July 31, 2026 UCalgary Admissions and Recruitment Things to do in the Mountains! In between the rockies and the prairies, Calgary is located in a very special place that is important to many. As a student, you'll have unique access to nature and be able to explore all that Calgary and area has to offer! Read about all the different activities you can do in the mountains, just an hour away from our main UCalgary campus.  We're so lucky to have the Rocky Mountains right in our backyard! Just a quick drive away, there's always something fun to do in the mountains, no matter the season, and we've rounded up a few of our top picks! If you enjoy taking in the scenery at a slower pace, there are many hiking activities to do! You can never say you’ve done it all in the Canadian Rockies. With over 1,600 hiking trails there’s always a new trail to tackle. From a quick, moderate stroll to a full-day challenge, there’s a trail for every pace. Our top recommendations include the Big Beehive at Lake Louise with a tea house pit stop, Ha Ling Peak in Canmore is a classic, and Tent Ridge Horseshoe for those craving a real challenge. Like mountain biking? You're in luck! Biking is a fun way to explore the outdoors, especially inside forests and beside riverbeds. Whether you’re weaving through forest trails, tackling hills, or just enjoying the rush of speed, there’s something for everyone. The great addition to these adventures is that the UCalgary Outdoor Centre offers lessons and courses to get you started, along with rentals for equipment. Once you get the hang of it, every ride feels like a new adventure. This is just some of the perks of being a student at UCalgary. What about adventures in the snow? Well, UCalgary is located nearby six major ski resorts, which are just within three hours of the main campus! Skiing and snowboarding is a must-try experience while living in Alberta. Whether you’re hitting the slopes for the first time or carving fresh snow like a pro, there’s a resort for every skill level. Some of our top recommendations include Nakiska, Sunshine Village, Mount Norquay, and Lake Louise, each offering unique terrain and stunning mountain views. As an additional perk to being a UCalgary student, Sunshine Village is only a 1.5-hour drive away and you can get a student discounted lift ticket through the Outdoor Centre. Although skiing is indeed a very fun activity, it can be a little intimidating at first. So it's great to know that there are some more relaxed activities such as snowshoeing! It’s a great activity, especially right after a fresh snowfall when the trails are sparkling. Rent your snowshoes from our Outdoor Centre and explore the winter landscape like never before.
As a UCalgary student, skating will become a common activity that you'll see many locals do in the Olympic Oval and outside in nature. The winter may bring colder temperatures, but it also allows lakes to freeze and turn into natural skating rinks. Grab your skates and maybe a hockey stick and puck and head out to the mountains. Some of our favorite spots are Lake Minnewanka and Gap Lake, where you can enjoy the ice and take in the stunning mountain views. But what if you want something a little slower paced? Well what better way to relax than rowing out to the middle of a lake, surrounded by bright blue water and breathing in the fresh mountain air? You can try paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing, either on your own or with friends. For those looking for more adventure, there are even opportunities for river surfing, where you can pick a calm stretch or challenge yourself on the rapids.
If you're a fan of rides plus stunning scenic views, the Gondola is just right for you. Take a ride and reach new heights, the Banff Gondola offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Bow Valley, making it the perfect spot for photos or just soaking in the scenery. Once you reach the top, there are plenty of areas to explore, including walking trails, lookout points, and even a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal with a view. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing ride, a photo adventure, or a unique way to experience the Rockies, the Gondola is an unforgettable experience.
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