All Town of Peace River in Alberta

Beat the heat and enjoy the summer weather at the Town of Peace River’s Spray Park. Cool off in the parks  unexpected water spouts, cannon streams, flower showers, and more. Pack a picnic because the kiddos are not going to want to leave the park.

Enjoy the winter season in the Peace Region. Grab some skates and head out to one of the six outdoor neighbourhood ice rinks that the Town of Peace River operates.

1. Shaftesbury Estates Rink –92 Street
2. Lower West Peace Rink – 92 Street
3. Saddleback Ridge Rink – 82 Street
4. Riverside OutdoorRink – 101 Street
5. Baytex Energy Centre Outdoor Rink – 73 Avenue

Additional Skating areas available.

1. Riverfront Park Skating Area –100 Avenue
2. Spruce Court Skating Area –98 Street

Check out the Town of Peace River’s website for guidelines for use and other information -https://peaceriver.ca/community-services/parks/or call 780-624-3204

Whether you’re beginning or ending your river journey or just stopping in for a rest and a picnic, the Town of Peace River offers two handy boat launches. The Lower West Peace Launch is found on the west side of the Peace River just off of Shaftesbury Trail in the lower west region of the town.  The launch typically has porta potties and a floating dock installed by the Peace River Boating Association. The North End Launch is located in the north end of town, on the east side of the river, just off of 84th Avenue. Both boat launches are gravel with some parking on site. Boaters enjoy a stunning view of the bridges and the town of Peace River as they move along this historic waterway.  

Board ‘n’ Barrel Restaurant & Patio located on the picturesque Peace River is a foodie destination hot spot. Concentrating on a flavour forward locally sourced menu with in-house made foods that rival the “big city” dining options. We specialize in shareable charcuterie boards and small plate items plus menu items like house made flatbreads, Superfood salads,  fresh made pastas, duck breast, spring lamb, AAA Alberta steaks and burgers that will amaze your tastebuds. We specialize in Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options and can meet almost all dietary requirements or preferences, while creating a fabulous dining experience for all.

Peace River Brewing was opened in March 2018 by a local couple that began the business as a hobby. It has now expanded into a family friendly taproom, serving craft beer, light snacks and house made kombucha. Sit in for a pint, fill growlers, purchase cans to go or check out their swag wall filled with PRB merch! A chill atmosphere and laid back vibe makes this brewery a locals hang out and visitor destination.

The Misery Mountain Trails offer natural trails to elevations that offer a wonderful view of the Peace River Valley and the west side of the community. To access the natural trail network, you can park at the trailhead just off 99^th Ave behind the Westridge Condominiums.

This area is amazing for hiking and mountain biking. The views are worth the elevation gain!

Download Misery Mountain Trail Map (PDF – 32 MB)

If you are looking for a home away from home or a quick overnight stay in Peace River, the Western Budget Motel is an excellent choice for you.

Guests can choose a single, double, kitchenette, or jacuzzi room, which all come outfitted with a full-size fridge, flat-screen TV and free high-speed internet. Are you bringing your furry family member? No worries, the Western Budget Motel also has a few pet-friendly rooms.

Not only is this motel comfy, clean, and affordable, there is a restaurant, lounge and hair salon on site. The location couldn’t get better being situated on Peace River’s west hill, only steps away from a large grocery store and a gas station. And if you rely on your Tim Horton’s coffee fix in the morning, you’re covered – it’s located right across the street in the Peace River square.’

Make sure you check out The Hitching Post that is located inside Western Budget. Or try your luck at the Ironbridge Pub at one of their VLT machines.

While you are here, be sure to check out all the beauty and attractions the Town of Peace River and surrounding areas have to offer – you won’t be disappointed. 

Enjoy the beauty of the Peace River and it’s valley by taking the short drive down the Shaftesbury Trail!

Running along side the Mighty Peace River for approximately 26km, the Shaftesbury Trail is one of the most scenic and interesting drives in the Peace region. Originally used by First Nations and Metis fur traders it is the location of several important historic sites. Start your tour on this paved and well maintained roadway either from Grimshaw going south on Highway 2, then taking secondary Highway 684 down into the valley or from Peace River, turn onto Highway 684, which can be accessed on the west side of the Peace River bridge. A relaxing and interesting adventure awaits! Along the way visit Fort Fork, MacKenzie Cairn as well as St. Augustine’s Mission. Stop for a picnic at Strong Creek Park and enjoy the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife! Continue on and visit the market gardens to see what’s in season! End your Shaftsbury Trail adventure with a ride on the Shaftesbury Ferry, the view of the river and surrounding hills is spectacular!

Getting There

From Grimshaw: go south on Highway 2, then take secondary Highway 684 down into the valley. From Peace River: turn onto Highway 684, which can be accessed on the west side of the Peace River bridge.

Mackenzie Cairn
It was 1793 when Sir Alexander Mackenzie, famed North American explorer, overwintered at Fort Fork before starting his transcontinental journey to the Pacific. The Mackenzie Cairn, built in 1929, honours both the Fort Fork trading post and the place where Mackenzie’s important journey began. This National Historic Site also provides a wonderful view of the Peace River, and an information kiosk offers detailed maps, drawings of the fort and early photos. Historic tours are available during the summer months.

St. Augustine Mission Church
About 13 km southwest of the Town of Peace River, the St. Augustine Mission Church sits in a tranquil space in the valley. A Provincial Historic Site, St. Augustine Mission Church is the remains of the St. Augustine Mission, established in 1888. Tours of the church and grounds are available in the summer.

Bridgeview Gardens
U-Pick berries and other vegetables. Call them at 780-624-1335.

Fort McLeod
A historical site on the banks of the Peace River. Learn more about fur trade history with new interpretive signs, or visit the Peace River Museum, Archives and Mackenzie Centre for a more in-depth history.

Strong Creek Park
Free camping, kitchen shelter, water, fishing, hiking trails and playground, including a backstop and field for baseball/softball.

Brick’s Hill
When driving from Hwy 2 near Grimshaw, take Brick’s Hill to take in the beauty of the valley floor. Named after original families owning river lots in the area, Brick’s Hill boasts an abundant landscape of agriculture and gardens. The hills are layered with history and evidence of the Cree and Beaver First Nations.

Shaftesbury Ferry
A unique experience awaits at the Shaftesbury Ferry!

This is one of only 6 ferries operated by Alberta Transportation in the entire province! The ferry is part of highway 740 and crosses the mighty Peace River linking the Shaftesbury Trail with the Tangent Park area. The length of the crossing is 325 metres and takes about 5 minutes. Enjoy spectacular river valley scenery during the crossing and keep your eyes open for the abundant wildlife that frequent this area. This experience is available May through the end of October, 7am to 11pm daily. The ferry is free of charge and can accommodate everything from foot traffic to large RV’s and motorcycles. Visit 511 Alberta for the most recent information about ferry operations.

Tangent Park
Tangent Park campground is located on the east bank of the river, just a ferry ride across from the Shaftesbury Trail. It offers full service sites, showers, group camping and horseback riding/hiking trails.

Athabasca Hall is home of the Peace Players Theatre Group, Athabasca Hall is a cultural centre in Peace River. This historic building hosts various performances and concerts throughout the year. Built in 1938 it is also a historical fixture. Peace Players host several productions every season from September to June, including a musical, a children’s production and the highly popular dinner theatre. Peace Players productions are held upstairs on the Don Weaver Stage, where there is fixed seating for 250 and a lounge and bar area for intermissions

Downstairs there is a sizeable Art Gallery and Dance Studio. The Athabasca Hall is ideal for musical productions, as well as small parties or special events. The capacity for the hall ranges from 114 people to 182 depending on the type of setup.

Want to ollie a jump or show off your sweet tricks?

Try out the custom built Curtis Marshall Memorial Skate Park in the Town of Peace River. The park is located on the west side of 101 Street, between 101 Avenue and 102 Avenue in the Town of Peace River. The park features unique obstacles with lots of transition that gives this park a variety of features that is suitable for everyone’s skill level. The park is free and open to any skateboarders, BMX riders, push scooters and inline skaters. 

Overlooking the Peace River valley from the west bank these diamonds are a unique place to play baseball. The Town of Peace River has a lively sports community with many community facilities that are not limited to locals. Keep the athletes in your family happy and plan a day of fun down at the Ken Horneland Memorial Ball Diamonds. There is a cluster of four diamonds that offer a great space for tournaments, with easy highway access and amenities nearby. The diamonds are impeccably maintained with lush grass. The grassed areas surrounding the diamonds are great for family picnics and strolling while enjoying the sunshine.

To book the facility call 780-624-1000.

The historic Peace River NAR Station, last of its kind in northern Alberta.

The NAR Station was built in 1916, a Class C Station, it is the last of its kind in Northern Alberta. The station was restored in 1988, and declared a Provincial Historic Resource Site on April 29, 1988. It now serves as the Town of Peace River’s Visitor Information Centre. The ground floor has been furnished to the 1920s-1930s era, and upstairs features local art. Events are held at the station throughout the summer and autumn.

This is the place to make all of your Mighty Peace plans. Offering free information for sightseeing, attractions, accommodations, museums, tours and restaurants. The have a complete collection of current information on the Mighty Peace. 

The Visitor Information Centre is your one-stop shop for planning your time in the Mighty Peace. The professional, highly-trained staff can help you make the most of your Mighty Peace experience and plan your journeys into Mighty Peace and beyond. 

Hours of operation:

Open May long weekend until September long weekend. Friday to Monday 9am – 4:30pm.

Directions:

Please note the 98 Street exit to Downtown is presently CLOSED.

From Highway 2 (Edmonton or Fairview/Grimshaw):

Exit the highway at 100 Street (Hwy 744), and head south under the railway trestle. At the traffic circle, take the first exit (the first right); the street that leads between the Sawridge Hotel and the KFC. Follow this street until you see the NAR Station, which is a two-storey red wooden building. There is adequate parking on site.

From Highway 744 (north from Girouxville):

When you’ve made it to the bottom of Judah hill at the junction of 104^th Avenue and 101 Street turn right. Follow this street (101 Street) north until you reach the T junction (the Fire Hall with a tower will be facing you). Turn left, and at the set of lights turn right. Follow this street to the traffic circle. Enter the traffic circle and take the third exit; the street that leads between the Sawridge Hotel and the KFC. Follow this street until you see the NAR Station, which is a two-storey red wooden building. There is adequate parking on site.

Accessibility:

The NAR Station does have a ramp onto the station platform, however we do not have accessible washrooms. Because we are an historic building, our doorways may be too narrow for some wheel chairs.

Facilities:

• washrooms (not wheelchair accessible)
• picnic tables
• visitor information
• exhibits
• brochures and maps for the region