Adventure Travel Writer
Alex Mercer
A former mountaineer and wilderness guide based in Whistler, British Columbia, with a passion for documenting Canada's rugged backcountry and extreme weather adventures.
- Writing about travel
- 5+ years
- Covers
- Rock climbing, Backcountry skiing, Wilderness survival, Whistler Blackcomb trail systems
- Languages
- en
Stories by Alex Mercer
· 10 min read
Hôtel de Glace 2027: Quebec Ice Hotel Dates, Tickets & Overnight Stays
Quebec City's ice hotel: 2026–27 opening dates, visit tickets, a night at -5°C, the ice bar and getting there
· 11 min read
Québec City German Christmas Market 2026: Dates, Hours & Tips
Six free market sites inside the walls of Old Québec, plus skating, the Dufferin Terrace toboggan and where to stay
· 9 min read
Québec Winter Carnival & Winterlude 2027: Dates, Events & Tickets
Bonhomme, the Ice Palace, night parades and the Rideau Canal Skateway: both February festivals in one trip
· 4 min read
Eastern Canada Road Trip: 7-Day Itinerary from Toronto to Quebec City
A seven-day driving plan through Ontario and Quebec, from Toronto and Niagara Falls to Kingston, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City, with realistic driving times and practical tips.
· 4 min read
Wilderness Camping 101
Permits, where you can camp, gear for Canadian conditions, bear safety and Leave No Trace basics for a first backcountry trip.
· 4 min read
Whistler Blackcomb for Beginners: Where to Learn and Ski
A first-timer's plan for Whistler Blackcomb: where the learning areas are, how to get around two big mountains, lessons, passes and tips for the end of the day.
· 4 min read
Maligne Canyon Ice Walk: 2026 Closure and Winter Alternatives in Jasper
Why the Maligne Canyon ice walk is closed for 2026, what the canyon is like, and what to do in Jasper instead.
· 4 min read
Quieter Spots Around Niagara Falls Beyond the Main Viewpoints
Places along the Niagara River that most visitors skip, from Dufferin Islands and Niagara Glen to the restored power station and the US side's Goat Island.
· 4 min read
Montreal Summer Festivals: A Month-by-Month Guide
When Montreal's big summer festivals happen, from Francos and the Jazz Festival to the fireworks, comedy and Osheaga, plus how to enjoy the free shows and get around.