14 Things to do in Smoky Lake Alberta
Smoky Lake is one of the small towns in Alberta. There is history, unique churches, and more which makes it a great day trip from Edmonton, the capital city of the province. In this post, we will share all the amazing things to do in Smoky Lake Alberta!
14 Things to do in Smoky Lake Alberta
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Smoky Lake is a town located in central Alberta, Canada. This little town of about 1000 residents lies between the North Saskatchewan River, Smoky Creek, and White Earth Creek, in a mainly agricultural area.
The name Smoky Lake was given by the Cree First Nations community, according to a legend for a smoke-like vapor that rose from the lake, obscuring the opposite shore.
Smoky Lake was incorporated as a village in 1923 and received town status in 1962.
Getting to Smoky Lake from Edmonton
Edmonton to Smoky Lake is one hour and 30 minutes drive away (one way). The best way to get to Smoky Lake is by car. The road distance is 117.6 km (73 miles).
You can also get there by bus. Buses take an hour and 50 minutes and are operated by Cold Shot. Bus rides cost $40 CAD, one way.
So here are some of the things you can do in Smoky Lake in Alberta,
Métis Crossing
Metis Crossing is a unique and the first major Métis cultural center in Alberta. Located about 10 minutes away from the Smoky Lake center, this is the spot to learn about Métis culture, participate in workshops, and educational gatherings, and events.
The setting of the cultural centre is very stunning. It is built on the original river lots of Métis settlers dating back to the 1800s. There are many activities that you can participate in at the Métis Crossing such as museum exploring, overnight camping, live events and workshops, picnics, and amazing river views.
- Address: 17339 Victoria Trail, Smoky Lake, AB, T0A 3C0
- Costs: Tickets and hours here
Victoria Settlement Provincial Historic Site
Victoria Settlement Provincial Historic Site is the place to learn about Alberta’s past. This complex is very engaging as you navigate the premises and learn from costumed interpreters. They share the history of Victoria Settlement and enact how life was in those times.
On-site are also 2 restored buildings which you can tour. And the best part, the setting of this historic site is amazing – amidst scenic parkland.
- Address: 5622-49th Street, Smoky Lake County
- Costs: $5 CAD for adults, $2 CAD for youth
Smoky Lake Museum
Learn about Smoky Lake’s past at this museum. This little town is surrounded by many lakes and streams, and of course, the North Saskatchewan River, which captured the attention of fur traders.
The museum is open through the months of July and August on Saturdays and Sundays from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
- Address: 58161 Range Road 171A
- Costs: Free. Check opening hours, and more here
Smoky Lake CN Train Station Museum
Smoky Lake CN Museum takes you to 1919 when it was a platform/ station, and the town was alive with the sounds of the train whistle (and lots of birds).
Inside the museum you will find a pot-bellied stove that warmed up awaiting passengers on a cold winter day, there is a ticket master’s wicket, a telegraph, a logbook, and the baggage room with its assortment of luggage on the trolley waiting to be loaded.
Right outside is the train, and as you step outside the lovely greenery welcomes you!
- Address: 155-181 W Railway Dr, Smoky Lake, AB T0A 3C0
- Costs: None. Donations accepted
Iron Horse Trail from Smoky Lake
The Iron Horse Trail is the longest completed section of the Trans Canada Trail in Alberta. It lies in east-central Alberta connecting Smoky Lake, St. Paul, Elk Point, Bonnyville, and Cold Lake.
Smoky Lake is a great place to enjoy this 300 km-long trail. You can enjoy a ride, go horse riding, biking, hikes, and even snowmobiling in the winters.
Smoky Lake Golf Club
If you are into golfing, head to the Smoky Lake Golf Club. You can play one of the finest 9 Hole Courses here in Alberta at an affordable price!
This club boasts picturesque holes, impressive elevation changes, and beautiful greens making it one of Western Canada’s hidden gems.
Smoky Lake Golf Club is also home to 14 fully serviced RV sites, as well as practice facilities and rental equipment.
- Address: 17340 Township Road 594, Smoky Lake
Smoky Lake Pumpkin Park
Smoky Lake is recognized as the Pumpkin Capital of Alberta. It is also home to the annual Great White North Pumpkin Fair that takes place on the first Saturday in October.
During this fair, growers from near and far bring their pumpkins, squash, and gourds and weigh them off.
At other times of the year, you can visit Smoky Lakes Pumpkin Park, which features large concrete pumpkins. Families from all over Alberta come to see the famous giant pumpkins located here. There is a generous parking area to park your vehicle and then go snapping!
- Address: Iron Horse Trail Staging Area, 246 W Railway Dr, Smoky Lake, AB T0A 3C0
- Costs: Free
Garner Lake Provincial Park
Garner Lake Provincial Park is a small park located near Smoky Lake. This is a nice weekend getaway for families and outdoorsy lovers. The park is home to over 5 km of trails, perfect for hiking and cycling. Even if you are not hiking, you can chill by the lake, and soak in the amazing views!
Plus the lake is open for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and swimming.
- Address: Range Road 124 & Township Road 601A, Smoky Lake
- Find out more here
Smoky Lake Stampede
This is an annual event that takes place in Smoky Lake every August, showcasing rodeos in an arena overlooking the Golf Course.
- Address: 17322 Township 594 Box 719, Smoky Lake, AB T0A 3C0
Churches in Smoky Lake
Smoky Lake is home to some of the cutest churches in Alberta. All of these churches are located in the town centre area.
Here is a quick list of churches,
- First Baptist Church
- Holy Ascension Ukrainian Orthodox Church
- Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Church
- Our Lady Of Atonement Roman Catholic Church
These churches are open for worship and masses, so do check their websites for further information.
We stopped by the Our Lady Of Atonement Roman Catholic Church (4904 50 Street), and Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Church and were impressed by the architecture.
Cool places to eat in Smoky Lake
When in Smoky Lake, you can stop by the following for lunch, snacks, or dinner.
- Betsy’s Burger Shack: Great place for juicy burgers and beer
- Old Fashioned Bread Bakery & Deli: Stop by for delicious baked goods, including Ukrainian bakery items
- Smoky Lake Farmer’s Market: Held at the Smoky Lake Agricultural Complex, this is your spot to buy local produce, from dairy, meats, to traditional Ukrainian food. You can also visit this market during easter, Christmas and fall months for seasonal items.
Where to stay in Smoky Lake Alberta?
Need accommodation in Smoky Lake? Here are some options,
- Smoky Lake Inn: We recommend camping when in Smoky Inn to enjoy nature, but if you need a hotel Smoky Lake Inn is a great one, with a restaurant on-site. You can read reviews here
- Super 8: Stay at Super 8 located along the highway. Check availability here
Other trip ideas when driving from Edmonton to Smoky Lake
Although 1.50 hours is not super long, the drive from Edmonton to Smoky Lake welcomes you to a ton of greenery and roadside stops.
Josephburg:
Josephburg is a hamlet, located on Highway 830, about 6.5 kilometres east of Fort Saskatchewan. It was founded in the late 19th century by German-speaking settlers from Austro-Hungarian Ukraine. The church here is also very beautiful!
Skaro Shrine:
Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto is a great roadside stop from/to Edmonton. The Skaro Shrine was built by Polish and Ukrainian believers who brought in 600 wagonloads of stone to hand-build this beautiful grotto in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Today thousands of pilgrims flock here on Aug 14-15 to receive blessings and honor the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Address: 570010, AB-831, Skaro, AB T0B 2R0, Canada
Road trips in Alberta are always an adventure, that’s why we love living here! We hope you found this post on Smoky Lake informative, and are ready to book the trip!
