Lac La Biche Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Lac La Biche, Northern Alberta with our comprehensive travel guide. We've got you covered with top places to visit, best places to stay, local cuisine and cultural experiences, safety tips, and transportation options.


Lac La Biche, located in Northern Alberta, Canada, is a hidden gem of the Prairies region. This peaceful community on the shores of Lac La Biche Lake has something to offer to every traveler, from cultural attractions to outdoor adventures. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll help you plan your trip to Lac La Biche with our list of top places to visit, activities, local cuisine, and more.

Introduction to Lac La Biche

Lac La Biche is located about 220 km northeast of Edmonton, Alberta’s capital city. The community gets its name from the lake, the largest in the area, which means “large bay” in French. The lake covers an area of over 2,500 km² and has numerous islands and bays to explore.

Lac La Biche is home to a diverse population of about 3,000 people, consisting of Indigenous, French, and Métis communities. This unique blend of cultures is reflected in the community’s art, cuisine, and festivals.

List of Places to Visit in Lac La Biche

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lac La Biche Mission Historical Site: Learn about the history and culture of the Indigenous people of the area and the missionaries who came to the region.

  • Plamondon Museum: Explore the artifacts and exhibits that celebrate the history of the community.

Natural Attractions of Lac La Biche: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park: This beautiful park is nestled between the lake and the boreal forest and offers a range of activities, including hiking, boating, swimming, and fishing.

  • Lakeland Provincial Park: This park is situated along the shore of the Cold Lake and offers scenic hiking trails and kayaking opportunities.

  • Beaver Lake Nature Center: This wildlife sanctuary is home to various species of birds, animals, and fish, and offers year-round nature excursions.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lac La Biche

  • Voyageur Trail: This 50 km hiking trail follows the shoreline of Lac La Biche and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding boreal forests.

  • Iron Horse Trail: This former railway line has been converted to a 300 km multi-use trail that passes through Lac La Biche and offers a scenic route for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing.

Best Things to Do in Lac La Biche: Activities and Tours

  • Fishing: Lac La Biche Lake is known for its abundance of fish species, and there are many fishing charters and tours available.

  • Canoeing and Kayaking: Explore the lake’s many islands and bays by canoe or kayak and take in the stunning scenery.

  • Horseback Riding: Take a guided horseback ride through the boreal forest and along the lake shore.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lac La Biche

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore the Lac La Biche Mission Historical Site
Day 2 Hike the Voyageur Trail and go fishing on the lake
Day 3 Take a guided horseback ride in the forest
Day 4 Visit the Plamondon Museum and go canoeing on the lake
Day 5 Visit Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park for swimming and hiking
Day 6 Explore the Beaver Lake Nature Center
Day 7 Visit Lakeland Provincial Park for a scenic hike or kayaking trip

Food and Drink Scene of Lac La Biche

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tourtière: A Canadian-style meat pie, made with seasoned ground beef and pork, potato, and onions, which is a traditional French-Canadian dish.

  • Bannock: A warm and hearty fry bread, a traditional food of the Indigenous people, which is often served as a side dish or used to make sandwiches.

Local Beverages

  • Lakeland Vodka: A locally distilled vodka made from Alberta-grown wheat at the Ironwood Distillery.

  • Lac La Biche Brewery: This local brewery is well-known for its craft beer and cider made from locally grown and sourced ingredients.

Where to Stay in Lac La Biche: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Ramada by Wyndham Lac La Biche: This hotel located in downtown Lac La Biche offers comfortable rooms and suites with excellent amenities.

  • Lac La Biche Inn: This cozy and affordable inn is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore the region.

  • Grist Lake Lodge: This high-end resort is located on the shore of Grist Lake, just a short drive from Lac La Biche, and offers luxury cabins and excellent dining options.

What to Buy in Lac La Biche: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Indigenous Art: Local artisans create beautiful pieces of art inspired by their heritage, including beadwork, quillwork, and leatherwork.

  • Local Honey: Alberta is known for its delicious honey, which is produced by local farmers and sold at farmer’s markets in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Lac La Biche

Lac La Biche is home to a diverse population of Indigenous, French, and Métis communities. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and traditions, including the pow-wows, festivals, and cultural events that are held throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Lac La Biche

The best time to visit Lac La Biche is from May to September when the weather is mild, and the lakes and forests are accessible. The summer months offer the most opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and water sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lac La Biche

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.
  • Share the road with wildlife and be mindful when driving in parks and nature reserves.
  • Take mosquito repellent during the summer months.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the natural areas.
  • Disturb the wildlife.
  • Smoke in the parks or near the forests.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lac La Biche

Lac La Biche is a safe community, but visitors should take the same precautions as they would in any other area. Travelers should be aware of their surroundings, and avoid leaving their valuables unattended.

Health in Lac La Biche

Lac La Biche is a rural community, and visitors are advised to take precautions against tick and mosquito bites, especially during the summer months. It’s also important to stay hydrated and use sunscreen during outdoor activities.

Getting to Lac La Biche: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lac La Biche

The nearest major airport to Lac La Biche is the Edmonton International Airport, located about 225 km to the southwest. Smaller regional airports include Bonnyville Regional Airport and the Lac La Biche Airport.

Bus Stations Near Lac La Biche

Greyhound Canada operates buses to Bonnyville, located about 50 km south of Lac La Biche.

Other Options

There are several car rental companies in Edmonton, which offer a convenient way to explore Lac La Biche and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Lac La Biche

Cars, bikes, and public transportation are all viable options in Lac La Biche. Car rentals are available at the Edmonton International Airport and in downtown Edmonton. Bike rentals are available seasonally at the Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park. Public transportation services include local taxis and buses.

Where to Go Next from Lac La Biche: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Fort McMurray: Located about 300 km north of Lac La Biche, Fort McMurray is a hub for the oil and gas industry and offers a range of attractions, including the Oil Sands Discovery Centre.

  • Elk Island National Park: Located about 170 km south of Lac La Biche, this park is home to herds of bison, elk, and other wildlife, and offers excellent hiking trails and opportunities for stargazing.

Conclusion

Lac La Biche is a hidden gem of Northern Alberta and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Lac La Biche has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty of this stunning region.

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