This article was last updated on July 28, 2023
An urban community in the midst of rural Alberta, Cold Lake is surrounded by the natural beauty of its clear blue waters, to the rugged forest backdrop in close proximity. Get away from it all and back to nature here in Cold Lake, with its small-town feel and city amenities.
Read on for our tips on what to see and do in Cold Lake, the ‘hidden gem of Northeast Alberta’.
Attractions
There’s always something going on at Casino Dene – with over 250 slots and VLT machines, table games and poker tournaments, you can play, dine & stay at this Lakeland entertainment destination.
Looking to get a workout in? The Cold Lake Energy Centre has you covered. With its field house for pickleball and indoor soccer, an expanded fitness centre, & track field, there are options for everyone to get some exercise in! To refuel, you can grab food at facility shops, Game Day Grill and Booster Juice.
At the Cold Lake Museums – it’s 4 museums in one! For an in-depth look into the deep and rich history of Cold Lake, the 4 themes provide a glimpse into what life was like in simpler but tougher times with amazing pictures in very well-kept galleries.
Get adventurous at the Aerial Adventure Park at Kinosoo Ridge! Climb the 4-level structure, which has a range of climbing elements sure to thrill both adults and kids.
Roadtrip west to Admore, and you’ll find fun at the Ardmore Golf Course and Mini Golf!
Outdoors
As a year-round recreation area, Cold Lake is ideal for water enthusiasts, beach goers, fishermen, skiers, outdoorsmen, or those simply seeking a unique getaway experience.
Did you know? Kinosoo Beach is one of Canada’s Top 25 Beaches as named by Canadian Geographic Magazine. Kinosoo Beach is a three-block stretch of fine sand on Cold Lakes North end. Here you will find the Splash Park, beach volleyball and basketball courts, a kids zip line, concession and Wicked Watersport rentals right on the beach.
Camping
With nature all-around, you’ve got your pick for great camping spots! Want the camping experience, but remain close to the city? Cold Lake M.D. Park is located on the edge of town – walking distance to Kinosoo Beach.
If you prefer to really be out in the woods, Crane Lake M.D. Park will be right up your alley. Or book a site at the picturesque Ethel Lake.
Looking for more camping info? Check out M.D. of Bonnyville & Cold Lake Campgrounds
Fishing – Packages – Rentals – Tours
There’s nothing like spending a day out on the water with the tranquil sounds of the lake completely surrounding you on Alberta’s seventh largest lake!
One of the best ways to enjoy the water is to book a package. Whether you’re after a rental, tour or entertainment package, you’ve got what you need to have a good time. Edgewater Experiences has various packages available.
Along with operating as a bed and breakfast, Hamilton House Inn & Adventures can expertly get you out on the water with their Fishing Charters! With two boats and all the gear you need for a fishing rendezvous, they’ll give you an expert introduction – or refresher – to fishing.
@Hamilton House Inn & Adventures Fishing Charter
Specializing in lures for fishing in Cold Lake, Anglers Bait Fishing Charters has everything you need to reel lunch in. They also operate fishing tours and can accommodate up to four people – perfect for a trip with friends. If you’re nice, local guide Kim Grey might even let you in on the legend of the Kinosoo of Cold Lake!
At the marina, you can find fuel, a pump-out system, a sailboat lifting mast and fish cleaning station available for boaters. Fishing is allowed on the outside of the breakwater. Take an ice cream break after your jaunt along the lakeshore, or eat at any of the restaurants along the lakeshore and enjoy the view.
All about the fun? You’ll love Wicked Watersport Rentals. Rent the Wicked Party Pontoon Boat, kayaks, paddleboards, or take one-on-one Flyboard lessons at Kinosoo Beach.
@Wicked Water Rentals
Golf
Spend the day hitting the links!
Both the Cold Lake Golf and Winter Club (located on 4 Wing with full-service facilities) and the Grand Centre Golf and Country Club offer unique golf experiences that provide challenges for golfers of all ages and skill levels. The Grand Centre Golf and Country Club offers outstanding bent-grass greens, numerous bunkers, small lakes and wildlife.
The nine-hole Ardmore Golf and Country Club has three synthetic grass greens, seven sand greens, along with a fully licensed clubhouse, electric carts, club rentals and driving range. Nearby, you can also play mini-golf in Ardmore the whole family will enjoy.
Interested in all things golf? Check out some of the Best Golf Courses – Go East Of Edmonton.
Trails
Get outside and go exploring…
The Beaver River Trestle is an impressive highlight of the trail, spanning a 1/2 km long & 60 metres high! You can access it from Cold Lake via 3 km of the multi-use Trail or drive to the west end turning north off Highway 28 at the Y Road and parking at the trail access point. ATVers use the 300 km Iron Horse Trail to access countless kilometres of backcountry trails and cutlines that weave through the region’s rugged terrain.
Named for the railroad and the “Iron Horse” that once cut through these lands, you can hike the terminus (or more if you’re feeling keen!) of the 300 km long Iron Horse Trail, that connects many of the local area gems and tourists attractions. Suitable for hikers, bikers, and ATVers, the trail is a popular way to experience the rugged nature of the area.
Surrounding the Cold Lake Museum, the Cold Lake Bike Park has 6 km of trails, free for the public to use. Currently, there are 7 trails built with more to come.
Drink, Eat, Shop
Looking for a local favourite to grab a bite to eat?
Look no further than Picanté Café and enjoy a view of the lake, or Clark’s Eatery which has been providing quality dishes served with integrity for the past 30 years. Don’t forget to stop by the Cold Lake Brewing and Distilling, their beer and spirits are handmade with unique flavours. With a new location, the vibes remain true to name at the expanded brewery with the same great taste. Nearby, the Lakeland Inn is a dining destination with two restaurants plus a sports bar and lounge, which should satisfy everyone in your party!
Hungry for something different? – Enjoy tasty Mexican delights at Mamacita’s Restaurant or, a delicious flare of Mediterranean and Asian flavours from Fresh Fusion Bistro.
Forgot to pack clothes for the beach? Don’t worry, TNT Clothing has you covered! Offering surf apparel, accessories among other items, they’ve been a locally-owned staple in the Lakeland areas since 2002.
You must hit up Polished Pumpkins Children’s Boutique who stock some of the cutest pieces of clothing to be found! Find clothing and accessories for baby to younger girls and boys. Bliss Lingerie is a longstanding lady’s favourite and their prices are some of the most affordable. Puur Athletics offers ethically produced athletic clothing specific to yoga, dance, gym, swimming, flow, surfing, movement – men’s, women’s kids they curate so you can easily shop!
Stay
Rest, Restore, Renew, Reflect, Reconnect, Reset – that’s what a stay in Cold Lake means! Don’t take our word, come experience it for yourself!
Hamilton House Inn & Adventures has been pleasing guests for decades now, while down by the Marina the Waterfront Harbour Bed and Breakfast and the Lakeshore Inn are award–winning stays where you can’t beat the view. Indulge completely and rent a self-contained suite overlooking the marina at Edgewater Cottages and Suites, who offer various Experience packages.
@Waterfront Harbour Bed & Breakfast
Yes, you really can enjoy tranquillity & be 3 minutes east of Kinosoo Beach. Evergreen Birch Lodge and Morning Star Retreats are a sprawling 142 acre centre of peace and relaxation. Options include a main lodge and wheelchair accessible Birch Lodges, small cabins, and it’s a wonderful place where can go camping or glamping! All guests have access to fire pits and wood (at no extra charge), pet-friendly walking trails past bird sanctuaries and horse pastures and free outdoor yard games, including horseshoes! These resorts are perfect if you’re looking to get away from it all.
Need more Inspiration for your Trip? We’ve got you covered!
- Read more on Cold Lake
- Stay East of Edmonton– Experience top-notch service and accommodations.
- Videos– Be inspired to travel East of Edmonton.
Take a Roadtrip and Play the Roadtrip Adventure Game!
Collect your sticker at the Cold Lake Marina. Click here for rules and how to get started on your roadtrip adventure!
Need Help Planning your Trip?
- Call us at 1-888-632-8755 or email info@goeastofedmonton.com