By designating a small area of Crown land on Mount Lady MacDonald as an All-Season Resort Area, Alberta’s government is opening the door for Albertans and families to enjoy more of the province’s outdoor spaces year-round.

Developing opportunities for new activities and attractions at Lady MacDonald for visitors to enjoy year-round will have the potential to create 1,750 new jobs and $238 million in visitor spending over the next decade.

“Our government is striking the right balance, protecting our world-class landscapes while giving Alberta families and outdoor enthusiasts more ways to connect with their backyard. By revitalizing spaces, we are opening doors for all visitors to experience Alberta’s beauty in every season.”

Andrew Boitchenko, Minister of Tourism and Sport

This designation establishes a clear regulatory pathway through which a future application for the proposed Silvertip Gondola can be reviewed, formally and transparently. Designation as an All-Season Resort Area is the first step in the regulatory process and does not approve construction, development or operation. Any future proposal will be subject to review under the All-season Resorts Act and environmental legislation.

“The Bow Valley is one of Alberta’s most valued landscapes, and our government is planning on keeping it that way. This designation is step one of a formal process, not a green light for construction. Every proposal will be held to Alberta’s environmental regulation, and we look forward to seeing them earn their way through a proper review, not just a checkbox.”

Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks

Environmental excellence remains at the core for any future proposal, and any future proposal will continue to be held to Alberta’s strict environmental laws and review processes. Since 2019, Alberta has expanded provincial parks and recreation areas by more than 300,000 hectares. Key considerations would be evaluated through robust assessment and consultation frameworks. These 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. Each proposal will be carefully reviewed by the regulator with input from subject matter experts and affected municipalities. Alberta’s government is committed to continuing meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities, including ensuring that Treaty Rights and traditional practices are respected.

“For more than three decades, Stone Creek has been part of the Bow Valley, and we have always understood that the privilege of building and operating here comes with a responsibility to protect the landscape that makes this place special. The vision for Silvertip is to create a lasting mountain experience that families and visitors can enjoy while respecting the wildlife corridors and natural character that define this community for generations to come.”

Guy Turcotte, CEO, Stone Creek Resorts

“This designation is an important step as we advance a new and accessible year-round mountain experience for outdoor enthusiasts. 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.”

Shauna Dudding, president, Stone Creek Resorts

Quick facts

  • Since 2019, Alberta has expanded provincial parks and recreation areas by more than 300,000 hectares.
  • Applications are now open for project proposals.
  • Alberta conducted public engagement on the proposed designation from March to May 2026.
  • A province-wide public survey found that:
    • 90 per cent of Albertans support growing the tourism sector to help diversify the economy.
    • 73 per cent of Albertans support responsible all-season resort development on provincial crown lands.

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