High Prairie Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know about High Prairie in Northern Alberta, Canada. From places to visit and things to do, to where to stay and cultural customs, plan your perfect trip today.


Introduction to High Prairie

Located in Peace Country, in Northern Alberta, High Prairie is a charming town that offers a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and peaceful rural settings. With a population of around 2,600 people, High Prairie has a strong sense of community and a relaxed pace of life.

Whether you are looking to explore museums and historical sites, enjoy outdoor adventures, or simply soak up the local culture, High Prairie has something to offer for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through all the must-visit places, best things to do, and useful tips to help you plan your perfect trip to High Prairie.

List of Places to Visit in High Prairie

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • High Prairie and District Museum: Located in the heart of town, this museum showcases the history and culture of High Prairie and the surrounding area.
  • School of Pioneer Crafts: Experience the daily life of early settlers in Peace Country while learning traditional crafts such as weaving, blacksmithing, and candle-making.
  • St. Paul’s Anglican Church: Built-in 1910, this lovely historic church features beautiful stained glass windows and hosts regular services and community events.

Natural Attractions of High Prairie: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Winagami Lake Provincial Park: Situated just a short drive from High Prairie, this beautiful park offers hiking trails, fishing, swimming, boating, and camping opportunities.
  • Lesser Slave Lake: Known for its stunning beauty and crystal clear waters, Lesser Slave Lake is one of the largest lakes in Alberta and offers a range of water sports and activities like fishing, boating, and water skiing.
  • Marten Mountain Viewpoint: A popular spot for photographers and nature lovers, Marten Mountain viewpoint offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is an excellent place to watch the sunset.

Hiking/Biking Routes of High Prairie

  • The High Prairie and District Regional Recreation Trail: This 17-km trail runs through the beautiful countryside surrounding High Prairie and is perfect for hiking, biking, or snowshoeing in the winter.
  • Lily Lake Trail: This beautiful trail is a 3.6-km loop that takes visitors through dense forests and along the shores of Lily Lake.

Best Things to Do in High Prairie: Activities and Tours

  • Hunting and fishing trips: The area surrounding High Prairie is a hunter’s and angler’s paradise, with an abundance of wildlife and several lakes and rivers to fish in.
  • High Prairie Wilderness Tours: Experience the stunning beauty of Peace Country by taking a guided ATV tour or embarking on a horseback riding adventure.
  • High Prairie Agricultural Society Events: Throughout the year, the Agricultural Society hosts fairs, rodeos, and agricultural events, which are a great way to experience local culture and customs.

Week-Long Itinerary for High Prairie

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the High Prairie and District Museum and School of Pioneer Crafts
Day 2 Hike or bike the High Prairie and District Regional Recreation Trail
Day 3 Enjoy a day trip to Lesser Slave Lake
Day 4 Take a guided ATV tour with High Prairie Wilderness Tours
Day 5 Attend an Agricultural Society Event
Day 6 Spend the day fishing at Winagami Lake Provincial Park
Day 7 Visit Marten Mountain Viewpoint and watch the sunset

Food and Drink Scene of High Prairie

Must-Try Dishes

  • Smoked meat sandwich: A local favorite, the smoked meat sandwich is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.
  • Bison burger: A tasty and healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers, bison burgers are a must-try when in High Prairie.

Local Beverages

  • Alberta craft beer: High Prairie has several breweries that produce delicious craft beer with local ingredients in unique flavors.
  • Prairie Punch: A mix of vodka, raspberry puree, and lemonade, Prairie Punch is a refreshing drink that is perfect for hot summer days.

Where to Stay in High Prairie: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Days Inn High Prairie: A comfortable and affordable hotel located in the heart of town, with easy access to nearby attractions.
  • Peavine Inn and Suites: A cozy boutique hotel with spacious rooms and excellent amenities.
  • High Prairie Elk’s Motel: A budget-friendly option with clean and comfortable rooms, conveniently located near the highway.

What to Buy in High Prairie: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • High Prairie smoked meat: Made with locally sourced beef, High Prairie smoked meat is a delicious and unique souvenir to bring home.
  • Birch bark baskets: Handcrafted by local artisans, these beautiful baskets are a great way to support the local economy and bring home a beautiful piece of art.

Local Culture and Customs of High Prairie

High Prairie has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in the traditions of early settlers and Indigenous communities. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and learn about the history and culture of the area by visiting museums and attending local events, such as Agricultural Society fairs and Indigenous cultural festivals.

Best Time to Visit High Prairie

The best time to visit High Prairie is during the summer months, between June and August when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are available. However, if you are interested in winter sports like snowmobiling or skiing, the period between December and March is perfect.

Do’s and Don’ts of High Prairie

Do:

  • Do take the time to explore the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
  • Do respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the environment, be mindful of your actions.
  • Avoid trespassing on private property or disrespecting boundaries.

Safety and Health

Safety in High Prairie

High Prairie is a safe place to visit, but visitors should still take basic precautions, such as locking their vehicles and securing valuables. Bear awareness is also important when exploring natural areas like Winagami Lake Provincial Park.

Health in High Prairie

Health services are available in High Prairie, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. However, it is essential to prioritize safety and minimize risks while exploring the wilderness areas surrounding High Prairie.

Getting to High Prairie: Transportation Options and Logistics

High Prairie is located about 375 km northwest of Edmonton, Alberta’s capital city, and can be accessed via car, bus, or plane.

Airports Near High Prairie

  • Peace River Regional Airport: Located about 100 km northeast of High Prairie, this airport serves regional airlines and charter flights.
  • Grande Prairie Airport: Located about 200 km southwest of High Prairie, this modern airport connects to major Canadian and US destinations.

Bus Stations Near High Prairie

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Greyhound buses serve High Prairie daily from both Edmonton and Grande Prairie.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Rental cars are available at the airports and larger urban centers.
  • Private transportation: Visitors can also hire a private car or taxi service to travel to High Prairie.

How to Get Around in High Prairie

High Prairie is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or by car. Bike rentals are also available, and guided tours are offered for those who want to explore the wilderness.

Where to Go Next from High Prairie: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Slave Lake: Located about 100 km north of High Prairie, Slave Lake is a beautiful lake town that offers a range of outdoor activities, beaches, and stunning views.
  • Edmonton: Alberta’s capital city is about a 4-hour drive south of High Prairie and is home to many excellent attractions, restaurants, and museums.

Conclusion

High Prairie is a charming and welcoming town that offers a unique mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Whether you are looking to relax and soak up the local atmosphere or explore the stunning wilderness areas surrounding the town, High Prairie is a destination that should not be missed. By following this comprehensive travel guide, you will be equipped with all the information you need to plan the perfect trip to High Prairie.