Wide open spaces to get lost in Alberta this summer

Posted: Tue. Jun. 9/20

Stevie Froese, ZenSeekers

For a lot of us, the past year has been a whirlwind of social distance anxiety and confusion. Let's change that. Get lost in Alberta's wide-open, outdoor havens close to home to recharge and rejuvenate your soul.

ZenSeekers recommends following your region's advice on road trips, travel and park usage. If you're not a local, you can use these ideas as a virtual getaway until it's safe to travel - these places are worth the wait!

Southeast Alberta

Photo: Andrew Penner

Red Rock Coulee

Medicine Hat: Approx. 3 hours southeast of Calgary

As the sun dipped below the western horizon, the cloud-streaked sky turned crimson red. To the north and south, shades of pink, purple, and orange added some extra warmth to the final glow.

Read on: Grow Your Glow In These Southeast Alberta Hot Spots

Southwest Alberta

Photo: Andrew Penner

Crowsnest Pass is perfect for exploring.

Approx. 2.5 hours south of Calgary

While the hike to the top of Turtle Mountain is certainly a bucket list activity in the Crowsnest Pass, it’s one of many awesome adventures in this mountain-filled region in the southwest corner of the province.

Read on: Human Powering Through The Crowsnest Pass

East-Central Alberta

Photo: Doc Pow

Head out for a paddle in the Vermilion River Valley.

Approx. 2 hours east of Edmonton

Pack your fishing rod, a tent, and your watercraft of choice, because the park located in the Vermilion River Valley stretching for 14 kilometres, includes a fully-serviced campground with 98 sites and a stocked trout pond.

Read on: Vermilion by The Water

Northeast Alberta

Cold Lake is a water-lover's paradise.

Approx. 3 hours northeast of Edmonton

It’s incredible when you start to think about how many different activities involve water. Paddleboarding, kayaking or Flyboarding in the summer. Get yourself lake side and uncover a whole bunch of action that awaits.

Read on: Action Awaits Cold Lake Side

Wood Buffalo

Photo: Robert Murray

The magical Aurora in northern Alberta.

Approx. 4.5 hours north of Edmonton.

The allure of the elusive Aurora. Like a moody diva, she may or may not decide to dance for you. But out here, it’s clear and the constellations have taken their place in the sky like actors on a giant black velvet stage.

Read on: It’s a marvelous night for a sky dance

Spread some Zen positivity. Share this list of spacious, uncrowded outdoor heavens with your friends and family in Alberta or add your own thoughts and ideas on social media.

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