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Canmore with Grotto Mountain and Mount Lady MacDonald in the background. (Image Credit: ID 66811652 | Of © Hpbfotos | Dreamstime.com)
By Josh Hall
more tourism opportunities

Part of Canmore area’s Mount Lady MacDonald designated ‘all-season resort area’

Sep 17, 2026 | 8:59 PM

An area of Crown land on Mount Lady MacDonald, near Canmore, has been designated an ‘all-season resort area’ by the provincial government.

By doing so, the government says it is opening the door for Albertans to enjoy more outdoor spaces year-round.

They add that it could help create 1,750 new jobs and $238 million in visitor spending over the next 10 years.

“The Bow Valley is one of Alberta’s most valued landscapes, and our government is planning on keeping it that way,” says Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks.

“This designation is step one of a formal process, not a green light for construction. Every proposal will be held to Alberta’s environmental regulations, and we look forward to seeing them earn their way through a proper review, not just a checkbox.”

Key considerations would include wildlife and habitat protection, infrastructure, visitor management and community considerations.

Prospective project proponents can now begin Indigenous consultation, public engagement, and proposal submissions to the regulator, the province adds.

“This designation is an important step as we advance a new and accessible year-round mountain experience for outdoor enthusiasts,” says Shauna Dudding, president, Stone Creek Resorts.

“We’re proud to continue building on years of environmental work, Indigenous consultation and community feedback as we advance the Silvertip Gondola project with a commitment to sound science, responsible stewardship and respect for this remarkable landscape.”

According to the government, a recent province-wide survey found 73 per cent of Albertans support responsible all-season resort development on provincial crown lands.

by Josh Hall