We are getting closer and closer to summer, and the time to start planning those summer adventures. I don’t know about you, but with little kids, we needed some adventure inspiration. We needed some inspiration of where to go and what to do, to create those magical summer memories that are going to become an entire childhood. That’s why we wanted to share some of our favourites – the best experiences for a childhood in Alberta.
Tour Caves by Lantern
Where: Banff
It’s after hours at the Cave and Basin, but we’re letting you in. Your senses awaken as lanterns cast shadows on ancient grotto walls. Mysterious sounds and voices are a reminder that others, like you, have journeyed to these thermal waters for centuries. We’ll supply the lanterns; you supply the imagination. The tours take place Saturday nights, June 4, 11, 18 and 25. Two tours/night, 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. and throughout July.
Explore a Canyon
Where: Whitecourt
An easy hike, where even the youngest of children are going to be able to make it through the loop without claiming to be tired, will lead you to a set of stairs where you can descend into a canyon, made for exploring. It’s the perfect way to start the day before spending the afternoon at the River Slides in Rotary Park.
See Vikings in the Street
Where: Viking
A celebration of Scandanavian Heritage, you’ll get the experience to see vikings roam the street, take part in family fun and activities like a pancake breakfast, parade, Lutefisk eating contest, inflatables, petting zoo and more.
Hike to a Waterfall
Where: Kananaskis
Cat Creek Falls is an hour-long hike that’s going to bring you through trees and meadows, and is easy enough for even the three year olds we’ve brought along on the hike.
Touch a Hoodoo
Where: Dinosaur Provincial Park
Camp at Dinosaur Provincial Park, or spend the day exploring with the affordable, family-friendly tours of the UNESCO Heritage site. Kids will get to touch dinosaur teeth, get up close with hoodoos and have a guided bus tour (or dinosaur digs, there are lots of options available) as part of the programming at Dinosaur Park.
Explore a County Fair
Where: Vegreville
There’s something magical about being able to run around the fair grounds in the country, like you usually can’t do when you’re in the city. You can eat fair food, like delicious deep fried Oreos, get on rides deep into the sunset, and then they can fall asleep on the hour long drive home, tired and full.
Day Trip to Devonshire Beach
Where: Slave Lake
There are plenty of beaches close to Edmonton, but for the best beaches, you’re going to want to get out of the city. Easily the best beach in Alberta, Devonshire Beach at Slave Lake makes for the perfect day trip, at under three hours from Edmonton. The sand is perfect for castles, or lounging, and the water is cold and clear.
Tubing the Milk River
Where: Writing on Stone Provincial Park
This provincial park has much to see, from the petroglyphs to the calm waters, perfect for young paddlers getting their bearings on the water. Later in the summer, the water levels are lower, making it perfect for younger children. Located an hour from the USA border, this trip is worth a weekend trip – camping at Writing on Stone Provincial Park.
Explore Red Rock Canyon
Where: Waterton
Though there’s much to explore in Waterton, Red Rock Canyon is one of those gems that is going to leave the kids in awe. Braver kids can climb down into the Canyon, and wade in the cold water. Falls, hikes, and those striking red rocks are three of the reasons to explore the gorgeous area, on a weekend during the summer.