Alright Edmonton, ready to get out of the city and check out some new scenery, but don’t wanna waste your day driving? Then you’re going to wanna pack a day trip bag and check out the city of Wetaskiwin! Just over 35 minutes of driving will land you in one of Alberta’s oldest cities, and you’ll get to fully immerse yourself in history, nature and loads of activities. 

So, what should you be adding to your itinerary? 

GO FOR A HIKE

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Photo via City of Wetaskiwin

Whether you’re looking to take it easy on a short 3 KM hike like the Chickadee Trail (and check out the river and some cool birdhouses), or you’re lookin’ to step it up with an 8 KM trail filled with boreal forests and wetlands like the Coyote Lake Nature Sanctuary hike, the city of Wetaskiwin has options for everyone. 

TRY YOUR HAND AT FISHING

Time to break out that fishing rod and catch yourself somethin’ to grill (or snap a pic of and release). From Coal Lake, By-The-Lake Park and Bear Hills Lake, Wetaskiwin is an angler’s paradise. Wanna step up your plans a bit? Rent a boat and spend the day on the lake on the southside of Coal Lake!  

GO FOR A QUICK 9

Avid golfers and beginners alike, Wetaskiwin has golf courses for all levels! Get in a quick 9-holes at the Loon’s Golf Course, check out Pipestone Links to enjoy the incredible natural landscape surrounding the course (including majestic spruce!), or hit up Montgomery Glens Golf & Country Club to experience a championship and full-service golf course! 

STAY A WHILE

We know we told you to pack a day bag, but after seeing the campsites Wetaskiwin has to offer… you may want to pack for a few nights! Whether you’re going for the authentic un-serviced sites at Coal Lake South Campground, or looking for the amenities of Westview RV Park or West Lions Campground (including hot showers, laundry, zip lines, playgrounds and more) – camping in Wetaskiwin is definitely an unreal option for longer trips. 

GET INTO THE ARTS & CULTURE

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Photo via City of Wetaskiwin

Remember how we told you Wetaskiwin was one of Alberta’s oldest cities? Well, that means they’ve got the culture and local shops to go with it! Some of our faves? Check out the authentic Indigenous workmanship at the Bear Paw Trading Post, climb into a pink Buick convertible and/or hit up in the indoor drive-in at Reynolds-Alberta Museum & Aviation Hall of Fame, shop a wide selection of fresh fruits and veggies (and tons more local goods) at The Wetaskiwin Farmers Market and the Public Farmers Market!, or hit up the Wetaskiwin & District Heritage Museum for local history dating all the way back to the dinosaurs! Looking for a bit more thrill? You’ll wanna add a stop at the Edmonton International Raceway.

There you have it, Edmonton! A list of things to add to your Wetaskiwin itinerary! With its historic charm rooted in true frontier spirit, and its unreal natural surroundings, the city of Wetaskiwin is not one to miss. Plus, with their motto ‘The City We Share’, we can pretty much guarantee you’ll meet some great people during your trip. 

Let us know if you plan a trip, team!