The most popular hike in Alberta's West Country is even better in the winter! Hike along the Siffleur River with canyons, waterfalls and great views of the Canadian Rockies.
The hike starts on the Kootenay Plains along the North Saskatchewan River before taking us along the Siffleur River. A short uphill section takes us to the top of the canyon where platforms allow us to get great views of mount Ernest Ross and the first set of falls on the Siffleur River. The area is particularly dry, making it a great option for a winter hike.
After the hike, we're heading out to Preacher's Point out for a short ice walk on Abraham Lake. The now-famous methane bubbles make the perfect spot to end the day, enjoying a cup of hot chocolate surrounded by the snow-covered mountains.
A picnic lunch, hiking poles, snowshoe rentals (if needed), ice cleats and a professional guide are all included.
Highlights
- Experience the Nordegg & Abraham Lake region in its most magical season.
- Discover one of the most popular waterfalls and canyons in the area.
- Explore quirky ice formations and the famous ice bubbles on Abraham Lake.
Perfect for: Those looking to slow down and take in the beauty of the region.
Tour Overview
- Activity: Winter Hiking
- Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
- Hiking Distance: 8+ km
- Elevation Gain: ~70m
- Duration: 6+ hours
Available daily from mid-November to mid-March. Early and late season tours follow a modified itinerary.
You can meet your guide at Abraham Lake or at the Nordegg Canteen for this tour.
The Adventure
Winter Hiking
The lack of snow, great scenery, and minimal elevation gain make the Siffleur Falls trail a great option for those looking to extend their hiking season into the winter months.
The Kootenay Plains
Very little snow falls here compared to the nearby Icefields Parkway, making the area a very attractive winter habitat for elks, deers and other animals. Indigenous groups and David Thompson have wintered in the area. In the early 1900s, Tom Wilson used his ranch on the plains to winter the horses used for tourists in Banff during the summer months.
The Ecological Reserve
The unique warm and dry climate found in this section of the North Saskatchewan River valley makes this a very special place.
Today the area's fragile ecosystem is protected as an ecological reserve, the second-highest level of environmental protection in the province.
The Canyon
The deep canyon with viewing platforms takes your breath away. The first glance comes as the trail meanders from the forest to the edge of a V-shaped canyon. From there the canyon narrows and the edges more ragged as we make our way from one viewing platform to another.
Frozen Waterfalls
At the end of the canyon rest the frozen waterfalls and our destination for a lunch break.
Abraham Lake Ice Walk
Our last stop of the day is Abraham Lake for a short icewalk to see the famous methane bubbles.
Using the same ice cleats you used on the hike, you'll get to explore the area, hunting for bubbles. Don't worry, your guide knows the best and safest spots to check out.
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The Details
When and where does the tour start?
You have the option of meeting your guide at Abraham Lake or at the Nordegg Canteen for this tour. We recommend starting in Nordegg if you are unfamiliar with the region.
Meet your guide at the Nordegg Canteen
- The tour starts at 9 am, please arrive at the Nordegg Canteen 5 minutes before your tour, ready to go.
- You will meet your guide at the Nordegg Canteen (get directions).
Meet your guide at Abraham Lake
- The tour starts at 9:30 am.
- You will meet your guide at the Rockies Heli Canada base (get directions).
Return time varies based on the group and conditions but you can expect to be back around 3 pm at Abraham Lake.
The itinerary may change without notice due to the weather and other factors. Our goal is to always provide the best possible experience.
What do I need to bring?
Be prepared for the mountain weather. Conditions can change quickly and our winter tours run in anything from - 30C to +10C. Abraham Lake is a very windy place, bring an extra layer with you just in case.
Required Items
- Winter boots
- A winter jacket and snow pants
- Tuque and gloves
- Appropriate clothing for the weather including long underwear
- An extra sweater
- A water bottle
- A small backpack
Recommended Items
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Comfy shoes for the drive home
What's Included?
- We provide ice cleats at no charge for this tour.
- A professional guide.
- Snacks, lunch and hot chocolate.
- Guides carry emergency equipment, including first aid kits and satellite communicators on all tours.
What's Not Included
- Appropriate clothes and footwear for the weather conditions.
- Water bottles, cameras, and a backpack.
What kind of lunch and snacks are included?
Lunch for this adventure is served picnic-style and includes a hearty soup or sandwich, veggies and dips, juice, and dessert.
Hot chocolate is available with dairy or coconut milk. Tea is available as well.
A hot breakfast sandwich from the Nordegg Canteen is available as an add-on for tours starting in Nordegg. We're not open yet when this tour starts but if you request it with your booking we'll have your breakfast ready when you check-in.
Please make sure to mention any dietary requirements when you book your adventure and we will try to accommodate them whenever possible.
What kind of transportation is provided?
Transportation is not provided for this tour.
Transportation from Nordegg is available as an add-on for this tour. It must be added to your reservation at the time of booking, contact us if you have any questions.
What's the group size?
This is a private tour available for groups of 1 to 12 guests. Contact us if you are planning for a group of 13 or more guests.
This day trip is open to all ability levels, whether you are a beginner and or an expert. You must be comfortable walking 8+ km in a variety of conditions. This tour is recommended for those 6 and older.
What are the terms and conditions?
Advance Booking
This tour requires bookings to be made at least 2 days prior to departure. Please contact us at (403) 986-6190 for a last-minute booking.
Cancellation Policy
All bookings are non-refundable but we will offer you a credit for a future adventure if you cancel a minimum of 72 hours prior to departure.
Terms & Conditions
Waivers are required for all participants. You can review the waiver here.
Please review our complete terms & conditions prior to booking.
The itinerary may change without notice due to the weather and other factors. Our goal is to always provide the best possible experience.
A Few More Things To Know
We get to play outside on our tours and that means you’ll want to come prepared for the weather. Make sure to dress in layers and come prepared for the unpredictable weather we often get in Alberta. We rarely cancel tours due to weather, as long as we can have a safe adventure. You’ll be amazed at how warm we get snowshoeing at -20C or how much fun hiking in the rain can be!
Need help with your booking or have a few more questions? Stop by the Nordegg Canteen or give us a call at 403 986-6190.