Falher Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and scenic beauty filled Falher in Northern Alberta through this comprehensive tour guide. Plan your visit with our detailed itinerary and recommendations for must-see attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, and more.


Falher, located in the Peace Country region of Northern Alberta, is a charming rural town that offers a range of cultural and natural attractions for tourists seeking a serene and off-beat adventure. Packed with a rich history, picturesque surroundings, and traditional influences, Falher has plenty to offer, making it one of the best destinations for exploring the diverse beauty of Northern Alberta. From a list of places to visit and things to do, to food and drink recommendations and local customs to follow, this comprehensive tour guide covers all that you need to know to plan a successful and unforgettable trip to Falher.

Introduction to Falher

Falher, named after a missionary priest Albert Falher, was founded in 1912 and has since become a hub for agriculture and forestry. The town has a small population of under 2,000 people, making it a quiet, peaceful destination for those looking for a slower-paced lifestyle. The town has a lively community and a strong French influence, where French is the primary language spoken by locals. It is therefore a cultural hub for those interested in immersing themselves in this lesser-known side of Northern Alberta.

List of Places to Visit in Falher

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Falher Regional Museum

The Falher Regional Museum showcases an extensive collection of exhibits that delve into the town’s history and cultural heritage. Displays include traditional farming equipment, family heirlooms, photographs, and various artifacts that depict the town’s development over the years. The museum organizes seasonal events and programs that showcase local talent and celebrate the traditions of the region.

Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes

The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes is a quiet and serene place for reflection and prayer. It is a unique attraction in Falher and the entire surrounding region. The grotto features a series of beautifully carved stone steps, and when you reach the top, bells ring across the surrounding countryside. The grotto offers fantastic views of the surrounding landscapes, so it is recommended to visit during the sunset.

Natural Attractions of Falher: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Falher and Area Agricultural Extension Centre

The Falher and Area Agricultural Extension Centre offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages, including fishing, bird-watching, hiking, and cycling. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife species, including black bears, waterfowl, and more than 150 bird species, making the centre a biodiversity hotspot in the region.

Jean Cote Natural Area

The Jean Cote Natural Area is a perfect spot for nature lovers looking to explore the region’s beauty. The natural area is known for its diverse range of habitats and ecosystems, including mixed-forest, grasslands, and riverine areas. Visitors can enjoy fishing, canoeing, hiking, and bird-watching in the natural area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Falher

Falher and the surrounding region offer a range of outdoor activities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Trails like the Georgie Lyle Memorial Trail or the Weston SFIA offer plenty of scenic views of the surrounding landscapes. The trails are well-maintained and beginner-friendly, making them perfect for families with children.

Best Things to Do in Falher: Activities and Tours

Bison Paddock Tour

The Bison Paddock Tour offers a unique experience where visitors can observe large herds of North American bison in their natural habitat. Tight ranger-led tours of the bison paddock operate all year round except on public holidays.

Salt Prairie Tour

The Salt Prairie Tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of the region. The tour includes visits to working farms, historic buildings, and natural reserves.

Week-Long Itinerary for Falher

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival and Exploration of Falher Town.
Day 2 Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes in the morning; Falher Regional Museum in the evening.
Day 3 Hiking and Biking at Georgie Lyle Memorial Trail.
Day 4 Jean Cote Natural Area in the morning; Bison Paddock Tour in the evening.
Day 5 Salt Prairie Tour.
Day 6 Outdoor activities at Falher and Area Agricultural Extension Centre.
Day 7 Departure from Falher.

Food and Drink Scene of Falher

Must-Try Dishes

Tourtière

Tourtière is a traditional French Canadian meat pie that is a must-try when you visit Falher. The pie is made from a combination of spiced pork, beef, and potatoes, and is baked in a flaky crust until golden brown. It is typically served during the Christmas season, but visitors can try it throughout the year.

Poutine

Poutine is a popular Canadian dish made with fries, cheese curds, and gravy. In Falher, you can try a localized version called the ‘Farmer’s Poutine’, which adds bacon and beef to the traditional recipe, providing a flavor that is unmatched by other poutine versions.

Local Beverages

Falher Honey Mead

Falher has a long-standing tradition of mead-making, and the locally produced honey mead is a must-try for those visiting the town. The honey mead is made from locally sourced honey, creating a unique flavor that is not found elsewhere.

Local Beer and Wine

The region’s breweries and wineries are also worth exploring. The wine produced from the indigenous berries and fruits is a specialty that must be tasted when in Falher.

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

Falher has a limited number of accommodations, but visitors can find a few hotels, motels, and guesthouses that offer comfortable stays. Some recommended options include Falher Motel, Club St - Isidore, and Sandra’s Riverfront Lodge.

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

Visitors can bring home unique souvenirs from their trip to Falher, such as traditional crafts, artwork, and locally made honey mead. Local markets and art fairs are held regularly, presenting an opportunity to experience the town’s handmade items.

Local Culture and Customs of Falher

The town has a strong French influence, which is evident in its traditional architecture, festivals, and food. Visitors should keep in mind that French is the primary language spoken in Falher, so being familiar with basic French phrases can be helpful. The town welcomes visitors to participate in its cultural activities and events, providing a chance to experience its local culture.

Best Time to Visit Falher

The best time to visit Falher is from June to August when the weather is sunny and mild, allowing for outdoor activities to occur comfortably.

Do’s and Don’ts of Falher

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Participate in local festivals and events.
  • Try the traditional French Canadian dishes and locally made honey mead.

Don’t:

  • Make fun of the French language as it is a significant part of the town’s cultural identity.
  • Litter or damage the natural reserves and trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Falher

Falher is a small and safe community that is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. Visitors can rest assured that they can move around the town at all times, even during the night.

Health in Falher

Falher is a rural town, and visitors should be prepared to handle any health emergencies that arise. The nearest hospital to Falher is in Peace River, which is an hour’s drive away. Visitors should bring their prescription medication.

Getting to Falher: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Falher

The nearest airport to Falher is Grande Prairie Airport, which is approximately 116 miles away from the town.

Bus Stations Near Falher

Greyhound bus services operate from Edmonton and Grande Prairie to Falher.

Other Options

Visitors can drive to Falher, and there is plenty of parking space available in the town.

How to Get Around in Falher

The town is small enough to navigate on foot, but visitors can also rent bicycles or cars to explore the attractions and natural reserves.

Where to Go Next from Falher: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Grande Prairie

Grande Prairie is a bustling city located nearby, offering a range of attractions such as shopping malls, art galleries, and recreational parks.

National Parks

Northern Alberta is home to numerous national parks, including Jasper National Park, which is approximately 250 miles away from Falher.

Conclusion

Falher is a hidden gem that is perfect for visitors looking to explore the quieter side of Northern Alberta. From its cultural attractions to its natural reserves, there is much to explore, making it an excellent place to unwind and relax. With our comprehensive tour guide, you can plan your trip efficiently and enjoy everything that Falher has to offer.

World's Largest Honey Bee World's Largest Honey Bee link= link= link= link=