Summer is short in Alberta, but we’re all about making it sweet! Make time for simple pleasures and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a day trip, or just looking for new ideas to enjoy the sunshine around Edmonton, we’ve created the ultimate Summer Bucket List to help you make the most of the season.

All of these activities can be done right here in Parkland County, within an hour drive of Edmonton. Consider this your invitation to slow down, explore close to home, and make memories along the way. These ideas are perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers.

1. Float on the Water

There’s nothing quite like drifting on a calm lake or river with the sun overhead. Rent a paddleboard, kayak, or inflatable tube and enjoy a lazy afternoon on the water.

Lake Isle Kayak Adventures is a great place to start, or head out to Kokomoko Recreation Area for a great boat launch area, complete with day camping areas for a day full of fun.

2. Sip a Fancy Drink

Whether it’s an iced coffee on a patio, a craft cocktail at a local restaurant, or a mocktail with a sprig of mint, elevate your hydration with something a little extra.

For the coffee lovers, you can visit The Wall Coffee Roasters. For those looking for a fancy drink, try the award-winning Anohka Distillery.

3. Eat an Ice Cream Cone

No summer is complete without a scoop (or three). Visit a local ice cream shop, try a new flavor, and enjoy the sweet simplicity of a cone in hand.

Seba Beach Mini Golf & Ice Cream pairs some family fun with the deliciousness of an ice cream cone, perfect for a day out!

4. Make Something from Nature

Let nature spark your creativity. Collect wildflowers, stones, or twigs and craft something small—like a flower crown, nature mandala, or keepsake jar.

5. Roast a Marshmallow on a Campfire

Whether it’s in your backyard or at a local campground, there’s something magical about sitting around a fire. Don’t forget the s’mores!

Many of the parks in Parkland County are stocked with firewood to make that campfire even more accessible. Check out Chickakoo Lake Recreation Area or Constable Chelsey Robinson Park for a day trip, or find a campground to stay for a few nights. Be sure to check the current fire hazard level before you head out!

6. Hike a New Trail

Discover a path you’ve never walked before. Whether it’s a short forest loop or a challenging ridge climb, a new trail brings new perspective.

Find a new hiking trail in Parkland County to explore using our Interactive Map.

7. Swim at an Outdoor Pool

Cool off in the most classic way—by jumping into a pool. Many local outdoor pools offer family swim times, slides, and splash pads.

The Entwistle Community Recreation Centre is home to the amazing Entwistle Outdoor Pool. With an epic water slide and warm water, this is a great choice to cool off after a short little road trip.

8. Camp Under the Stars

Trade four walls for a tent and fall asleep to the sounds of nature. Whether you’re pitching a tent in the backyard or booking a spot at a nearby site, camping is a summer essential.

Here are some suggestions to get you started:

• Wabamun Lake Provincial Park
• Pembina River Provincial Park Campground
• Boone Frontier Homestead & Organics

Ready to Start Checking Off Your List?

Download your Summer Bucket List to start checking your items off. You can also use the image below in your Instagram story! Be sure to tag us, ‘@parklandcounty‘ so we can share your adventures!

As winter blankets Alberta in snow, Wabamun Lake transforms into a sparkling playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Among the many activities you can enjoy, ice fishing stands out as a thrilling way to embrace the season. If you’re looking to experience this unique pastime, Wabamun Lake offers not only stunning views but also excellent rental options to make your ice fishing adventure a breeze.

WHY CHOOSE WABAMUN LAKE?

Located just an hour west of Edmonton, Wabamun Lake is one of Alberta’s premier fishing destinations. Known for its abundance of perch and northern pike, the lake provides ample opportunities for both novice anglers and seasoned pros. The picturesque surroundings and tranquil atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for a day spent on the ice.

ICE FISHING RENTALS WITH DOKCYDE

For a truly unforgettable experience, consider renting from Dokcyde. They offer a fantastic ice fishing package that combines comfort and convenience. Here’s what you can expect:

• Fully Equipped Ice Fishing Huts: Dokcyde provides cozy huts that keep you warm while you fish. Each hut is stocked with everything you need, so you can focus on enjoying your time on the ice.
• Top-Notch Fishing Gear: No need to worry about bringing your own equipment! Dokcyde offers high-quality fishing gear
  rentals, including rods, reels, and bait, ensuring you have the best tools for success.
• Guidance from Experienced Staff: If you’re new to ice fishing or just want to improve your skills, the knowledgeable staff at Dokcyde are there to help. They’ll share tips and techniques to enhance your fishing experience.
  

Whether you’re spending the day with family, friends, or even going solo, ice fishing at Wabamun Lake promises fun and relaxation. Plus, after a day on the ice, you can warm up in your hut, enjoy some hot drinks and share stories of the day’s catches.

Tips for a Successful Ice Fishing Trip:

• Dress Warm: Layer your clothing and don’t forget insulated boots, gloves and a hat to keep comfortable.
• Plan Ahead: Check ice conditions before heading out and always follow safety guidelines for ice fishing.
• Stay Hydrated and Fueled: Bring snacks and drinks to keep your energy up while you fish!

Ice fishing at Wabamun Lake is not just about the thrill of the catch; it’s about enjoying the beauty of nature and spending quality time with loved ones. With the fantastic rental options offered by Dokcyde, you can dive into this winter activity without any hassle. Grab your gear, bundle up and get ready for a day of fun on the ice! Visit www.dokcyde.ca!

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to embrace fall than to get outside and explore our beautiful region. Find your pumpkin spice in Parkland at Somerset Farms — a guaranteed gourd time! Somerset is a local U-Pick Pumpkin Farm just west of Edmonton that offers a variety of edible and decorative pumpkins perfect for fall decorating, carving or baking. Visit Somerset Farms with your family and friends to experience a private, safe and relaxing natural setting for outdoor activities. From u-pick berries and pumpkins, picnics and campfires, to outdoor photos — there is something for everyone.

Enjoy a fall hike

If you enjoy hiking, Parkland County offers breathtaking views and serene trails for all skill levels. Head over to Chickakoo Lake Recreation Area for a peaceful hike through scenic landscapes adorned in autumn colours. The multi-use trails accommodate both leisurely walkers and avid hikers, providing the perfect backdrop for a day of outdoor adventure.

Golf in the fall

Calling all golf enthusiasts! Enjoy some of the best golfing conditions of the year during the fall season. Parkland County boasts several top-notch golf courses, including the Ranch Golf and Country Club. The cooler weather and stunning fall foliage make for an enjoyable and picturesque round of golf. Don’t forget to book your tee time early, as the fall season is a popular time for golfers looking to squeeze in a few more rounds before winter arrives.

What are you waiting for?

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the beautiful season is that autumn around Edmonton, join us this fall and Explore Parkland! Whether you’re navigating the twists and turns of the corn maze, hiking through the vibrant autumn woods, or enjoying a round of golf, Parkland County offers a plethora of activities to celebrate the fall season.

By Linda Hoang @lindork

Make the most of our long sunny summer days! Whether you head out to Parkland County, Alberta for a day trip or an overnight adventure in nature, here are some ideas for your exploration. 

On your way out to Pembina River Provincial Park Campground—one of three provincial parks located in Parkland County—be sure to stop for a drink, bite, and tour of award-winning Anohka Distillery. 

Anohka Distillery

Located just off the Yellowhead Trail, a few minutes west of Spruce Grove and Stony Plain, Anohka Distillery is a farm to flask distillery that opened in late 2021 and has already picked up several World Whiskies Awards including Best New Make and Spirit! 

How cool that Parkland County is home to this high quality distillery? In addition to offering flights, tastings, tours, and excellent cocktails, Anohka also offers a full dining menu—including burgers, poutines, flatbreads, nachos, charcuterie and more. And you can rent out their space for events. It’s a pretty spacious room! 

Anohka Distillery is also family-friendly and drop-ins are welcome but reservations are recommended especially for larger groups and if you’re popping in on a weekend!

Pembina River Provincial Park Campground

Once you check in for your camping adventure at Pembina River Provincial Park Campground, hit one of the many forested trails that run alongside the Pembina River!

Offering camping May through September, Pembina River Campground located near the Parkland County hamlet of Entwistle is a wonderful, full-amenities campground with sites just steps from the river and a bunch of hiking trails to take advantage of. 

We camped at Pembina River Campground and had such a nice and honestly very peaceful time. Despite it being so popular (pretty much all sites were full on the weekend we stayed), we didn’t find the campground too loud or run into many other campers despite  full bookings. This was a very laid back camping experience. 

Pembina River Tubing

The next morning, or for a day trip, just a few minutes drive from the Pembina River Provincial Park Campground is Pembina River Tubing, one of the most popular outdoor adventures to do in Parkland County.

The float down the winding Pembina River—described as gentle—is the best way to experience the Pembina River Valley and its iconic Pembina River Gorge, a 62-metre gorge apparently created during the Ice Age! 

The company does tube rentals (four different sizes depending on age / height / weight), lifejacket rentals, shuttle services, and parking options, for families / people of all ages (with some additional rules around youth riders).

It’s very important to note that the Pembina River is NOT a loop. So if you are planning to float down the river you need to account for different starting and ending locations—transportation to/from those spots, and paying attention to where to get in and out of the river. 

Sassy G’s Adventure Farm

On your way home from your adventures in Parkland County, take the family to Sassy G’s Adventure Farm, an awesome, family-friendly agri-tourism experience home to Canada’s first Farm Ninja Obstacle Course, in addition to a playground and dedicated toddler zone, obstacle courses and more than 35 outdoor activities and farm-themed games from “milking” cows to racing ducks, blowing bubbles and riding mini tractors. They also have a number of farm and rescue animals you can view but please don’t pet or feed the animals! I really liked how spread out and spacious Sassy G’s was. There was definitely a ton for my son to do, and a lot more he will do when we return for repeat visits!

Plan to Explore Parkland County this summer!

Those are really just a few ways you can have fun in Parkland County. I love that there are so many beautiful rural attractions super close to the big city. You’ll feel like you’re far away but it didn’t take forever to drive there.

That’s such a huge incentive to explore!! 

You can get more ideas for Things to Do in Parkland County if you visit my 2024 blog guide!

We love exploring Parkland County and I know you will too! 

Enjoy. 

—Linda Hoang is an Edmonton, Alberta-based blogger and social media content creator who regularly shares ideas for Things to Do, Eat and Know Each Week in the Edmonton area. She won the Edmonton Tourism Award for Best Influencer in 2024, and sends out a weekly email newsletter for people who live, work and play in the Metro Edmonton region. She regularly works with tourism boards and destination marketing organizations to experience and share about ways to explore regions. Visit her blog at www.linda-hoang.com and follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

Start your day by getting lost, in a fun way! It’s Saturday morning, the sun is shining and you’re off to visit the Edmonton Corn Maze and make your way through the intricate paths to the finish line. While you’re there, check out the locally produced farm market for fresh produce from Alberta food producers. Be sure to bring a cooler to keep it fresh so you can continue your adventure in the afternoon. If you check out the maze in late September, you can even select your own pumpkin and whip up some homemade pie – yum!

If you’ve worked your way through the maze, you may be hungry for some lunch with your friends and family. The adventure continues, not far off in east Parkland County, as you head over to the University of Alberta Botanic Garden and enjoy some lunch at the Patio Café. From June to September, the botanic garden is open from 10 am to 6 pm every day.

After filling up, be sure to take a leisurely walk through this mesmerizing location to enjoy this botanical gem, plus expand your horticultural knowledge. Their cultural gardens offer an array of visuals ranging from authentic Japanese design to an Indigenous Peoples Garden, indoor showhouses and much more! Bring your cameras, wear comfortable footwear and dress for the weather.

If you want some sweet serenity to end your day, you can bring your local produce over to the Jackfish Lake Boat Launch and Recreation Area. Hang out at the beach, enjoy some swimming and head over to the picnic area.

“From picturesque trails to endless rural recreation opportunities, there is so much to see and do in Parkland County!”

As soon as the kids could walk, we started coming to the Edmonton Corn Maze. It’s fun to see how the maze changes each year, and it seems like there’s always something new to do. My youngest was adamant we take a ride on the Corn Cob Express this year, which was a nice break from walking for all of us.

The farm animals are always a hit with my daughter, especially the goats. They’re so cute! There’s some straw bales for the kids to climb on too, and those jumping pillow things they put in the ground. What I’m trying to say is, this is a good place to burn some energy for the afternoon!

The kids aren’t quite old enough for the mini-golf but next year I think we’ll give that a try too.

The Ryan Family