When travel and food blogger and content creator Linda Hoang set her sights on exploring Alberta this summer, she headed north to discover something new: a family golf adventure in the Mighty Peace Region.
Just a 5.5-hour drive from Edmonton (or two hours from Grande Prairie), the Mighty Peace is where rolling prairies meet river valleys, and friendly communities welcome you with open arms. Linda’s trip took her by land, water, and even sky — showing why this corner of Alberta is the perfect blend of play, nature, and relaxation.
Four Courses. Three Days. Endless Views.
Linda and her crew teed off at four golf courses in just three days, each with its own personality, scenery, and northern Alberta charm.
5 Star Golf Course – MD of Smoky River
Set along the winding Little Smoky River, 5 Star Golf Course is a nine-hole hidden gem with wide-open fairways, friendly staff, and a peaceful atmosphere. Linda loved how relaxed it felt — perfect for families, beginners, or anyone just looking to soak up the sunshine. After the round, the group cooled off with crisp drinks on the clubhouse patio and sampled their famous cactus-cut chips.
Nearby: Falher is known as the “Honey Capital of Canada.” Snap a photo at the World’s Largest Bee, visit the local honey producers, or swing by the Valley Bee Café for espresso and pastries made with local honey.
Hines Creek Golf & Country Club
One of northern Alberta’s oldest courses, Hines Creek Golf & Country Club is surrounded by towering spruce trees and a lazy creek that winds along the fairways. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a rustic clubhouse and plenty of shade for a summer afternoon.
Linda’s crew paired their visit with a stop at the legendary Hines Creek General Store, where shelves are lined with house-made pepperoni, jerky, and locally inspired snacks — the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Mighty Peace Golf Club & Campground – Grimshaw
As the region’s only 18-hole championship course, the Mighty Peace Golf Club offers sweeping valley views, lush greens, and a lively clubhouse perfect for a post-game meal. Golfers can stay right onsite at the campground or join events like couples’ nights and fun tournaments throughout the summer.
For Linda, this stop wasn’t just about golf — it was also about food. Just a few minutes away in Grimshaw is Northern Dough Bakery, where she discovered warm pastries, artisan breads, and decadent cinnamon buns she called “worth the trip all on their own.”
Heart River Golf Course – Nampa
Set against the quiet charm of Nampa, Heart River Golf Course is a picture-perfect nine-hole layout. Wooden bridges connect flower-lined fairways, and water features sparkle in the sunlight. It’s an easygoing course with a big heart — the kind of place where locals wave as they pass.
Linda’s tip: after your round, head into town for cake and a hearty breakfast at Nampa Sunrise Café. Their home-baked desserts and cheerful atmosphere make for the perfect end to a day outdoors.
Heilan Beer House in Fairview, and a delicious scone from The Old Bistro.
Where to Stay: Cozy, Unique, and Close to Nature
After long days on the greens, Linda and her family stayed at two memorable accommodations, each offering something completely different.
Peace River Cabins & Outdoors – Nestled along the banks of the Peace River, these cabins are designed for unplugging. Trails and berry bushes surround the property, while campfires glow under northern skies. Adventurous guests can book an ultralight flight with host Henry — a chance to see the valley’s bends and sandbars from the air.
Yurt Beautiful – Tucked into a private grove near Grimshaw, this handcrafted Mongolian yurt combines rustic charm with modern comfort. Linda loved the home-cooked meals, the unique outdoor shower under a canopy of stars, and the warm welcome from the property’s friendly pups.
Adventures Beyond the Fairway
The Mighty Peace isn’t just about golf — it’s about slowing down and experiencing Alberta’s wild north in unexpected ways. Linda’s itinerary mixed tee times with unforgettable side trips:
- Paddle the Peace River with rentals or guided trips from Peace River Adventures.
- Hop aboard the historic Shaftesbury Ferry, a summer-only river crossing with a story of its own.
- Explore Peace River’s food scene: try wood-fired pizza at Heilan Beer House, sip craft beer at Peace River Brewing, or enjoy riverfront dining at Board ’n’ Barrel.
- Take a scenic hike along the Peace or Smoky Rivers, or visit Historic Dunvegan for a glimpse into fur trade history.
Plan Your Golf Getaway
From riverside greens to cozy cabins, bakeries, and trails, the Mighty Peace Region turns a golf trip into a full northern Alberta adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned player, a casual golfer, or just tagging along for the scenery, you’ll find something to love here.
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Linda Hoang is an Edmonton-based blogger, social media strategist, and award-winning travel influencer. She shares food, family, lifestyle, and adventure stories that highlight local gems and inspire exploration. In 2024, she was named Best Tourism Influencer at the Edmonton Tourism Awards.
