Redwater Travel Guide

Explore scenic views and outdoor adventures in Redwater with our comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to natural wonders, we have covered everything in this guide.


Redwater is a tranquil town located in the Edmonton Capital Region of Alberta, Canada. The town lies within the Prairies, which offers visitors a unique experience of scenic beauty and nature. Redwater’s community is friendly and welcoming, and visitors to Redwater often describe it as a hidden gem in Alberta.

In this travel guide, we have compiled a list of all the essential information you need to know before visiting Redwater. Whether you want to explore its cultural and natural attractions, dine at its finest restaurants or experience its vibrant outdoor scenes, this guide has you covered from start to finish.

Introduction to Redwater

Redwater is a small town located about 35 miles (56 km) northeast of the city of Edmonton. The town was named after the Redwater River, which meanders through it. Redwater is best known for its strong agricultural heritage and its beautiful natural scenery. Its vast expanse of prairies is a stunning reminder of the raw beauty of the Great Plains. The town’s peaceful existence is tranquil and laid-back – the perfect destination for a relaxing vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Redwater

If you’re planning a trip to Redwater, you won’t be disappointed when it comes to things to do and places to see. Here are our top recommendations for a trip to Redwater:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Redwater Historical Society Museum - The museum is located in the heart of Redwater. It showcases the town’s history and displays various artifacts, including photographs, books, and exhibits.

  2. Smoky Lake Heritage Centre and Museum - This museum is located just outside of Redwater and provides a great way to learn about the area’s agricultural heritage.

  3. Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village - Just about an hour’s drive from Redwater, this open-air museum lets you step back in time to experience life during the pioneer era of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Natural Attractions of Redwater: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Elk Island National Park - Located a stone’s throw from Redwater, Elk Island National Park features a beautiful landscape of wetlands, forests and open meadows. Visitors can explore by hiking, biking, or even by kayaking on Astotin Lake.

  2. Fishing at Redwater Spring Creek - The Redwater Spring Creek is a renowned destination for avid anglers. The spring-fed creek offers excellent opportunities for catching rainbow trout and other species of fish.

  3. Fort Saskatchewan Prairie - Located about 30 minutes’ drive from Redwater, the Fort Saskatchewan Prairie is a vast expanse of prairie landscape that is perfect for a relaxing and scenic drive.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Redwater

Are you an adventurous person who loves hiking and biking? Redwater has plenty of scenic trails to keep you busy. These are some of our favorites:

  1. Bison Loop Trail - Located in Elk Island National Park, this 8.1 km trail offers visitors an opportunity to witness a herd of bison grazing in a vast open field.

  2. Prairie Trail - The Prairie Trail is a scenic loop trail located in Fort Saskatchewan Prairie. It winds through clusters of aspen trees and offers visitors stunning views of the prairies.

  3. Around the Campground Trail - Located in Redwater Park, this 1.3 km trail is perfect for a leisurely walk. The trail passes through a forest and offers visitors beautiful glimpses of the creek.

Best Things to Do in Redwater: Activities and Tours

  1. Alberta Beach - A popular summer destination located 30 minutes from Redwater, Alberta Beach offers visitors white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters to relax and enjoy.

  2. Ghost Lake Recreation Area - This recreation area boasts some of the most fantastic views in Western Canada. Visitors can kayak, fish, camp, and hike in the area.

  3. Bison Conservation Breeding Program - This program is located in Elk Island National Park and is a great way to learn about Bison conservation efforts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Redwater

Are you planning to visit Redwater for a week-long vacation? Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1-2: Visit Redwater Historical Society Museum and Fort Saskatchewan Prairie. Day 3-4: Explore Elk Island National Park, go hiking, or spend your day fishing at Redwater Spring Creek. Day 5-6: Head to Alberta Beach and explore the lake, soak up some sun on the sandy beach or rent a boat and enjoy the summer breeze, and take part in some water sports. Day 7: Head back to Elk Island National Park and learn about conservation efforts at the Bison Conservation Breeding Program.

Food and Drink Scene of Redwater

Redwater’s food scene is built on rich agricultural roots, and it features local ingredients that give visitors a unique dining experience. Here are some of our favorite dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Bison Burger - This burger is made from lean, tender, and flavorful bison meat without any hormones or additives.

  2. Steak - Redwater’s beef is known for its lean, tender, and tasty qualities.

  3. Pierogies - These Polish dumplings are popular in Redwater, and the local restaurants offer different variations of the dish.

Local Beverages

  1. Alberta Craft Beer - Several local breweries produce some of the best beers in western Canada.

  2. Prairie Berry Wine - Redwater and the surrounding areas are home to several vineyards that produce excellent wine products.

Where to Stay in Redwater: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Redwater offers visitors a range of accommodations, from hotels to guesthouses and hostels. Here are some of our recommendations:

  1. Best Western Plus Redwater Inn & Suites - A highly rated hotel located in the heart of Redwater.

  2. Redwater Rustic House - This cozy and beautiful guest house is located just outside Redwater.

What to Buy in Redwater: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Redwater has a rich agricultural background, making it a great place to find locally made treats and goods. Here are some souvenir ideas:

  1. Jerky - Alberta is famous for producing some of the best beef jerky in North America. Make sure to bring some Redwater Beef Jerky home with you.

  2. Whipped cream - Redwater’s finest restaurant, Dean’s Diner, serves a delicious whipped cream that is befitting of your taste buds.

Local Culture and Customs of Redwater

People from Redwater are proud of their agricultural heritage. They are friendly and welcoming, so don’t be surprised if someone strikes up a conversation with you in a queue somewhere. Redwater has a vibrant community spirit, and visitors can quickly feel the warmth and camaraderie.

Best Time to Visit Redwater

The best time to visit Redwater is from late spring to early fall when temperatures are pleasant, and the natural scenery is at its best. Summers are sunny and warm, and the lakes and creeks offer ideal places to cool off.

Do’s and Don’ts of Redwater

Do:

  1. Respect Redwater’s natural attractions by disposing of your rubbish correctly.

  2. Take some time to learn about Redwater’s agricultural heritage and culture.

  3. Be respectful to the locals, and don’t litter or bring glass to the beaches.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t disturb the wildlife in Elk Island National Park

  2. Don’t leave anything flammable in your vehicle while in the park.

  3. Don’t enter any wildlife enclosures or areas not open to visitors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Redwater

Redwater is a safe town, and visitors can enjoy their vacation without worrying about safety concerns. Visitors should, however, take care when exploring the national park’s trails and should stay on the designated paths.

Health in Redwater

There are no specific health concerns associated with Redwater. Visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance and are up to date with routine vaccinations.

Getting to Redwater: Transportation Options and Logistics

Redwater is easily accessible from Edmonton. Visitors can arrive into the city via air or land before making their way to Redwater. Transportation options include:

Airports Near Redwater

  1. Edmonton International Airport (YEG) - The airport is located approximately 41 miles (66 km) south of Redwater. It is the closest airport to Redwater and offers regular international and domestic flights.

  2. Calgary International Airport (YYC) - The airport is located approximately 190 miles (308 km) south of Redwater. Visitors can rent a car and drive to Redwater from Calgary.

Bus Stations Near Redwater

Greyhound and other bus companies provide transportation to Redwater from Edmonton.

Other Options

  1. Driving - Visitors can rent a car and drive directly to Redwater from the Edmonton International Airport.

  2. Shuttle Services - Several shuttle services offer transportation to Redwater from Edmonton.

How to Get Around in Redwater

Visitors can explore Redwater on foot or by renting a car. Redwater’s small size makes it easy to move around the town on foot.

Where to Go Next from Redwater: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Edmonton - The city of Edmonton is a great place to visit for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

  2. Elk Island National Park - This National Park is a beautiful destination, and visitors can explore further and learn more about bison conservation efforts.

Conclusion

Redwater is a hidden gem of a town that’s perfect for a relaxing Canadian vacation. The area’s raw beauty, combined with its rich agricultural heritage, makes it an excellent destination for visitors who are looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. We hope this travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Redwater and provided useful insights that will make your journey enjoyable and memorable. Happy travels!

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