Sometimes, the best boredom buster is a change of scenery, so why not take your beloved outdoor adventures to a city you’ve never been to?
Lacombe is located about 25 kilometres north of Red Deer in the rolling parkland of central Alberta. Nestled between the mountains and the prairies, it’s the amalgamation of Western Canada’s natural beauty, and despite a population of under 14,000, there’s plenty to explore!
Here are eight outdoor activities you can enjoy in and near Lamcombe, Alberta.
Canyon Ski Resort
Welcome to Alberta’s largest four-season recreation area! In summer, Canyon Ski Resort is home to Alberta’s only alpine coaster, Western Canada’s longest summer tubing slide, and a family-friendly zipline adventure park. In the winter, there are 80 kilometres of skiable terrain, a snow tube park, and a cozy lounge.
Where: 38433 Range Rd. 264A, Red Deer
Ellis Nature Centre
This non-profit organization is dedicated to the conservation of Mountain Bluebirds, Tree Swallows, and other native cavity-nesting birds. Although they’re only open to the public during the summer months, it’s a great opportunity to enjoy the gardens, see the world’s largest outdoor collection of bluebird nest boxes, and take a tour of the bluebird trail.
Where: 39502 Range Rd., 260 Lacombe County
Central Alberta Raceways
This premium motorsports park has a drag strip, dirt oval, mud racing, and motocross facilities. From May through October, you can get tickets to the various events happening — one of which is called 24 Idiots in Cars. So yeah, that should be a good time.
Where: 6700 40 Ave., Rimbey
Anderson Park
This one is fun for the whole family! On the east side of Gull Lake, Anderson Park features a playground, a junior paleontology dig site, musical play instruments, a basketball and beach volleyball court, walking trails, pollinator gardens, and a nine-hole disc golf course.
Where: Directions here
DNA Gardens
Located just outside of Elnora, DNA Gardens grows 19 varieties of Saskatoons and ten different kinds of fruit. Along with allowing guests to harvest fruit, the garden also offers high tea, camping, bat walks, a long table dinner, and more. There’s even an on-site winery that makes and sells fruit wine — spokesperson Moira Rose not included.
Where: 35344 Range Rd., 230 Elnora
Gull Lake Fishing Charters
Gull Lake is a renowned fishing spot, but if you’re new to the hobby or want to better your knowledge of the area, a charter is the way to go. Winter offerings include luxurious overnight ice fishing cabin rentals, and in the summer, you can take your group on a 20-foot customized Kingfisher. Under your guide’s expert guidance, you’ll be catching like crazy!
Where: Gull Lake
JJ Collett Provincial Natural Area
The JJ Collett Provincial Natural Area consists of 635 acres of Aspen Parkland and over 18 kilometres of maintained trails. Trek through a mosaic of shrub lands, aspen groves, shady hillsides, and wetlands. You may even spot the iconic sand dunes along your journey!
Where: 26118 TWP
Medicine Lodge Ski Hill
It may not be a mountain resort, but the Medicine Lodge Ski Hill has natural snow, no crows, fresh air, and great views. A more affordable option for families that still features unique trails for all levels of skill, from the classic green runs to challenging Black Diamonds. Rentals are available onsite.
Where: 15 kilometres west of Bentley
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