Outside the Box

No matter what my long weekends have in store, I always make sure to pencil in some time exploring the great outdoors, whether locally or in the mountains, and I hope to inspire you to do the same. I’ll be spending my Family Day long weekend with gal pals, and in Banff National Park (in typical Maia fashion). So where will you go? Either way, I’ve got you covered.

Venturing Out

Spring is around the corner (hopefully), so I’m guessing you’re not looking to invest in a whole new Winterwear getup. Mountain Warehouse, however, has some great sales on their Winter apparel, including ski jackets, snow pants, gaiters, etc., so maybe now is the time to buy? Especially if the last few months of adventuring has worn out your gear. The forecast this weekend is looking good, and we may even see some shine in Banff. The incredibly affordable gear at Mountain Warehouse will fit the whole family. I love the retro look of this ski jacket below, plus it’s water-resistant!

OK – let me nerd out over these Oakley Flight Deck snow goggles for a hot second. These were inspired by the helmet visors of fighter pilots, built to maximize your field of view, and are compatible with a variety of helmets. These goggles are available in a few colour options, but I love the “Torch” (fiery red and yellow) and matte black combo below.

You’ll look like a ray of sunshine (even if the weather turns) in this Dijon-coloured Watch Beanie. When the mountain weather changes so rapidly, make sure you’re covered (and look cute, too).

If you’re surrounded by beautiful mountains, how do you resist the urge to snap a million-and-one pics and share them on Insta? The answer is: you don’t, and you should never! Capture precious family moments and gorgeous landscapes with this Canon Rebel SL3 camera. I love how easy this camera is to use; I actually learned to shoot with a Canon Rebel in high school and have loved them ever since. You can also snag a GoPro at The Source if you want something more versatile to prop on your ski helmet.

Mountain Warehouse
Cascade Womens Padded Ski Jacket

Sunglass Hut
Oakley
Flight Deck Snow Goggles

Below the Belt
Carhartt
Watch Beanie

The Source
Canon
Rebel SL3 24.2MP DSLR Camera

Staying Local

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: we have an incredible trail system that is definitely worth exploring, even in the Winter. My personal favourite is the Gaetz Lake Sanctuary near Kerry Wood Nature Centre. It is my Sunday ritual to take a peaceful stroll in this wildlife sanctuary. They even have snowshoe rentals. You’ll likely see your fair share of birds, deer, and maybe even a moose! Check out Tourism Red Deer’s website for more Winter trail recommendations in Red Deer.

If you go for a Winter stroll, you’ll want some technical leggings to keep warm, so lululemon should be your first stop. These Base Pace tights are built for running (though you’ll need to stick to walking in the protected sanctuary area) and are brushed on the inside for warmth and softness. Plus, this Blazer Blue Tone is gorgeous.

A fleece jacket should also be on your list. I absolutely love this Patchwork Fleece Jacket and the colour blocking. Throw a cute puffer vest over this, and you will be layered up for shoulder season!

If you haven’t invested in a fanny pack yet . . . do it! Especially all my mamas out there. I love mine because it’s versatile enough to carry my headphones at the gym, then I can head straight to the grocery store and have my hands free. Wear it around your hips or across your chest for easy access; either way, the convenience is unmatched. Perfect for all your local outdoor adventures.

Blundstones are a wardrobe staple, versatile enough to pair with your fave denim for a family dinner or strap on with your brushed lululemon leggings (I know of a pair) for your Winter walk. They really are an investment – I’ve had mine for five years now! So, what are you waiting for?! Saddle up and head over to visit our friends at Urban Trail STAT!

lululemon
Base Pace High-Rise Tight Brushed Nulux

Sports Experts
Vans
Patchwork Fleece Jacket

Boathouse
Herschel Supply Co.
Fourteen 1L Hipsack

Urban Trail
Blundstone
585 Boot

Maia’s Winter Hike Hot Spots

So, I’ve inspired you to gas up your vehicle and head out to the Rocky Mountains! But wait – where will you go? Here’s some of my faves I’ve done this Winter that I hope you try. Don’t forget your poles and cleats.

Siffleur Falls
Kootenay Plains Ecological Reserve

Stewart Canyon Trail
Banff National Park

Stoney Lookout/Upper Stoney Loop
Banff National Park

Did we inspire you to explore with your family, either locally or provincially this long weekend? Snap a pic and share it with us using #ShopBowerPlace!

Maia

Marketing Coordinator

Maia is a classic Central Albertan gal who KNOWS her way around Bower Place . . . she grew up exploring it! If she’s not scouting the best of The Great Indoors, she’s probably strapping on her hiking pack to escape to the mountains or grabbing her cowboy boots (she’ll never say “no” to a rodeo). She has a love of free-spirited 70s vibes including eclectic accessories, bright colours, and fun patterns.

Explore Our Blog