For many, the enchantment of winter feels distant, a spectacle reserved for postcards or distant travels. But according to writer Andrew Penner, that captivating seasonal magic is often as close as your own backyard. In a recent reflection, Penner illustrates how moments of profound winter beauty are readily accessible in and around Calgary, waiting to be discovered by those willing to look.
A Moment of Alpine Awe at Lake Louise
The pursuit of winter wonder can begin with a simple pause. Penner describes a late-day ski run on Wiwaxy, an easy front-side cruiser at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, with his wife, Dawn. Stopping to rest, they witnessed the day's final rays of sun slice through stormy clouds, bathing Mount Temple and the surrounding peaks in a warm, amber light. That mesmerizing scene, a quiet masterpiece of light and landscape, encapsulated the pure magic the season offers.
Penner argues that no season invokes a sense of "magic" quite like winter. From the infinitely unique structure of individual snowflakes to mountains blanketed in snow and brilliant light, winter consistently delivers awe and wonder.
The Frosty Spectacle Close to Home
You don't need to venture to the Rockies to witness winter's artistry. A prime example was the recent five-day rime ice event in Calgary, which Penner calls a "showstopper." Unlike the delicate, feathery crystals of hoar frost, rime ice forms during freezing fog, creating a dense, dramatic, sugary coating of ice on every surface it touches.
When the fog lifted, the photo opportunities were spectacular. Penner spent two hours walking through Fish Creek Provincial Park, capturing stunning images of bullrushes, cottonwoods, and the creek itself, all fantastically draped in ice. It was a powerful reminder that breathtaking natural events can unfold right in the city.
10 Ways to Actively Seek Winter Magic
While a simple stroll through a frosty landscape can be enough, Penner suggests that incorporating an activity heightens the experience. Beyond alpine skiing in world-class settings like Lake Louise, he shares a list of personal favourite ways to find winter magic in Calgary and the surrounding area.
Fat-biking in Fish Creek Provincial Park: After a fresh snowfall or a rime ice event, exploring the park's trails on a fat bike offers a surprisingly non-urban adventure within the city limits.
Winter tubing at Nakiska: The Wanidu Tube Park at Nakiska is highlighted as an ideal, skill-free activity for families and friends, guaranteed to generate laughter and excitement.
The underlying message is clear: the enchantment of winter isn't locked away in far-off lands. It's in the glow on a mountain at sunset, the sparkling ice in a city park, and the joy of shared outdoor activities. By embracing the season and exploring locally, anyone can find their own dose of winter magic.
