Archives >

If you love thrifting and finding unique gifts and homeware, yummy coffee and treats, and delicious brunches and lunches, Athabasca has an afternoon of fun for you!

Downtown Athabasca is perfectly set up for an awesome “Thrift & Finds Crawl”. If you don’t know what a “thrift crawl” is, think pub crawl but with second-hand shopping! And here in Athabasca, you can visit some unique retailers along the way, too.

For this order of stops, you could park at the Riverfront, but there are other parking options where you could start your crawl. There’s parking on 51st Street and you could loop around from there.

Wear walking shoes, this crawl is about 3 km long. The Town of Athabasca is built on the Athabasca River Valley, so there are some hills. There are a lot of places for refreshments along the way if you need a break.

If you are looking for more thrift & finds opportunities, there are a few to drive to. You’ll never know what you’ll find, so it’s worth it.

Ready, Set, Crawl…

1. Paddymelon Gifts, Espresso & Eatery – 4911 – 49 Street

Starting from the Athabasca Riverfront Park, walk south (away from the river) on 49th Street. About halfway up the block, you’ll come to the first stop.

Paddymelon Gifts, Espresso & Eatery is a great place to start your crawl. Fuel up on one of their espresso drinks and an in-house baked treat, or a breakfast wrap! They have a daily lunch special and other delicious meal items.

Paddymelon isn’t just on the list as a fuel stop, but as a place to find unique home decor, candles, scarves, Canadian-made jewelry, baby gifts, books, and more!

www.facebook.com/PaddymelonGifts

2. A Little Bit of Everything – 4913-49 Street

Just a couple of doors down from Paddymelon is A Little Bit of Everything

A Little Bit of Everything is exactly that: some used, some new, some food, some clothing, some arts & crafts! They are a local favourite, always bringing in new and exciting items and crafts.

Facebook Page

3. Ella & Birch Collective – 4916 A 50 St

4. Bubel’s  – 4922 50 St

After leaving Ella & Birch, continue down the block (north) about 3 buildings down. There you will find Bubel’s department store.

Bubel’s is a family-owned and operated department store that harkens to the past. It carries clothing and footwear for the whole family! They also carry a unique selection of swimwear, toys, games, models, movies, CDs and vinyl records.

Facebook Page

5. Glas Floral Studio – 5003 50 Ave

From Bubel’s, continue walking towards the river. When you get to the corner you’ll see a newer building kitty corner. That’s where you’ll find Glas Floral Studio.

“Glas offers unique home decor curated from designers throughout Canada and the United States. Our preference lies with local, woman-owned companies and items with a story, quality of material and eco-friendly practices.”

Glas always has interesting and inspiring finds of all kinds. Their flower art is one of a kind, too.

www.glasfloral.com

6. Rhi-Defined New & Used –  5506 50 Ave

From a Glas Floral, you could walk to the Train Station. On the west side of the station is a walkway that leads to the Rotary Trail which follows the river. Walk west (away from downtown) on the Rotary Trail until it swings up and meets the highway again. Cross the highway there and you’ll see Rhi-Defined New & Used.

Rhi-Defined is a classic thrift store with a mix of furniture, household goods and clothing. They also have new jewelry, collectables and more.

Facebook Page

7. Riddle & Gift Shop at Athabasca Native Friendship Centre – 4919 53 St

From Rhi-Defined, walk along the highway back towards Downtown until you get to 53 ST. Turn right and the second building up is the ANFC.

At the Athabasca Native Friendship Centre, you can get 2 shopping experiences in one! Upstairs is their Gift Shop which has a beautiful selection of Indigenous-made gifts, jewellery and arts. Downstairs you’ll find Riddle, their second-hand store. Tons of clothing, household goods and more are available.

If you do the crawl on a Friday, they will sometimes be serving delicious homemade soup and bannock. Also a local favourite!

Riddle Facebook
ANFC Facebook

8. Lolly Pop Thrift Shop

When you exit the Friendship Centre, head back down to the highway. Continue east (towards downtown) until 51st ST. Turn right and go up the block about 5 buildings. You’ll find Lolly Pop Thrift Shop there.

Lolly Pop Thrift Shop has a great selection of used housewares, clothing and more. They pride themselves on having a neat and tidy space for you to do your best thrifting! Another family-owned business that delivers great service.

Facebook Page

9. Flowers by Christina

And finally, to your last stop, Flowers by Christina. Head back down to the highway from Lolly Pop and walk back to the main street (50th ST). Turn right and head to halfway up the block to find Flowers by Christina.

Flowers by Christina has a beautiful assortment of gifts and flowers for any budget. Home decor, food items and more, plus their gorgeous flowers.

Facebook Page

Take A Break

If you’re getting tired from carrying your haul, no worries, there are plenty of places for snacks, drinks and meals along your route. From convenience stores, fast food, food trucks, Chinese food, family dining and pubs, Downtown Athabasca has it!

Get something to go and enjoy it at the Riverfront Park. There are picnic tables and seating with river views for your convenience.

Take a look at our website listings for more info on where to eat/drink: www.visitathabasca.ca

Other Thrift & Finds in the Region

Country Bliss Treasures & Gifts – 5114  3 St, Boyle

“Welcome to Country Bliss! We are very excited to share some wonderful decor! Whether you’re searching for a piece of character to fill that special area of your home or need a heartwarming gift for your loved ones…..we have it!!”

Facebook Page

Second Time Round & More – 5800 Elm Dr, Boyle

Second Time Round has an amazing selection of thrift items, from clothing, household goods, furniture and more.

Remember, small towns have some of the best thrift items around!

Facebook Page

What will you find?

If you are looking for a day trip out of the city, or want to spend some time before an event in Athabasca, be sure to take on the Downtown Thrift & Finds Crawl. You’ll be sure to find some items that won’t be found anywhere else!

For more information about retail stores in  the Athabasca Region, check out our website: www.visitathabasca.ca/things-to-do/shopping/stores-boutiques

Are you looking to combine a getaway with a great round of golf (or two)? Look no further than the Athabasca Region!

We have some amazing choices that pair scenic and sometimes challenging courses set in the Boreal, with camping, vacation rentals or in-town accommodations. Check it out!

Main photo courtesy of Athabasca Golf & Country Club

Athabasca Golf & Country Club

The Athabasca Golf & Country Club is located just north of the Town of Athabasca. It is nestled in the Boreal forest along the banks of the Athabasca River. It is considered one of the premiere courses in Northern Alberta and challenges the most experienced players.

Athabasca Golf and Country Club was originally a nine hole layout designed in 1963. The course was expanded to a full eighteen holes in 1995 by Sid Puddicombe. Now with a recent $1.8 million renovation (also by Puddicombe) it boasts the 4th most difficult challenges in all of Canada. This beautiful course has much to offer even the most experienced golfer. During your round you may encounter a variety of wildlife including fox, moose, deer or even the occasional bear. Come test your skill and enjoy the natural beauty of Northern Alberta. – AGCC website.

The AGCC is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year! To celebrate they are hosting a 60th Anniversary Championship Tournament on September 10, 2023. If you haven’t experienced the area in the fall, this would be a fantastic way to soak in the usually warm and dry weather and the fall colours.

They also host multiple themed tournaments and special events, including the upcoming Road to Hope fundraiser on September 7, 2023.

The clubhouse is home to their Pro Shop and the Fox Den Restaurant. The pro shop offers all the clothing and equipment you will need for a successful round. Please note that the club does have a dress code of preferred golf attire and footwear.

The Fox Den serves up a mean burger (veggie choice available, too), fish and chips, salads and delicious craft beers. They boast a gorgeous patio to enjoy your meal and the view after your round.

If you are looking for camping accommodations, the Blueberry Hill RV park is just across from the clubhouse. They also manage the Lions Campground, which serves as their overflow. About 10 minutes away is the scenic River Meadows RV Park, situated right on the river.  If you want to rough it a bit, check out the Riverside Recreation Area about 10 minutes away.

If you are looking for a hotel/motel or AirBnB, Athabasca has many choices. Check out our “Stay” section for details.

The AGCC has partnered with the Tawatinaw Valley Retreat Bed & Breakfast for a Stay and Play Package! The Tawatinaw Valley Retreat is about 40 minutes from Athabasca and is set in the gorgeous Tawatinaw River valley. After you are finished golfing, take in the view of the lake at the end of the dock or go on a stroll. It’s a peaceful place away from everything! Check out their website for details on the package.

Contact Information

Website: https://athabascagolf.ca/
Phone:  780-675-4599
Email: info@athagolf.com
Photo courtesy of Athabasca Golf & Country Cub

Rocky Lane Fairways & Recreation

Rocky Lane Fairways & Recreation offers fantastic, family-friendly recreation for all skill levels. And if you aren’t a golfer, they have something for you, too!

Located about 10 minutes south of the Town of Athabasca, just off Hwy 2, Rocky Lane has a 9-hole par 3 course, disc golf, soccer golf, fling golf and a golf simulator. It is a gorgeous course with water features and lots of lush landscaping. The really cool thing is that the course has been designed so that your crew can golf, throw discs or fling balls together, all at the same time!

Rocky Lane has a 10-stall campground as well, so you can camp & play without having to leave the site. Each stall has a picnic table and fire pit. You can purchase firewood for your evening s’mores, too.

If you’re looking for a space for an event like a wedding or family gathering, Rocky Lane can accommodate you. They have tables and chairs, a sound system, event tents and more.

Contact Information

Website: https://rockylanefairways.wixsite.com/recreation
Phone: 780-327-9671
Email: rockylanefairways@gmail.com
Photo courtesy of Rocky Lane Fairways & Recreation

Skeleton Lake Golf & Country Club

Skeleton Lake Golf and Country Club is located in the Summer Village of Bondiss, about 8 km east of the Village of Boyle, with access off Hwy 663. This is a scenic 9-hole course that is as fun as it is challenging.

Their clubhouse has a licensed restaurant and lounge and their pro shop features great golf merchandise along with cart and club rentals.

If you are wanting to stay overnight, Shoreline Camping and Fishing Resort is located just on the other side of the bay. There is a gorgeous lakefront  AirBnB cabin in Bondis as well.

Contact Information

Website: https://www.skeletonlakegolfandcountryclub.com/
Phone:  780-689-2455
Email:  slgolf@mcsnet.ca
Photo courtesy of  Skeleton Lake Golf and Country Club

Northern Ridge Golf & RV Resort

Also not too far from Boyle, about 12 km south, is Northern Ridge Golf & RV Resort.

This is another scenic 9-hole course set in the Boreal forest. They have a licensed clubhouse with a deck that overlooks Hole 5.

They have over 30 fully serviced campsites and a few that have power only.

Located close to a paintball course and Long Lake Provincial Park, which offers camping and lake access, this site makes for a getaway with lots to do!

Contact Information

Website: https://www.northernridgegolf.ca/index.html
Phone: 780-576-3939
Email:  information@northernridgegolf.ca
Photo courtesy of Northern Ridge Golf and RV Resort

Riverbank Golf & RV Park

Last but not least, at the far northern end of the region, you’ll find Riverbank Golf & RV Park

This hidden gem is nestled along the Wandering River about 1 hour north of Athabasca and 2 hours south of Fort McMurray. This 9-hole course is a Par 36 regulation course that will challenge you while you soak up the Boreal forest setting.

They host a number of tournaments over the season, with the next public one set for August 26th

Riverbank has a licensed restaurant with a full-service menu that includes breakfast, lunch and dinner selections.

They also have a 50-unit RV park:

Riverbank RV Park has 50 fully serviced RV sites that are 50 feet wide by 60 to 100 feet long. Unlike many RV Parks in the area, which are built in the middle of an open field, our sites either back onto the river or have beautiful views over the river and golf course. Come and have a look for yourself to compare to the other parks! Power, fresh water and no hassle sewer make the difference in a scenic river valley setting. – Riverbank website.

Contact Information

Website: https://www.riverbankgolfandrv.com/home.html
Phone: 780-771-2582
Email:  riverbankgolfandrv@gmail.com
Photo courtesy of Riverbank Golf and RV Park

Whether you are looking for a day trip round or a week of golf and sun, the Athabasca Region has multiple choices for a great golf & stay getaway. Be sure to try them all!

People for millennia have recognized the Athabasca Region and the Athabasca River in particular, as a unique and important place. From Indigenous Peoples using the area for settlement and trade to the prospectors seeking a route to the Klondike, there is a rich history in the Athabasca area.

Here are some opportunities to experience History in the Town of Athabasca!

The Athabasca Regional Archives

The Athabasca Regional Archives is located adjacent to the Old Brick School in the south part of Downtown Athabasca. It shares a space with the Regional Library and is the main repository of historical information in Athabasca.

At the Archives you can:

• Examine Athabasca newspapers since 1908 on microfilm
• Access the area’s homestead records on microfilm
• Look through the photo collection
• Look through the newspaper clipping file
• Reminisce with Edwin Parr yearbooks
• Browse through the collection of reference books and books by local authors
• See Athabasca’s first printing press
• View a large display of Athabasca Clay Products ceramics and other artifacts
• View paintings by local artists
• Explore an index of births and marriages from early newspapers
• Research the obituaries, and
• Ask any question you have about the people, places and times of the area.

If you are an art fan, several pieces of local art are also on display.

The Archives are open Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12 to 5:30 pm or by appointment: 780 675 2811.

Visit their website:  www.athabascaarchives.ca

The Athabasca History Walk

The best way to get into the history of the Town of Athabasca and the region is to take the Historical Walking tour. The Heritage Society in partnership with the Archives publishes a guide booklet with detailed descriptions of the landmarks and buildings.

There are many stops on the walk, 29 in total. At some places along the way, there will be signs that give you a brief history and context.

The walk starts at the Athabasca Train Station, moves through Downtown and up to the Archives and Old Brick School, then you head back down to the Riverfront.

Take a look at some of the sites you’ll visit: Athabasca Historical Walking Tour Gallery

So, put on some comfortable shoes, fill up your water bottle and enjoy this self-guided tour of Athabasca History.

Athabasca Historical Walking Tour Guide Book

Athabasca Landing Trail

The route from Edmonton up to Athabasca Landing remains today as a walking trail, part of the Trans Canada trail.

“The Athabasca Landing Trail was built in 1876 by the Hudson’s Bay Company to improve transportation between Edmonton and northern communities. The trail was 100 miles in distance and linked the North Saskatchewan River with the Mackenzie River system, giving it the nickname “The 100 Mile Portage.”

In the late 1800s, the trail was Canada’s busiest northern route and played an important role in the development of northern Alberta, the Yukon and the Northwest Territories. Fur traders, gold rush miners and settlers all followed the trail north, and stopping houses sprang up to accommodate their need for overnight accommodation, meals and stabling of animals.

With the development of railways and roads in this region, the trail became less used. Parts of the trail are still used as roads or recreational trails; others are overgrown or on private land.” – www.athabascalandingtrail.com

At the trailhead in Athabasca, there is a large parking lot, with public washrooms across the highway by the splash park.

As you walk along the trail that used to be the rail line, watch for signs of the trail’s past use… abandoned bridge foundations, machinery and tools. For the most part, it follows alongside the Tawatinaw River, providing great wildlife and nature viewing.

The trail is not continuous, as the old rail line now passes over private property and some bridge crossings are under repair. There are some really great sections that are still walkable: At Colinton going north, outside Rochester to the north, with great wildlife watching on the Tawatinaw River. The map at the Athabasca trailhead shows some of the other sections in the area that are walkable. Some sections are in heavily forested areas, so be wildlife smart.

Celebrate the Athabasca!

Coming up on July 13, 2023, is the “Celebrate the Athabasca!” event that will be welcoming a voyageur canoe brigade that is travelling the Athabasca River from Whitecourt to Fort Assiniboine to Athabasca to celebrate Fort Assiniboine’s 200th birthday!

“The main impetus for this Brigade is to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the founding of Fort Assiniboine by the Hudson Bay Company under the direction of George Simpson the governor of the Hudson Bay Company as a major stopover in the historic Columbia Express connecting eastern Canada to the Oregon territory as part of the company’s continental fur trade. Since Canoe Brigades were the main way of linking all the various fur trading posts on the route it is only appropriate that we have a Modern Day Voyageur Canoe Brigade arrive at the present-day community of Fort Assiniboine on July 8th to help commemorate their Bicentennial celebrations. It should be noted that Fort Assiniboine held exceptional celebrations at the end of the 2017 Athabasca Brigade as part of Canada’s 150th to honour the paddlers who participated in that particular Brigade. Due to the success of that Brigade, besides the communities listed above, Woodlands County, Barrhead County, the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River and Athabasca County have all enthusiastically endorsed our Brigade and are planning celebrations recognizing our upcoming Brigade. Showcasing the recreational opportunities on this section of the Athabasca River is an integral part of our mandate in 2023.”

The Canadian Voyageur Brigade Society celebrates the history of Canadian rivers that were used as transportation routes during colonial exploration and the fur trade. They travel in traditional-style “big” canoes and wear period costumes. They promote learning about canoe travel and safety.

The Brigade will finish their journey in Athabasca, at the Riverfront Park. There will be dignitaries welcoming them ashore and entertainment.

Come out and experience a taste of the history of the Athabasca River by welcoming the Voyageurs!

Find out more about the Brigade here.

This is just a sample of the historical experiences in the Athabasca region. Watch for part 2 of this blog, where we will take a look at historical areas in the County and region such as Amber Valley, the Peace River Trail and a new museum in Calling Lake.

Spring has sprung and folks in the Athabasca region are feeling their oats with how many events are happening! From Farmers’ Markets to jet boat rallies to music festivals, there is plenty to do in the region this June and July!

Spring Fling – May 28 & June 4

Hosted by the Boyle and District Agricultural Society, the Spring Fling Barrel Racing series showcases some of the best barrel racers in the area. The riders compete for a jackpot prize every Sunday in May. The event features adults, youth and pee-wee competitors and their amazing horses. Sure to offer exciting racing action!

The races run from 10 am to 4 pm at the Boyle Rodeo Grounds, just east of the Village of Boyle.

Learn More Here

Rotary Golf Classic – June 2

The Rotary Club of Athabasca is gearing up for their 21st Annual Golf Classic. Held at the beautiful Athabasca Golf and Country Club, this annual event offers a day of fun, food and prizes. The challenging course keeps golfers on their toes amidst the Boreal Forest backdrop.

This fundraising event allows the Rotary Club to support community projects and initiatives to better the quality of life in the community.

If you didn’t get a chance to register for this year’s event, be sure to mark your calendar for next year.

Instagram Profile

Jet Boat Rally – June 3

Get your motors running for the annual Athabasca River Jet Boat Rally and Poker Run! This year the event is hosted by the Athabasca Riverboat Association.

The event starts off at the Athabasca Riverfront Park, with registration happening at 10 am until 12 pm. Then the boats launch off for their poker run, picking up cards at 5 spots. The boats end up at the Riverside Recreation Area for food, live music and camping.

The next day, the Arnold Gorski Memorial Jet Boat Rodeo gives the boaters a chance to show off their skills.

The Play That Goes Wrong – June 9, 10, 11

Looking for a fun date night? Come out and experience “The Play That Goes Wrong” performed and produced by the Big River Arts Society. The Play That Goes Wrong was originally produced and performed on the West End Stage and on Broadway.

“An unconscious leading lady, a corpse who can’t play dead, a ruffled detective, and a word-mangling butler and others must battle against technical gaffes, forgotten lines, and sabotaging scenery in a quest to arrive all in one piece at the final curtain call.”

Start the evening with drinks and a delicious dinner at the Athabasca Seniors Centre. Then wander over to the Nancy Appleby Theatre to take in the show.

Purchase Tickets and Learn More Here

Athabasca University Homecoming – June 17

June 17 is going to be a big day in Athabasca! Come out and help Athabasca University’s Graduating Class of 2023 celebrate their convocation! Students, friends and family will take part in a day of activities ranging from campus tours, swimming at the Athabasca Regional Multiplex, a street dance, a BBQ contest and the Athabasca Farmers’ Market.

See the Schedule

AU Students Celebrate Convocation

Students and their guests will be arriving from Edmonton around 10 am for campus tours, lawn games with staff and faculty and activities at the Athabasca Regional Multiplex. Then the celebrations move to Downtown Athabasca for the Farmers Market, checking out Downtown businesses and the Alley Cat Street Dance.

Alley Cat Street Dance

The Alley Cat Street Dance is being presented by the Athabasca Chamber of Commerce and the Athabasca Advocate newspaper. They will be taking over 49th Street with all sorts of festival activities.

There will be local dance troupes performing, a cat adoption event, garage sale tables and businesses and non-profits with displays and sales.

Kick Off Summer

The Athabasca District Ag Society is celebrating the Summer with its “Kick Off Summer” event.

If you love BBQ, then one of the main attractions at the Kick-Off will be the “Show Us Your Meat” BBQ Ribs contest. Contestants will be slow cooking their ribs for the glory of the Best Ribs in Athabasca!

The rest of the activities include a bench show, petting zoo, kids rodeo, and equipment sales and displays. The 4H Club will be hosting the concession. This family-friendly event ends with a dance and cabaret!

Learn More Here

National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration – June 21

Join the Athabasca Native Friendship Centre in celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day!

Starting at 4 pm, at the Athabasca Riverfront Park, there will be a free BBQ, door prizes, arts and crafts for the kids and Indigenous dancers and drummers performing.

The Magnificent River Rats Festival – June 30/July 1

One of the Athabasca Region’s cornerstone events is the Magnificent River Rats Festival! This annual event is 26 years running and showcases national and local talent, and celebrates Canada Day.

The two-day celebration centred at the Athabasca Riverfront Park offers performances on the Riverfront Stage, a Farmers’ market, kids’ activities, a beer garden, an art show and sale, a classic car show and more!

Day one, June 30, will be Rock themed with a Heart tribute band, Punch Drunk Cabaret and with Jimmy and the Sleepers headlining. Day two, Canada Day, is country themed with Duane Steele headlining.

Purchase Tickets and Learn More Here

Celebrate the Athabasca!

The history of the Athabasca River is part of the history of the Indigenous Peoples and explorers who used it as a transportation route for trade.

One of the settlements along the river,  Fort Assiniboine, is celebrating its bi-centennial. To help mark the occasion the Canadian Voyageur Brigade Society will be travelling on the river and making stops along the way.

The final stop will be the Athabasca Riverfront Park, where Town officials will be welcoming them ashore.

Learn more about the history of the river, Athabasca Landing and the people who travelled here at this family-friendly event. There will be entertainment and refreshments.

Athabasca Airport Fly-in BBQ – July 15

Another long-standing event in the Athabasca region is the Athabasca County Fly-in BBQ held at the Athabasca Regional Airport.

“Each year the Athabasca County Fly-In Barbecue includes more people from the aviation community and the local community. The Fly-In sees over 1,000 people attend the event and pilots “Fly-In” from all over Alberta. Incredible! Those who attend are welcome to check out some aircraft, displays, cars, and activities for the kids and learn about our airport.”

Starting at 11 am, pilots and guests can take in an airshow, free BBQ, a car show and much more.

Learn More Here

Farmers’ Markets

Athabasca Famers’ Market – Saturdays 10 – 2 PM

During the summer months, the Athabasca Farmers’ Market is held outdoors at the Riverfront Park from 10 am to 2 pm.

Spend the afternoon checking out artisan crafts, locally grown food and yummy treats.

Facebook Page

Boyle Farmers’ Market – Thursdays 12 – 3 PM

The Boyle Farmers’ Market is held every Thursday from noon to 3 pm at the Boyle Community Centre. Enjoy home baking, crafts and local produce.

Facebook Page

Coming Up In August and September

Some upcoming events to watch for are:

• The Rochester Fair
• Boyle Fiesta Days
• The Boyle Wildberry Festival
• Kapâwinihk Wilderness Triathlon

Be sure to check our Events Calendar regularly to stay up to date with events happening in the Athabasca Region. We update it every Friday. You can also submit your own event here. All submitted events require admin approval.

So if you are looking for a fun weekend or day trip, keep the Athabasca region in mind! Not only do we have spectacular Nature, and deep History but Events that will keep you entertained all summer long!

Next | Previous | All

Photo: Grand Rapids Wilderness Adventures

Getting Wild

The Athabasca region is uniquely situated on the Alberta Boreal forest’s lower edge and bisected by the Athabasca River. There are many areas that boast untouched forests, pristine lakes, abundant wildlife and other natural features that offer travellers a taste of the Alberta wilderness.

Just an hour and a half north of Edmonton and 4.5 hours from Calgary, the Athabasca region makes for an easy wilderness getaway for all skill levels. Let’s take a look at some of the possibilities…

Grand Rapids Wilderness Adventures

One of the premiere wilderness experiences in the Athabasca region is heading down the Athabasca River by jet boat to the Grand Rapids Wilderness Adventures lodge. Your hosts, Darcy and Shirley Zelman will show you the rarely visited natural and historic sites on this stretch of the Athabasca River.

You’ll meet up in the town of Athabasca and travel for approximately 5 hours downriver, stopping to check out multiple sites. The first stop is an area with real old-growth forests where some of the trees are hundreds of years old and so big you can’t wrap your arms around them.

Next, you’ll stop to check out an abandoned Hudson’s Bay trading post. There are a lot of relics left behind displaying the history of the Athabasca River being an important transportation route in early Canada.

Don’t be surprised if there are stops to view the Boreal species that inhabit the area like wolves, bears, moose, deer and raptors to name a few, as the river valley has abundant and varied wildlife.

Your hosts will set you up in a cozy cabin and provide delicious meals to keep you energized for your adventure. You’ll be kept busy with opportunities to fish on the river or paddle around in a canoe.

One of the best features of this trip is the Grand Rapids themselves. A unique geological occurrence created these rapids:

The rapids are a result of river erosion of the 110-million-year-old sandstone of the Grand Rapids Formation. This formation, which forms the large, nearly vertical outcrop on the east side of the valley, is divided into three major sandstone layers. The lowermost level creates the rapids because it is filled with large, two-to-three-metre wide concretions that often contain pieces of petrified logs. These concretions were formed in a similar fashion to those at Red Rock Coulee. As the river erodes away the sand matrix, these huge concretions come loose and dam the river bed. – A Traveller’s Guide to Geological Wonders in Alberta by Ron Mussieux and Marilyn Nelson

GRWA offers a variety of packages. Be sure to book early, as this exclusive adventure fills up quickly.

Check out the videos produced by “Let’s Go Outdoors” on their experience with Grand Rapids Wilderness Adventures:

Episode 1: https://youtu.be/eSDvmqSC2go
Episode 2: https://youtu.be/K491X3ih0lo
Episode 3: https://youtu.be/KnT5X1DdZaI

Grand Rapids Wilderness Adventures Online:

www.athabasca-river.com
www.facebook.com/Athabasca.River

The La Biche River Wildland

Just to the northeast of the town of Athabasca lies the La Biche River Wildland. This pristine natural area is only accessible through Poachers Landing.

There are over 17,000 hectares of undisturbed Boreal forest:

La Biche River Wildland Park protects an undisturbed native boreal forest landscape that consists of wetlands and dense forests of poplar, aspen, spruce, birch and fir. The area provides habitat for black bears, lynxes, wolverines, woodland caribou, moose and beaver. – Alberta Parks

There are no formal campgrounds here, other than at Poachers Landing, but backcountry camping is allowed all year long. Other activities include OHV use (please stay on trails to protect this sensitive area), horseback riding, hiking, boating, snowshoeing and more. Special permits are required for fishing, hunting, guiding and other activities.

The Poacher’s Landing campground has 6 unserviced sites and is a first come, first served campsite. There is a boat launch into the Athabasca River, a cookhouse and restrooms. It opens on May 20 and closes on September 20.

https://albertaparks.ca/parks/north/la-biche-river-wpp/information-facilities/

The Peace River Wilderness Trail

Part of the Trans Canada Trail includes the Peace River Wilderness trail that runs from just north of Athabasca to northeast of Smith, AB. This route was first used by the Indigenous peoples of the area. With the advance of colonial traders, settlers and the gold rush, Euro-Canadian explorers used this trail as a route north.

Spectacular wilderness area with interesting native flora and fauna and views of the Athabasca River. Moose, elk, deer, wolves, black bears and most boreal mammals are abundant. Bald eagles and other raptors make their permanent home in this area. The trail itself was part of one of the principal routes attempted by gold seekers headed to the Klondike in 1898-99 and was a primary settlement path followed by pioneering farming families to the Peace River country until approximately 1920 when it was superseded by the railway. Remnant historical sites located along the trail include gravesites and the Tomato Creek stopping house (developed by the Goodwins in 1910), portrayed in the movie, “Silence of the North.” – http://www.albertatrailnet.com/

The trail follows the Athabasca River through some old-growth Boreal forest. Expect wildlife like bears, wolves, moose, deer, and other Boreal species. It is approximately 60 km from trailhead to trailhead. Permitted uses include hiking, cross-country skiing, bicycles, horses, snowmobiles, and all-terrain vehicles.

The southern trailhead is approximately 30 km north of the Town of Athabasca. There is some parking at each trailhead, and there are three unserviced campsites along the route. Please pack out all garbage and stay on the marked trail. Be bear smart when storing food.

http://www.albertatrailnet.com/for-trail-users/trans-canada-trail/fact-sheets/peace-river-wilderness-trail/ 

White Earth Valley Natural Area

If back-country camping isn’t your speed, the White Earth Natural Area provides a Boreal wilderness experience with the comfort of a campground nearby in Long Lake Provincial Park. It is located about 110 km north of Edmonton on Highway 831, which is accessible from Highway 63 North. It’s about 20 km south of the village of Boyle, where you can stock up on supplies.

The White Earth Trail is 17 km long.  The path winds through a wide variety of rich habitats, where an abundance of diverse plants and wildlife thrive.  It’s accessible from adjacent Long Lake Provincial Park during operating season (May to October), with parking at the trailhead.  The trail can also be accessed year-round from Township Road 621 at the southern end of the Natural Area. – Alberta Parks

The White Earth Valley NA is adjacent to thousands of hectares of undisturbed Boreal forest which promotes great habitat for many Boreal species, including bears and wolves. Use caution around wildlife and be bear-smart with food storage.

https://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/north/white-earth-valley-na/

Hubert Lake Wildland Provincial Park

The Hubert Lake Wildland Provincial Park is about an hour southwest of Athabasca and about 2 hours northwest of Edmonton. The Hubert Lake WPP offers kilometres of trails through a central mixed-wood boreal landscape. The Athabasca River is on the west border and the Pembina River is on the east.

Hubert Lake Wildland Park consists of a sand dune complex and numerous small lakes and wetlands. Jack pine is the dominant tree species on the dunes. Itervening depressions support black spruce and larch, with open fens in wetter areas. The park is an important nesting area for great blue herons and sandhill cranes. A small caribou herd wanders in and out of the park.

Backcountry camping is allowed, with two unofficial sites on the map. OHVs are permitted on designated trails only. Off-trail use is prohibited.

Learn more here:  https://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/north/hubert-lake-wpp/

Otter-Orloff Lakes Wildland Provincial Park

The Otter-Orloff Lakes Wildland Provincial Park is about an hour north of Athabasca, 2.5 hours north of Edmonton and 3 hours southwest of Fort McMurray.

The “road” to Orloff Lake only goes a portion of the way. In dry weather, this road is good but dead ends near Rock Island Forestry Tower. When the road is wet, it can be very slick and muddy. The remaining trail into Orloff Lake is approximately 4 km, accessible by ATV or foot only. This trail can be in very poor condition when wet. In dry conditions, it is a fair trail at best (lots of mud holes and trail braiding). Only the last 400 meters of this trail is within the park. There has been no trail maintenance.

Wetlands and forests in this park support a variety of wildlife. Lakes contain walleye, pike, perch and lake whitefish and are important habitat for beaver, muskrat and waterfowl. Orloff Lake has a great blue heron colony. Younger forests in the park contain white spruce and aspen. Mature forests contain birch and balsam poplar. White spruce and balsam fir dominate old growth stands. Black spruce and larch occur in wet areas.

Random backcountry camping is allowed. Learn more about permitted activities here: https://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/north/otter-orloff-lakes-wpp/

If you have questions about wilderness experiences in the Athabasca region or anything else Athabasca Region Tourism-related contact us here.