Alberta designates three mountain resorts as all-season

Alberta has officially named three of its iconic mountain destinations—Castle Mountain, Fortress, and Nakiska—as all-season resort areas, a move Premier Danielle Smith says will revitalize the province’s ski industry, create thousands of jobs, and make it easier for families to enjoy the Rockies year-round.

Smith announced the designation on social media Tuesday, ahead of a press conference with Minister of Tourism and Sport Andrew Boitchenko and tourism representatives.

The decision marks a significant step in the province’s broader plan to grow tourism into a $25 billion industry by 2035.

Boitchenko emphasized the economic opportunity, noting that Albertans spend about $1.3 billion annually in British Columbia—far more than British Columbians spend in Alberta.

“Currently we have 13 all-season resorts on public land in B.C., and we have zero in Alberta,” Boitchenko said. “With this designation, we’re going to change that, and we’re going to have more Albertans stay and play in our beautiful backyard.”

According to provincial estimates, revitalizing these resorts could generate 24,000 jobs, $3.6 billion in GDP, and $4 billion in visitor spending over the next decade.

Before any development begins, prospective operators must consult with Indigenous communities and conduct public engagement. Applications will be reviewed by the All-Season Resort Regulator and must reflect Alberta’s commitment to environmental excellence, sustainable tourism, and responsible land use.

Projects will also be subject to strict rules under the Public Lands Act, Water Act, and environmental assessments, covering wildlife protection, water management, and wildfire planning.

Businesses near the designated resorts are already anticipating benefits. Gemma Shaw of Kananaskis Outfitters, located near Nakiska, said the changes could boost summer rentals.

“So that’s going to bring a lot more rentals for us,” she says. “We rent mountain bikes and e-bikes in the summer. It’ll give people a lot more terrain to go out on and explore around the area.”

Not everyone is celebrating the announcement. The Alberta Wildlife Federation has requested meetings with the province to discuss potential environmental impacts, while the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society criticized the decision for lacking public consultation.

Despite concerns, the government maintains that the designation will strengthen Alberta’s tourism industry, keep more dollars within the province, and provide new opportunities for families and businesses alike.