Tag: Circle Tour in Northern Lights No. 22

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.  

Exploring Alberta’s North and beyond? 

Be sure to stop in at the Mile Zero Marker in Grimshaw and get a photo!  This monument which is part of the Tom Baldwin Memorial Arboretum and the Historic Mackenzie Highway Park, is easy to find, right off the main highway 2 going through the town of Grimshaw. The historic Northern Alberta Railway car beside the marker, offers another photo opportunity for visitors.  The monument marks mile zero of the Mackenzie Highway that will lead visitors north to Manning, High Level, Hay River, Yellowknife and beyond. 

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.

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

Explore the legendary Mighty Peace, from the fur trade to modern times, through the exhibits at our museum. Discover Nampa and Northern Sunrise County’s historic multicultural roots by following the steps of those who ventured to Canada’s northern-most homesteading area, across the Grouard Trail and onto the railways that took people from all over the world through muskeg to the Mighty Peace Country. Learn about local industries, about farming, about traditional ways as we guide you through the indoor and outdoor exhibits and buildings. With displays on two floors open year round and outdoor exhibits accessible from May to September, the Nampa and District Museum is more than worth a gander.

Major attractions include:

• The original water tank built by the Central Canada Railway to which Nampa owes its very own existence;
• Our old-time boardwalk of shops and businesses from the early to mid 1900’s;
• Our taxidermy exhibits, showing off local wildlife in the area
• The Rucka settlement house (circa 1937)
• Reno’s Ukrainian Catholic Church (circa 1946)

And so much more.

Hours of Operation

• June 1st to August 31st – 10 am to 5 pm / 7 days a week
• September 1st to May 31st – 10 am to 5 pm / Monday to Friday
• Admission: Family $12, Adults $5, Students  $2, Children under 6 Free

Love At First Bite?

Farmers Restaurant is a unique dinning experience and a must try while in the Mighty Peace! Farmers is a modern licensed cafe with an eclectic, refinished twist — serving homemade fare and speciality coffee in a clean and bright atmosphere rooted and retrofitted with interesting pieces of local history. Make sure you look around and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

The Farmer’s menu features an all-day breakfast, delicious one of a kind burgers, specialty poutines, sandwiches, soups, odds & ends and farm shares. There is a little bit for everyone on this menu with gluten wise options and vegetarian options as well. Don’t forget to indulge in a delicious old fashioned milkshake or a specialty coffee. Farmers has a liquor license and there is always the option to spice up your bevy. Follow Farmers on Facebook for updates on daily specials and live music performances.

The Sagitawa Lookout is located just south of the Town of Peace River on Hwy 744 in Northern Sunrise County. Sagitawa is a Cree word meaning “Where the rivers meet”.  The Lookout has a spectacular view of the Town of Peace River and the confluence of the Peace, Smoky and Heart rivers. The Lookout is complete with picnic area and historical information.

Directions from Main Street Peace River:

Drive down Main Street ( 100 Street) to the bottom of Main, then turn left onto 102 Avenue. Follow this to 102 Avenue, turn right and cross the Heart River bridge. Turn left onto 104 Avenue and follow the Hwy 744 signs. The Lookout is located up the “Judah Hill”. Watch for lookout signage.