Content
Winter in Canada is more than endless snowfields and frozen lakes, it is the perfect time to explore, taste and experience. In this article, we take you to Edmonton and Jasper, two destinations that we know transform during the winter into versatile destinations full of culinary surprises. Local traditions go hand in hand with the wilderness and natural environment, and this manifests itself in special dishes and unique experiences. Pack your suitcase, put on your warmest coat and get ready for a flavorful winter trip through Edmonton and Jasper!
Jasper: taste the wild Rockies
In the Jasper National Park you can taste nature in every dish. And the best way to experience this for yourself is to go out with a local guide. Local food tours here are incredibly popular and a very enjoyable journey of discovery, so to speak. The cozy bistros and artisan bakeries you stop at along the way are each unique and all tell their own story. It's the way to get acquainted with authentic Canadian cuisine. A great tip is the Downtown Foodie Tour in which you complete a 1.5-kilometer trek and visit 4 local restaurants.
And of course, when you're in Canada, a cold glass of locally brewed beer (or wine) can't be missed. Our tip? That's a visit to distillery The Maligne Range. The place to sample drinks with flavors inspired by the wilderness around you. You can simply pull up to a table and order a drink, but it's all the more fun to book a tour that includes a tasting. That way you will not only learn something about the brewing process, but also about how flavors are processed. A cool culinary experience!
Culinary Edmonton: a melting pot of flavors
Edmonton is a surprising destination, and especially so in winter. The city offers interesting sights and many options for immersing yourself in the local traditions of the region. But in addition, Edmonton is also a destination where winter is the perfect time to embrace the vibrant food scene. There are fun food markets where you can sample artisan products, such as local cheeses and freshly baked sourdough bread. You don't have to starve in the evening either. There are several restaurants in town known for their creative dishes that incorporate local ingredients. Our tips are RGE RD and The Old Red Barn.
But just as you can do a cool food tour in Jasper, you can also book one in Edmonton. And for the typically Dutch among us, it's good to know that there are also several food tours you can take by (electric) bike. There are several Food Bike Tours, even themed ones, like the Donut Bike Tour! Rather not take a food tour by bike? Then check out Alberta Food Tours, the organization that perfectly combines the cultural and the culinary.
Then one last fun tip that makes our hearts beat faster: a cooking workshop! Get Cooking is a culinary cooking school in the heart of the city where they focus on using local ingredients to create globally inspired dishes. Sounds good, right?
Winter magic in Edmonton and Jasper
Besides the culinary activities you can do during the winter months in Edmonton and Jasper, you can experience much more. For example, skate among snowy trees in the River Valley or be enchanted by impressive ice sculptures during the Ice on Whyte Festival. There are several trails where you can go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Those are some of the winter activities we dream about. Are you really looking for a quintessentially Canadian and local experience? Then pay a visit to Métis Crossing. The place where culture and nature come together. You can read more about it in our article full winter tips for versatile Edmonton and Jasper.
For real winter thrills, Jasper is the place to be. There, snow-covered forests are all you want to see. And the way to experience winter here at its best? That's through an activity where you'll experience the ultimate adrenaline boost... We're talking, of course, about an insane dog sled ride. For skiers and snowboarders, Marmot Basin is the place to be. This snow-sure area is known for its perfect powder snow, breathtaking views and a very relaxed atmosphere.
Before you crawl warmly under the covers at night, take a look at the clear starry sky over Jasper. The Dark Sky Preserve offers you the ultimate chance to see the northern lights!
Why Edmonton and Jasper should be on your bucket list this winter
As avid travel enthusiasts, our bucket list is endless, but that a visit to Edmonton is in our top 10 is no lie. Especially now that this destination has secured a spot in Lonely Planet's "Best in Travel 2025. What appeals to us personally about traveling this side of the world is the coziness of the city combined with the tranquility and nature of Jasper. Add to that the tasty culinary experiences we wrote about above, and a trip to Edmonton and Jasper will be one to remember.
Tips for a winter trip to Edmonton and Jasper
Now that we have hopefully piqued your interest in a winter trip to Edmonton and Jasper, it is very good to know that KLM flies direct from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Edmonton International Airport. Depending on the wind, the flight time is about 8.5 hours. Once arrived in Edmonton, your tour of the region can begin. Edmonton, Jasper and a visit to the Marmot Basin ski area, it's the ideal combination if you ask us!
The current flight schedule and prices are best viewed at KLM's Edmonton page.
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
The 7 Best Beaches in Aruba: Our Favorite Beaches & Hidden Gems
August 13, 2026
7 Best Things to Do in Tirana, Albania
July 22, 2026
More Canada? Be inspired!
Canada
October 3, 2023
