Tag Archive for: Alberta

Top 5 landmarks to visit in Edmonton

Although exploring Canada is a beautiful way to relax, vising these five landmarks in Edmonton is a one-of-a-kind experience. Read Here!

Landmarks to visit in Edmonton

Edmonton is one of the largest and most beautiful cities in Canada. Most people call Edmonton the cultural capital of Canada, thanks to its diverse business districts, mesmerizing and awe-inspiring skyscrapers, galleries, theatres, museums, etc.

Of great interest in Edmonton is the historical part of the city of Old Strathcona, in which a large number of buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries have been preserved. Anyway, here are the top five landmarks to visit in Edmonton.

1.    Alberta Legislature Building

If you are interested in learning about the government system at the provincial level, you can visit Alberta’s Legislature Building, a monumental landmark that attracts people from different countries. The building was constructed in the early 20th century and remained the executive council and legislative assembly seat.

Although the building is an integral part of the legislative system and drives hundreds of people every day, we recommend taking guided tours to make the most out of your trip and learn more about the history and traditions of this monumental building. It is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM between Monday and Saturday. So, the Legislature Building is a great way to start your Edmonton tour.

 

2.    Royal Alberta Museum

Royal Alberta Museum is one of the most beautiful landmarks in Edmonton, showcasing the province’s history and culture. The Museum opened about five decades ago and has occupied a central place in the list of tourist attractions visiting Edmonton.

The Museum is home to more than ten million artifacts. The area is around 4,000 square meters, offering something to everyone, from the province’s history to aboriginal culture. Similarly, the Museum is the center for other communities living in Edmonton. It holds a wide range of events, including film festivals. The place is open between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM every day.

3.    Fort Edmonton Park

Do you want to experience a slice of Edmonton’s past? If yes, visit Fort Edmonton Park, a stunning place that recreates the history of Alberta. It is one of the largest history museums in North America. Many people, including locals and tourists, visit Fort Edmonton Park to enjoy the cultural events and festivals.

The park features numerous attractions designed for important events. The Hudson Bay Company fur trading shows/events are the most enjoyable among all the festivals hosted by Fort Edmonton Park. Besides, you can learn about the history of a steam train and take a ride in the historic streetcar.

The Capitol Theatre is the newest addition to the Museum. It recreates the style and elegance of early 20th-century theatre and hosts several performances, including live music concerts. The place is open between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM on weekdays. However, you can also visit the Museum on weekends.

4.    Devonian Botanic Garden

The Canadian government established the Devonian Botanic Garden in 1959. It is one of the most beautiful landmarks in North America. Today, it is part of the University of Alberta and is a 15-minute drive from the downtown area. The lush green space is ideal for locals and tourists to soothe their minds and calm their hearts.

In addition to a wide range of plant species and collections, the Botanic Garden showcases everything from a Japanese garden, alpine trees, herb beds, and a butterfly house explicitly maintained for tourists. You can visit the Botanic Garden between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

5.    Government House Alberta

Another monument or landmark to explore in Edmonton is the Government House Alberta. Previously, this place was the residence of the lieutenant governors of Alberta. However, the government has converted this place into a venue for periodic meetings and official events.

Although the government uses the building for official purposes, it showcases the history and culture of Edmonton and Alberta. So, if you want to learn about the building’s history and Edmonton’s culture, you can take a guided tour.

Moreover, you can enjoy informational exhibits and discover how Canadians participated in World War II and played their role in making the world a peaceful place.

Not only can you explore the well-preserved remains of air force planes, pilots, and military hospitals, but you can also visit the Victoria Golf Course and Alberta Museum. The place is open between 8:00 AM and 10:00 PM daily.

Final Words

Edmonton is the capital of Alberta Province in Canada, boasting rich culture, political history, and mesmerizing monuments. Visiting these five places will complete your trip to Edmonton. Until Next Time!

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.
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What is Edmonton famous for?

What is Edmonton famous for?

Visiting Edmonton and exploring its picturesque scenery, biggest shopping malls, museums, etc., is worth your time and money. Read here!

What is Edmonton famous for?

The city of Edmonton is the capital of the English-speaking Canadian province of Alberta. Over the two hundred years of its history, the city of Edmonton has grown significantly and has become one of the intellectual, commercial, and industrial centers of Canada.

At present, it intricately combines business districts, built up with skyscrapers, and cozy, peaceful, quiet areas, where the wooden houses of the city’s residents are located, surrounded by many parks and gardens. Here is what Edmonton is famous for and why you should visit Alberta’s capital. Read on!

Cultural Capital of Canada

Edmonton is the Cultural Capital of Canada. The city has many theaters, museums, and other similar institutions. In 1997, the Francis Winsper Music Center was opened in Edmonton. The acoustics of this concert hall is one of the best in Canada.

The center serves as the home of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and hosts tours by renowned performers and musical groups worldwide. The Old Strathcona area is home to the Edmonton Theater District, where several theaters are concentrated, such as the Catalyst Theater, the Walterdale Theater, and others.

Moreover, Edmonton’s most prominent theater is located at 102 Avenue and is called the Citadel Theater after the Salvation Army Citadel. It has as many as five halls and is one of the largest complexes of its kind in Canada.

Diverse Museums

There are about two dozen museums in the city. The most famous one is the Royal Alberta Museum, which opened in the late sixties of the last century. It has three large sections: halls dedicated to natural science, galleries of the virgin nature of the province of Alberta, and lobbies that tell about the culture of the ancient peoples who inhabited this province.

Besides, Fort Edmonton Museum Park, Canada’s largest open-air history museum, features exhibitions on the founding and development of the city and its environs. The city’s art gallery also deserves attention, containing more than five thousand exhibits covering the period from the ancient world to the modern era.

In the city center, in the airport hangar, there is the Alberta Aviation Museum, where you can see more than twenty civil and military aircraft, including the largest Boeing 737. One of the three Canadian cruise missiles is also located here. Every summer in Edmonton, an air show is held where you can watch the flights of modern fighters.

Shopping Malls

The city is home to the famous shopping center known as West Edmonton Mall. It covers an area of ​​almost 50 hectares and is the largest on the planet. There are many retail outlets and cultural institutions, catering establishments, hotels, etc.

In addition, you can visit three cinemas, three theaters, more than a hundred restaurants with a wide variety of cuisines, as well as a casino, an amusement park, a water park with an underwater garden.

Here you can go ice skating or play golf. About 800 shops, boutiques, and shops of this center offer a massive assortment of a wide variety of goods and souvenirs. So, these things make West Edmonton Mall the best place to visit with your family or friends.

Scenic Beauty

Edmonton is a cultural and commercial city of new Alberta and a well-known resort and tourist center of this province. Numerous parks stretch for many kilometers along the North Saskatchewan River, which originates in the mountains of Jasper National Park.

The area is more than 100 square kilometers, and it has 22 parks, eleven lakes, and fourteen gorges. In total, almost 100 kilometers of running and cycling paths and lanes for pedestrians have been laid here. Among these parks, there are numerous places to have fun or relax.

Year-Round Festivals

Edmonton is famous for its many festivals. They are held in the city center in the District of Arts, the heart of which is the W. Churchill Square. Each year, Edmonton hosts the National Music Festival, Raft Race, Prank Festival, Livestock Fair, Cowboy Festival, Jazz Festival, Sino-Canadian Summer Festival, Theater Festival, and many other events.

Final Words

Edmonton is one of the best cultural and educational centers in Canada. Also known as Canada’s cultural capital, it is home to some of the world’s beautiful landmarks, attractions, shopping malls, parks, museums, and restaurants. We recommend visiting this Canadian city to enjoy and create memories. Good Luck!

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.
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What is Calgary Famous for?

What is Calgary Famous for?

Calgary is one of the best Canadian cities, offering something to everyone. The luxurious lifestyle and vibrant atmosphere will mesmerize you!

Millions of tourists from all over the world come to Calgary. It is a beautiful modern city with sparkling skyscrapers, comfortable hotels, spacious parks, numerous museums, art galleries, sports facilities, shops, restaurants, and nightclubs.

The city’s outskirt areas have magnificent landscapes, excellent opportunities for various sports, a wonderful climate, and the comfort of modern amenities/services make Calgary one of the most attractive cities in Canada. Read on!

Banff National Park

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Calgary, Banff National Park offers endless mountain landscapes, wildlife, dense forests, plenty of glacial lakes, and everything that defines Canada’s diverse natural species. The park is known as Canada’s oldest national park and is home to many of the country’s famous lakes, including the famous Moraine Lake and Lake Louise.

It also has beautiful mountain towns and villages, scenic roads, hot spring reserves, and many other recreational activities among the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the world. One of Canada’s National Treasures and a UNESCO Heritage Site, the park’s never-ending magnificent view draws millions of visitors to this part of Canada.

Peace Bridge

The Bow River Bridge, also known as the Peace Bridge, is an attractive structure in Calgary. Some people also call it the Finger Bridge due to its twisted shape. The bridge was opened to the public in 2012. Its eye-catching design has made it an icon of the city over the years.

The bridge can accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists, and its excellent location within the city makes it one of the best places to observe leisurely city life. Not only does this bridge attract locals, but many tourists also enjoy the city’s picturesque views from this place.

Devonian Gardens

Devonian Gardens is an urban oasis in the heart of Calgary that offers one hectare of botanical gardens. An indoor botanical garden in the city’s heart, this is a one-of-a-kind green space in which hundreds of varieties of plants and trees grow.

In addition, the indoor park is located inside one of the floors of the mall. It is one of the greatest and probably the single most prominent indoor places in the world where you can see tropical gardens while visiting cultural venues in downtown Calgary.

Heritage Park Historical Village

One of the city’s iconic parks, located on the banks of the Glenmore Reservoir, the Heritage Park Historical Village is one of the largest living history museums in the country and a well-known tourist attraction.

The exhibits depict the history of Canada from the 1860s to the 1930s, as well as hundreds of other attractions, including a passenger train that takes visitors around the park. The place brings history to life. The park features costumed interpreters dressed for the time, genuinely depicting the Western way of life.

Calgary Tower

The Calgary Tower is a 190.8-meter tower in downtown Calgary. The tower is a major tourist attraction and a popular restaurant. It offers panoramic views of the city skyline. The long stand-alone building is unique for its bright colors and frequent light shows.

Although the tower is no longer the tallest building, it attracts visitors with its resemblance to the city’s culture. Whether you want to relish the city’s picturesque views or satisfy your taste buds, the Calgary Tower is the best place to visit with your loved ones.

Glenbow Museum

Glenbow Museum is an art and history museum in Calgary. The museum showcases the history of ancient cultures and civilizations in Canada. Besides, the museum’s prime location and hundreds of art collections make it a must-see in Calgary.

It is currently undergoing a major renovation in 2022 with plans to expand existing artwork. The local government will open the Glenbow Museum to the public in three years. Therefore, you have to wait for a few years to relish the artifacts, manuscripts, paintings, sculptures, everything else it has to offer.

Final Words

Calgary, home to numerous skyscrapers, is known as one of the wealthiest cities in Canada. Unlike many other cities in North America, the city has year-round sunshine. Situated a reasonable distance from many world-class resort towns, amazing glacial lakes, fabulous mountain scenery, and the U.S border, this city is a must for everyone visiting Canada. Until Next Time!

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.
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Reasons to Visit Alberta – Things to do in Alberta

Unlike other provinces in Canada, Alberta offers unique scenery and mesmerizing summer and winter outdoor activities. Here are reasons to visit this place.

Reasons to Visit Alberta

Alberta is an outdoor paradise that will amaze you with its abundance of natural treasures. Towering snow-capped mountains, turquoise waters, ranches, and the Northern Lights are just a few of the wonders that will enchant you whether you are a local or tourist. Here are the top reasons to visit Alberta. Read on!

1. Hiking and Climbing

A tourist jewel of Canada, the Canadian Rockies will allow you to enjoy a unique mountain experience. You won’t want to miss anything: flared valleys, majestic mountains, forests as far as the eye can see, flowery meadows, rushing rivers, and turquoise lakes.

Take a deep breath to admire, and you will have the impression that time stops. The best way to end your day in style is to stop at Upper Hot Springs in Banff National Park or Miette Hot Springs in Jasper National Park.

Moreover, the various national parks are full of routes to delight climbers. Rock climbing season can begin as early as May. However, on the high alpine peaks (over 9,000 feet), it is necessary to wait until the end of June, when spring avalanches are less frequent.

Kananaskis Country, Grassi Lake, and Jasper National Park are particularly well-known for their popular moderate-difficulty rock climbing and hiking. So, if you are an adventure enthusiast, visiting Alberta will make your dream come true.

Alberta, Canada, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including mountains, forests, and lakes, making it an ideal destination for hikers of all levels. Below are some of the popular hiking spots in the province:

1. Banff National Park:

  • Johnston Canyon: This trail is accessible and offers views of waterfalls and deep blue pools.
  • Lake Agnes Teahouse: A moderate hike leading to a historic teahouse overlooking Lake Agnes.
  • Plain of Six Glaciers: This trail offers panoramic views of glaciers and the surrounding mountain range.

2. Jasper National Park:

  • Maligne Canyon: A deep and narrow canyon that can be explored through a series of bridges and viewing platforms.
  • Valley of the Five Lakes: Offers views of five stunning, differently colored lakes.
  • Wilcox Pass: Known for its breathtaking views of glaciers, meadows, and the Columbia Icefield.

3. Kananaskis Country:

  • Ha Ling Peak: A steep but short hike leading to a peak with views of Canmore and the Bow Valley.
  • Rawson Lake: Moderate hike that starts at the Upper Kananaskis Lake and leads to an alpine lake.
  • Ptarmigan Cirque: Offers views of alpine meadows, waterfalls, and rugged mountain scenery.

4. Waterton Lakes National Park:

  • Crypt Lake: A challenging trail known for its waterfall views, a steel ladder, and a tunnel.
  • Bear’s Hump: A short, steep hike that provides views of the Waterton townsite and surrounding mountains.
  • Red Rock Parkway: Offers various trails with views of red canyons and cascading waterfalls.

5. Elk Island National Park:

  • Ideal for those interested in wildlife viewing, with trails like Amisk Wuche and Hayburger.

6. Canmore Area:

  • Grassi Lakes: Suitable for families, with views of waterfalls, lakes, and the town of Canmore.
  • East End of Rundle (EEOR): A more challenging trail with views of Ha Ling Peak and the Spray Valley.

Safety Tips:

  • Check the trail conditions and weather forecast before heading out.
  • Dress in layers and wear appropriate hiking boots.
  • Carry a map, compass, and sufficient water and snacks.
  • Respect the wildlife and practice Leave No Trace principles.
  • If you’re new to hiking or unfamiliar with the area, consider joining a guided hike or going with someone experienced.

2. Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is a quintessential Alberta winter experience. Depending on the outfitter and guide, dog sledding tours can last an hour, half-day, full-day, or take place at night. Depending on the snowpack, you can book a dog sledding adventure from November through April. Stand in the back of the sled and lead your team of dogs or get comfortable in the sled, bundled up in buffalo skin, and enjoy the ride.

Dog sledding is a popular winter activity in Alberta, providing an exhilarating experience amidst the province’s stunning scenery. Various operators offer dog sledding tours, ranging from short rides to multi-day excursions. Here are some notable locations and operators where you can enjoy dog sledding:

1. Canmore and Banff Area:

  • Snowy Owl Dog Sled Tours: One of the oldest dog sledding companies in the area, offering a variety of tours for different experience levels.
  • Howling Dog Tours: Provides both short and long tours, with the opportunity for guests to drive their sled.

2. Lake Louise:

  • Kingmik Dog Sled Tours: Offers tours through the breathtaking scenery of Banff National Park and the Continental Divide.
  • You might find other local operators offering unique experiences in the Lake Louise area.

3. Kananaskis Country:

  • Mad Dogs & Englishmen Sled Dog Expeditions: Provides various tour options, including moonlight runs and multi-day expeditions.

4. Crowsnest Pass:

  • Crowsnest Pass Dogsled Adventures: They offer a variety of tours and the opportunity to learn about dog care and sledding equipment.

Tips for Dog Sledding in Alberta:

  • Booking: Tours are popular, so it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak winter season.
  • Dress Appropriately: Wear warm, layered clothing, waterproof boots, and bring extra gloves and hats.
  • Listen to Guides: Your guides will provide important safety and handling instructions; pay attention to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Respect the Dogs: These are working animals; follow the handler’s guidelines on interacting with the dogs.
  • Check Reviews: Consider reading reviews and maybe even calling the company to ask about their practices, especially regarding animal welfare.

Considerations:

  • Dog sledding operations should prioritize the welfare and well-being of the sled dogs. Ethical operators take excellent care of their dogs, providing proper nutrition, veterinary care, rest, and love.
  • Ensure to choose operators that adhere to high standards of animal welfare and sustainable tourism practices.

Before planning your dog sledding adventure, it’s crucial to check the most current and local resources for up-to-date information, as availability, regulations, and operations might change. For the most accurate information, consider visiting the official tourism website of Alberta or directly contacting the dog sledding tour operators.

 

3. Camping

Hike the backcountry and spend the night in the beautiful landscapes. You can also enjoy the comfort of your RV in one of the many terrains available to you. Regardless of the location you choose, you will feel dazzled when you wake up by the beauty of Alberta’s landscapes, and above all, you will have had enough energy to continue your adventure.

In addition, there is nothing like these vivid colors dancing for you. Make sure you visit Wood Buffalo National Park, the largest Dark Sky Preserve in the world. Similarly, you can enjoy rafting by hitting the waterways at full speed and seeing the difference between the color of a river fed by rainwater and one provided by a glacier.

Alberta offers a plethora of camping spots, with a range of options from backcountry camping to well-equipped campgrounds. Below are some of the popular camping destinations:

1. Banff National Park:

  • Tunnel Mountain Campgrounds: Located close to the town of Banff, offering various amenities.
  • Two Jack Lakeside Campground: Known for its scenic views and proximity to Lake Minnewanka.
  • Johnston Canyon Campground: Ideal for those planning to hike the Johnston Canyon trail.

2. Jasper National Park:

  • Wapiti Campground: Offers year-round camping with good facilities, close to the town of Jasper.
  • Whistlers Campground: One of the largest campgrounds, currently renovated to improve services.
  • Pocahontas Campground: A quieter option, closer to the Miette Hot Springs.

3. Kananaskis Country:

  • Boulton Creek Campground: Offers a variety of services, located in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park.
  • Elbow Falls Provincial Recreation Area: Ideal for tent camping, providing basic facilities.
  • Mt. Kidd RV Park: Perfect for RV campers, with well-maintained amenities and services.

4. Waterton Lakes National Park:

  • Townsite Campground: Located close to the Waterton township with good facilities.
  • Crandell Mountain Campground: Offers a more rustic camping experience in a forested setting.

5. Elk Island National Park:

  • Astohtomi Campground: Suitable for both tent and RV camping, with basic facilities provided.
  • Backcountry camping is also available for those seeking a more secluded experience.

6. Drumheller:

  • Dinosaur Provincial Park: Offers camping options for dinosaur enthusiasts and those interested in exploring the Badlands.

7. Cypress Hills Provincial Park:

  • Provides a mix of serviced and unserviced sites, with access to various recreational activities.

8. Willmore Wilderness Park:

  • Known for its remote backcountry camping options for experienced campers and adventurers.

Camping Tips:

  • Reservations: Popular campgrounds fill up quickly, especially in summer, so early reservations are recommended.
  • Wildlife: Store food securely, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
  • Weather: Prepare for unpredictable weather by bringing layered clothing and rain gear.
  • Rules and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with and adhere to the specific rules of each campground, including fire restrictions and pet policies.

Planning Considerations:

  • Always check the most up-to-date information, as some campgrounds might be closed for maintenance, renovation, or due to seasonal changes.
  • Consider the type of camping experience you want (tent, RV, backcountry) and select campgrounds that suit your needs and skill level.

4. Ski Resorts

Hit the slopes of the many ski resorts located in the Canadian Rockies. Alberta province has 19 ski resorts. Many of these resorts are of international standard. Sunshine Village, Lake Louise, Mount Norquay, Nakiska and Marmot Basin are the most popular.

Remember, the slopes of these mountains stretch endlessly, both in length and width, and offer challenges for all levels. One thing is sure: Alberta’s snowy landscapes will bring you to a world worthy of fairy tales.

Moreover, Strap on your snowshoes, straddle the Continental Divide in the Canadian Rockies and have your photo taken with one snowshoe in Alberta. Take a helicopter ride into the backcountry and then snowshoe across a frozen lake to an island where you will enjoy a gourmet meal.

Do you love cross-country skiing? Alberta will make you feel like you are in paradise with its wide choice of groomed trails and skating ski trails in scenic areas. Look around Canmore for cross-country because it is a perfect place for your next outdoor adventure.

1. Banff National Park:

  • Sunshine Village: Located near Banff, this resort boasts a long ski season and offers terrains suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers.
  • Lake Louise Ski Resort: Renowned for its breathtaking views, Lake Louise offers varied terrains and hosts World Cup alpine events.
  • Mt. Norquay: Closest to the town of Banff, it’s great for both skiing and snowboarding, and it offers night skiing as well.

2. Kananaskis Country:

  • Nakiska Ski Area: Initially developed for the Calgary Winter Olympics in 1988, Nakiska offers a range of slopes and is family-friendly.

3. Jasper National Park:

  • Marmot Basin: Located in the picturesque surroundings of Jasper National Park, Marmot Basin has diverse terrain catering to all skill levels and is less crowded compared to some of the Banff resorts.

4. Crowsnest Pass:

  • Pass Powderkeg: A community-owned ski area that’s excellent for families and beginners.

5. Fortress Mountain:

  • After being closed for years, there’s ongoing talk about reopening this ski area in Kananaskis Country. If traveling in the region, it might be worth checking current statuses and developments.

General Tips:

  • Season: While the ski season can vary slightly between resorts, it generally runs from November to May, with some resorts like Sunshine Village often open until late May due to its higher elevation.
  • Lodging: Most major resorts offer a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to lodges and cabins. Consider booking in advance, especially during peak times.
  • Packages: Many resorts offer ski packages that include accommodation, lift tickets, and sometimes lessons or rentals, which can offer savings.
  • Equipment Rentals: All major resorts provide on-site rental options for skiing and snowboarding equipment.
  • Ski Lessons: Whether you’re a beginner or looking to advance your skills, consider enrolling in lessons which most resorts offer.

5. Flora and Fauna

Alberta is the ideal destination for those who appreciate mountain landscapes with glaciers, lakes, and rivers. To the southwest of the province stand the Rocky Mountains. In addition, you will discover the lush vegetation and wild animals in a natural habitat preserved from civilization.

Alberta places great emphasis on nature. It is a province that watches over its fauna and flora. As a result, many species live there, whether in the mountains, plains, or forests. In addition, many migrating birds pass through this region.

Final Words

Alberta is a paradise in North America and the ultimate outdoor destination for tourists who visit Canada during the summer and winter seasons. In addition to shopping malls, unique architecture, and world-class infrastructure, these are the top reasons to visit Alberta. Until Next Time!

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.
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Best Provincial & National Parks to Visit in Alberta

Best Provincial & National Parks to Visit in Alberta

Do you want to soothe your mind and heart? If yes, visit these best provincial and national parks in Alberta. Here is everything you need to know!

Provincial & National Parks to Visit in Alberta

Canada is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, boasting natural beauty, lush green landscapes, tall peaks, national and provincial parks. There are thirty-eight national parks in Canada.

Four of these national parks are in Alberta and preserve 63,000 square kilometres of picturesque wilderness. Although there are numerous provincial parks in Alberta, we will list the best of them. Read on!

1. Jasper National Park

Jasper National is located on the northern side of Banff and features Rocky Mountain’s scenic beauty and breathtaking views. There are many things to do in Jasper National Park. That’s why thousands of tourists visit the place to relish the rustic and laid-back environment.

In addition, Jasper National Park is home to wildlife and hundreds of animal species. It also boasts picturesque lakes, waterfalls, hiking trails, and beautiful glaciers in the Canadian Rockies. Similarly, the National Park also has the second-largest dark sky preserves in the world.

Therefore, if you want to watch and enjoy the Northern Lights, no other place is better than visiting the Jasper National Park. In addition, the Park has a countryside charm, scenic and snowy landscapes, and a wide range of winter sports. Many people come to the National Park during the holidays.

2. Banff National Park

Banff National Park, Alberta, is the epitome of natural beauty, thanks to the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, world-class hotels, and fantastic winter sports.

In addition, this National Park is famous for its wide range of wild species. Thanks to the mountain tourist resort, souvenirs, maple syrup, delectable food, and plenty of other things, the townsite has stunning views.

The best things to do and places to visit in Banff National Park are National Historical Museum, Johnston Canyon, Banff Springs Hotel, Upper Hot springs, Peyto Lake, Moraine Lake, and Lake Louise. In addition, you can enjoy skiing at Sunshine Village, Lake Louise, and Norquay. Don’t forget to enjoy cocktails at Park Distillery.

3. Elk Island National Park

Elk Island National Park is located outside Edmonton. Although it is the smallest national Park in the region, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the top tourist attraction in Alberta. Recent reports show that Elk Island National Park’s administration has made substantial efforts to conserve the bison population.

Besides, Elk Island National Park is home to elk, moose, coyote, beaver, porcupines’ deer, black bears, and wolves. If you want to get away from the bustling city and spend some relaxed time in nature, head to the Elk National Park. The place is perfect for numerous outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, kayaking, and hiking.

4. Peter Lougheed Provincial Park

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park is one of the most visited places in Alberta, thanks to the rugged mountains, abundant wildlife, beautiful rivers, and grizzly bears. Most people visit the Peter Lougheed Provincial Park for hiking and camping.

In addition, you can see a wide range of wildlife species when hiking the beautiful mountains. There are over 40 trails, and each track has a varying length, making them suitable for people of all ages and skill levels.

5. Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park

Lesser Slave Provincial Park is famous for picturesque beaches, nighttime campfires, swimming, watersports, fishing, and many other things. Locals and tourists enjoy adventure activities, including camping.

The campground has more than 65 sites near the lake. Fishing is another popular outdoor activity at Lesser Salve Lake Provincial Park. This provincial Park’s massive waterbody lets tourists catch the legendry walleye, pike, and burbot.

Final Words

Visiting national and provincial parks in Canada will connect your mind, body, and spirit and open your chakras. Visit Alberta if you want to breathe in fresh and clean air, enjoy picturesque beauty, participate in fun and adventure outdoor activities, and spend quality time with your loved ones.

Alberta’s national and provincial parks are stunning places to add to your bucket list and sightseeing itinerary. These national parks are home to beautiful mountains, picturesque foothills, prairies, scenic rivers/lakes, and plenty of wildlife. Thus, these parks provide you with countless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

 

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.
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