Shaftesbury Boat Launch

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.

Paddling furiously along the Peace River to beat freeze up, Alexander Mackenzie and his crew must have been very glad to reach the area where Fort Fork was to be built and where they were able to find shelter from the coming winter weather.  Soon after his arrival Mackenzie observed “the river stopped” indicating freeze up had arrived!  Mackenzie, a Scottish born explorer and fur trader was to spend the winter of 1792 – 93 at Fort Fork before continuing on his famed journey to the Pacific Ocean.  Fort Fork was named for its close proximity to the convergence of the Smoky and Peace Rivers.  The fort provided shelter for Mackenzie and several years later the explorer – geographer David Thompson.  The fort was also the main North West Company post in the Peace Country until 1806 when its operations were moved to Fort Dunvegan.  Stones from an original chimney in the fort have been preserved and fashioned into a fireplace for the public to view at the Peace River Museum, Archives and Mackenzie Centre.   

Mackenzie Cairn, a National Historic site since 1929, was built to commemorate Fort Fork and marks the spot where visitors can look across the river to the approximate area of Fort Fork which has long since been erased by the ravages of time and river erosion.  Mackenzie Cairn is found a short distance from the Town of Peace River, along the Shaftsbury Trail.  

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.  

Peace River’s central park, situated next to the idyllic Peace River and quaint downtown.

Riverfront Park offers a number of opportunities year-round. During the summer it is a busy place with events taking place, a large gazebo and access to power help to make this a great cornerstone of outdoor community events. There’s also a walking path, picnic tables, boat launch access, fishing and, a playground for children and each Canada Day the park hosts the Town’s celebrations and fireworks. In the winter the parks stays vibrant with over 1000 Christmas lights. Each year in November a celebration, Light Up the Park, is held to celebrate the lighting of the park, it features skating, hot chocolate, food, and fireworks. The Town of Peace River also maintains a rink in the park through the winter making for some great outdoor skating.

For booking info call 780-624-1000

A short 8km drive from Peace River, along the scenic Shaftsbury Trail will bring you to Strong Creek Park boat launch area. Start your river adventure here or come ashore and take a break -camping spots are free. There are outhouses, water and a sheltered kitchen to make your stop comfortable. The Town of Peace River is down stream from this launch and the Shaftesbury ferry launch site is up stream. The launch is a well-maintained gravel area perfect for launching river boats as well as canoes, kayaks and rafts. Opportunities are endless for adventure on the mighty Peace River.

For information call –780-338-3845.