County of
Smoky Lake
VILLAGE OF WASKATENAU
TOWN
OF SMOKY LAKE VILLAGE
OF VILNA |
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Your country escape... Just a little over an hour outside Alberta’s Capital Region (and the 1.1 million people who live in and around the Metro-Edmonton area), Smoky Lake Region is a country paradise waiting to be discovered and explored. Rich in history, culture and nature-based recreational activities, the region has much to offer visitors – all year long. Summer, winter, spring or fall – Smoky Lake Region has a diverse range of places to visit, experiences to savour and memories to cherish. Step into the shoes of the early settlers and take a walk back in time, exploring the region’s rich history. The Waskatenau Tressle and historic Grain Elevator, Smoky Lake Museum, Victoria Trail, Victoria Settlement, Metis Crossing and Vilna’s Historic Main Street are just a few of the many places to experience the unique culture and history of early Alberta. Smoky Lake Region offers adventure and outdoor excitement in one of the most pristine natural settings in the province – bounded by the North Saskatchewan River to the south and the rolling hills and boreal forests to the north. The region is also the gateway to Alberta’s world-renowned Lakeland District. Camping, RVing, quading, snowmobiling, mountain biking, hiking, horse-back riding, hunting, fishing, bird-watching – the back-to-nature experience is clearly what brings visitors back year after year. The residents of Smoky Lake Region take great pride in their history, cultures and many accomplishments. ‘Celebrating the harvest’ has now become an opportunity to celebrate the region’s quality of life and to welcome visitors from across Alberta and around the world. The annual Great White Pumpkin Fair in the Town of Smoky Lake is a perfect example. In the first weekend of October, gardeners compete to break records (and scales) at what has become one of rural Alberta’s must-see events. With some pumpkins weighing in at over 1,000 pounds, this is definitely something you have to see with your own eyes. An Arts and Crafts show, a midway for the kids, and a Car Show and Shine ensure day long entertainment and fun for the whole family. The August long weekend in Smoky Lake is sure to keep your adrenaline pumping. Get ready to cheer on your favorite cowboy – or cowgirl – for 8 seconds of blood-pumping, sand-throwing, bull-broncing action at Smoky Lake’s annual Stampede. Vilna’s Boomtown Days follows the third weekend in August and has also become one of the region’s premier summertime events. Other communities in the region also host events of interest to visitors and locals alike, such as the Bellis Slow Pitch Tournament, the Warspite Farmers Day Weekend, and the Victoria Trail Agricultural Society’s Annual Fair in Waskatenau. Lots to see, lots to do – and good old-fashion fun and excitement at every turn. Really love the outdoors? Smoky Lake is at the western end of Alberta’s Iron Horse Trail. This multi-use trail is perfect for year round adventure. Hike, bike, quad, or take a horseback ride when it’s warm, and bring out the snowmobile and the horse-drawn wagon when the snow falls. No matter which activity you prefer, the Iron Horse Trail is truly an experience for one and all. Whether you crave competition, exercise, or just a fun casual time with family and friends, golfing is a great activity. The Smoky Lake Golf Course and the Vilna Golf Course are two of the nicest 9-hole courses in Alberta – scenic and challenging to golfers at all levels. Smoky Lake Region - places to visit, experiences to savour and memories to cherish. This year, be sure to include us in your travel plans. We’d love to welcome you to our special part of Alberta. |
