Athabasca, located in the county of Athabasca in northern Alberta, is a stunning town that offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy during the summer season. From trails to lakes, paddle boarding to river activities, there’s something for everyone in Athabasca. If you’re planning a summer getaway, here are five things to do in Athabasca during the warmer months.
Explore the Trails
Athabasca has a variety of trails to explore, each with its own unique scenery and challenges. The Rotary Way Trail is a 2.7-kilometer trail that circles the town and offers stunning views of the Athabasca River. The Muskoseepi Park Trail is another popular option that winds through the town’s parks and the picturesque Muskagee Creek. The trail is approximately 4.6 kilometers long and is suitable for hikers of all levels. For those looking for a longer trek, the Trans-Canada Trail offers over 21,000 kilometers of trails across Canada, with a portion running through Athabasca. If you’re looking for a guided hiking experience, the Athabasca Landing Trail Society offers guided tours of the Athabasca Landing Trail.
Visit the Lakes
Athabasca is home to several beautiful lakes that offer plenty of recreational activities for visitors. Baptiste Lake is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and boating, while nearby Island Lake is a quieter option for those looking to escape the crowds. The lake is also home to several species of fish, including pike, walleye, and perch. Visitors can also head to Calling Lake for fishing, boating, swimming, and water sports such as kayaking and canoeing. The lakes are perfect for a relaxing day on the water, and visitors can rent equipment from local outfitters like Athabasca Adventure Rentals.
2. Paddle Boarding
Paddleboarding has become a popular activity in recent years, and Athabasca is an excellent spot to try this exciting sport. Paddleboarding involves standing on a board and using a paddle to navigate through the water. Calling Lake is a great spot for paddleboarding, as the calm waters produce the perfect conditions for beginners. Another great spot is the Athabasca River which has gentle currents and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. Visitors can rent paddle boards from local outfitters like Athabasca Adventure Rentals, and take to the water to explore the river at their own pace.
3. River Activities
The Athabasca River is a scenic waterway which offers a variety of activities for visitors, from fishing to kayaking. The river is home to several species of fish, including northern pike and walleye, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can also rent kayaks or canoes and paddle down the river to take in the stunning scenery. For those looking for a more relaxed activity, tubing down the river is a popular option, with local outfitters like River Rats Rentals providing equipment, transportation, and guided tours.
4. Golfing
Golfing is a popular summer activity in Athabasca, with several courses in the area. The Athabasca Golf and Country Club is a beautiful course with stunning views of the river, while the nearby Smoky Lake Golf Club offers a challenging course for more experienced golfers. Both courses offer rentals and lessons for those new to the sport, making it a great activity for the whole family.
Athabasca is a stunning town that offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy during the summer. Whether you’re looking to explore the trails, relax on the lakes, paddle board down the river, or play a round of golf, there’s something for everyone in Athabasca. So, pack your bags, head to Athabasca, and experience all that this beautiful town has to offer.