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Region known for:
  • Lakeside camping
  • Fishing adventures
  • Lush trails

The Lakelands is a destination for those in pursuit of year-round adventure, yearning to harness their Wild Side. Break from the beaten path and seek escape in the region’s untamed forests and bountiful lakes.

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Lakelands highlights

Man fly fishing during foggy morning on North Saskatchewan River

Bevy of lakes and riverbanks

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

Friends snowshoeing with a guide across snowy Astotin Lake in Elk Island National Park.

Indigenous culture

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

Aerial shot of two hikers on the Historic Victoria Trail

Stunning trail systems

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

A couple sit outside a glamping tent at Pine Creek Retreat.
Couple with snowshoes having a hot drink outside a log cabin in Elk Island National Park
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Woman standing in the doorway of a glamping dome looking up at the aurora borealis night sky.
People walking on dock at sunset with float plane and boat attached to the dock
Ukrainian Cultural dancers in uniform preforming on a stage in a park.
Rare white bison roam the grounds of Metis Crossing near Edmonton.
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Things to do in the Lakelands

Key towns

Enjoy a harmonious blend of cozy and modern, from cabins and breweries to artisanal bites. The Lakelands are calling.

Aerial view of the Peace River bridge over the Athabasca River while the sun is setting.

Athabasca

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

Athabasca Region Tourism
A tent set up under a starry sky in Cold Lake, Alberta.

Cold Lake

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

Family having fun, running into a lake with an inflatable with a tent in the distance.

Lac La Biche

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

Lac La Biche Region
A cyclist pedals down a paved path surrounded by green space near the town of Bonnyville.

Bonnyville

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

Stories

4 min read Adventures at Métis Crossing

Métis Crossing is an interactive cultural center and wildlife park. Dine at the restaurant or stay overnight in their campground or boutique hotel.

Two people enjoying the indoor/outdoor pools at BASIN with the Rocky Mountains in the background.
6 min read Try these Unique Spa and Hot Tub Experiences in Alberta

Discover Alberta’s most unique spas, hot springs & rooftop hot tubs in the Canadian Rockies, Calgary and beyond, for a restorative vacation in Canada.

Woman walking past a tipi in a meadow at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump in Southern Alberta
4 min read How to Go on an Indigenous Adventure in Alberta

Alberta’s Indigenous cultures offer visitors a unique travel opportunity to explore breathtaking scenery and have amazing outdoor adventures.

Two people relax outside a geodome while green northern light sparkle above.
4 min read Alberta’s Most Unique Accommodations to Rest Your Head At

A guide to some of the most unique places to stay in Alberta, from geodomes and cabins to boutique hotels, luxury experiences and family-friendly hotels.

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Suggested itineraries

scenic view of mountains surrounded by a shallow body of water, a tour boat is coming to shore, rocks and trees in view
5 days
Indigenous Cultures and Iconic Rockies

Learn about Indigenous cultures on a trip from Edmonton to Jasper, spotting bison, savouring Alberta food and learning from Indigenous guides along the way.

A family stands on the glass skywalk with mountains all around at Columbia Icefield Skywalk.
5 days
Experience Jasper, Edmonton and Métis Crossing

See Edmonton and Rocky Mountain highlights over five days—Rockies views, wildlife, fine dining and a guided introduction to Indigenous cultures.

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Nearby cities to explore

Fireworks over Edmonton

Edmonton

Edmonton
Two people looking over river lookout near Fort McMurray.

Fort McMurray

Fort McMurray
A person walking on Kleskun Hill Campground near Grande Prairie with the sun setting in the distance.

Grande Prairie

Grande Prairie