There is a fifth—albeit unofficial—season in Alberta: Stampede season. While the province is widely known for its legendary Calgary Stampede, this cowboy town is not a one-trick-pony. From the smallest of small-town rodeos—like the annual event in Patricia, Alberta—to the larger events in places like Strathmore and Medicine Hat, it is almost guaranteed you will be able to find a Rodeo on any given weekend during the summer months.

Shop, eat, play and stay at West Edmonton Mall. This all-in-one destination has been entertaining families for almost 40 years. It is 5.3 million square feet of world-class shopping, family-fun activities and more. Between the five-acre waterpark, amusement park and skating rink you’ll have a hard time finding time for all the other indoor adventures to be had here. And at the end of the day, your hotel room awaits—all under one big roof.

Camping, dinosaurs, hoodoos and more! Come to Drumheller to camp along the dinosaur trail or explore the whimsical ancient landforms called hoodoos. Enter the Royal Tyrrell Museum to be transported back to the prehistoric era. Walk though Dinosaur Hall, one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaur remains, and stand in awe of these amazing creatures. A must-see for everyone.

No matter the season, Lake Louise will take your breath away. The turquoise colour of this glacial lake pops against the mountains that raise up on either side of it. It’s the lake you see in photographs and instantly Google to see if it’s real. The ice may hide the iconic blue waters in winter but it makes way for world-renowned skating amongst the snowy Rocky Mountains.

One of the best views of the Canadian Rockies is from the summit of Sulpher Mountain by way of the Banff Gondola. Look out over pristine wilderness—and the town of Banff that sits nestled within it—from over 2200 metres above sea level. Conquer those mountain slopes on your bike in the summer and your skis in the winter. Whether you prefer your mountains rocky and dusty or covered in fresh powder, this year-round mountain destination has it all.

The fossils, waterfalls, landforms and wildlife have an intricate and lengthy history in Jasper. Get up close and personal with the Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier at the Columbia Icefield Skywalk or snowshoe your way out across one of the many frozen lakes. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the universe as you look up into the night sky—with minimal like pollution, Jasper is a star-gazer's dream destination. No matter what activity you choose, you will leave here with a deeper connection to this ancient piece of the world and a view that will stay in your memories forever.