Hiking

No matter your preference, the Athabasca region has a variety of hiking options.

Here are two hikes that can be completed in a day:

Muskeg Creek Trails

Situated within the limits of the Town of Athabasca, the Muskeg Creek Park trails run through the Muskeg Creek Valley and surrounding plateaus. The valley is a steep sided, heavily wooded ravine located west of the downtown area and adjacent to Athabasca University. A total of 17.5km of trails are available for you to explore. Covering a significant area with an elevation change of 50m, it is easy to get away from the sights and sounds of the city.

The park is open to all recreation an outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities to hike, jog, mountain bike, bird watch, and count butterflies. Interpretive signage is available along the trail to inform the users of points of interest.

Even though the pathway system is located near a populated area, the park is home to a variety of wildlife including deer, moose, coyotes, snowshoe hares, and the occasional bear. Trails are well marked with signage at every crossroads showing where you are. Outhouse facilities are located along the trails.

To view a copy of the trail map, click here (map courtesy of Athabasca University).

Athabasca Landing Trail

The Athabasca Landing Trail is an historical trail used by klondikers heading to the Yukon and fur traders who wanted to access the Hudson’s Bay Company outlet in Athabasca Landing (known today as Athabasca). Today, the trail comprises part of the Trans Canada Trail and is being restored to its historic purpose. Eventually, the trail will be 150km long, connecting Edmonton to Athabasca and beyond.

The trail from Athabasca to Colinton is relatively flat and approximately 10km. Parking is available behind the SS Athabasca Car Wash in Athabasca. Once you reach Colinton, you can enjoy the best soft ice cream in the County at the general store or stop in the Colinton Hotel for something more filling before your return journey.

More information, including a map, can be found on the Alberta TrailNet website or at www.athabascalanding.com.

Overnight Camping Trips

If you’re feeling like an overnight trip is in order, we have two options in mind to suit your sense of adventure.

Athabasca Landing Trail

The Athabasca Landing Trail from Athabasca to the hamlet of Perryvale is a scenic hike along varied trails. The length of the trail one way is approximately 35km. While there are no campgrounds along the trail, you may tent camp nearby. Please take all litter and belongings with you when you go.

Along with the amenities in Colinton, Perryvale has a general store where you can buy supplies before you begin the return journey.

Peace River Trail

The Old Peace River Trail and adjacent Athabasca River were core corridors by foot, horse and canoe for First Nations people. This is a spectacular wilderness area with interesting native flora and fauna and views of the Athabasca River. Moose, elk, deer, wolves, black bear and most boreal mammals are abundant. Bald eagles and other raptors make their permanent homes in this area.
This 60km trail is an historical wilderness trail through primal boreal forest on Arctic-bound trunk of the Trans Canada Trail. Three small campsites – one near the trailhead 30km north of Athabasca and the others at kilometres 26.7, and 36.6 – feature picnic shelter, toilet, tables and fire pit.
For more information on the Peace River Trail, click here.