2017: How to find the perfect piste in the Great White North
PICTURESQUE landscapes, crystal blue lakes and deliciously decadent breakfasts may spring to mind when thinking of our neighbours in the North.
STUNNING Moraine Lake is Canada's most popular site
Perhaps its the unique combination of all three that makes Canada one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
With an awe-inspiring geographical variety, the Great White North lures outdoor enthusiasts and adventure lovers in droves.
The second largest country in the world, Canada is full of gorgeous regions to explore but one area that simply cannot be missed is Alberta.
If you are looking for a skiing destination in 2017, look no further
With its beautiful landscapes, Canada is one of the most popular tourist destinations
Home to Lake Louise, Jasper National Park and ever-evolving urban hotspot Edmonton, the western province is hugely popular for hikers and kayak-lovers during the summertime.
But the area's winter offering is just as impressive, and not just because you don't have to vie for room on the slopes.
What's more, its infamous peaks aren't limited to those with years of experience.
Whether you're looking to propel down the pistes or explore what's beneath them,
Express.co.uk explored this gorgeous region to bring you the best of a winter Albertan adventure.
Marmot Basin offers some fantastic slopes for skiers and snowboarders
Spot the slopes
Marmot Basin
Located in the stunning Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rocky mountains, Marmot Basin boasts 3,000 vertical feet of skiing potential.
Powder-filled bowls create a paradise for skiiers and snowboarders. One day ski passes start from $90 (£55) for an adult.
For more info, see www.skimarmot.com
Lake Louise is one of the best known spots in Alberta
Lake Louise
One of the best known ski spots in the region, Lake Louise boasts some of the best panoramic viewpoints in Alberta.
A variety of ski passes and sightseeing tickets are available, starting from $99 (£63) for a full day pass.
For more info, see http://www.skilouise.com
Sunshine Ski Village is perhaps less known but certainly not worse
Sunshine Ski Village
Banff's better kept secret where slopes are concerned, Sunshine Ski Village is perched on the continental divide in the heart of the national park.
Perfect for beginner skiiers, the region has multiple beginner runs to choose from and plenty of room to fall over.
Two day snow passes start from $159 (£100). For more info, see http://www.skibanff.com/liftpasses
Cafe Linnea uses local produce for traditional Scandinavian and French cuisine
SKI-FREE
Eat your heart out in Edmonton
A self-professed urban centre in the heart of wilderness, Edmonton is buzzing with creativity and innovation.
With an up-and-coming foodie scene that's going from strength to strength, it's the perfect place to fuel up for adventuring through Alberta.
For coffee with a cosy kick, Little Brick www.littlebrick.ca is the perfect start.
If you're looking to brunch or lunch in style, Cafe Linnea www.cafelinnea.ca draws on traditional Scandinavian and French cuisine and uses locally-sourced ingredients.
Beef-lovers will find their happy place at MEAT, a locally-owned and operated smokehouse in the heart of Old Strathcona.
Elk Island National Park is the perfect place to observe Canda's willdife
Spy on Bison at Elk Island
Just an hour's drive from Edmonton is the perfectly preserved and peacefully pristine Elk Island National Park.
The cornerstone of Canada's bison conservation story, the 75 square mile region has higher densities of hoofed mammals than any other area in the world.
Jasper National Park offers 11,000 square kilometres of untamed land
Snowshoe through Jasper National Park
The largest National Park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park's natural beauty is nothing short of breathtaking.
Spanning 11,000 square kilometres of untamed wilderness, the UNECO World Heritage Site offers something for everyone.
If you're not big on slopes but not averse to fresh powder, a Snowshoe hike is the perfect way to soak up the area's grandeur scenery.
Guided tours with Sundog start at CAN$150.00 (£95) for up to four passengers.
Visit Sunshine Mountain Lodge for the experience of waking up in the skies
SLEEP HAPPY
Wake up high: Sunshine Mountain Lodge
If you've ever wondered what it's like to wake up mid mountain, your curiosity will certainly be satisfied at Sunshine Mountain Lodge.
Located 7,200 feet above sea level, this lodge is the perfect place for piste-lovers who don't want to waste a minute they could be on the slopes.
The only way to get in and out is via chairlift or skis.
Rooms start at £200, see www.sunshinemountainlodge.com for more info.
Cowboy skiing: Yodelay... yee-haa?!
Canada in the perfect place for a cabin in the woods escape
Idyllic Recluse: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Private luxury in picture-perfect wilderness, the cosy lodge has private cabins with uninterrupted views of the snow-capped peaks.
The on-site restaurant means you won't have to get in your car for a delicious meal, and you can soak up the UNESCO-protected view of the sky from its hot tub afterward.
Rooms start from £200 pending time of year.
See www.fairmont.com/jasper for more info.
If you want to relax, visit Moose Hotel & Suites for a bit of TLC
Treat yourself: Moose Hotel & Suites
Newly opened in 2016, Banff's latest luxury lodge has everything you'd expect from a 4 star hotel property.
With an on-site spa, two heated pools and in-room fireplaces, it's the perfect place to relax and unwind after a trying day on the slopes.
Rooms start from £150.
See www.moosehotelandsuites.com for more info.
This trip was supported by Travel Alberta and Destination Canada. For more information, see www.travelalberta.co.uk and www.explore-canada.co.uk