Winter In Calgary: Guide For What To Expect

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If you’re visiting Calgary in the winter months, the cold can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re used to milder climates.

I learned this firsthand when I moved from Texas at age 12 and faced my first Canadian winter as an adult. Now, after over a decade of living in Calgary and frequent visits to see family now that I live in Vancouver, I know exactly how to handle the frigid temperatures, icy roads, and unpredictable weather.

In this guide, I’ll share my insights on how to prepare and make the most of winter in Calgary so you can avoid the shock I experienced.

Ready? Bundle up because winter is coming. . .

1. What to Expect

View of snow-covered mountains as seen from the window of a WestJet airplane. The plane's wing dominates the upper portion of the image, while the rugged landscape of the mountains below is partially obscured by clouds.

Calgary’s winters are long, starting as early as mid-October and lasting until March or April, with snow sticking around into June (really!) The coldest months are January and February.

What is the winter weather like?

Temperatures can plummet below -20°C, but the infamous Chinook winds can offer brief, warm spells with temperatures rising by 10-15°C in a day. These are the days when you’ll appreciate having some light layers packed so that you can add or remove clothing throughout the day.

When the Chinook blast hits, the once icy streets will turn into giant slush piles, as will the sidewalks! Be extra careful when driving or walking. I learned this the hard way when I first moved to Calgary. The slush from melted snow turns right back to ice at night, and that makes for very uneven icy patches to walk on!

In addition to the cold, expect snow that covers the city for months, icy conditions, and short daylight hours, with as little as 8 hours of sunlight per day in December.

Adapting to Calgary’s Altitude

At over 1,000 meters (3,400 feet) above sea level, Calgary’s elevation can affect visitors, particularly if you’re coming from lower altitudes. Be mindful of potential symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches or shortness of breath, especially when engaging in outdoor activities.

Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help your body adjust to the altitude and the dry, cold air.
Adjust Activity Levels : If you’re planning strenuous activities, such as skiing or snowshoeing, take it easy for the first day or two to allow your body time to acclimate.

2. Getting Around in Winter

How to Drive in Calgary in Winter

A colourful row of houses in green, red, blue, and yellow, lined along a snow-covered street. The road is coated with fresh snow, and bare trees stretch overhead, their branches forming a delicate pattern against the overcast sky in winter in Calgary.

When navigating Calgary winter roads, it’s essential to equip your vehicle with the right winter tires. Consider using snow tires like Blizzak, which are specifically designed to handle icy conditions and provide better traction on black ice.

I drove a Subaru Outback for 10 years in Calgary and never had issues navigating the snow, but for those used to milder climates, getting familiar with AWD vs. RWD (rear-wheel drive) is important. AWD offers more control on slippery surfaces, but skilled drivers can manage with RWD if their car has good tires.

Driving on Icy Roads

Calgary’s road crews do a great job clearing snow on major roads, but ice and slush (so slippery to drive on!) remain a constant danger, especially on side streets that are not regularly cleared.

Always reduce your speed, maintain a safe distance between cars, and remember to brake gently. Keep an emergency kit in your car that includes blankets, snacks, a flashlight, and a snow shovel—Calgary weather can be unpredictable, and getting stranded is always a risk.

Check Road Conditions : Before hitting the road, always check real-time road conditions via apps like 511 Alberta or The Weather Network .

Know the Parking Rules : During heavy snowfalls, parking bans are issued for snowplows on certain streets. Make sure you’re aware of these, especially in residential areas, to avoid fines or towing.

Navigating Public Transport

If you don’t plan to drive, Calgary’s public transport system is reliable even in winter. The CTrain is an excellent way to move around the city, with stations that are often heated.

Calgary buses continue to run through heavy snowfalls, though schedules may experience delays. Download a transit app to track real-time updates, especially after snowstorms.

3. What to Wear in Winter

Layering Essentials

Calgary winters call for strategic layering. The key is to wear light layers —these are easier to remove when you encounter indoor heating, which can feel too warm after being outside.

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, followed by insulating layers like fleece, and top it off with a waterproof, wind-resistant parka , jacket, or coat .

Footwear

For footwear, leave your regular shoes at home. Opt for insulated, waterproof boots with good grips. Calgary sidewalks can be slick with ice, and a good pair of boots can prevent slips and falls.

Stores like Sport Chek and Mark’s offer a variety of winter boots, while The Shoe Warehouse carries more stylish yet practical options. Make sure your boots are water-resistant, or spray them with a waterproofing solution.

Accessories

Don’t forget essential winter accessories like thermal gloves, a warm hat or toque, and a scarf. These will protect exposed skin and make your winter outings more comfortable.

On especially windy days, covering your face can help prevent windburn. A good pair of sunglasses is essential, given the number of days of bright sunshine in Calgary and the glare that will come off from the snow.

4. Take Up New Hobbies and Plan Fun Activities

With all the things I mentioned about how to prepare for winter, you might already be imagining yourself bundled up and inside for several months.

But, with so many things to do in Calgary in winter (and given how long winter lasts!), I would instead encourage you to take up some winter hobbies and schedule in some fun events, festivals, and winter activities so that you might actually look forward to winter!

Cultural Experiences

A snow-covered pedestrian bridge with a striking red, geometric design, crossing a frozen river in Calgary. The downtown skyline is visible in the background, with modern high-rise buildings and a leafless tree in the foreground.

In addition to outdoor sports, Calgary’s winter also offers unique historical and cultural experiences. A must-visit is Heritage Park, which transforms into a charming winter wonderland during the holidays. The park offers festive events, historical exhibits, and cozy spots to warm up.

While exploring the city, don’t miss the iconic Peace Bridge. It’s especially striking during winter, with snow-covered pathways and panoramic views of the Bow River. Walking across it is a fantastic photo opportunity.

If you’ve never experienced it before, watching the Calgary Flames play at the Scotiabank Saddledome is a fun and cheery way to spend time. Even if you don’t follow hockey, I always find it fun to enjoy a game with my family.

🏒 Find the best Calgary Flames Hockey Tickets 🥅

Winter Wildlife Viewing

One exciting activity is birding in Calgary , where you can observe the unique winter birds of the area, including the majestic snowy owl and the elusive great gray owl.

Consider visiting some of the best places for birdwatching in Calgary, like Fish Creek Provincial Park or the Weaselhead Natural Area, to experience the beauty of Calgary’s winter wildlife firsthand.

Keep an eye out for other fascinating species, such as the hawk owl, hoary redpoll, and short-eared owl, during your adventure.

5. Health and Wellness During Winter

Staying Active

It can be tempting to hunker down indoors, but staying active is one of the best things that will keep you both mentally and physically healthy during Calgary’s long winter that follows a short but beautiful autumn.

If you’re brave enough to face the cold, try outdoor activities like ice skating at the outdoor skating rink at Olympic Plaza, cross-country skiing at Confederation Park, or downhill skiing at Canada Olympic Park. In this ski resort, the 1988 Winter Olympic Games took place.

If you prefer indoor activities, many hotels offer gyms, and Repsol Sport Centre is a great place for swimming, indoor tracks, and fitness classes.

Nutrition on the Go

The colder months demand hearty, warming meals. Luckily, the city offers plenty of dining options to satisfy any craving.

One of my personal favourites is Hearts Choices, which serves incredible vegan and vegetarian dishes.

Staying hydrated is also important—even though it’s cold, the dry air can leave you feeling dehydrated. Keep a thermos of hot tea or water with you as you explore.

Mental Wellness

The shorter days and cold temperatures can take a toll on your mental health.

I recommend taking breaks to warm up at cozy spots like the Calgary Central Library, which is a stunning architectural space perfect for reading or relaxing.

6. Where to Get Warm: Cozy Indoor Spots

When you need to escape the cold, Calgary offers plenty of indoor attractions in the downtown area to keep you entertained and warm.

Visit the Glenbow Museum to explore fascinating exhibits on Canadian history and Indigenous art, or head to Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, for an interactive musical experience.

Check out the Calgary Tower in downtown Calgary, which is the perfect place to see the winter wonderland from above.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, warm up with a cup of coffee at Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters.

7. Where to Stay During Winter in Calgary

Finding the right accommodation is key to staying comfortable and warm. Calgary offers a variety of hotels suited for different budgets and preferences, many with amenities to help you manage the cold.

Downtown Calgary

A detailed map of the Plus15 network in Calgary, showing interconnected pathways in the downtown area. The map includes coloured lines and icons representing different buildings, transportation hubs, and pathways, with a note directing viewers to calgary.ca/plus15 for more information.

Staying in the downtown core puts you close to most attractions and public transit options. Consider booking at places like Hotel Arts or The Fairmont Palliser, both of which offer cozy luxury stays.

Many downtown hotels are connected via the Plus 15 pedestrian skywalk, allowing you to navigate the city without braving the cold streets.

Budget-Friendly Stays

If you’re looking to save, Calgary has plenty of options, including well-rated chains like Holiday Inn Express or Best Western . Many budget hotels offer perks like free breakfast, which is a great way to fuel up before heading out into the chilly weather.

FAQs About Calgary Winters

Why is Calgary so cold?

Calgary’s cold climate can be attributed to its geographic location and elevation. The city experiences harsh winters with significant snowfall, making effective snow clearance in Calgary essential for maintaining safe roads and access.

Is Calgary colder than Toronto?

While both cities experience cold winters, Calgary often has lower temperatures due to its proximity to the Rocky Mountains and its dry climate. For those looking for local intel on snow conditions, it’s important to consider that Calgary’s weather can be more unpredictable than Toronto’s.

Final Thoughts on How to Prepare for Winter in Calgary

This beautiful time of year can be the perfect time to visit as long as you’re prepared for the cold and ready to embrace the challenges it brings. From dressing in layers and driving carefully on icy roads to finding cozy indoor spots, this guide has given you the tools to handle the season confidently.

Whether you’re visiting for a short trip or planning to return, the winter season is something to be enjoyed, not endured. With the right mindset and preparation, you’ll be ready to tackle it like Calgary locals.

Winter in Calgary: Guide for What to Expect