • Runs Nov 23, 2012-Jan 5, 2013 except Dec 25 & 31 • Just for the Kids: Party Welcome Bag, Movie & Popcorn in Suite • calgaryzoo.org | 800-588-9993

• Per Night • Based on a Family of 4 • Hotel taxes applicable • Some Conditions and Blackout Dates Apply • • Oﬀer Valid Nov 2, 2012 through Mar 31, 2013 • Based on available Family Suites •

1000, 11500 – 35th Street SE • CALGARY, AB • T2Z3W4 • Hotel: 403-236-7529 Casino: 403-236-7542 • Toll Free: 1-888-875-INNS • www.deerfootinn.com 24 travelalberta.com Romance in the Rockies

By Caitlin Crawshaw marmots). Skoki staff helped you plan your With each step, your skis carve v-shaped Majestic route for the day and have packed you the marks into fresh snow as you haul yourself getaways perfect picnic lunch. and your gear up the final stretch of at Alberta's Skoki Lodge is one of many romantic mountain. You lean hard on your poles, Mountain getaways to be had at Alberta’s authentic hoping to ease your burning quads and mountain lodges – just ask Prince William aching calves. Turns out the rumours are Lodges and his beautiful Duchess, Catherine, who true about Deception Pass: it is indeed a love. But the destination – a rustic log cabin stole a visit on their tour of Canada in 2011. worthy adversary. surrounded by pristine wilderness – couldn’t skoki.com | 888-997-5654 A few paces ahead of you, your sweetie be more romantic. With your ski boots kicked Whether you crave a rustic retreat in the gasps. Stopping in your tracks, you share off, and your gear stowed in your room, you backcountry or a relaxing getaway with the same thought: finally! Squinting into curl up together in front of a crackling fire, all the creature comforts (and indoor the afternoon sunlight, you see a rustic log with a vintage beverage close at hand. plumbing), the perfect romantic destination cabin nestled in the valley below, complete You know now that this was the perfect gift. awaits you in the Rockies. Here are some with a plume of smoke curling up from the Most of your friends went the stoneware or more perennial favourites. chimney. This might possibly be love at fondue set route. A getaway to a remote first sight. You catch your breath and Aurum Lodge mountain cabin? Perfect for adventurers like with a quick grin, find that last spurt of the two of you! Happily, you booked your About 40 KM east of Banff National Park energy to glide into Skoki Lodge, trip, without thinking twice about the five and 45 KM west of Nordegg is one of exhausted but exhilarated. hour ski-in trek to the lodge. the province’s best known ecotourism destinations. Aurum Lodge overlooks A Perfect Backcountry Gift After the best sleep you can remember, you the pristine waters of Lake Abraham and About 14 KM from Lake Louise, and at an devour a delicious breakfast, then strap on provides a spectacular nature experience. elevation of 2,164 m, the journey to this your skis to explore the area’s picturesque backcountry getaway is all about the tough views and wildlife (like bighorn sheep and Continued on page 26

travelalberta.com 25 Continued from page 25

In the local area, you can canoe, snowshoe, hike, ice climb and stargaze. Just an hour away, you’ll find attractions like the Columbia Icefield and the Ram River Falls. aurumlodge.com | 403-721-2117 Mount Engadine Lodge In the heart of Kananaskis Country you’ll find Mount Engadine Lodge, a cozy and intimate retreat that accommodates no more than 19 guests at a time. From the lodge’s deck you can spot wildlife wandering through Moose Meadows. The lodge packs a mean picnic lunch for your day of exploring. Hike in the summer, snowshoe in winter and return for gourmet fare in the evening before turning in to your own private cabin. Just 37 KM from Canmore. mountengadine.com | 403-678-4080 Baker Creek Mountain Resort Situated in the heart of Banff National Park, Baker Creek Mountain Resort is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes. In the wintertime, nearby ski hills offer some of the best skiing in the world. In the summer, you can hike, watch for wildlife, or take a trail ride. Take your pick of 25 chalets and lodge rooms, with cozy, rustic interiors. For an ultra-romantic getaway, go for the ‘Romantic Escapes’ package, including a gift certificate to the Baker Creek Bistro (divine dining!) and a gift basket with chocolates and champagne. bakercreek.com | 403-522-3761 Crandell Mountain Lodge Since 1940, this charming inn has been welcoming visitors to Waterton Lakes National Park, in southwestern Alberta. Each of the rooms is decorated with an ASK OLD MAN WINTER FOR A inviting country ambiance, giving Crandell KILLER SEASON AND HE’LL DROP Mountain Lodge the feel of a bed and MORE POWDER THAN YOU KNOW breakfast. Relax while overlooking WHAT TO DO WITH. Emerald Bay and take in the splendid NATURE RULES view where the mountains and the prairies converge. This is a perfect place to launch Just don’t forget to say thank you when you fi nd yourself on Mt. Norquay, e Lake Louise your hiking, fishing, birding, and wildlife Ski Area or Sunshine Village, covered from head to boot in powder. Every year Old Man viewing excursions. Winter coats the 2,500 square mile Rocky Mountain playground of Banff National Park crandellmountainlodge.com | with 30 feet of the best powder. And every year we’re grateful that here in the only protected 866-859-2288 mountain resort on Earth, nature rules. Visit Banff LakeLouise.com 26 travelalberta.com

1817 10th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T3C 0K2 Telephone (403) 266-4094 Fax (403) 269-1140 Docket: 35842 Due Date: Client: Banff Lake Louise Tourism Description: Travel Alberta Winter Mag Ad Size: 8.5x11" Insertion date: Publication: Travel Alberta Colour: CMYK Account Ex: K.Trenholm Designer: A.Kirmani/L.Perez Production: D.Bentler ASK OLD MAN WINTER FOR A KILLER SEASON AND HE’LL DROP MORE POWDER THAN YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH. NATURE RULES

Just don’t forget to say thank you when you fi nd yourself on Mt. Norquay, e Lake Louise Ski Area or Sunshine Village, covered from head to boot in powder. Every year Old Man Winter coats the 2,500 square mile Rocky Mountain playground of Banff National Park with 30 feet of the best powder. And every year we’re grateful that here in the only protected mountain resort on Earth, nature rules. Visit Banff LakeLouise.com travelalberta.com 27

Photo: H. Katz/Parks Canada By Jane Usher frozen rivers and marshes, and across the If you start out early enough from Fort It seems like every time you turn around icy majesty of the Peace-Athabasca Delta. McMurray, the trip can easily be done in a there’s another roadway calling your name. day. This winter we’re going to do it again On ice fishing derby weekends, your road But there’s one in particular that hollers out but this time we’ll continue on across the companions will mainly be dogsleds and loud in the winter – and only in winter, as mighty Peace River and through Wood ATVs. Expect to see a variety of wildlife it doesn’t exist in the summer. Ice road to Buffalo National Park to Fort Smith on the along the way: moose, lynx, and bobcat the north. Those few simple words could Northwest Territories border (another 228 KM). conjure up a screenplay. are not uncommon. Winter camping here we come!

So here’s the scene: in the summer, the Fort McMurray to Fort Chipewyan For more information, visit northern reaches of Alberta are accessible (280 KM) fortmcmurraytourism.com | 800-565-3947 only by plane. The ground is goopy muskeg Driving the ice road to Alberta’s oldest Turn your next visit to Edmonton into a major event and anything heavier than a wolf is going established community (and gateway to to sink up to its knees, wheels, you get the Wood Buffalo National Park) last winter FORT SMITH picture. In the winter, ice roads are built turned out to be a very cool trip – literally. across the frozen tundra, becoming the Me and my equally adventurous buddies only land routes that connect our remote stopped in at the Fort McMurray Tourism WOOD BUFFALO northern communities for a few months of NATIONAL centre, just of Hwy 63, to make sure we the year. Then supply trucks – and crazy PARK knew how to find the start of the ice road. explorers like yours truly – will traverse We did, we drove, we loved it! FORT these roads until the spring thaw. CHIPEWYAN Highlights on the High Road Ice Roads 101 With something big always going on, Northlands can easily turn any trip Watch for a section of the road near Fort As soon as it’s cold enough, trucks apply to Edmonton into a major event. Enjoy blockbuster concerts and the water over the muskeg until the surface ice is McMurray nicknamed “The Rollercoaster” – adrenalin rush of the Canadian Finals Rodeo at Rexall Place, about six inches thick. The road is then staked you’ll know when you’ve found it! big family fun at the fair, major trade shows at the Edmonton EXPO to guide drivers on their way north. Otherwise, The Bicentennial Museum in Fort Centre and the galloping thrills of horse racing at Northlands Park. you wouldn’t know the difference between the Chipewyan is its own definition of cool – road and the rest of winter out there. you get a detailed look back at the original FORT McMURRAY Discover the big things planned for your trip to Edmonton by From mid-December to mid-March, the ice First Nations through to the arrival of the visiting northlands.com. roads wind through stately boreal forest, over voyageur fur traders. Edmonton EXPO Centre | Rexall Place | Northlands Park

28 travelalberta.com Turn your next visit to Edmonton into a major event

With something big always going on, Northlands can easily turn any trip to Edmonton into a major event. Enjoy blockbuster concerts and the adrenalin rush of the Canadian Finals Rodeo at Rexall Place, big family fun at the fair, major trade shows at the Edmonton EXPO Centre and the galloping thrills of horse racing at Northlands Park.

Discover the big things planned for your trip to Edmonton by visiting northlands.com. Edmonton EXPO Centre | Rexall Place | Northlands Park

travelalberta.com 29 360432 WINTER AD 12-08-03 3:21 PM Page 1

A jewel in the Peace Country, Nitehawk Ski Hill is a multipurpose recreational area and year round RV Park. Spend the day skiing, snowboarding, natural lunging or take in the "Aquatera TUBE ZONE", a four lane tube park with a 600ft conveyor lift to carry you to the top. The diverse terrain suitable for both beginners & experts is a fun, safe, family friendly venue. Relax and enjoy the food in the Chalet or book it for meetings, weddings, or any get together. Mention you are skiing Nitehawk at the Stanford Inn and receive a great rate on rooms. There is also opportunity to Cross country Ski on the groomed trails of Wapiti Nordic Centre. There are indoor and outdoor facilities for ice skating, or for taking in one of the many exciting hockey games as a spectator or participant. You can curl, go ice fishing, take in a sleigh ride; the possibilities are endless! And after enjoying the great outdoors you can be pampered in one of our many spas, shop, dine, enjoy live entertainment or just relax, it's all part of the GRANDE Experience!

780.539.7688 Toll Free 1-866-202-2202 [email protected] 30 travelalberta.com www.gptourism.ca 360432 WINTER AD 12-08-03 3:21 PM Page 1 Ice fishing in Style

November: January: • 16 Vegas Night, Downtown Grande Prairie • Grande Prairie Sled Dog Derby, Evergreen Park • 15-18 Festival of Trees, Evergreen Park, Grande Prairie • 38th Annual Malanka Troyanda Ukrainian Dancers, Five Mile Hall, Grande Prairie • 23 Christmas Festival Gala, Family Day, Beaverlodge • The Wedding Show, Crystal Centre, Grande Prairie • 30 Christmas Craze, Beaverlodge • 30 Downtown Christmas Light up, Sexsmith February: • 9-21 Growing the North Conference, Evergreen Park By Travis Grant December An exquisite meal December • GPRC Art Students Show, Beaverlodge Cultural Centre The shimmering northern lights wave like a • 1 Reverse Santa Parade, Sexsmith marks the end • 13th Annual REMS Wine Fair, GP Inn, Grande Prairie banner over a silhouette of forest. It’s a cold, • 1-31 Northern Spirit Light Show, Evergreen Park • Northland Sno-Goers Poker Rally, Fox Creek to a superb day, • 2 Santa Claus Parade, Grande Prairie clear winter night outside the window of my • 18 Family Day, Muskoseepi Park Grande prairie, Fox Creek and the beginning • 2-3 Wonderland of Trees and Snowfall Gala, Wembley guide’s cabin – a modern bed and breakfast & Wembley • 9 Old Fashioned Christmas, Grande Prairie Museum with rustic personality. A few logs gathered of a new habit – • Cabane a sucre/ Maple Sugar Festival, Muskoseepi Park, comfort • 31 First Footings Celebration, Grande Prairie from the woodpile hiss in the belly of the Muskoseepi Park, Grande Prairie stove as I listen to tales of fishing in northern ice fishing March: Alberta. The narrative breathes life into his • Peace Region Ag Show, Evergreen Park credentials as a wilderness expert. schools of walleye come to feed on bait fish. • Vitaemo Festival, GPRC Theatre Now it’s time to drill a number of holes with • Ladies & Mens Bonspiel, Grande Prairie Curling Club He talks about ice fishing in the old days when the gas-powered ice auger. Then we clear • Grande Prairie Home Show, Evergreen Park holes were drilled by hand and enthusiasts away the snow and raise the ice hut. fished for hours without heat or shelter. Clusters of ice formed on fishing lines as they Winter Wonderment Things to consider… • Before heading out to fish, you’ll moved in and out of the water with the jig of The heated hut is warm enough for me to need a fishing licence, which can be A jewel in the Peace Country, Nitehawk Ski Hill is a multipurpose recreational area and year the bait. A lot has changed since then. shed my toque, gloves, and coat. The ice purchased online at AlbertaRELM: round RV Park. Spend the day skiing, snowboarding, natural lunging or take in the "Aquatera TUBE ZONE", Modern Creature Comforts is translucent, but through the holes we albertarelm.com | 888-944-5494 a four lane tube park with a 600ft conveyor lift to carry you to the top. The diverse terrain suitable for can see all the way to the rocky bottom. I both beginners & experts is a fun, safe, family friendly venue. Relax and enjoy the food in the We pull up to the lake at 7 a.m. the following watch a small monitor as the guide lowers a • Dress in layers – then you’re prepared Chalet or book it for meetings, weddings, or any get together. Mention you are skiing Nitehawk morning. Only the brightest stars are visible camera down a hole. We now have a black- for the cold but can lose the outer at the Stanford Inn and receive a great rate on rooms. now as lighter shades of blue bleed from the and-white peripheral view of the structure, layers once you’re inside a heated hut. horizon into the dark sky. My guide expertly There is also opportunity to Cross country Ski on the groomed trails of Wapiti Nordic Centre. with a school of walleye hovering at its edge. There are indoor and outdoor facilities for ice skating, or for taking in one of the many unloads a snowmobile from the trailer. • If you’re fishing in northern Alberta, exciting hockey games as a spectator or participant. You can curl, go ice fishing, take I help him hitch it to a metal toboggan, By noon we’ve caught enough walleye for your best bet is to hire a guide: in a sleigh ride; the possibilities are endless! And after enjoying the great and he begins loading our gear. There’s lunch. The guide prepares the thick white Reel Angling Adventures outdoors you can be pampered in one of our many spas, shop, dine, enjoy a gas-powered ice auger, tackle boxes, fillets by rolling them in flour, breadcrumbs, live entertainment or just relax, it's all part of the GRANDE Experience! reelangling.com | 866-961-3425 a collapsible ice hut with room for four, a and salt and pepper before frying them in oil propane heater and stove, rods and reels over the propane stove. The finishing touch Get Hooked Fishing is a twist of lime and gourmet side-dishes, designed for ice fishing, and food and drink. gethookedfishing.com | 866-963-1888 an exquisite meal that marks the end to a We sled two-thirds of the way across the lake, superb day, and the beginning of a new Deep Creek Outdoor Adventures stopping at an unassuming spot 180 metres habit – comfort ice fishing. deepcreekoutdoors.com | 780.539.7688 from the nearest shoreline. He checks his 780-913-7220 Toll Free 1-866-202-2202 GPS to make sure it’s the right place. Below For more information, visit [email protected] us there’s an underwater structure where large travelalberta.com www.gptourism.ca travelalberta.com 31 No Cost Family Fun This Winter

By Debbie Olsen headlamps. When we reach a clearing, we Perhaps it’s because they realize our family The forest surrounding Lake Louise is turn them off again and lay on our backs snowshoeing adventure has given us a wrapped in a cold winter silence. I can to get a better view of the night sky. Even chance to reconnect with nature, and with hear the sound of snow crunching beneath the most jaded teenager can’t help but be each other. Or maybe it’s the knowledge my snowshoes as I make my way along a amazed by a truly dark night sky. “I’ve never there is hot chocolate and a cheery log fire well-travelled trail with my husband and two seen stars this bright before,” exclaims my waiting at the lodge to warm them up. teenage children. On winter nights when sixteen-year-old. “This is really cool.” Where Else to Snowshoe the moon is full, you can snowshoe through It is cool in more ways than one. Before the woods without the aid of artificial Kananaskis Country, Banff and Jasper long, we are back on our feet and hiking illumination. This is such a night – our all offer groomed trails with spectacular through the woods. As we walk the final headlamps are turned off and we are guided scenery, but you don’t have to travel to half kilometre back to where we started, solely by the moonlight reflecting off the the mountains to enjoy snowshoeing. we begin to feel the full impact of night’s iridescent surface of the snow. chill. Surprisingly, neither child complains. Continued on page 34 It is unusual to be alone in these woods. Lake Louise is one of the most popular winter travel destinations in the province, but tonight the mercury is sitting somewhere around -25°C and most explorers are staying indoors. The hand warmers in our mitts and boots combined with the brisk pace of our hike are keeping us comfortable and the kids haven’t grumbled about the cold – yet. Starshine As the trail winds its way deeper into the forest, we finally succumb to the need to better see the path ahead and turn on our

32 travelalberta.com travelalberta.com 33 Continued from page 32 Most everywhere you can cross country ski Free Family Fun you can snowshoe. Date Event Highlights Location Just make sure you stay outside the tracks. Nov 1-Dec 2 Winterstart Festival Santa Claus parade, crafts, Banff activities Contact a local municipality to find the area’s best spots. Remember: “If you can walk, Jan 11-27 Jasper in January Family activities, street festival, Jasper walk of lights, fireworks, chili you can snowshoe.” cook-off, dogsledding demo More Free Fun Jan 12-13 Deep Freeze Ice and snow sculptures, Edmonton Byzantine Festival skating, street hockey, freezer Speaking of cross country skiing, free races, music, food groomed trails throughout the province Jan 18-27 Ice Magic Festival World class ice carving, skating, Lake Louise make this an inexpensive sport – once you children’s activities purchase the equipment. Take a lesson Feb 14-17 Alberta Pond Hockey World’s largest pond hockey Peace River or two first and see if it’s for you. Find a Championships game good list of Alberta ski trails and clubs at Feb 16-17 Winterfest Polar bear dip, skating, activities, Sylvan Lake canadatrails.ca music

Tobogganing – zooming down a snow covered hill with the wind whizzing past you is more than just winter fun on the cheap – it’s a quintessential Canadian activity. Most Alberta municipalities maintain toboggan hills and whether your ride is a classic sled, a shiny new KrazyKarpet, a piece of cardboard or a garbage bag, it’s hard not to enjoy sledding in Alberta. Be sure to put safety first and wear a helmet.

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COMFORTS Photo: Canada Beef Inc. www.beefinfo.org

RECIPE CORNER By Cinda Chavich high-end Edmonton restaurant, or pinched Beef and Big Rock Out here in Alberta when the snow starts to by a grandmother in a church basement, Big Rock – Calgary's original microbrewery fly, we love to hunker down and get creative we have the real deal when it comes to – is synonymous with beer. Their dark with locally grown and raised ingredients. authentic Eastern European specialties, Traditional Ale is great in this recipe. We’re talking rich, hearty comfort food – from kreplach and cabbage rolls to big steamy pots of beef and barley soup, garlicky kielbasa. 2 tablespoons vegetable oil stick-to-your-ribs stews, baked beans, Wash it all down with a classic Alberta 2 pounds (1 kg) round steak, in cubes piles of creamy mashed potatoes and whisky, a craft beer, or Calgary’s own 3 large white onions, thinly sliced sweet roasted root vegetables. invention a Caesar cocktail. 2 cloves garlic, minced The Alberta Pantry Locally Inspired 2-3 tablespoons flour 1/2 teaspoon salt It’s all part of the daily diet in this land of Alberta chefs love to dig into the local pantry 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper open cattle ranges, forested foothills and and are inspired by our First Nations and 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme fields of prairie grain. In a 100 mile radius ranching roots, our waves of Ukrainian, of Calgary or Edmonton, Alberta farms Italian and Asian immigrants. Many embrace 1 bay leaf, crumbled produce the raw materials for luscious the farm-to-fork mantra, preserving prairie 1 bottle dark beer loaves of bread, craft beer and cheeses, fruits, creating condiments like grainy local 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar ostrich burgers and roast chicken dinners. mustard, and forging relationships with 2 tablespoons tomato paste farmers who deliver organically raised meats 1 pound baby potatoes, halved if large, You want a big juicy steak or some smoky and produce directly to their kitchens. and steamed BBQ ribs? We raise the best beef in the country and have some serious steak And keep your fork, there’s always pie, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley houses. Looking to go a little wild? Try bison too – tangy rhubarb and big flakey apple 1. Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over medium high heat and sear the beef in batches until nicely browned. Remove beef and set aside. Add the onion and garlic and cook 10-15 minutes longer, until onions are nicely browned. Return the beef to the pot.

2. Stir the flour into the pan juices, season with salt, pepper, thyme and bay leaf. Add the beer, sugar and tomato paste and stir well. tenderloin, or a rare venison chop with forest pies, pumpkin for harvest holidays, and of mushrooms, even elk sausages for breakfast. course, the seriously local Saskatoon pie, 3. Bring stew to a simmer on top of the a true Alberta treat. stove, then cover and bake in a 325°F Pigs are big – especially those heirloom oven for two hours. Remove from oven breeds and wild boar raised on prairie pasture. From a community harvest supper to and simmer a little longer with the lid off Berkshire is the pinnacle of the pig world, your favourite restaurant’s Sunday menu, if necessary to thicken the sauce. Stir in inspiring creative local chefs to turn the richly sharing food is part of our culture. So the steamed potatoes (or serve around marbled meat into killer porchetta, pulled pork whether your winter fun is defined by rosy the stew) and sprinkle with fresh parsley. sandwiches and house made charcuterie. cheeks and ski slopes or a top table next Serves 6. to a crackling fire, make your contentment Real Home Cooking complete with some local, casual and truly From High Plains: The Joy of Alberta Cuisine And don’t forget the perogies. Whether you comforting cuisine. by Cinda Chavich (Fifth House). want them stuffed with truffled potatoes in a Get a 360 degree view of the Rockies.

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The Western Canadian Mountain Region offers an unforgettable adventure with it’s magnificent The Fairmont Banff Springs glaciers, frozen waterfalls, and snow capped peaks. from $299* per night Book your Ski for Free package at The Fairmont Banff Springs, The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and receive complimentary ski day-passes valid during the 2012-13 ski season.

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The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge *Subject to hotel availability. from $249** per night **Minimum two night stay, subject to hotel availability. 36 travelalberta.com Doggone Fun

By Megan Kopp a connection with the dogs and learning They are a pack animal and love to run as Wind flying in your face, sun on your about their personalities,” says Wilson, “and a pack. The ideal trip is to just let them do back, and snow spraying from the paws then a progression toward running their own what they do best, with the occasional soft of your companions. Hike, gee, haw, team, with us as support.” command for a trail turn.” whoa – dogsledding invokes a whole new A Love Relationship “Our Alaskan Eskimo huskies have been vocabulary and offers much more than just a big part of our life for 30 years,” says All the dogs have distinct traits and a passive ride. Wilson. “They play and work with us, and personalities. According to Wilson, “love and they retire with us until they pass.” Jeff Wilson and Jill Bennett have been attention is the relationship needed when running Klondike Ventures near Rocky working with sled dogs.” Klondike Ventures Hike, Aurora, Boris, Alice, Mildew – hey, Mountain House for over 25 years. They currently has 26 dogs. “Our dogs are half sometimes they come pre-named and there’s run a learn-to-dogsled business each pet and half work animals. Our job is to love not much you can do – and Javex. Let’s fly! winter with two to four clients for a full day them and take care of their needs. We also experience. “The day begins with making tend to their spirit. These dogs live to run. Continued on page 38

travelalberta.com 37 Continued from page 37 Go Dogsledding with: Unique Alberta Dogsled Trips Mad Dogs and Englishmen • Unhook the sled and hook up yourself on skis – it’s called skijoring and your maddogsexpeditions.com | friends will call you crazy – on a trip with 877-662-3364 Mad Dogs and Englishmen. Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours snowyowltours.com | • Join Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours for a 888-311-6874 magical evening of moon-gazing as you race along darkened trails, snugly tucked Kingmik Dog Sled Tours in the sled behind your team. kingmikdogsledtours.com | 855-482-4592 • Brave the Great Divide as you glide with Kingmik Dog Sled Tours from Banff Howling Dog Tours National Park (one of Canada’s UNESCO howlingdogtours.com | world Heritage sites). 403-678-9588

• Step out of the sled and onto the skids as Klondike Ventures you take control of – photo op! – a dog klondikeventures.com | team with Howling Dog Tours. 877-846-7878

• Spend a day with Klondike Ventures and learn about the richness of the musher/sled dog relationship before setting out on the trails.

38 travelalberta.com STAR WARS Identities:The Exhibition

By Jane Usher Are you ready for an incredible adventure? STAR WARS Identities is a travelling exhibition making only two stops in all of North America this year. How lucky can Edmonton get?

200 original costumes, props, models, and pieces of artwork from the Lucasfilm archives are yours to discover, up close and personal. There’s R2-D2, Han Solo’s Millennium Falcon and Anakin’s full-sized Podracer. See all your favourites, like Yoda, Chewbacca, Princess Leia, the Stormtroopers, and Darth Vader, and dozens more that have never been exhibited before.

Luke and Anakin Skywalker. They share the same genes. They come from the 2012 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All rights reserved. Used under authorization. same planet. So what makes them so different? Now’s your chance to get to know Don't miss this! the characters of STAR WARS like never before and learn more about yourself in You can book your tickets in advance, which TELUS World of Science Edmonton the process. Go on your own interactive, is a good idea because some days are already telusworldofscienceedmonton.com | multimedia Identity Quest and create your sold out. Oct 27, 2012-Apr 1, 2013 780-451-3344 very own STAR WARS hero.

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