Exploring and Experiencing Northwest Alberta
Tourists to the REDI Region explore landscapes, events, and experiences. Most visitors arrive to spend time with family and friends, while others are connecting to destinations in the Far North. In a region spanning 80,000 square kilometres, even the local residents can enjoy feeling like a tourist!
The Peace River flows from the mountains of British Columbia through northwestern Alberta as it thunders toward the Arctic Ocean. Northern Alberta tourism has become popular with those individuals looking for adventure in an amazing natural environment.
1788
Fort Vermilion was founded by the North West Company, one of the first European settlements in Alberta
In addition to vast and beautiful natural treasures, the REDI region also boasts a rich history of First Nations and European inhabitants, explorers, and traders, and an important role in the fur trade of Western Canada. The hamlet of Fort Vermilion is one of the earliest European settlements in Alberta, having been founded in 1788 (along with Fort Chipewyan in the northeast).
For those exploring history and culture, the REDI Region provides year-round experiences. The Mackenzie Crossroads Museum and Tourist Information Centre, Fort Vermilion Heritage Centre, and the Mennonite Heritage Village provide glimpses of early indigenous lifestyles and the progression of settlement by fur traders and farmers. Displays depict local wildlife, geology, and recent events such as the Chuckegg Creek Wildfire. The Fort Vermilion Agricultural Fair, La Crete Professional Rodeo, Canada Day parades, National Indigenous People’s Day celebrations, winter carnivals and dog sled races entertain all ages. Print and on-line Information is readily available from the museums and the Mackenzie Frontier Tourist Association, which can guide tourists to historic locations, including the Old Bay House in Fort Vermilion or the Eleske Shrine at Child Lake.
Deh Cho Travel Connection
Take Highway 35 from Keg River to the Northwest Territories border and you’re in big river country and on the famous Deh Cho Travel Connection.
One of Canada’s greatest driving adventures, this truly spectacular route will lead you along the famed Mackenzie, Liard and Alaska highways to historical water routes of early inhabitants and explorers.
The Deh Cho Connection spans sprawling farmland, boreal forests, incredible waterfalls, and into long, silent nights.
There’s plenty to do in this unique region of Canada all year round. The colossal waterways of the Peace and Hay Rivers are a Mecca for boating enthusiasts. Long summer nights lend themselves perfectly to golfing excursions at the many northern golf courses. There are plenty of campsites to enjoy, and Northwest Alberta is a world-renowned fishing and hunting destination.
In the winter, enjoy cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and the famous northern Albertan hospitality.
Mackenzie Frontier Tourism Association (MFTA)
Website: https://mackenziefrontier.com/
The Mackenzie Frontier Tourist Association is a not-for-profit, industry led, collaboratively managed organization. With the support of municipal partners – Mackenzie County, Town of High Level, and Town of Rainbow Lake – MFTA works to fulfill the mandate to support and grow tourism in Northwestern Alberta through the provision of strategic leadership and through active, effective partnerships with government and key stakeholders.
Northwest Alberta Travel Links
REPORTS
Comprehensive data and information on our tourism industry.
Tourism Industry Snapshot
An overview of tourism industry here in the REDI Region. Great as a quick reference, with all the relevant details.
My Freedom, My Frontier - Tourism Partnership & Development - Full Report
How developing strategic partnerships with stakeholders across our region can strengthen and grow tourism.
Complete REDI Business Plan Report
The complete plan for REDI Northwest Alberta, detailing our focuses and strategies to achieve growth in crucial economic areas.
REDI Regional Tourism Plan
How the REDI Region has leveraged its unique assets to develop and continue growing our tourism industry.
Ski Hill Feasibility Study - Full Report
Report commissioned by REDI Northwest Alberta to investigate developing a ski hill to provide additional winter recreation options for residents and visitors.
PHOTO GALLERY
REDI PILLARS
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