Located just south of Downtown Athabasca, the Hillside Motel offers comfortable and affordable accommodations within walking distance of Athabasca’s favourite amenities. The motel sits on the side of a hill, snuggled into the trees and overlooks Downtown Athabasca, the Tawatinaw River valley and the Athabasca River.
Photos courtesy of Hillside Motel
“Great place to stay. Friendly service. Wonderful people. Very clean rooms and by far the best rates in town. Will definitely stay again when travelling through the area.” – Google Reviewer
Quaint, Clean & Comfortable
The rooms at the Hillside Motel are basic and quaint – if you’re a fan of Schitt’s Creek, you’ll love them. They are clean and functional. Some rooms have kitchenettes. The staff are friendly and are committed to meeting your needs. All rooms are equipped with a coffee station and have high-speed wi-fi internet.
Photos courtesy of Hillside Motel
Affordable Prices, Pet Friendly and Children Stay Free
You can’t beat the prices at Hillside Motel, with rooms starting at $95, and children under 18 staying for free. Pets are welcome!
To book your room, call toll-free 1-888-675-8900 or 1-780-675-5111.
If you’re not quite finished with Summer, spending some time in the Athabasca Region should be on your to-do list!
The trees are just starting to turn colour, the weather is usually warm and dry and amenities are a little less busy with kids back in school.
Just 1.5 – 2 hours away from Edmonton and 2 – 3 hours away from Fort McMurray, the Athabasca Region offers the kind of outdoor recreation, day trips and unique events that will make you “Fall” in Love with our beautiful area! (Not sorry about the pun!)
On social media, be sure to tag your adventures with #VisitTheAthabascaArea and #LiveLifeOutside
1. Kapâwinihk Wilderness Triathlon
Starting line of the Kapâwinihk Wilderness Triathlon
On September 7th, one of the Region’s unique and growing events happens along and on the Athabasca River!
The Kapâwinihk Wilderness Triathlon is a fun and challenging race incorporating trail biking/paddling/running rather than the traditional swim/bike/run. Racers start at Riverfront Park with some warm-ups, snacks and prep. They take off from the starting line on their bikes and go through the Muskeg Creek Trails. Once they have cleared the bike route, they drop off their bike and pick up their watercraft at the Riverfront Park boat launch. They wind down the Athabasca River to River Meadows RV Park where they run the gorgeous but challenging trails.
There are two divisions:
Standard – 20KM Bike – 8 KM Paddle – 10 KM trail run
Sprint – 10 KM Bike – 8 KM Paddle – 6.5 KM trail run
You’ll receive craft beer, delicious food, swag, and a finisher medal at the finish line!
Camping is available at River Meadows and other local campgrounds or you can stay in Athabasca and get the shuttle back to town when you are done.
One of the Region’s hidden gems is a day of disc golf at Rocky Lane Fairways and Recreation! They have regular golf and other activities, but disc golf is a growing sport and the course at Rocky Lane is beautiful, so why not give it a try?
Rocky Lane is only 10 minutes from Downtown Athabasca or 1 hour 45 minutes from Downtown Edmonton. The professionally designed course is set in the forest and has many natural water features. You can rent gear there or bring your own.
You can also camp at Rocky Lane, they have multiple un-serviced lots with tables and firepits. Firewood is available to purchase.
Call Rocky Lane at 780-327-9671 to book your tee time and camping spot. Visit their website for more info.
3. Camping
North Buck Lake Provincial Park
There is still plenty of camping time in the Athabasca Region during September! The weather is usually dry and warm (mornings get a little chilly, though) and the trees are starting to turn! Wildlife is on the move, making for great bird-watching!
September hiking in the Athabasca Region is spectacular! The changing foliage, warm weather, fresh air and quiet trails offer hikers truly refreshing and energizing nature experiences.
The region boasts world-class trails close to town, in some of the County and Provincial parks/campgrounds and unspoiled natural areas! There are day hikes or back-country overnight hikes available.
Some trail routes include (link opens in Google Maps):
The Athabasca Region’s lakes offer unspoiled shore views with chances to see beavers, fish, birds deer and maybe a bear or two!
If you are up for the challenge and can arrange a ride back to your launch, there are multiple launches along the Athabasca River! You can start in the Town of Athabasca at the Riverfront Boat Launch. There is free parking in a lot made for boat trailers, etc. From there you can travel downstream to:
There is some great fishing in the Athabasca Region during the early fall!
All the county campgrounds, Long Lake Provincial Park and the Athabasca River. Be sure to have all licenses and follow fishing restrictions for each lake.
The tour starts at the Historical Train Station. There is parking there or at the Riverfront Park. From there, you follow the route through the history of Athabasca, learning about its early days through its historical buildings and places.
Athabasca is built on the south shore of the Athabasca River, with quite a few hills, so be prepared! Don’t worry though, your route passes by many chances for some refreshments!
This walk circles Downtown Athabasca, visiting the amazing thrift stores, unique boutiques and places to grab a bite and beverage!
You’ll experience some of Athabasca’s hills and the walking route is about 3 km, so be prepared with good walking shoes.
If you want to extend your Thrift Crawl you could head west on Highway 2 to Island Lake to an amazing Antique and Collectables Collection. This amazing “garage sale” is at a private residence, they are open for visitors from spring to fall. Please call 780-675-5452 to check hours and availability.
Golf season in the Athabasca Region usually extends to early to mid-October. All of the courses in the Athabasca Region are set in stunning Boreal forest settings with pro shops for rentals and more.
Enjoy aprés golf at the lounges and restaurants that serve up some great food and cold suds!
Many of the courses have camping on-site or very close by.
Another great day trip idea or part of a weekend itinerary is a visit to one of the Region’s great Farmers’ Markets! Both markets are great examples of “Make It – Bake It – Grow It” with delicious food, artisan crafts and healthy produce!
Athabasca’s Farmers’ Market happens on Saturdays, from 10 am to 2 pm at the Riverfront Park parking lot. The last outdoor market will be on September 21.
Boyle’s Farmers’ Market happens Thursday afternoons, from 3 to 6 pm. It is in the Boyle Community Centre in Downtown Boyle. It runs through October.
Located in Downtown Athabasca, inside a converted retail store, Johnny’s Eatery serves modern takes on classic casual dining in a modern and open setting!
Johnny’s menu delights and satisfies, from burgers to steak to bacon and eggs! Try the amazing carrot cake for dessert. Vegan dining options are available as well!
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available Tuesday to Saturday and on Saturdays and Sundays, they serve the best brunch in Athabasca, until 3 pm.
“Each one of our dishes is handcrafted and made to order fresh just for you.”
They have a private meeting/dining room that seats approximately 30 people. Contact them for details on booking and large parties.
Photo courtesy of Johnny’s Eatery
Special Holiday Menus
Johnny’s offers special fine dining menus on selected holidays such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Thanksgiving. Please check their Facebook page for details on holiday menus.
Make it a Date Night
Johnny’s partners with the Heartwood Folk Club to offer 10% off to ticket holders on show night. Show your server your Heartwood Ticket, and they will apply the discount. It makes for a great “dinner and a show” date night!
If you are looking for a place to camp with access to hiking, boating, canoeing, and golf and is just minutes away from the amenities of Athabasca, look no further than River Meadows RV Park. River Meadows is a family-run business that developed the site on their property because they knew it was a special place and wanted to share it with others.
River Meadows is 2 hours north of Edmonton and St. Albert and 3 hours south of Ft. McMurray.
All photos by River Meadows RV Park
The Campground
River Meadows RV Park is nestled in the Boreal forest on the banks of the Athabasca River, just a few minutes north of Athabasca. It offers guests generously sized spots for either short-term or seasonal stays. Some sites back into the bush and others have river views. All have fire pits and picnic tables.
While the sites are unserviced, seasonal campers can set up water and sewer tanks. The Athabasca sani dump is just a few minutes away.
A Google reviewer said:
“We spent last summer hanging out here and can’t wait until spring arrives so we can get right back to our favorite spot. This is a place where you can do it all! Quadding, boating, hiking, fishing, foraging, and yet you have everything 10 mins away.”
Athabasca River Access
River Meadows offers a great location to enjoy the Athabasca River, in many ways! You can launch your river boat, canoe or kayak for a trip down the river. Or if you are into fishing, there are spots you can fish off of the bank.
They have a day-use area if you’d like to have a picnic and a swim in the channel by the nearby island.
Hiking/Biking Trails
River Meadows also has many trails, set in the forest and along the river. You can hike, run or ride your bike just steps away from your campsite.
The Kapâwinihk Wilderness Triathalon is a new and exciting annual event hosted at River Meadows. It is a unique event, in that instead of bike/swim/run, triathletes bike/paddle/trail run.
The race begins in the Town of Athabasca where the cyclists start at the Riverfront Park. They make their way through the Muskeg Creek trails and back down to the river. There, they launch from Riverfront Park into the Athabasca River and paddle a few kilometres downstream. When they get to River Meadows, they run the trails through the forest!
The event ends with a barbeque and frosty beer in the green space at River Meadows. It’s a great day for athletes of all levels. Learn more here: www.parallel54.org.
Annual Athabasca Riverboat Association Rally
River Meadows also participates in the annual Jet Boat Rally, running from Athabasca, downriver to the Riverside Recreation Area (Learn more: www.facebook.com/jetboattheathabasca). River Meadows offers a stop where boaters can grab some BBQ lunch and pick up a card for the poker run.
The Athabasca Region is lucky to have 2 fantastic Farmers’ Markets during the summer and for one, the winter as well! They are the Athabasca Farmers’ Market and the Boyle Farmers’ Market. Both are essential parts of their respective communities! Providing opportunities for Athabasca Region vendors to sell to the public and improving the local economy.
Athabasca Farmers’ Market
The Athabasca Farmers’ Market is held every Saturday in the Summer from 10 am to 2 pm. You can find an amazing selection of vendors set up at the Athabasca Riverfront Park. On an occasional Saturday, you might find them at the Senior Center or another location in Downtown Athabasca, due to another event happening at the Riverfront.
There is a great selection of Make It – Bake It – Grow It items including baked goods, meats, produce (in the summer), and food from around the world! There are also artisan crafts, handmade soaps and personal care items, 3-D printed toys, yard art and more. There are new vendors all the time!
The Athabasca Farmers’ Market is also a mainstay of Athabasca’s big Canada Day celebration! They partner with The Magnificent River Rats Festival and hold their market with the festival.
For most of the summer Markets, Athabasca’s multiple food trucks show up at the Riverfront to offer delicious lunches and snacks!
The Market is located at the Athabasca Regional Multiplex during the winter months on every second Saturday until Christmas. Many of the same vendors come to the Winter markets, except produce vendors. They usually take a break for March and April and start up again on the first Saturday of May.
Here is some history of the Athabasca Farmers’ Market, from founder Yvonne McDermid:
Having moved here from St. Albert – the city known for having Western Canada’s Largest Outdoor Farmers’ Market, I was anxious to plant the seed for a Farmers’ Market here in Athabasca. After the closure of the old Farmers Market location on the corner of 49 St and 49 Ave., I contacted the Manager of the St. Albert Market and asked her how I would go about starting a market here in Athabasca. With the government documents in hand I approached the President of the Chamber of Commerce – who I believe was Trevor Martin at the time, to sponsor the first, Alberta Approved Farmers’ Market in Athabasca. In approx 2005 or 06 the market saw its beginning in the lower level of the Community Hall . When the community hall was scheduled for demolition the Market moved to the basement in the Legion. The chamber of Commerce decided it was no longer financially sustainable and withdrew its support – so with no revenue, no vision, and no direction, it suffered a slow death, finally closing its doors in about 2009.
In the fall of 2011, myself and 4 other like-minded individuals, who wanted to see the resurrection of an Athabasca Farmers’ Market, formed our own Not-for-Profit Society for the sole purpose of sponsoring this market. This not-for-profit society was originally called North Country Community Council With a generous donation from an anonymous gentleman in our community, we were able to get the Market off the ground in Nov of 2011. Two years later, with grants from both the Town and County, and a name change to Athabasca Market Association, we were on our feet and on the road to success. Athabasca has such a beautiful river setting so moving the market outdoors in the summer was always my dream and it was finally realized in the summer of 2012. I remember that year struggling to get 7 or 8 vendors out – now we fill that space with 30-40 tents every Sat. May – Sept with vendors coming from as far away as Ft.McMurray, & Edmonton.
Many people are not aware of the differences that exist in Farmers’ Markets – If you have an “Alberta Approved Farmers’ Market”, which we do, you work in conjunction with Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development and your local health inspector. All our food vendors are required to complete an On-line Food Safety Course. As an approved market we also encourage and prefer the “Make it, Bake it, Grow it,” vendors and are restricted to allow no more than 20% Multiple Level Sales at our Market.
You’ve probably seen this little farm girl with blue overalls and straw hat on our printed advertisements but weren’t aware of its significance. This Sunnygirl logo is the trademarked logo for Alberta Approved Farmers’ Markets. It helps the consumer identify that the market is approved and they are affiliated with a chain of high quality markets offering Alberta-produced products that consumers can trust. It indicates that we have met the government guidelines to offer you the best market experience possible.
The Boyle Farmers’ Market is held on Thursdays from noon to 3 pm, May to September, at the Boyle Community Centre in Downtown Boyle. Boyle Ag Society is its main sponsor.
At the Boyle market, you’ll find a great assortment of baked goods, home preserves, crochet toys, woodworking and more. They feature fresh seasonal vegetables later in the summer.
You can find some special markets during the summer! They will be at the Boyle Wildberry Festival, and the Shoreline Shore RV park, plus they have Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas season special markets. You can stock up on all your holiday treats!
Boyle and Athabasca are within day-trip distances from Edmonton, Fort McMurray, St. Albert and other regional locations. Make a day of it by visiting the Farmers’ Market, having some lunch and then finishing off with a hike!
Share photos of your Farmers’ Market finds with the hashtag #VisitTheAthabascaRegion. #LiveLifeOutside
Rocky Lane Fairways and Recreation is one of the Athabasca Regon’s unique tourism destinations. It’s a Par 3 golf course just south of Athabasca, about 1 and a half hours north of Edmonton. They offer a unique experience by having 4 different types of golf available, which can be played simultaneously by your group. How great is that?
The Course
The course is set in the Boreal Forest, with rolling hills and natural water features. It’s beautifully landscaped and offers some great views.
Rocky Lane is located just off Hwy 2 for easy access. It’s about 10 minutes to the town of Athabasca where you can find hotels, Airbnb’s, restaurants and other services.
5 Ways to Golf
At Rocky Lane, golf can be fun for everyone! Whether you are an experienced golfer, an up-and-coming disc golf player or have never golfed, there is a way to experience the beautiful course and have fun.
You can play 9 or 18 holes on the par 3 course for traditional golf. There are clubs to rent if you don’t have your own.
Disc golf is a sport that is rising in popularity. Disc golf involves throwing a disc (think Frisbee) down the course to land in a basket. Rocky Lane has one of the highest-rated Disc Golf courses in Alberta.
They have hosted several tournaments in the past few years. Watch for two tournaments they have coming up, The Hidden Gem and Wally’s 100th. Get more information about these tournaments here: The Hidden Gem June 15 -16, 2024 | Wally’s 100th
Fling golf is similar to traditional golf, using the same ball, but instead of hitting the ball, you fling it, similar to lacrosse.
For those players who are new to the game, there is foot golf or soccer golf. For this version, you kick a soccer ball along the course into a “hole” under the disc golf baskets. This could be a great way for younger kids to golf with their parents!
Finally, you don’t have to be a fair-weather golfer at Rocky Lane! They have two indoor golf simulators available year-round. Keep your swing in shape all winter long!
You can rent the gear you need for disc, fling and soccer golf, so don’t worry about having your own.
A Google reviewer said:
“Great course. I’ve tried the disc golf and the fling golf. Both are a lot of fun. It is a great way to have a good time with friends and family. The course is in a great shape, the owner is very friendly and helpful. Highly recommend.”
RV Park
Rocky Lane has a 10-site RV park available to make a play-and-stay getaway! Each unserviced site has a fire pit and picnic table. Firewood is available to purchase. The RV site can be booked by individuals or groups, for events.
Events
Rocky Lane can accommodate you if you are looking for a beautiful outdoor venue for your next family or corporate event. They have tables and chairs for 2oo people as well as tents, BBQ’s, sound system and more. There is ample parking for all of your guests.
Book Your Round
To book your next round of par 3, disc, fling, or soccer golf or your upcoming event, call 780-327-9671. Visit rockylanefairways.wixsite.com/recreation for more information.
Share photos of your Rocky Lane experience with the hashtag #VisitTheAthabascaRegion. #LiveLifeOutside
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
