Smoky Lake County
EXPERIENCE "WORK-LIFE BALANCE"ROADTRIP ADVENTURES
View our interactive map and get started on your trip along Highway 28!
- See the Roadtrip Game Sticker Stations
- Events along this Route
- Deals & Offers
- Recommended Businesses
HIGHLIGHTS
Metis Crossing
Located just off Hwy 855 on the Victoria Trail, Métis Crossing, a 512-acre site on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River is comprised of five river lot titles that were owned by Métis settlers in the late 1800's. It is the first – and only – major Métis Cultural Centre in Canada.
smoky lake visitor information
Visitor Information Centre CN Museum Train Station, Smoky Lake. Open May long to Sept long weekend.
780-656-3677
Victoria Settlement
History buffs will love a trip on the Victoria Trail along the North Saskatchewan River, just 10 miles south of Smoky Lake off Highway 855. Start at Victoria Settlement, where interpreters bring this former Fort and pioneer settlement to life. It is the site of the oldest building still on its original foundation in Alberta.
Smoky Lake County Attractions & Events
Metis Crossing is Alberta’s first major Métis cultural interpretive centre, offering cultural interpretation, gatherings, events, experience packages, and family fun. Situated on 512 acres of river lot land from the original Métis settlers of the late 1800s, the Cultural Gathering Centre features a gift shop, a restaurant serving Indigenous-inspired cuisine, and spaces for special events and weddings.
Stay at The Lodge for a mix of comfort and Métis history, or enjoy a rustic experience with powered RV sites, tent camping, or comfort camping in traditional Métis Trappers tents. For a unique overnight stay, try the Skywatching Domes. Located just off Hwy 855, 10 minutes south of Smoky Lake, Métis Crossing overlooks the North Saskatchewan River and is open year-round. Book your Experience Package today! Click to learn more.
Just 5 km east of Metis Crossing lies Victoria Settlement Historic Site. This site served as a camping ground for buffalo hunters, Métis river lot farms, a Methodist mission, a Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading fort, and a growing community. This land has witnessed the history of Alberta unfold over the years. Enjoy a unique tour guided by historical interpreters, engage in traditional activities, and explore the historic 1864 Clerk’s Quarters. Nestled in a beautiful parkland with picnic areas and walking trails.
Continue your journey in the Town of Smoky Lake Alberta’s Pumpkin Capital! Start with a photo at Pumpkin Park beside the Visitor Centre and historic CN Train Station, a designated Provincial Historic Resource. The Visitor Centre is open weekends and holidays in summer from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Explore the Smoky Lake Museum, featuring artifacts, historic photos, antique machinery, and the restored Pakan Ferry.
Don’t miss local favourites like the Smoky Lake Stampede in August and the Pumpkin Fair & Giant Pumpkin Drop on the first weekend in October. Families will also love the Smoky Lake Corn Maze, open during the Pumpkin Fair weekend.
Travel Ideas & Itineraries
In and Nearby Along HWY 28Outdoors
Alberta’s Iron Horse Trail is an all-season recreational trail that offers something for everyone. In summer, explore it by hiking, biking, quadding, or horseback riding. When winter arrives, trade your wheels for runners or skis and enjoy snowmobiling or a cozy horse-drawn sleigh ride through the scenic landscape.
After a day of trail adventures, unwind and reconnect with nature at Smoky Lake County’s campgrounds, where pristine lakes, sandy beaches, and forested trails create the perfect escape. There are numerous campgrounds and parks in the County region waiting for you to discover.
Hanmore Lake is a popular choice, offering two campgrounds, a beach, and playground areas for family fun. Enjoy the stunning views of the ravine at the Smoky Lake RV Park, nestled between the museum and the agricultural complex, where kids can have a blast at the nearby spray park. Spend sunny days swimming at Bellis Beach or Mons Lake, enjoy boating and fishing at Island or Kaduk Lake, or unwind in the peaceful setting of Shemeluk Lake’s day-use area. Plan a relaxing weekend getaway at Bonnie Lake near Vilna. From family adventures to quiet retreats, Smoky Lake County offers a campground for every kind of camper. Reserve your site today at smokylakecounty.ab.ca.
For a truly unforgettable outdoor experience, set out with Saskatchewan River Voyagers for a guided river adventure along the region’s beautiful waterways, perfect for those who love to combine nature, culture, and exploration.
Enjoy a round at Smoky Lake Golf Course, where you can play a scenic round or stay overnight surrounded by nature.
Eat, Shop & Stay
Treat yourself to the famous Shack Attack Burger at Betsy’s Burger Shack, and stop by the Old Fashioned Bread Bakery & Deli for delicious, traditional Ukrainian baked goods. Shop farm-fresh at Serben Farms, offering premium meats, eggs, vegetables, honey, artisan cheeses, soups, pickles, jams, and authentic Ukrainian foods. Shop at the Farmers’ Market Saturdays 10-12 pm April to December at Agricultural Complex. Just 2 kilometers off Highway 28, visit Bellis to experience Juanita’s Eatery and Café + Heritage Corner Shoppe, filled with gifts, antiques, and collectibles.
For dependable local service and quality vehicles, stop by Grant Miller Motors, where friendly staff and trusted expertise make every visit easy and stress-free. Find everything you need for home, yard, and farm projects at Smoky Lake Home Hardware, proudly serving the community with friendly expertise and great selection. Top up your growler at Gofer Liquor and browse through their huge selection. For all of your health and wellness needs visit Smoky Lake Pharmacy.
Enjoy a meal at Smoky Lake Inn and stay the night where history and luxury converge, or spend a night at Super 8 along the highway. For a peaceful retreat, stay at, Northern Lights RV Resort providing modern amenities under Alberta’s big skies.
