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Whether you are a tourist, live in the area, or are simply seeking something different to do in Alberta, you’ll be delighted with everything Strathcona County has to offer.
The Region
Strathcona County is far larger than many people realize. In addition to Sherwood Park, the County stretches from Cooking Lake to Bruderheim. With the city amenities of Sherwood Park, the beautiful countryside, and the large nature preserve, you can enjoy an extended stay without running out of things to do, see, and experience.
Urban Adventures
Sherwood Park is the County’s urban centre. Here you will find dining, shopping, and services, along with art and culture excursions. Enjoy Festival Place for live performances; the very beautiful Broadmoor Lake Park with trails, playgrounds, and sports fields; and the Sunridge Ski Area for skiing and snowboarding.
Nature-Filled Excursions
Elk Island National Park is just one of the many natural areas to enjoy in the County. The trail system is shared with hikers, runners, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and a host of wildlife. Who can resist the year-round lure of wild birds, towering trees, and glimpses of elk and bison?
Combine your outdoor fun with fitness this winter by strapping on skis. If you have experience you can hit the back country, but if you prefer groomed trails, visit the Strathcona Wilderness Centre, where season and day passes are available.
Dashing Through the Snow
While you will find plenty of things to see and do in Strathcona County year-round, winter in this region is practically magical. There are many places to take the family tobogganing, as well as outdoor rinks and trails to explore.
Farmers' Markets
No visit to Strathcona County is complete without checking out the famous Farmers' Markets.
Open year-round, the Sherwood Park Farmers' Market has delighted patrons for more than 40 years. Locally owned and operated, it’s a great source for meat, eggs, candy, small batch coffee and tea, handmade jewellery and more. Also opened year-round is the Salisbury Farmers' Market, which moves inside to the Salisbury Greenhouse for the winter months. Open seasonally is the Baseline Farmers' Market. Look for its return in May 2021. Also open on a seasonal basis is the Ardrossan Farmers' Market. Although its main season ends in September, the Ardrossan Farmers' Market opens on select dates for winter and holiday shopping.
Across the region you will find a host of bakeries, honey producers, meat suppliers and more, to satisfy your craving for locally made goods and products.
Staying Safe
In town and in the back country, be courteous to those you meet and avoid wildlife. Remember that while it is common to see wildlife outdoors, do not pet or feed the animals. If enjoying a bison encounter, stay in your car and do not honk your horn; startled bison can charge. Always let someone know where you are going and dress for the weather when doing outdoor adventures. Carry a cell phone, sunscreen, water, and a non-perishable snack. Check Strathcona County’s website for the latest COVID-19 measures, and to know if a mask mandate is in effect.
Strathcona County – Something for Everyone
Strathcona County has something for everyone and in every budget. Many of the things to do in town or in the country are free or low-cost. In addition to the adventures listed here, use your imagination. How about an outdoor winter cookout? Making traditional maple syrup candy on a bed of fresh snow? Why not try geocaching? Whether you live near or far, you’ll always find something fun and exciting to experience in Strathcona County. Visit strathcona.ca/youcanvisit for a list of other great winter activities.
SPONSORED CONTENT: This Content is made possible by our Sponsor; it is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.