The Beaver Hills Biosphere – Living and working in harmony with nature to inspire a positive future.
Why Go?
A Remarkable Place
Just 20 minutes east of Edmonton, Alberta, the Beaver Hills, an ecologically rich and distinctive landscape, was designated a UNESCO biosphere region in 2016. One of 19 UNESCO biosphere regions in Canada, the Beaver Hills are defined by their hummocky terrain, patchwork wetlands, grasslands and mixed wood forests which support a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The Beaver Hills Biosphere is home to 48 species of mammals, eight species of amphibians and reptiles and over 150 bird species – making it a vital area for biodiversity conservation in Alberta.A Lived-In Landscape
The Beaver Hills Biosphere is more than a boundary – it reflects the story of how culture, ecology and community intertwine. It is a working landscape where people and nature thrive together. Local communities, Indigenous partners, landowners, governments, organizations and researchers work collaboratively to demonstrate how conservation, sustainable development and human well-being can be balanced. The Biosphere serves as a living example of what’s possible when innovative partnerships are built on shared values and respect for the land.A Four-Season Destination
With its scenic natural features, ecological significance and rich cultural heritage, the Beaver Hills Biosphere is a vibrant year-round destination for outdoor recreation, sustainable tourism and immersive nature-based experiences.What’s Unique?
Prominent Biosphere destinations include:
• Beaver Hills Biodiversity Trail
• Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve
• Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area
• Elk Island National Park
• Ministik Lake Game Bird Sanctuary
• Miquelon Lake Provincial Park
• Strathcona Wilderness Centre
• Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village
• And more!Popular Biosphere activities include:
• Walking / hiking
• Snowshoeing
• Cross-country skiing
• Golfing
• Camping
• Bird watching / wildlife viewing
• Cycling / mountain biking
• Nature photographyExperience the region’s distinctive character, ecology and history, and find your place in the Beaver Hills. Learn more at beaverhills.ca and plan your visit today.
