Edmonton 
Alberta’s Parkland County certainly lives up to its name.
The area west of Edmonton gives you several options for hiking, picnics, photography, birdwatching, other wildlife viewing, bike rides, and more.
Chickakoo Lake, one of these regional multi-use parks protecting 480 acres of woodland and lakes, is a natural area where the trails create a series of small loops that are easy enough for kids to enjoy on foot or on their bikes.
These trails are open for equestrian use, and winter, too (groomed for cross-country skiing). But beyond the main trails, there are several ways to enjoy the Chickakoo Lake Recreation Area.
Hiking
You can head off in a few different directions for exploring the Chickakoo Park area, and all of them will loop back to the start. We recommend the 7km or 6km loops, as they might make the drive a bit more worthwhile. Otherwise, you can create your own loops and distances too if you have a trail map with you during your hike. The low-lying marshes, ponds, and lakes in the area make it rich with plant life and wildlife.
Visit during Fall for a relaxing stroll through autumn hues.
Credit: Parkland County
Paddling
Launch your canoe, kayak, or row boat onto Little Mere/North Lakes for a longer paddle, or tour the main Chickakoo Lake. The treed-in areas create a great backdrop for a fall boat ride.
Picnics
You’ll find picnic tables scattered throughout the entire Regional Park, with all of them providing lake- or pond-side views for your day in the country.
Several are located on the shores of Chickakoo Lake, with more further along into the trails at Little Mere Lake, North Lake, Kettle Lake, and Dog Leg Pond.
Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing
The trails, ponds, and forested areas of Chickakoo Park are home to a wide array of wildlife and bird species, from small to large. Some of the larger mammals you could spot include moose, deer, or beavers.
Fishing
You can find quiet places all around Chickakoo Lake for a morning, evening, or full day of trout fishing. You may catch rainbow or brook trout, some which can reach 5lbs., and you can launch your boat from the main south parking lot.
Winter Fun
Bring your skis, snowshoes, or warm boots to hike through over 14 kms of trails that are spread out over 480 acres of woods. The natural area also features a warm-up chalet and groomed cross-country ski trails.
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Planning your Trip
What: A regional park in central Alberta’s Parkland County made up of lakes and small ponds.
Chickakoo Lake allows for the most outdoor recreation with a boat launch for canoes, kayaks, or row boats, peaceful places to fish, and access to all the looped trails. Little Mere Lake and North Lake (which are connected) permit paddling only. There are several picnic sites around Chickakoo Lake and its three parking lots.
The looping trails can be combined to create an even longer hike or bike ride and are open in the winter to cross-country skiers. Leashed dogs are welcome in the park.
Though not a designated dark area, it is remote enough for stargazing trips from Edmonton.
Best time to go: year-round
How to get there: travel north on secondary highway 779 from the Trans Canada. Turn east onto Township Rd. 534, then north on Range Rd. 13
For more information:
