This scenic Alberta destination is home to the Rockies’ first ‘via ferrata’ & has a famous lake nearby

Wild Rose Country has several beautiful cities worth visiting, but when you’re looking for somewhere to wind down, towns like Nordegg are an Alberta must-visit.

Located west of Red Deer, this historic town is small but mighty fun for those who love the outdoors and local history!

Here, in addition to charming shops, a historic golf course, as well as scenic restaurants and eateries like the Nordegg Canteen, those who visit can fill their lungs and their minds with fresh air and interesting facts about the area.

Not only are there several hiking trails and rivers where you can go floating (with or without a tour guide), but you can also check out the first “Via Ferrata” in the Alberta Rockies.

As long as you’re not afraid of heights, challenge yourself and climb the iron ladder to a 500-foot cliff overlooking Alberta’s largest and most beautiful man-made lake.

This particular spot is stunning in the summertime, but famous in the winter for its unique bubble pattern that forms under the ice.

There’s also the Nordegg Heritage Centre where you can take a tour of the Brazeau Collieries mine site.

“Nordegg played a substantial role in the second stage of steam coal development, important in the fate of the coal industry as a whole in Alberta and southeastern British Columbia from the end of the First World War to the mid-1950s,” explains Parks Canada.

“The site contains elements relating to mine entries, power house, preparation plant, and rail line, and represents the most complete example of a coal-mining surface plant in the region.”

Love adventure?

From biking and equestrian rides, back-country adventure and survival camps, river kayaking, fishing, canoeing, snowmobiling and OHV riding, you’re guaranteed to have an absolute blast while in the area.

Check it out and enjoy!

Nordegg, Alberta

Where: Directions here