STORIES FROM HINTON NORTHERN ROCKIES
Winter Adventures You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
Let us help you plan your next snowy adventure!
Winter in Hinton and the Northern Rockies isn’t just about snow — it’s about discovering new ways to embrace the season. Whether you're chasing a thrill or just want to slow things down, Hinton’s winter adventures have something for everyone. Here are some of the best ways to make the most of winter.
Follow along to find out about great outdoor winter adventures in Hinton Northern Rockies!
Cross-Country Skiing at Hinton Nordic Centre
Glide Through a Winter Wonderland: If you’re into cross-country skiing (or just curious to try it), the Hinton Nordic Centre is the place to be. With over 35 km of groomed trails weaving through snow-covered forests and rolling terrain, there’s something for both beginners and seasoned skiers. Warm-up shelters, a rustic day lodge, and even a biathlon range make this spot feel like a winter getaway. Bonus? These trails have hosted big-time national and international skiing events — talk about quality!
Snowshoeing the Nordic Trails and Joachim Valley
Embrace Hinton’s Winter Serenity: If you’d rather take things at a slower pace, strap on some snowshoes and wander Hinton’s peaceful winter trails. The Hinton Nordic Centre has designated snowshoe paths alongside its ski trails — perfect for a quiet winter stroll. For something a little more adventurous, check out the Joachim Valley Trail in William A. Switzer Provincial Park. This 7.2 km route winds through snowy meadows and forests and even has a mid-trail cabin where you can warm up by a crackling fire. Whether you’re following packed trails or breaking your own path, snowshoeing in Hinton is pure winter magic.
Winter Fat Biking
Pedal Through the Snow: Looking for a new winter thrill? Try fat biking on Hinton’s groomed trails. The Hinton Mountain Bike Association (HMBA) maintains miles of packed snow trails, perfect for fat bikes. Wide tires make it easy to glide over snow, and the crisp winter air makes this ride feel like an adventure from start to finish. If you’re new to fat biking, there are beginner-friendly trails to get you started — and trust us, you’ll want to keep going.
Wildlife Encounters on the Beaver Boardwalk
Explore Hinton’s Frozen Wetlands: The Beaver Boardwalk is a must-see, even in winter. This massive wooden path winds through the frozen wetlands of Maxwell Lake and leads you right up to an active beaver lodge and dam. Along the way, you might spot wildlife tracks in the snow or catch a glimpse of deer wandering nearby. With wooden viewing platforms and plenty of spots to stop and take in the scenery, it’s a peaceful way to experience Hinton’s wild side.
Plan Your Winter Escape!
Hinton is more than just a stop on the way — it’s a destination packed with winter magic and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, or just soaking in the views, there’s something unforgettable waiting for you here. Start planning your winter visit to Hinton Northern Rockies today!
#WinterInHinton #ExploreHinton #YourstoExplore #HintonNorthernRockies #TravelAlberta
YOURS TO EXPLORE
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YOURS TO EXPLORE ^
Discover the Magic: Hinton’s Winter Magic Festival 2025
Uncover Hinton’s Winter Magic Festival: 7th - 23rd February
Winter in Hinton is more than just snow and cold—it’s a celebration of community, culture, and adventure. This year, the 38th Annual Winter Magic Festival is back, running from February 7–23, 2025, and it promises to be bigger and better than ever. Whether you're a local resident or visiting the area, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this magical celebration.
What is the Winter Magic Festival?
The Winter Magic Festival is a long-standing tradition in Hinton, Alberta, bringing together recreational, sports, and cultural events that highlight the spirit of winter. With activities for all ages, this festival is the perfect way to embrace the season and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Event Highlights for 2025
Hawaiian Luau Family Dance
When: February 7, 2025, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Where: Hinton Centre
What: Kick off the festival with a Hawaiian-themed dance! Enjoy dance games, Zumba demos, a photo booth, and a bubble dome. This family-friendly event is free, with snacks available for purchase to support local initiatives.
Word Scramble Around Town
When: February 7–23, 2025
Where: Various locations across Hinton
What: Explore Hinton while solving a word scramble. It’s a fun way to engage with the community and discover new spots around town.
When: February 8, 2025, 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Where: Maxwell Lake
What: Test your endurance in this thrilling fat bike race! With two categories—the Growler (3 hours) and the Howler (1.5 hours)—this event is a must for cycling enthusiasts.
P
uppy Love
When: February 9th, 2025, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Where: Folding Mountain Brewery
What: Join Hinton Art Club to paint your pet through this guided pet portrait session
Chili Loppet at Hinton Nordic Centre
When: February 15, 2025, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Where: Hinton Nordic Centre
What: Hit the trails for some cross-country skiing and warm up afterwards with a hearty chilli meal.
Axe Throwing at the Museum
When: February 22nd, 2025, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Where: Northern Rockies Museum
What: Test your skills at axe throwing in a fun, supervised environment.
Coldest Night of the Year Fundraiser
When: February 22nd, 2025, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Where: Hinton Centre
What: Participate in this important fundraiser to raise awareness for homelessness and support local initiatives.
Why You Should Attend
Hinton’s Winter Magic Festival offers a unique opportunity to connect with the community, embrace the winter season, and participate in events that highlight the beauty and spirit of Hinton. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or family fun, this festival has something for everyone.
Plan Your Visit
Dates: February 7–23, 2025
Where: Various locations around Hinton, Alberta
Stay Updated: Follow the Town of Hinton website and the Recreation Facebook page for the latest updates and event details.
Join the Celebration!
Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of winter in Hinton. From the Hawaiian Luau Family Dance to the Polar Dip, the Winter Magic Festival is packed with exciting events that celebrate the best of the season. Gather your friends and family, bundle up, and join us for an unforgettable winter celebration!
YOURS TO EXPLORE
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YOURS TO EXPLORE ^
Amazing Ways to Enjoy Valentine’s Day in Hinton
Hinton has plenty of affordable ways to spend time with your loved one, with lots of outdoor activities, specialty businesses that provide unique and one of a kind gifts and experiences it’s bound to be a Valentines you won’t soon forget.
Hinton has plenty of affordable ways to spend time with your loved one, with lots of outdoor activities, specialty businesses that provide unique and one of a kind gifts and experiences it’s bound to be a Valentines you won’t soon forget.
Duncan Murray Recreation Centre
If your not into being outside in the cold and your looking for a way to stay warm, try out the climbing wall at the Dr. Duncan Murray Recreation Centre. For couples it can be a great way to put trust in your partner. Plus you can hit up the sauna and hot tub afterwards.
Hinton Nordic Center
The Hinton Nordic Center is abundant with trails, cabins, and beautiful scenery. The tracks are always freshly set waiting for you to gear up and head out exploring. Spending time here can be an all day experience, with loads of firewood to keep the cabins warm, grab a picnic for the perfect ski date.
A great date night can be spent out at Folding Mountain Brewing, with an amazing atmosphere and selection of in house made beers it’s a place you don’t want to leave.
Or perhaps you’d like something more unique? The King Drug Soda Shoppe will bring you back in time it it’s nostalgic space, they have a huge selection of games to play, as well as snacks, and sweets to enjoy while you play.
If you are looking for a fun and challenging way to spend part of your day book in at Air Play to solve a series of clue to escape from their first Escape Room. It takes place in 1925 and prohibition is in full swing. You and your team of investigators we be leading the charge against illegal liquor sales. Your mission is to identify and bring down the boss of the operation. You must identify the boss and simultaneously diffuse the bomb in order to ‘escape’ the room.
