Tag: McLennan Winter in Alberta

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

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.