If your idea of adventure means cold air biting at your cheeks, ice axes in hand, and the rhythmic cadence of crampons cutting into blue ice, the Moonlight/Snowline Area in Kananaskis, Alberta, should sit near the top of your list. Situated at an elevation of 5,079 feet in the rugged landscapes of Evan Thomas Creek, this renowned destination delivers some of the most rewarding winter climbing anywhere in the Canadian Rockies.

Arriving here feels like you’re stepping into a living canvas—dense spruce forest pressed against undulating white slopes, the quiet subdued only by the rush of moving water under thick ice. The GPS coordinates (50.86882, -115.10969) lead you through a landscape carved by water and shaped by relentless seasonal extremes, a perfect recipe for consistently high-quality ice. Once you’ve left the thrum of the nearby towns behind, the anticipation begins with every step. The hike in is straightforward if you’re ready for cold-weather travel—a moderate approach along the valley follows frozen creek beds and snow-laden trail, usually taking 30 to 45 minutes depending on snowpack and your route-finding prowess. Early light plays across the faces, revealing lines formed not just by temperature and time, but by a climber’s imagination as well.

The prime climbing season runs deep into winter, typically from December through March, when lower temps preserve the ice and fewer melt-freeze cycles mean more reliable conditions. It’s a landscape that morphs with every cold snap and thaw, demanding adaptability and vigilance. Prepare for unpredictable weather shifts and always keep an eye on avalanche conditions in the approach corridor.

The Moonlight/Snowline Area isn’t about quantity—it’s about quality. It hosts some of the best mid-grade ice routes in Kananaskis, making it attractive for those looking to up their game or simply savor classic lines in a pristine setting. Some of the iconic climbs here include Moonlight (WI4) and Snowline (WI4), each boasting a well-earned reputation for aesthetic, sustained ice and engaging movement that stays with you long after the climb. Chantilly Falls (WI2) offers a more approachable outing with less verticality but plenty of beauty, while lines like 2 Low 4 Zero add variety for those who want to sample the full spectrum of what this zone has to offer. Every swing here is a study in commitment—you’ll find consistent features, the kind of ice that rewards confident technique, and plenty of options to challenge yourself, whether dialing in leashless tools or managing screws with cold hands.

This zone isn’t just revered for its technical terrain; it’s the atmosphere that sets it apart. On a clear day, you’ll have wide-open views stretching out along the valley, the world muted beneath a blanket of snow. Climbing here requires self-sufficiency and a healthy respect for mountain weather. Expect solitude if you hit the right window, but also prepare for crowds on weekends—these are classics for good reason.

For gear, bring a full winter ice kit: two technical axes, multiple screws (including stubbies for thinner sections), v-threads for descent, and your burliest warm layers. The ice usually takes screws well, but keep an eye on sun exposure and check thickness diligently, especially late-season. Helmets are a must, as even minor melt or climber traffic above can dislodge chuncks.

As for the descent, most of these routes are set up for straightforward rappels off fixed v-thread anchors. Inspect all fixed placements before trust, especially after heavy use or significant warming spells. The walk-off terrain is generally non-existent due to cliff bands and snow hazards; rappelling is by far the safest and standard way to leave the wall.

The broader Evan Thomas Creek corridor is protected wilderness, recognized for its alpine beauty and ecological value, so remember to practice strict Leave No Trace ethics. The area’s remote feel, reliable winter build-up, and strong sense of legacy among the Canadian ice community make every trip here something to savor.

Whether you come to climb one of Alberta’s legendary ice lines or just to taste the crisp air and take in the winter silence, the Moonlight/Snowline Area rewards those who are willing to meet winter on its home turf.