Explore the best outdoor winter activities and winter fun with our handpicked list in and around Red Deer.
Cross Country Skiing
River Bend Golf and Recreation Area provides a stunning backdrop with 19 km of groomed cross-country ski trails, nestled in the picturesque Red Deer River Valley. For those who prefer evening runs, there are 4 km of lighted trails. They also provide cross-country ski rentals.
Heritage Ranch offers a fantastic space to cross country ski. However, keep in mind that only a limited area is specifically allocated for skiers, while the rest is designated for multi-use. During your adventure, expect to encounter runners, walkers, and fat tire bikers.
Ice Skating
Embrace the joy of ice skating, a delightful family activity, Red Deer offers 75 outdoor skating rinks for public use, including a naturalized skating pond at Bower Ponds.
Bower Ponds has long been one of the most popular and scenic skating locations in the area and they also have skate rentals.
** Please refer to the City of Red Deer’s outdoor skating page for up to date information on outdoor rink openings and closures.**
Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding
Save the trip to the mountains, you can downhill ski and snowboard just 10 minutes east of Red Deer.
Canyon Ski Resort is Alberta’s largest non-mountain downhill ski resort. The 28.6 hectare ski area has 20 runs, six lifts, lights for night skiing, a ski lodge, a large ski school, and equipment rentals. They also have a snow tube park at Canyon Ski Resort. The park is located at the top of the hill complete with 6 groomed lanes and you can book your tickets online.
Snowshoeing
Explore winter trails on snowshoes at Heritage Ranch, Great Chief Park, Kiwanis, and Barrett Park. Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary is perfect for beginners.
Kerry Wood Nature Centre
Embark on a winter adventure and enjoy a delightful activity on the trails. Kerry Wood Nature Centre provides the ideal setting for exploring the snowy landscapes with snowshoes. Situated on the south bank of the Red Deer River in the City of Red Deer, the nature center is Central Alberta’s go-to destination for year-round environmental education. It serves as an excellent starting point for those eager to connect with the natural surroundings and local wilderness. Discover the beauty of Red Deer’s winter trails by referring to the map below and begin your exploration!
Alberta Sports Hall of Fame
Head to the trails for some family-friendly fun! The Alberta Sports Hall of Fame has snowshoe rentals ready for you. Available in both adult and youth sizes, rentals are accessible Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm and on weekends and holidays from 10 am to 5 pm.
Check out the winter trails map below before beginning one of Red Deer’s winter activities:
Fat Tire Winter Biking
Dive into the evolving world of winter fat tire biking, where a thrilling adventure awaits. Embrace the growing trend that has captured the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique and invigorating experience on the snowy trails.
Alberta Sports Hall of Fame
Embark on an exhilarating adventure as the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame introduces an exciting addition to its offerings – fat tire electric bike rentals! Now, more than ever, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning winter trails that Red Deer has to offer.
Rentals are accessible Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm and on weekends and holidays from 10 am to 5 pm.
Winter Activities: Snowy Stroll
Indulge in the serenity of a winter stroll through our numerous trails – an ideal way to spend quality time alone, with your loved ones, or alongside your furry companion. Whether you choose the picturesque walking loop at Michael O’Brien Wetlands or opt for the off-leash recreation area at Three Mile Bend, it promises to be a delightful and memorable experience. Click below to view the winter trail map and plan your perfect winter walk!
Check out our list of Top 5 Winter Walking Trails.
Tobogganing and Snowtubing
Embark on the exhilarating adventure of tobogganing or snowtubing as you navigate down the slopes of a snow-covered hill. Let the rush of cold air and the sound of crisp snow beneath the sled amplify the thrill of this classic winter activity.
Bower Ponds
Enjoy the thrill of tobogganing at Bower Ponds, treat yourself to a comforting warm-up in the pavilion while sipping on a delicious cup of hot chocolate.
Canyon Ski Resort
Explore the thrill of snow tubing at Canyon Ski Resort, where their snow tube park boasts six lanes and adds an extra touch of fun with glow lights for night tubing; be sure to secure your spot by booking online.
Ice Fishing
Experience the thrill of ice fishing on the frozen lakes in and around Red Deer, with three fantastic fishing spots within the city limits. For those seeking an adventure beyond the urban landscape, Sylvan Lake and Gull Lake are excellent winter sport destinations. Gear up for your ice fishing excursion by renting all the necessary equipment at places like Sun Sport Recreation Ltd.
Want to keep the winter chills outside…? Take a peek at our Indoor Activities Blog!
