What Makes David Thompson Country a Winter Hotspot
Take a scenic drive past Nordegg along Alberta’s Highway 11, where forested valleys and majestic Rockies create an unforgettable backdrop. Winter activities abound, including snow camping, ice canyon exploration, and guided ice climbing. Don’t miss Abraham Lake’s frozen methane bubbles—a photographer’s dream—or explore the connection to the Icefields Parkway for even more alpine beauty.
In 2025, the region has seen improved trail signage, better winter road maintenance, and expanded guiding services, making it easier and safer to explore. Lake Abraham, part of the North Saskatchewan River, remains a highlight. As the lake freezes, trapped methane bubbles create surreal ice formations—one of the most enjoyable afternoons in the valley with incredible photo ops.
The Icefields Parkway still connects to the highway at the far west end of David Thompson Country, offering even more stunning sights and opportunities for exploration. With its incredible natural beauty and abundance of winter activities, the David Thompson Highway is the perfect place to experience a Canadian winter road trip.
Planning Your Epic Road Trip through David Thompson Country
The David Thompson Highway is one of the most scenic road trips in Canada. Traversing the province of Alberta, the west end spans over 170 kilometers from Rocky Mountain House to Saskatchewan River Crossing and the Icefields Parkway, taking you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Alberta.
Whether you’re looking for an exciting weekend getaway or an epic road trip, planning your journey through David Thompson Country can help make it an unforgettable experience. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip along the David Thompson Highway:
- Cell service is still spotty, so plan to be off the grid.
- Nordegg has food, lodging & fuel. There is also fuel at Bighorn Service near Crescent Falls.
- Alberta Parks parking lots are plentiful along the highway, and camping is allowed in many places with the Alberta Public Lands camping permit.
- Respect First Nations lands—many places, including Kootenay Plains, are culturally significant.
- Most great stops are short, meaning you can string multiple awesome sights into one day.
- Lake Abraham’s ice can be unstable. If you don’t know where and what to look for, hire an Ice Bubble Guide service.
The Top Things to Do and See on The David Thompson Highway in Winter
Ice Bubble Viewing on Lake Abraham
Lake Abraham continues to be one of Alberta’s most magical winter spectacles. Thanks to local operators, visitors can join guided tours to safely explore the famous methane ice bubbles. New for 2025: enhanced safety and optional add-ons like a short hike to the Cline River Ice Falls, making this a full-day nature immersion. Don’t forget your camera—this is bucket-list material.
Helicopter Tour to View the Columbia Icefield
Rockies Heli Canada Helicopter Tours offersjaw-dropping aerial tours over the David Thompson Highway, Cline River Valley, and Columbia Icefield. This season, upgraded flight routes include bonus glacier flyovers and optional snowshoe landings for the truly adventurous. It’s the ultimate way to witness the grandeur of the Rockies from above.
Try Ice Climbing With Girth Hitch Guiding
Stop for Lunch at Crescent Falls
This double waterfall remains a must-see. With improved parking and updated signage, Crescent Falls is now even more accessible for a scenic lunch break. Pack a thermos, grab a bench, and enjoy the roar of cascading ice and water in a pristine alpine setting.
Ice Walk up Allstones Creek
Allstones Creek offers a short, beginner-friendly frozen creek walk with stunning rock formations. Bring ice spikes and poles for traction. Most hikers turn around at the frozen waterfall and ladder, but new trail markers make navigation easier this season. It’s a quick but rewarding winter outing.
Hike to The Cline River Waterfall
This one-hour moderate hike leads to a spectacular frozen waterfall. Located just west of the Cline River Bridge, it’s a favorite among locals. Ice spikes and hiking poles are essential. For those wanting extra guidance, Girth Hitch Guiding now offers small-group expereinces.
Winter Hike at Siffleur Falls
This longer hike features suspension bridges, frozen waterfalls, and swirling pools. It’s a 2–3 hour adventure with steep banks—caution is key. Guided hikes are available through, and new trail signage improves safety and navigation for independent hikers.
Photo: Travel Alberta
Stop and Shop And Eat in Nordegg
Nordegg is quickly becoming a winter hub. Warm up with coffee and  grab a slice of pie at Miners Café, and browse local crafts at the Beehive Artisan Market. Even the Fas Gas crew gets rave reviews—hospitality runs deep here.
DAVID THOMPSON COUNTRY: YOUR WINTER ADVENTURE AWAITS
From frozen bubbles to glacier flyovers, David Thompson Country is Alberta’s best-kept winter secret. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or quiet solitude, this region offers it all. Be prepared for changing weather, drive safely, and bring your camera—because memories made here last a lifetime.
For more on ice climbing, visit our adventure pages; for more on the other tours and attractions mentioned here, visit the links above or Travel Alberta’s website.
Need help deciding which trip works for you?