Attractions and Places To See around Sturgeon County - Top 5

Sturgeon County offers several natural attractions. You can visit the Big Lake Viewing Deck, a great spot for birdwatching with binocular stations. The region also features the Sturgeon River and North Saskatchewan River, along with lakes like Sandy Lake and Big Lake. The landscape includes high, flat plains and broad ravines, with aspen-dominated forests.

Yes, the Father Lacombe Chapel is a significant historical site. Built in 1861, it is recognized as Alberta's oldest building and played a central role in the Métis settlement of St. Albert, which borders Sturgeon County.

Sturgeon County provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can explore the Sturgeon River Trail, a paved multi-use pathway popular for walking, running, and cycling, part of the extensive Red Willow Trail System. For more specific activities, you can find various MTB trails, running trails, and easy hiking routes, including the Chickakoo Lake Outer Loop and Riverlot 56 loop.

Absolutely! Many attractions are suitable for families. The Big Lake Viewing Deck is family-friendly, offering a chance to observe birds. The Sturgeon River Trail is also great for family walks or bike rides. Other options include Jurassic Forest, a unique outdoor dinosaur park, and splash parks like Poplar Spray Park Gibbons and Morinville Splash Park during warmer months.

The best time to visit Sturgeon County for outdoor activities largely depends on what you want to do. Spring, summer, and fall are ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring parks like the St. Albert Botanic Park. Summer is perfect for water-based activities and splash parks. Winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on some trails, though specific closures may apply.

Yes, the St. Albert Botanic Park is a beautiful volunteer-run botanical garden located along the Sturgeon River. It features themed spaces, including rose gardens and native plant areas, offering peaceful landscaped paths. Additionally, Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park and Redwater Provincial Recreational Area provide natural settings for picnics and wildlife viewing.

For unique recreation, consider visiting Jurassic Forest, an outdoor dinosaur park. Golf enthusiasts have several courses, including Cattail Crossing Golf Club and Sturgeon Valley Golf & Country Club. For adventurous activities, BUMP (Barry's Ultra Motorsports Park) offers ATV, UTV, and dirt bike rentals.

Yes, the Highway 15 Footbridge is wheelchair accessible, providing a safe pedestrian and cycle way. The St. Albert Botanic Park also has accessible paths, making it a pleasant stop for all visitors.

Cyclists can enjoy the Sturgeon River Trail, a paved multi-use pathway that is part of the Red Willow Trail System. The Highway 15 Footbridge also serves as a cycle way, connecting to Fort Saskatchewan. For mountain biking, there are various MTB trails available in the region.

Yes, the Big Lake Viewing Deck is an excellent spot for birdwatching. Natural areas like Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park and the Sandy Lake Wilderness Area also offer opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitats.

For easy hikes, you can explore routes like the Chickakoo Lake Outer Loop or the Riverlot 56 loop, both listed among the easy hikes around Sturgeon County. These trails offer gentle terrain suitable for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk.

The Athabasca Landing Trail Mile Zero marks the beginning of this historic trail. It is an official part of the Trans Canada Trail and serves as its only overland route into the northern territories, offering a glimpse into the region's past transportation routes.