Lakelands

Bevy of lakes and riverbanks

Free your spirit in some of Alberta’s largest lakes. Whether you prefer fishing, lounging on a sandy shore or paddling across the waterways, the Lakelands is the place to do so.

Indigenous culture

Indigenous music, food and art have deep roots throughout this historic region. Connect with traditional customs by visiting museums and participating in hands-on experiences.

Stunning trail systems

Bike, hike, cross country ski or take a guided horseback ride down the Iron Horse Trail—Alberta’s longest trail system at 300 km (186 mi). The Lakelands’ trails run through parkland, wetlands, boreal forest and sand dunes.

Eccentric roadside stops

Stretch your legs at fascinating attractions, from a giant perogy and the world’s first UFO landing pad. Significant historical sites and museums like Victoria Settlement and the Bonnyville Museum are worth a detour.

Reel Angling Adventures

Some of Alberta’s greatest lakes and rivers exist in the Lakelands. Take a jet boat tour with a rod in hand, ice fish alongside winter enthusiasts or customize your dream fishing excursion.

Métis Crossing

Stop in at Alberta’s first major Métis cultural interpretive centre. Through events, traditional workshops and more, you’ll deepen your understanding of Indigenous history and rituals.

Lac La Biche Museum

Walk through stories of Lac La Biche’s early years. Multicultural exhibits, a boreal forest display, artifacts, photos and more portray memories of the town’s beginnings.

Wicked Watersport Rentals

Celebrate sunny days at Cold Lake with various water sports, pontoon boats or flyboard lessons. On a more relaxing note, the beach is a prime spot for lounging.

Athabasca

A small town with endless entertainment. Farmers’ markets, fishing spots, historical sites and campgrounds are merely a glimpse of what Athabasca has to offer.

Cold Lake

Tour the city of outdoor recreation. Fish throughout the year, pitch a tent next to a sandy beach and escape from civilization on secluded wooded trails.

Bonnyville

Admire the surrounding natural wonders in this wildlife hub. Hunters, fishers, bird watchers and nature enthusiasts gather here for diverse flora and fauna.

Lac La Biche

This lakeside town beckons wilderness explorers and history experts alike. Lac La Biche features backcountry trails and a notable museum.

4 min read

Amazing Sandy Beaches You Didn't Know Existed in Alberta

Alberta may be a landlocked province, but that doesn't mean you won't find quite a few sandy shores to base yourself at for peaceful paddling, swimming, fishing and picnicking.

4 min read

Seven Road Trips for Outdoor Adventures in Northwest Alberta

This off-the-beaten track region of Alberta is flush with beaches and mountains, epic water slides, plus dinosaur and distillery adventures.

4 min read

The Best Waterfront Campsites in Alberta

Despite being a landlocked province, there’s plenty of places to pitch your tent beside the water in Alberta. Sandy riverside beaches and secluded lake lots dotted with evergreens await.

4 min read

Where to Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Alberta

Picture yourself stand-up paddleboarding against a breathtaking backdrop. Grab a paddleboard and head to one of Alberta’s lakes and rivers to learn or perfect your skill.