The Town of Athabasca, located in the County of Athabasca, is a great place to visit during the winter months. With plenty of snow and crisp winter air, there are many activities to enjoy in this beautiful part of Alberta. Here are five things to do in the winter in the Town of Athabasca:
Ice Fishing
One of the most popular winter activities in Athabasca is ice fishing. The town is located near several lakes, including Baptiste Lake, Island Lake, and North Buck Lake, all of which offer great opportunities for ice fishing. Grab your fishing gear and head out onto the ice to catch some fish and enjoy the peacefulness of the winter season. Make sure to dress warmly and check the ice thickness before venturing onto the lake. If you’re new to ice fishing, there are several outfitters in the area who offer guided ice fishing tours such as Baptiste Lake Adventures.
Snowmobile Trails
Athabasca is also a popular destination for snowmobilers. With over 300 kilometers of groomed snowmobile trails, there is plenty of terrains to explore. The trails are maintained by the Athabasca river runners Snowmobile Club and offer riders the chance to see some beautiful winter scenery. They are suitable for both novice and experienced riders and provide an exciting way to explore the wilderness. Some popular snowmobile trails in the area include the Tawatinaw Valley Trail and the Iron Horse Trail. If you don’t have your own snowmobile, there are several rental options in Athabasca, including River Rats Rentals and Athabasca Adventure Rentals.
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing
If you prefer to explore the winter landscape on foot, the Athabasca region is home to many stunning trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The Athabasca Nordic Ski Club maintains a network of trails that are perfect for both activities. The trails wind through the beautiful boreal forest and offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Some popular trails include the Athabasca Landing Trail, the Lesser Slave Lake Bird Observatory Trail, and the Meanook National Wildlife Area. If don’t have your own equipment, there are several rental options in the area, including Athabasca Adventure Rentals and the Athabasca Multiplex.
Tawatinaw Ski Hill
Located just an hour from Athabasca, Tawatinaw Ski Hill is a popular destination for skilling and snowboarding enthusiasts. The Ski hill offers a range of runs for all skill levels and is a great place to spend a day on the slopes. There’s also a terrain park for snowboarders and freestyle skiers, as well as a tube park for those who prefer a more leisurely activity. Visitors can take advantage of the Ski school, equipment rentals, and the lodge with a cozy fireplace. The ski hill is a great day trip option from Athabasca, and the scenic drive through the countryside is an added bonus.
Athabasca Multiplex
Finally, for those who want to stay close to town, the Athabasca Multiplex and Rotary Toboggan Hill are both great options. The Multiplex is a modern facility that offers a variety of indoor activities, such as swimming, skating, curling. The Facility includes an indoor pool with a waterslide, a hot tub, and a sauna, as well as a skating rink that is open to the public.
There is no shortage of winter activities in the Town of Athabasca. Whether you prefer to fish, ride a snowmobile, ski, or just enjoy the winter scenery, Athabasca has something for everyone. From ice fishing and snowmobiling to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, the town offers endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. So, bundle up and head out to this beautiful part of Alberta for some winter fun!