Edmonton 
Credit: Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary
When it’s time to get out of the city and head out for the day, there’s an obvious next step: head west. From towns and villages to protected natural areas and provincial parks, you can have the adventure or day of rest and relaxation you’re craving when you look west of Edmonton.
1. Town of Stony Plain
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2. Village of Alberta Beach
Set on the shores of Lac Ste. Anne, Alberta Beach is a popular tourist destination and perfect for a day trip. The village is aptly named as the beach is a huge draw to the area for kids and adults alike. The boat launch is conveniently located for water sports and fishing, playgrounds await children after a drive in the car, and locally-owned businesses and shops are there for when you need to get out of the sun.
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3. Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary
This idyllic and picturesque spot is a sanctuary for 348 acres of marshland, meadow, aspen parkland, and boreal forest – and all the creatures that call the area home. Walk and hike through trails and boardwalk that are considered manageable by all skill levels (though not wheelchair accessible), while keeping an eye out for moose, fox, porcupine, muskrat, deer, and much, much more.
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4. Town of Edson
Credit: Galloway Station Museum & Travel Centre
Edson is so much more than a convenient place to stop on your way to Jasper. Wilmore Park offers a multi-use trail system on the McLeod River, the Rotary Skateboard Park/Pump Track offers a challenge to all skill levels of boarders, and Bench Creek offers water on almost every hole of the Edson Golf Club. Meanwhile, the Galloway Station Museum offers an unique view at the area’s past with impressive displays and exhibits.
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5. City of Spruce Grove
At just 11 km west of Edmonton, a day trip to Spruce Grove is a no-brainer. Catch a show at the Horizon Stage Performing Arts Centre, shop local at the popular farmers’ market at the Spruce Grove Grain Elevator Museum, and let the kids (or kids at heart) burn off energy at the Rotary Playscape. Check the calendar online as there are events happening all year round!
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6. Wabamun Lake Provincial Park
Wabamun is a great lake to get out on the water! Boating, fishing, canoeing, even wind surfing can all be done on the lake. The day use site of the Park has boardwalks to explore, playgrounds, and picnic sites for when all that fresh air and activity has you working up an appetite.
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7. Town of Onoway
The Town of Onoway immediately makes you feel like a local. With several restaurants offering a “home cooked” meal and locally-owned businesses, it’s a natural place to spend a day. The Onoway Museum tells the story of the settlement, founding, and development of the area and how it was used by fur traders.
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8. Summer Village of Sunset Point
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9. Wagner Natural Area
While it may not be as well-known as other preserved areas, the Wagner Natural Area is not to be missed. It’s unique in that 16 of the 24 known Alberta-native orchids can be found on the grounds – plus several unusual carnivorous plants! Explore the hiking paths and try your hand at geocaching in the area.
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10. Town of Devon
Credit: Frickin’ Delights Donuts Inc.
Devon has so much going on, you’ll have a hard time believing you haven’t been before! Hidden gems such as Frickin’ Delights vegan doughnut shop and Bike Skills Park – the most technical bike park in the region – are reason enough to go. But add in river tubing on the River, East of 60 Dinner Theatre, and the local farmer’s market, and you’ll never want to leave. Details
Tubing on North Saskatchewan River
For those who want to go floating on the North Saskatchewan River from Devon near Edmonton, River Lifestyle Company offers tube rentals for both adult and child. So visit the park and enjoy an hour of floating from Voyageur Park to the Devon Lions campground. Details
11. Yates Natural Area
Preserved by Alberta Parks under the Natural Areas and Heritage Rangelands Act, this untouched piece of land really shows what Alberta front country looks like. The rolling landscape as the land gradually becomes foothills is the background of lodgepole pine and aspen forests. Hike with a buddy and explore the area like it is meant to be done. Hunting is also allowed with the proper permits.
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12. Eden North
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13. Pembina River Provincial Park
The Pembina River winds its way through the countryside west of Edmonton, and in the Provincial Park, there are lots of ways to enjoy it. Canoeing, mountain biking and cycling, fishing, geocaching, and more are ways to explore the area. The day-use site has a playground and picnic area that makes it easy to while away the day in a leisurely fashion if that’s more your speed. Details
13.a. Pembina River Tubing
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pembina River Valley by taking a leisurely float down the Pembina River from Entwhistle. During your float, you’ll be able to admire the 62 meter gorge and different kinds of wildlife while bathing in the sun. Details
14. Edmonton Corn Maze
Credit: Edmonton Corn Maze
Cut into a 15 acre field of corn, having fun at the Corn Maze means getting lost among the maize! Wind your way through the stalks to make it through. But when you’re done, there’s more to do. Check out the Garden Valley Farm Market, pumpkin patch, spud guns (air powered potato launchers), and more.
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15. University of Alberta Botanic Garden
Credit: University of Alberta Botanic Garden
Don’t make the mistake of giving yourself less than a day to explore the Botanic Garden. Just 15 minutes southwest of Edmonton, it is 97 hectares of cultivated gardens and collections, indoor showhouses, and natural areas. Wander on your won or take part of one of the many classes or events, such as date nights.
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16. Matthews Crossing Natural Area
The rolling boreal forest and parkland terrain of the Matthews Crossing Natural Area makes it a great location to get back to nature and off the grid. Hike among the forest that lines the steep banks of the Pembina River and find wetlands in the depression, keeping an eye out for the different birds and animals who make the area their home. If hunting is your thing, you can get permits to do so on the site.
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17. Summer Village of Seba Beach
Slow things down this summer with a day trip to the Summer Village of Seba Beach. Locally-owned businesses and waterfront access means a relaxing day at the lake. Plus, the farmers’ market on Saturdays gives you even more opportunity to shop local.
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18. Hamlet of Peers
This Hamlet of only 98 people may not immediately come to mind for a day-trip destination, but the agricultural community is always ready to welcome you. The YoHo Museum of Peers is a homestead museum showcasing the area’s past – and over 32 antique cars. Just make sure to give the operators, the Dixons, a call first to make sure they’re home.
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19. Minnow Lake Provincial Recreation Area
Hit the water on Minnow Lake! Canoe, kayak, or power boat on this lake, but use caution when launching as the water levels can be low. Catch a fish or two (or maybe more…) while you’re there – who can lure in the biggest of the day? There are great picnic areas in the group areas, so you don’t have to head into town for a bite.
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20. Town of Mayerthrope
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21. Muir Lake
Just a short drive from Edmonton, this small, peanut-shaped lake is a premiere trout fishing destination for beginners and pros alike. Dedicated anglers and those just trying it out are sure to enjoy the day on the water, and the Education Centre can help everyone to improve their technique. The day-use site makes it easy to get out on the water.
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22. The Cowboy Trail
Credit: The Cowboy Trail
Saddle up and get in touch with your inner cowboy. The scenic route along Highway 22, including a popular section running north of Highway 16, features farm and ranch visits, horseback riding, western-themed shopping, and more. Take a trail ride out into country that has seen the presence of cowboys for generations, ending your day with a hearty meal in one of the communities along the way.
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23. Rocky Rapids Natural Area
The undulating and mixed terrain of this area south of Highway 16 makes for great hiking and mountain biking. Preserved under the Natural Areas and Heritage Rangelands Act, this site lets you explore the Alberta forest in a way that just can’t be beat. Don’t forget to dress for the conditions, and if you’re not familiar with the area, consider bringing a buddy along with you.
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24. Isle Lake Natural Area
While the water quality of Isle Lake deters many water-based activities, the preserved Natural Area is a great spot for hiking, geocaching, and even hunting (with appropriate permits). Wetlands, Tamarak stands, and boreal forests create unique opportunities to explore Alberta countryside and get up close to nature. Keep a tally of what birds and animals you can spot while you’re out.
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25. Chip Lake Park
Chip Lake is a large lake near the junction of Highways 16 and 753. The Chip Lake Park campground is a privately-owned facility that offers day use, meaning you can launch your boat or canoe, fish the day away, and picnic under the open sky. Take advantage of great Alberta summers and head to the lake.
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