We call them Wildlands for a reason. Boundless undisturbed wetlands, lakes and boreal forest attract all kinds of wild things. Enjoy solitude and natural beauty in this secluded northern region.
Claim to fame:Twelve Foot Davis, gold miner and fur trader
Central Prairies
Here, thousands of acres grow some of the most relied-upon crops in the world. Between fields of barley and wheat, you’ll discover Canada’s Wild Side in its charming towns. Experience the draws of the rural way of life.
Acquaint yourself with Alberta’s vast rolling hills and admire the Canadian Rocky Mountains beyond. Soak in the ambiance of a peak-filled horizon as you seek adventure in wide-open plains.
Discover a place where archeological and natural wonders divulge secrets of yesterday. Where spaces and skies span as far as the eye can see. Where Canada’s Wild Side awaits.
Featuring landscapes like nowhere else on earth, the Canadian Badlands will transport you to another time and place. From prehistoric fossil beds and rocky canyons, to coal mining ghost towns and cowboy hangouts, there’s plenty to discover in this unique area.
The Lakelands is a destination for those in pursuit of year-round adventure, yearning to harness their Wild Side. Break from the beaten path and seek escape in the region’s untamed forests and bountiful lakes.
Explore this northern hideaway and allow your Wild Side to run rampant through the region. This is a place for those who push harder, trek further and seek escape from everyday norms.
West Country is a place to push boundaries, face challenges and rendezvous with fellow free spirits. Your connection to the land will only deepen as you traverse the peaks and canyons of the Canadian Rockies.
Uncover one of Canada’s best-kept secrets. An absence of crowds in the Southern Rockies makes the views, experiences and journeys that much more special. Take your time to connect with nature and enjoy the sights—there’s nobody else in line.
Canada's wild child and the gateway to the Rocky Mountains. The city is filled with award-winning restaurants and shopping and makes the perfect springboard for mountain adventures.
We call them Wildlands for a reason. Boundless undisturbed wetlands, lakes and boreal forest attract all kinds of wild things. Enjoy solitude and natural beauty in this secluded northern region.
Navigate prairie parklands, rolling hills and soaring summits in one of Alberta’s most geographically diverse regions. As you discover Canada’s Wild Side, you’ll ignite yours.
Whether it’s a massive peak, a groomed run or a delicate wildflower, the Canadian Rockies will take your breath away again and again. Formed when continents collided, this is a place for adventure, discovery and serenity—sometimes all at once.
Wander through wetlands and paths unimpeded by crowds to see wilderness thrive. From dog sledding to camping, provincial parks such as Hay-Zama Lakes and Chinchaga Wildland offer great itinerary additions.
Rivers and lakes
With the Peace River running through almost the entire region, many rent or paddle their own watercraft down its currents. Others prefer to kick back and cast a line into one of the Wildlands’ lakes. You may want to try both.
Abundant wilderness
The wetlands and forests of the Wildlands are home to all kinds of flora and fauna. As you wander across Northwestern Alberta, keep an eye out for unique plants, wood bison, wolverines, deer and more.
Highlighted attractions
Peace River Cabins and Outdoors
At Peace River Cabins and Outdoors, all accommodations are located on the banks of the Peace River. This iconic river is part of the Mackenzie River system, the second longest in North America.
Hay-Zama Lakes Wildland Park is a mosaic of lakes, flood plains and deltas. A wetland of international significance, it is used by migrating waterfowl from three of the four North American migration routes.
The Lac Cardinal Pioneer Village Museum is representative of life in the 1920s to 1940s. The Village includes an authentic farm site with antique equipment, furnished houses, hall, bakery, Municipal Office, church, school, blacksmith shop, general store, and a fire hall.
Tour this basecamp for outdoor excursions. Travellers often leave for fly-in fishing trips from here or use it as a break from ventures down the MacKenzie Highway.
Manning
Known as the “Land of the Mighty Moose,” Manning is one of the northwestern region’s newer towns and rests on the banks of Notikewin River.
La Crête
This enchanting hamlet boasts a successful agricultural and logging economy, with family businesses lining the street and outdoor adventures nearby.
Cozy cabins and intimate hideaways across Alberta offer couples a chance to write their own adventurous love story against a backdrop of snow-draped forests and starry dark skies.
Find a cozy cabin in Alberta to enjoy summer days in wide open spaces. With plenty of cabin rentals available, disconnecting from the hustle of daily life is a breeze.
This inspiring Alberta winter road trip takes you to from icons like the Calgary Tower to the postcard-perfect rocky peaks of Banff and Lake Louise. Drive the frosty and scenic Icefields Parkway to Jasper National Park, and finish in Edmonton’s lively downtown. Discover legendary ski resorts, frozen waterfalls, dog sledding, and cozy sleigh rides, plus unique cultural stops and stargazing under dark skies.
