Frozen Bubbles & Cozy Cabins: Aleja Odyssey’s Abraham Lake Adventure
Exploring Abraham Lake’s Famous Frozen Bubbles
In a travel and photography guide packed with practical tips and heartfelt moments, Aleja from Aleja Odyssey takes viewers on a journey to see one of Alberta’s most unique winter phenomena: the frozen methane bubbles at Abraham Lake. Joined by her partner Kenan, their road trip weaves together dramatic snowscapes, photo-worthy backdrops, and the real-life challenges of winter travel.
“This lake has some stunning snowscapes and even more amazing frozen bubbles.”
Their adventure showcases both the magic and the risks of exploring the lake on foot—especially late in the season when snow and shifting ice create an unpredictable landscape.
Safety First: Tips for Bubble Hunters
Aleja doesn’t sugarcoat it—walking on a frozen reservoir is no joke. Throughout the video, she highlights crucial safety considerations:
- Bring proper ice cleats—cheap ones slip off easily
- Understand that Abraham Lake is a reservoir, not a natural lake
- Watch for air gaps under the surface ice
- Be aware of cracks, slopes, and thin patches
- Always check current weather and ice conditions
“There may be 10 feet in between the upper frozen layer and the water…”
Despite the challenges, Aleja and Kenan eventually find a pocket of beautiful, large frozen bubbles and capture some incredible shots.
Photography Tips from the Field
For fellow photographers, Aleja drops several helpful gems along the way:
- Use a tripod and 10-second timer or remote
- Adjust exposure for the brightest part of your photo and lift shadows in post-editing
- Visit during golden hour or under direct sun for best lighting
- Plan your trip around February—often the coldest and clearest month for bubble viewing
She also includes a shout-out to her own Lightroom presets for those wanting to give their photos that extra pop.
The Cabin Experience at Expanse Cottages
After braving the wind and ice, Aleja and Kenan retreat to their warm and cozy cabin in Nordegg—courtesy of Expanse Cottages. The cabin becomes their basecamp for a few days of exploration, rest, and fire-lit evenings.
“Oh my god, it’s so warm and cozy… I miss so much going on trips.”
They cook meals in the well-equipped kitchen, collect firewood for outdoor fires, and enjoy peaceful nights in their cabin tucked into the snow-covered landscape.
Why Choose Nordegg Over Crowded Parks
Aleja makes a strong case for visiting Abraham Lake and staying in Nordegg instead of battling crowds in Banff or Jasper:
“You want a landscape as beautiful as Lake Louise or Moraine Lake? You can come here… but you won’t have all the tourists and the crowds.”
Quiet roads, fewer people, and untamed nature make this destination a photographer’s dream and an adventurer’s retreat.
Wildlife, Wild Roads & Unexpected Moments
From spotting wild horses to getting caught in a sudden snowstorm, the video captures the reality of a Rocky Mountain winter road trip. Aleja keeps things candid, relatable, and real, reminding viewers to fuel up, pack smart, and take it slow on icy roads.
Aleja’s Final Advice: Research, Pack Smart & Stay Safe
“If planning a visit to the bubbles, be sure to do a little research of your own ahead of time. Brush up on ice safety, pack recommended gear, and check current weather & ice conditions!”
Her parting advice is simple but essential: adventure smart. The beauty of Abraham Lake comes with risks, but with the right preparation, the rewards are unforgettable.
Whether you’re into serious hiking or simply want to unwind with a warm drink and a snowy view, The Deer Den at Expanse Cottages offers the ideal winter retreat—comfortable, quiet, and close to adventure.
Plan Your Photo Adventure the Safe & Cozy Way
Looking to capture Alberta’s frozen beauty without the chaos of crowded parks? Whether you’re chasing methane bubbles or simply craving a warm fire and quiet starlit skies, Expanse Cottages offers a safe and scenic home base for winter photography, wildlife viewing, and backcountry exploring.
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Matt & Karla June 2020 & January 2021
During our visit, we stayed at Expanse Cottages. These cottages are located roughly 5 minutes from Nordegg and are situated fairly deep within the forest with no highway sounds to be heard. They’re fully equipped with a living room, kitchen, TV, and a wood-burning stove.
