Outdoor pursuitsThe Rocky Mountains in the southwest of the province, the wilderness in the north, the large open spaces of the prairies and Alberta’s many lakes and rivers offer scope for a wide variety of outdoor activities. The four contiguous national parks situated in the southern part of the Rockies (
Banff,
Jasper,
Kootenay and
Yoho) are an obvious starting point for visitors in search of the great outdoors. Skiing, both cross-country and downhill, is a major pastime in the Rockies in the winter. Snowboarding is also very popular. Other snow-based
activities include dog sledding (trekking along mountain trails with teams of huskies under the supervision of experienced guides), ski-joring (being pulled along on skis by teams of huskies), wildlife tracking, igloo building and snowshoeing. Longer treks allow the visitor to penetrate deeper into the pristine wilderness. Accommodation is usually in log cabins or winter camps. Visitors should note that certain regulations apply to national parks and that some activities are not allowed (snowmobiles are prohibited for example); for further details, see
Activities in the main Canada section. Provincial parks, such as Kananaskis or Mount Robson may offer the visitor more freedom in this respect.
WatersportsThere are excellent facilities for whitewater rafting, fishing and canoeing in particular. Boats can also be hired privately for recreational purposes.
RodeosThe
Calgary Stampede, one of Canada’s biggest rodeos, is held in July each year and attracts many competitors and spectators. Lasting for 10 days, it includes stage shows and agricultural exhibits, and offers one of the largest prizes in North America. Many other rodeos are held in Alberta.
Spectator sportsIce hockey, baseball and football are very popular. The Calgary Flames, Alberta’s premier hockey team, attract a large following. For general information about sport and activities in Canada, see the main
Canada section.
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