Whitecourt Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and experience in Whitecourt, Alberta with this comprehensive travel guide. From outdoor adventures to cultural landmarks, we've got you covered with this ultimate resource.


Whitecourt, a hidden gem in Northern Alberta, is nestled in the heart of Canada’s Prairies surrounded by lush forests, lakes, and rolling hills. The town attracts adventure seekers, nature lovers, and history buffs with its diverse range of attractions and activities. Sporting world-class hiking and biking trails, scenic waterfalls, and jaw-dropping vistas, Whitecourt is an ideal destination for visitors looking for an escape in Canada’s wild beauty. In this article, we will explore the best things to do, see, and discover in Whitecourt, Alberta.

Introduction to Whitecourt

Whitecourt is a town situated on the confluence of two rivers, the Athabasca River and the McLeod River. The charming town is located in the North Central region of the province of Alberta, Canada. The town was founded in the early 1900s for its logging industry, and later the town became home to a diversified range of industries, including oil and gas, forestry, and agriculture. The town attracts a diverse range of visitors with its wild range of attractions, abundant natural beauty, and small-town charm.

List of Places to Visit in Whitecourt

Whitecourt is a haven for nature and adventure enthusiasts. From hiking to fishing, here are the best things to do and see in the region.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Whitecourt has a rich cultural and historical heritage. History enthusiasts will love these places:

  1. Whitecourt and District Forest Interpretive Centre: A museum dedicated to the history and ecology of the forest region. Visitors can take self-guided tours through the exhibits to learn about the animals, plants, and ecology of the region.

  2. Blue Ridge Lumberjack Show: Hosted at the Whitecourt Woodlands Rodeo Grounds, this fun and exciting show features talented lumberjacks demonstrating their skills in log rolling, tree climbing, and chainsaw carving.

Natural Attractions of Whitecourt: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Whitecourt’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring. There are several outdoor activities and scenic views to explore, including:

  1. Hard Luck Canyon: A breathtaking natural attraction featuring a gorge and waterfall. Visitors can hike and explore the canyon through a scenic trail system.

  2. Whitecourt Mountain: An ideal spot for hiking and mountain biking, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Whitecourt

The town prides itself on its hiking and biking routes, boasting over 150 km of multi-use trails. Here are a few popular ones:

  1. Brickyard Mountain Trails: An extensive network of trails near the town, that offers views of the town and surrounding mountains.

  2. Millar Western Heritage Trail: A path that connects several communities throughout the Woodlands County, covering a distance of 35 kilometres.

Best Things to Do in Whitecourt: Activities and Tours

Whitecourt offers a diverse range of activities and adventures for visitors of all ages. Whether you enjoy fishing, skiing, or snowmobiling, there is something for everyone in Whitecourt. Here are some of the highlights:

  1. Whitecourt Snowmobile and ATV Club: Adventure seekers will enjoy a snowmobile or ATV ride through scenic trails in the winter or summer.

  2. Fishing: Whitecourt is home to several stocked lakes and rivers, offering a great opportunity for fishing enthusiasts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Whitecourt

For those planning a week-long trip, here is an itinerary for exploring Whitecourt and the surrounding area:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Whitecourt and District Forest Interpretive Centre
Day 2 Go on the Whitecourt Mountain Hike
Day 3 Enjoy fishing in one of the nearby lakes
Day 4 Visit the Hard Luck Canyon for a scenic hike
Day 5 Explore the Brickyard Mountain Trails
Day 6 Take the ATV through rugged terrain
Day 7 Relax in a lakeside cottage or go for a walk along the river

Food and Drink Scene of Whitecourt

Whitecourt has a range of dining options catering to all tastes and budgets. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Alberta Beef: Sample the local beef, which is considered among the best in the world.

  2. Wild Rice Soup: A creamy soup, featuring local wild rice and a combination of vegetables.

Local Beverages

Whitecourt is home to a thriving craft beer scene and several vineyards that produce exceptional wines.

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

Whitecourt offers accommodation options that meet the needs of all types of visitors. Here are some options:

  1. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Whitecourt Southeast: A modern, family-friendly hotel that offers spacious rooms, an indoor swimming pool, and fitness center.

  2. Whitecourt Riverside Golf Course and RV Park: An RV park and golf course located beside the Athabasca River, offering scenic views and comfortable campsites.

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

Whitecourt offers a range of unique souvenirs and local products that visitors can take home with them. Here are some items to consider:

  1. Forestry Products: Maple syrup, honey, and wooden carvings are all available in Whitecourt.

  2. Winter Clothing: With the town located near the mountains, winter clothing such as jackets, snow pants, and boots are readily available in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Whitecourt

Alberta’s indigenous culture plays a critical role in Whitecourt’s cultural landscape. Visitors can learn more about the indigenous communities through several educational activities and tours.

Best Time to Visit Whitecourt

Whitecourt is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and the best time to visit the town is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny.

Do’s and Don’ts of Whitecourt

Do:

  1. Respect the local wildlife and their habitats.

  2. Obey posted signs and follow the rules and regulations of the area.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or leave garbage in the parks and natural areas.

  2. Disturb the natural habitat and the peaceful atmosphere of the town.

Safety and Health

Safety in Whitecourt

Whitecourt is a safe town, and visitors should practice standard precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking cars and rooms and keeping valuables safe.

Health in Whitecourt

Visitors should take standard precautions to protect themselves against mosquito bites, and it’s essential to carry adequate sun protection in the summer months.

Getting to Whitecourt: Transportation Options and Logistics

Whitecourt is accessible by several modes of transportation. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Whitecourt

  1. Edmonton International Airport: The closest international airport to Whitecourt, located 160 km away.

  2. Grande Prairie Airport: Located 200 km north of Whitecourt.

Bus Stations Near Whitecourt

  1. Greyhound Bus Lines: Stops at the Whitecourt Husky Gas Station.

  2. Edmonton Transit Service: Provides daily bus services from Edmonton to Whitecourt.

Other Options

Whitecourt is also reachable by rental cars or private vehicles.

How to Get Around in Whitecourt

Visitors can rent cars from several rental agencies, and taxis are readily available to get around the town.

Where to Go Next from Whitecourt: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Whitecourt, visitors can explore some of the nearby attractions:

  1. Athabasca falls: Located 130 km to the north, the falls offer breathtaking views of the Athabasca River.

  2. Jasper National Park: Located 250 km away, Jasper National Park offers seemingly endless wilderness adventures, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and skiing.

Conclusion

Whitecourt, Alberta, offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors of all interests. From hiking and biking to fishing and cultural landmarks, Whitecourt has something for everyone looking to discover Alberta’s hidden gem. With its breathtaking natural beauty and small-town charm, Whitecourt is a must-visit destination in Northern Alberta.

Whitecourt's Forest Interpretive Centre Whitecourt's Forest Interpretive Centre