Hi, I’m Hannah - Product Manager at Guess Where Trips.
Winter road trips have a charm all their own. Snowy landscapes, cozy stops along the way, and destinations that feel extra special this time of year.
These are my favourite winter-ready road trips in Alberta and BC, plus a few helpful tips for travelling in colder weather and some cozy places to stay if you decide to turn your drive into an overnight getaway.
Take a look at the map below to get a general idea of where these winter road trips end.
My Favourite Winter Day Trips in Western Canada...
Taking this trip in the winter? Here are my tips for 'The Rocky Mountain Route':
- Trip must-have: We highly recommend purchasing your National Parks Pass ahead of your road trip!
- Be aware of pricing on stop 1: Our featured suggestion on stop #1 has a minimum age of 6 years old and is a bit pricy at $37 per adult and $22 per child (6-11). BUT it is totally worth it and such an unforgettable winter activity.
- Ready for lunch on stop 3?: Be sure to stop by our featured brewery for their incredible brisket - it's smoked for 12 hours to perfection!
- Add a hike at the end of the trip: Be sure to leave time at the end of your day for one more hike, which astounds with frozen waterfalls in the wintertime! (our "want to keep going" canyon option) You might even spot some ice climbers here!
- See the Northern Lights: Winter is the perfect time to view the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights); read this guide to learn more about experiencing this magical feat.
- Experience the Banff Snow Days Festival: Travel between Jan. 16 - Feb. 8, 2026 to experience the the festival for snow sculptures, ice carving, and so much more!
- Hop on a gondola: Banff's gondola is worthwhile any time of year, but is especially pretty in the winter months!
- Relax in a hot springs: Bring your swimsuits and warm up at Banff's Upper Hot Springs, perfect for those chilly winter days!
Recommended Winter Stays for 'The Rocky Mountain Route'
Moose Hotel & Suites
Storm Mountain Lodge & Cabins
Taking this trip in the winter? Here are my tips for 'Secrets on the Scenic Route':
- Our "on the way" waterfall suggestion on stop #2 is a must-see: It's stunning in the wintertime, just be careful as the stairs and viewing platform may get slippery.
- Pack your gear for stop 3: Be sure to bring your snowshoes as we've got tons of great trail recommendations on stop #3 that are awesome for snowshoeing and even cross-country skiing! Didn't bring your snowshoes? Rent some at Whistler Olympic Park
- Feeling chilly? Warm up inside: our art gallery suggestion on stop #4 boasts a peaceful and cozy atmosphere.
- Ziplining in the winter? Yes please: Winter adventurers will LOVE this cool winter zipline experience! It books up early, but is totally worth it if you can get a spot!
- Go ice skating: admire the mountain views while skating at the iconic rink at Olympic Plaza in Whistler.
- Enjoy a unique winter activity: Try bobsledding at Whistler's Sliding Centre. You can also view sliders for free from Wednesday - Sunday, 10 am - 5 pm.
- A skier's paradise: Of course, Whistler is known for it's incredible ski hills, making it the perfect end destination for a long weekend winter getaway!
Recommended Winter Stays for Secrets on the Scenic Route
Nita Lake Lodge
Da Cabane! Squamish Glacier view
(Air bnb)
Taking this trip in the winter? Here are my tips for 'West Coast Wonders':
- Weekend travel is best: Travel on a Saturday or Sunday to make the most out of this trip in the winter months! Our historic site on stop #1 is only open on weekends from November through April.
- Warm up on stop #2 with delicious treats or a handmade pizza: They have monthly features that are worth coming back for over and over again!
- Grab a pint from our featured brewery: Our faves? You can't go wrong with a Cherry Bruin or Czech Dark Lager, perfect for cozy winter days.
- Beaches aren't just for the summertime: explore one of our beach options on stop #4 for wild and dramatic ocean views. Be sure to bundle up!
- Pro-Tip: Winter in this area is cool and wet, so pack waterproof gear! The trails are less crowded, offering a more intimate experience with the rugged coast.
- View amazing winter wildlife: Brave the winter seas and try a 2-hour winter wildlife tour from Sooke.
- Detour to a cute small town: About an hour up the coast from our final stop is Port Renfrew, a cute small town that is worth a winter visit. However, the highway along the coast can be quite dangerous during winter storms, so please drive safely and always be aware of your surroundings. Snow tires are recommended!
Recommended Winter Stays for 'West Coast Wonders'
The Owls Perch Treehouse
East Sooke Tree House
Author: Hannah Elias
Hannah is the Product Manager at Guess Where Trips. From product launch strategy to research & development (and even writing our Detour Diaries book!), she continues to find new ways to improve our road trip products for customers.
