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12 Things to Do in the Athabasca Region in September

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.

Get more info and register at the Parallel 54 Website. See you on race day!

 

2. Disc Golf

Rocky Lane disc golf tournament

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!

County campsites are open until September 29th and  Long Lake Provincial Campground until October 10. Private campgrounds dates vary, please call ahead or check out their websites.

Check out our Camping Listings for more details.

 

4. Hiking

Trail at Long Lake Provincial Park

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):

 

 

5. Boating, Canoeing, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding

Narrow Lake

The same great conditions that make for great hiking, also make for excellent watercraft experiences!

All of the Athabasca County campgrounds have lake access with day-use parking.

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:

 

6. Fishing

a woman in fishing gear holds up a big fish

Photo courtesy of Reel Angling Adventures

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.

Learn More Here

 

7. Athabasca History Walk

Athabasca United Church

A great September Day trip to Athabasca should include the Athabasca Historical Walking Tour.

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!

Download the Tour Guide

 

8. Athabasca Thrift & Finds Crawl

Rhi-Defined Athabasca

Another fun day trip idea to Athabasca is to go on the Downtown Athabasca Thrift & Finds Crawl!

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.

You can also hit up some great finds in Boyle at Country Bliss Treasures and Gifts and Second Time Round and More thrift store.

 

9. Golfing

Athabasca Golf & Country Club

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.

Learn more about Athabasca Region golfing experiences!

 

10. Paintball

Photo courtesy of Xcalibre Paintball

If something a little more strategic and team-building is your style, definitely check out Xcalibre Paint Ball!

Located about 10 minutes south of Boyle, this paintball course offers multiple playing fields, set in the Boreal forest.

They rent paintball gear and you can join other teams to enhance the experience.

Take a look at their website to learn more and reserve your spot!

 

11. Elvis Tribute

Elvis has entered the building! Coming to the fantastic Nancy Appleby Theatre on September 22 is one of the hottest Elvis tributes in Canada!

Elvis: The Vegas Years stars Jaedyn, an award-winning tribute artist from Edmonton. Enjoy Elvis’s greatest hits in an intimate and great-sounding setting. Make it a date night!

Learn more and purchase tickets here.

 

12. Farmers’ Markets

Tents and people at the Athabasca Farmers Market

Athabasca Farmers’ Market

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.

Athabasca Region Itineraries: Thursday Out In Boyle

If you are looking for a fun day trip from Edmonton, Fort McMurray, Athabasca or one of the area’s Summer Villages or campgrounds, take a Thursday off, jump in the car and visit the Village of Boyle!

Boyle is 1 hour 45 minutes north of Edmonton,  2 hours 45 minutes south of Fort McMurray and 40 minutes southeast of Athabasca! The village once was the site of a large lumber mill but now serves as a hub for the local agricultural community and the Summer Villages of Mewatha Beach, Bondis, and Long Lake. It’s also an important commuter stop between Edmonton and Fort McMurray on Hwy 63!

Why visit Boyle on Thursdays? Because that’s the day of the Boyle Farmers’ Market! You Can grab a bite, take a stroll through town on the walking trail, splash at the water park, stock up on goodies at the Farmers’ Market then grab an iced coffee at the Co-op gas bar on your way back home!

 


Grab a Bite

Save your appetite for a meal at one of Boyle’s dining experiences!

If you are into some amazing pizza, Boyle Pizza House serves up delicious pizza favourites, Italian-style subs and more. They have some tables outside so you can dine and take in the sunshine.

Other food choices in Boyle include Boyle Truck Stop for authentic diner food and the Keep Café, a food truck that serves up burgers and poutine! There’s also the Boyle Burger Bar for drive-in burgers and The Pepper Tree Café serves fresh and tasty Chinese food.

 

Boyle Historical Walking Trail

Burn off some of your delicious lunch with a walk on the Boyle Historical Walking Trail.

The Boyle Historical walking trail starts at the Boyle campground and circles back through town. Follow the directional signs along the path.

 

Boyle Splash Park

If you are with the kids, Boyle has a great combined splash and skateboard park to check out. The facilities include washrooms and picnic tables.

 

The Boyle Farmers’ Market

The Boyle Farmers’ Market is a staple of the Boyle community during the summer months! The vendors offer up artisan crafts, home-baked goods, preserves, hand-made jewellery and fresh produce from the local Hudderite colony! One of the newest vendors is a snow cone vendor that makes delicious cold treats with Italian soda flavours!

The Market recently changed their hours from 3 pm – 6 pm to better serve the community. You can find it in Downtown Boyle at the Community Centre.

While you’re Downtown, be sure to check out the shops and boutiques on Main Street!

 

Get Fueled Up

You’ll need some fuel for the ride home, coffee for you and gas for your vehicle! Make a stop at the North Corridor Co-op Gas Bar.

The Gas bar now has an iced coffee machine. You can make your custom iced coffee and grab some snacks too.

The gas bar has brand-new pumps with 24/7 self-service.

 


We hope you have a great time exploring Boyle on Thursdays or any day! If you have any questions about Boyle amenities please contact athabascaregiontourism@gmail.com!

Show us your fun day trip to Boyle by sharing your photos on social media with the hashtag #VisitTheAthabascaRegion or #LiveLifeOutside

Tourism Spotlight: Athabasca & Boyle Farmers’ Markets

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.

 

Visit the Athabasca Farmer’s Market on Facebook to learn more and to stay up-to-date with vendors and Market dates. You can check out their Instagram, too.

 


 

Boyle Farmers’ Market

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!

Visit the Boyle Ag Society’s Facebook page for more information.

 

Make it a day trip!

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

12 Winter Getaways in the Athabasca Region

This winter, get out of town for a day, a weekend or a week to the Athabasca Region! The air is crisp, the forest is quiet, and there is a getaway for you to discover.

Whether looking for unique thrift items, relaxing with your family around a cozy fireplace or sledding the Athabasca River at a remote cabin resort, there is a trip that fits your interests, timeline and budget.

Be sure to visit our Events calendar to see what is happening in the Region during your stay!

Winter activities are dependent on weather and snow conditions. If you need information about local conditions email: ted@athabascacounty.com or contact your host.

Winter 2024 dates for the Athabasca Farmers’ Market are: Feb 17, Mar 2,  16 & 30


Saturday Day Trips

 

1. Boyle History Walk, Lunch & Downtown!

When: Any Saturday!
For a Saturday day trip, visit the Village of Boyle! About 1 hour 45 minutes from Edmonton and 2.5 hours from Fort McMurray, Boyle makes a great day trip to get out of the city. It offers small-town charm, a walking trail and access to cottage country and wilderness in Athabasca County East.

  • When you arrive, do the Boyle Historical Walking Trails through town
  • Grab a delicious lunch at one of Boyle’s great restaurants!
  • Stroll through Downtown and check out the unique shops and small-town charm
  • Be home for the hockey game!

 

 

2. Athabasca Farmers’ Market & Muskeg Creek Hike/Snowshoe/Ski

When: Saturdays in February and March
An active day trip that gives you a chance to stock up on some of the great artisan goodies and crafts at the Farmers’ Market, then experience the Muskeg Creek trail system!

 

 

3. Downtown Athabasca Thrifts & Finds Crawl

When: Any Saturday!

Downtown Athabasca hosts an eclectic selection of second-hand and thrift shops, fashionable boutiques and unique finds! We have planned out a route for you right here: Athabasca Thrift and Finds Crawl

 

 

4. Athabasca History Walk

When: Any Saturday!

If you love history and walking, you’ll love the Athabasca Historical Walking Tour. It winds its way through Downtown Athabasca, with interpretive signage telling the story of the settlement of Athabasca through its historical buildings.

  • Fuel up at Paddymelon with a hot drink and snack
  • Head down to the Train Station for the first stop on the tour
  • Follow the tour book. Download Here
  • Finish off with a delicious meal at a Downtown restaurant: Family Dining   Fast Food

 

 


Overnight Getaways

 

5. Friday Night, Date Night

When: Any Friday/Saturday!

Have a relaxing “date night’ getaway with your love!

Stay in Athabasca: Hotel/Motels Short-Term Rentals

  • Saturday morning, grab a coffee and a wrap at Paddymelon Gifts, Espresso & Eatery.
  • Check out downtown shops
  • Stroll Rotary Trail at the Riverfront Park
  • Visit the Farmers Market at the Athabasca Regional Multiplex on your way back home (various weekends in Feb/March)

 

 

6. Best of Athabasca

When: Weekends in February and March

On this active weekend itinerary, you’ll experience some of the best that the Town of Athabasca has to offer.

  • Arrive Saturday early afternoon, go to Farmer’s Market and pick up some home-style treats and artisan goodies
  • Rent snowshoes from the Multiplex and hike the Muskeg Creek Trails
  • After supper Downtown, stroll Rotary Trail/Riverfront Park,
  • Drinks at Neighbour’s Pub to end the evening!

Stay in Athabasca: Hotel/Motels Short-Term Rentals

 

 

7. Lake Getaway – West

When: Anytime, based on availability.

If you’re looking for something closer to nature, the west Athabasca County Lake Country has a few lakeside cabins to rent. Relax with family or friends in scenic Boreal lake settings.

  • Arrive Saturday, hit the Athabasca Farmers’ Market (www.facebook.com/athabascafarmersmarket) and stores to stock up on the way through town
  • Check into your cabin rental
  • Snowmobile the vast River Runner’s trail system
  • Icefish on the lake
  • Contact your host for their recommendations on winter recreational activities

 

 

8. Lake Getaway – East

When: Anytime, based on availability.

The East side of Athabasca County has a few cabins to rent, too. Surround yourself with a picturesque Boreal setting.

  • Arrive Saturday, stop in Boyle to stock up on the way through town
  • Check into your cabin rental
  • Take advantage of the Chump Lake trails for snowshoeing and snowmobiling
  • Contact your host for their recommendations for winter recreational activities

 

 


Wilderness Experiences

 

9. River Runners Snowmobile Trails

When: Anytime, based on snow conditions!

If you love sledding, the Athabasca region has some great trails, especially routed for snowmobilers. Take a look at their maps and info here. Call ahead to check conditions and pay your trail fee.

You can stay in Athabasca or rent a West County cabin on Airbnb.

 

10. Grand Rapids Snowmobile Adventures

When: Various Weekends 

Grand Rapids Wilderness Adventures hosts weekend expeditions at their remote cabin resort located on the banks of the Athabasca River. They provide cozy cabins, meals and more.

Learn more here

 

11. Reel Angling Ice Fishing

When: Anytime based on ice conditions!

Let an experienced local guide show you the best spots to ice fish! Ice fishing packages for the day, weekend or week are available. Take a look at their website for more info or contact them at:

780-916-9768

 

12. Winter Wilderness Camping

When: Anytime!

The Athabasca Region offers some excellent winter back-country camping:

La Biche River Wildland Provincial Park

Hubert Lake Wildland Provincial Park

Peace River Wilderness Trail

Winter camping tips:

  • Dress in layers
  • Be prepared for all kinds of weather
  • You may need to bring firewood
  • You may need to bring potable water
  • Showers and flush toilets will most likely be closed
  • Animal-proof food storage is essential
  • Make sure someone knows your location and timeline

Follow Athabasca Region Tourism on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to post pics of your winter adventures. Tag us at @visitathabasca #VisitTheAthabascaRegion #LiveLifeOutside