4 Amazing Outdoor Activities in Central Alberta

Central Alberta is a true hidden gem. It's no wonder, really. It's easy to be overlooked when you're sandwiched between Alberta's two biggest cities and bordered by mountains and the Canadian Badlands. But travelling to the heart of Alberta is a one-of-a-kind experience, defined by countryside charm and picturesque landscapes. To truly experience central Alberta, you'll want to venture outside and try these activities.

Golf in Sundre

Travel one hour northwest of Calgary to reach Sundre, a quaint town that boasts easy access to unlimited outdoor activities. At the eastern edge of town, the Sundre Golf Club is known for its well-maintained and beautifully landscaped course.  

Golfers of all skill levels will enjoy this "tough but fair" 18-hole course, says Scott Shouldice, the club's head pro. The course features rolling greens, water hazards and towering trees. Afterwards, head to the Sundre Golf Club Clubhouse to enjoy food and drinks on the impressive patio overlooking the 18th green.

Raft on the Upper Red Deer River

The Red Deer River runs through Sundre, providing ample opportunities for kayaking and fishing. Looking for something more adventurous? Mukwah Rafting Tours, located 60 km (37.3 mi) southwest of Sundre, offers whitewater rafting trips ranging from 2.5 hours to multiple days.  

Once you're outfitted with a wetsuit, booties, helmet, and mittens, an experienced guide will usher you down the Upper Red Deer River. You’ll travel through exhilarating rapids, many with storied names like Chainsaw Accident and Fluffy Bunny. There’s even a stop for optional cliff jumping. Throughout the journey, you'll see firsthand how massive flooding in 2013 forever altered the river.  

Post-rafting, stay overnight in Mukwah's cabins or campsites to relax in the sauna. Mukwah's picturesque basecamp is located near the confluence of the Panther and Red Deer Rivers. It's a remote spot, but one that features stunning mountain vistas. 

Hike in Donalda

When Bruce Gartside moved to the central Alberta village of Donalda eight years ago, he noticed something straightaway. People were drawn to the area's incredible views. Donalda overlooks the Meeting Creek Coulee, the most northerly point of the Canadian Badlands. Yet there was no established way to explore the special scenery below.

So Gartside and other locals stepped in, creating a hiking trail to connect the village's main street with the valley. Thanks to their generous volunteer efforts, you can now travel on an established trail, leading to 120 acres of pristine land. The Instagram-worthy landscape is a distinctive mix of badlands and greenery. Be sure to pick up a trail map in the town office or museum.

Stand-up paddleboard at Pigeon Lake

Pigeon Lake, central Alberta's biggest lake, is a popular area for swimming, fishing, boating and birding. Another way to enjoy the water is atop a stand-up paddleboard. And there's nothing quite like a self-powered journey to fully experience the vastness of this lake.

A solid base to explore this area is Pigeon Lake Provincial Park. Here, you'll find a day-use area (with a station where you can borrow a life jacket) and a large campground. If water isn't your thing, try the park's 12 km (1.2 mi) of hiking trails. Dotted with wild roses, this heavenly scented trail follows the lake's shoreline.

Pigeon Lake Provincial Park is also home to eight yurts: round, tent-like structures for comfort camping aka glamping. With amenities including a fridge, table and chairs, gas barbecue and a private deck, you might find it hard to ever tent again. Avoid disappointment by reserving online.