All Places

Enjoy a relaxing hike or hop on your mountain bike and explore Pat’s Creek Interpretive Trail. Fresh air, beautiful views and wide-open spaces await visitors exploring this easily accessible trail only a quick 5-minute drive from the Town of Peace River. The trail head can be located by driving through the Sunrise Gateway Business Park, then turning onto the Fairground Road and continuing on until you reach the end of the road. Pat’s Creek is a tributary of the Peace River. It is named after Patrick Wesley, a Métis man who lived in a cabin adjacent to the creek on his property. Pat’s Creek Valley consists of glacial deposits left over from the last ice age about 12,000 years ago. The full 7.6km hike takes about 2 hours or turn back at the metal stair landing for a shorter 10-minute walk.  Bring a picnic and be ready to capture photos of the stunning landscape and abundant wildlife in this spectacular spot!

A magical gem of Boreal forest with easy access awaits you only 600 metres off of Highway 35. From highway 35, turn west onto highway 689 into the hamlet of Dixonville. Dixonville is approximately 57km northwest of the Town of Peace River. Once in Dixonville, watch carefully for 1st St. West and turn South on it. You will then come to a large truck parking lot on your right hand side. You have now arrived at your enchanted destination.

The entry to the forest trail is marked by a large sign with flags and is adjacent to a foot bridge. Cross over the bridge (beware of the old troll that may still be lurking) and you are onto the trail. The majority of the trail is a gravel surface and while not suited for a wheelchair, it is mostly flat and level. The trail is approximately 1.5km’s and offers a great way to stretch your legs while taking in the sights, sounds and smells of a typical boreal forest.

Along the trail you will find informative signs highlighting various aspects of the flora and fauna. A variety of bird houses and even bat houses have been installed throughout the forest to encourage nesting. For the young or very young at heart, look for a tiny enchanted forest but be very quiet as you never know what or who you may see in there. A side trail will have you bounding on soft moss and encompassed by some large White Spruce trees.

In the wintertime, the trails are still very much so accessible. The main portion of the trail is packed and groomed for easier walking or cross country skiing. The side loop is intentionally not groomed as it lends itself well to snowshoeing and off trail exploration.

A 50 metre section of the trail lovingly referred to as “Chickadee Alley”, features several large bird feeders complete with bins of seeds. Feel free to fill the feeders while you watch and listen. It is not unusual to feed over 600 pounds of seeds here each winter not to mention suet and other treats! These feeders are primarily stocked in winter months only. From spring months until late fall months our small forest critters are able to forage just fine within the vast hearty taiga.

Toilet facilities are not provided and campfires are only permitted in the Shady Lane campground located south of the Community Forest.

No OHVs permitted

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)

Where in the Peace Country can you find a museum with a mechanical bull? The Brownvale North Peace Agricultural Museum!  This fiberglass bull originally had Brian Mulroney riding him when the statue was built by the Alberta Government for the Alberta Pavilion showcased in Vancouver for Expo 86! The original cost was $30,000 but the Brownvale Museum was lucky enough to have it donated to them by George McKenzie who purchased it at auction for $4000.  What better rider to portray than Brian Mulroney our Prime Minister in 1986,  too bad he’s been bucked off since the statue was originally installed!

Continue on past the bull to explore the historical buildings on display – the Grey Eagle school and the Brownvale Post Office are available for visitors to explore. Slip back through the decades when you step inside the buildings which feature many artifacts from the past, such as some old tractors and a gramophone complete with records. The museum also includes a selection of other agricultural equipment and road building equipment dating back to horse powered days!

The museum is located on the coroner of Highway 2 and Highway 737.  Free parking is available at this wheelchair accessible facility.   The museum hours are 11am – 3pm every Sunday from the May long weekend through to the September long weekend. Donations are gratefully accepted. For more information call – 780-740-5048.

Make the most of your weekends! Peace River’s Farmer’s Market can be found in the West Hill Industrial Plaza, running every other Saturday from 10am until 2pm. Once inside, you’ll notice that the building is buzzing with excitement and the energy is full of positivity each and every time. You can browse and enjoy local vendors who offer everything from handmade gifts, home décor, baking and produce to farm fresh eggs, freshly roasted coffee and locally sourced honey. The market features a wide range of artists, makers, farmer’s and home-based businesses and is the perfect opportunity to support and appreciate the people in the area.

With a welcoming atmosphere, you can stop and enjoy conversations with vendors, taste sweet treats, smell indulgent aromas of handmade soaps and candles, stock up on fresh vegetables or try on hand crafted jewellery. With many one-of-a-kind items, vendors encourage any and all questions and are more than willing to share their processes and knowledge with you. Take the time to browse each table and marvel in the diversity that the market offers. There really is something for everyone here. This family friendly event provides a space for all visitors and shoppers to have fun and is the perfect place for those wanting to get out of the house and support local. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift, wanting to treat yourself, or re-stocking your favourite foods and snacks, Peace River’s Farmer’s Market is the place to be. 

Enjoy a long, sunny northern Alberta summer’s day at Murphy’s Flats. This scenic day use area running along the Smoky River is the perfect spot to enjoy an active day of hiking, fishing, kayaking or canoeing.  The river may offer a natural sandy or rocky beach depending on the flow and height of the river water. The nearby Peace River Wildland Provincial Park offers amazing areas for mountain biking and hiking adventurers. A leisurely stroll, rock collecting as well as wildlife and bird watching can be enjoyed by more gentle explorers.  Pack a picnic so you can stay all day!  There are firepits, tables and free firewood available. This newly developed area is open from the May long weekend to the October long weekend.

To access this area from Highway 744 near Marie Reine, turn west onto TWP RD 822, then turn left on RGE RD 222.5 and turn right onto 821.5 or alternately turn off Highway 744 west onto TWP RD 820, then turn right on RGE RD 222 and turn right onto 821.5.

Day use only.

For more information call – 780-624-0013

The Fairview Aircraft Restoration Society (FARS) is a non-profit organization that is passionate about preserving history. FARS took on the incredible feat of restoring the Canso, a Canadian built aircraft of World War II, and they successfully brought it back to life for the community to appreciate and enjoy. Their mission is to include all ages in the rich history that the Canso encompasses and to showcase a glimpse in time that should never be forgotten.

Demonstrations in the sky are now available to watch, which are guaranteed to invoke curiosity into the historical past that the Canso represents. Viewers on the ground can watch in awe as the big, red machine moves gracefully through the air and they can imagine what it must feel like to be at the controls. FARS has allowed history to come alive again and they are motivated to educate school aged children, adults and community members about Canada’s past in aviation. 

Exhibits with other local pilots and airplane enthusiasts happen throughout the year at local airshows and provide an opportunity for everyone to take in and explore the stunning, historical aircrafts. FARS is always looking for new members who want to join them in the restoration processes and who have an interest in sharing knowledge about aircraft history. FARS is for those who want to connect the past with the present and make a difference in the way history is portrayed. It’s never too late to learn with FARS!

Have you ever wanted to get up close and personal with a purebred Siberian Husky sled dog or a Pure Bred Canadian Eskimo dog? Because now you can at Whirlwind Acres! Offering year-round fun, a dog boarding kennel and one-of-a-kind experiences, Whirlwind Acres is truly an animal lover’s dream.

Located just outside of Berwyn with plenty of room to roam and explore, guests can visit and get a healthy dose of affection from the many four-legged friends on site.

During the summer months they host events where visitors can participate in educational opportunities surrounding the health and care of the majestic purebreds, learn mushing commands and how to harness sled dogs, plus sneak in a few furry snuggles. On top of that, you can now celebrate your birthday with the cuddly creatures and spend hours getting wet and wild in their dog friendly spray park.

When winter hits, the fun goes through the roof! During the snowy season, visitors can book a dog sledding tour and experience a once in a lifetime moment behind the fast feet in front of them. Once the dogs complete their loop in the fluffy white snow, guests are brought back to a warm bonfire for a comforting cup of hot chocolate and plenty of tasty s ’mores. This unique experience provides a full day of entertainment and is a must try!

Whirlwind Acres also offers top quality care to those who need a place to board their furry family members. With a clean and welcoming dog kennel available, it is a home away from home for visiting canines.

Plan your visit now and see why so many people (and dogs) love being at Whirlwind Acres!

Book a Winter Wonderland Experience

Limited dates available! Book online >

If you’re looking for affordable winter fun that the whole family can enjoy, then you MUST experience what the Manning Ski Hill has to offer!

The Manning and District Ski Club has been in operation since 1972 as a non-profit organization in the Notikewan River Valley, just east of the town of Manning. With some of the best scenery around, this hill is a favourite to many locals and out of town visitors. The hill itself has four main runs with a t-bar lift, making it easy to use for all ages. Whether you’re just started out on the slopes or are an experienced skier or snowboarder, this hill has something for everyone to enjoy.

Staying active during the winter season is important and the Manning Ski Club is committed to helping users do just that. Although they don’t offer lessons at this time, they do have a chalet with pre-packaged snacks to help visitors refuel after a long day hitting the slopes.

Northern Alberta Small Ski Area (NASSA) Passport

New! With the purchase of a season pass.
This passport entitles the season pass holder to 1 complimentary lift pass at each of the participating skills. The ski area will stamp your passport to indicate redemption. Return your completed passport, with stamps from all six ski areas to be entered into a draw at the end of the season. The passport is valid only during the season of purchase. A complimentary pass exclusion of liability waiver must be signed by an adult for each ski area at the time of redemption.

Time and good friends are two things that get more valuable the older you get. This multi-use facility, at #10 3^rd Ave in McLennan, is home to an active group of seniors that welcomes friends to come together year-round.  Follow their Facebook page for more information on activities and events.

McLennan Golden Age Club Facebook

For more information and bookings – 780-324-2123
Club: 780-324-3551

Between the pages of a book is a lovely place to be! Escape into the world of books in the McLennan Municipal Library located in the Town Centre at #19 1^st Avenue in McLennan. This library is part of the Peace Library System and offers language learning programs, computer and internet access, office services as well as interlibrary loans. Curbside pickup of books as well as craft kits for kids is also available. Check out their website and follow their Facebook and Instagram pages for more information on activities and events. 

For more information call – 780-324-3767

The McLennan Skate Park, located just west of the arena, offers an outdoor community space for recreational activity.  This awesome space encourages youth to be outside and engage in physical activity. The Park also offers various features for skate and BMX play. Lots of wide-open space for free play will make this a popular spot for kids!

Basketball, badminton and volleyball are just a few of the sports visitors can enjoy at this fenced and surfaced outdoor sports court. Located near the Hamelin Leiding playground just east of the arena. 

Built in memory of members of the Hamelin and Leiding families, this park offers a place for children to climb, explore, run and laugh. Various items of playground equipment will challenge and excite youngsters for hours of outdoor play. Enjoy year-round fresh air and fun at this great facility.

Explore the lakeshore of Lake Kimiwan and all of its many species of wildlife along the paved walking trails established by the McLennan Recreation and Leisure Society. Discover the new covered bridge as well as the many ponds and trees along the trail that the wild waterfowl enjoy throughout the season. Run, walk or bike these trails, it’s a great way to get out with family, friends and pets to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Memorial benches can be found along the trail to take a break and let nature rejuvenate and inspire you. The trails have been built wide and smooth enough to encourage everyone from tiny walkers to those requiring the assistance of a wheelchair to participate in some great outdoor activity.

Come explore one of the must-see birding destinations in the Peace Region, the Kimiwan Bird Walk. This area in McLennan is indisputably one of the premier waterfowl sighting areas in North America. The Interpretive Centre is open May through October and will lend you a pair of binoculars to get a close-up view of wildlife.

The first portion of the self-guided Bird Walk is a hard-packed gravel walking trail of approximately 300 m which circles around a wetland and leads you to the wooden portion of the walkway. Walk slowly and quietly to have the best chance to observe some really interesting bird behaviour. Be sure to check out each “Watchable Wildlife Fact” sign which highlights a specific bird that is common to the site.

The wooden portion of the walkway takes you approximately 400 m out towards the main lake and over shallow water. Each step you take can result in a different sighting or bird behaviour. Walk past a second small wetland and then proceed out into the lake. There are three decks along the wooden walkway stretch, each with a picnic table and a garbage can. At the last deck and furthest into the lake, there is a viewing scope for your pleasure. Experience the excitement of spotting a variety of waterfowl species coming in for a smooth landing on the water or a red winged blackbird perched on a cattail. Listen for the sweet song of a thrush or witness the hunting prowess of a bald eagle! Nothing compares to the wild and wide-open spaces of the north.

Allow yourself at least 30 minutes to complete the bird walk. Kimiwan Lake hosts 1000s of migratory birds per day during the migratory seasons and hundreds of other bird species can be seen throughout the summer season. Exploration is worthwhile all year long as other wild life is often spotted during the winter months as well.

A warm welcome awaits visitors at the Kimiwan Lake Municipal Campground in the Town of McLennan. This campground is conveniently located within town limits for visitors to access amenities like groceries, laundromat services and fuel. Visitors can self-register before choosing one of the 18 available sites. Choose a serviced or non-serviced site, both have fire pits and picnic tables, and prepare to enjoy a relaxing stay in this beautiful area. There is also an inviting day use area for an impromptu picnic.  This is the perfect spot to set off from and explore the nearby Kimiwan Lake Bird Walk and Interpretive Centre as well as the Railway Museum.  There’s something for everyone with The Smoky River Regional Golf Course nearby for those interested in hitting the links! Little campers will also enjoy the playground and wooden train play centre as well as the catch and release fish pond that is within the campground area. Campers will also find a shelter with a cook stove, washrooms, showers, sewage disposal, town water and free firewood are all available to make their stay more comfortable.  The campground is open May 1st – September 30th. 

For more information contact the McLennan town office at 780-324-3065. 

Group rate is $200/night, to book all 18 stalls for private functions.

Engaging indoor and outdoor exhibits beckon visitors to explore this museum located on the northwest side of McLennan on Hwy 2.  This carefully curated collection of artifacts from the pioneer days of northern Alberta are artfully displayed within historic buildings such as a NAR station, hospital, a store as well as a church, school and a library. Visitors are sure to discover one-of-a kind displays that will educate and inspire!  

Open May – August.  Outdoor exhibits open year-round. 

For Information call – 780-827-1292 or 780-925-0405

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. 

What does the Peace Country look like from the air? Find out with a thrilling helicopter tour with Black Swan Helicopters. You will be in awe of the beauty of the valley and the rich landscapes of the Peace region with 360-degree views.

During a Black Swan Helicopter Tour, passengers experience the incredible feeling of lifting-off and flying (which feels more like floating) through the low-level air, surrounded by beautiful topography that makes the Peace Region one of the most beautiful places in Northern Alberta. It will be hard putting your camera down; the view of the river valley and surrounding landscapes are absolutely breathtaking.

The once-in-a-lifetime experience is popular among residents and visitors to the area. Guests can request to fly over specific areas or choose the awe-inspiring Smoky River Tour, where passengers get up-close views of the Smoky River and the surrounding region. Tours are available all year round and cost $500 for a half-hour (with a maximum of 4 passengers).

In addition to providing tour services in the region, the company transports firefighters, cargo and equipment to fire sites and provides essential support to extinguish fires and limit fire expansion. Black Swan also transports visiting biologists performing research in the area. 

Black Swan Helicopters is located in Berwyn, Alberta, serving the region since 2003.