Explore Alberta’s beautiful lakes this long weekend

People are seen floating down the Pembina River in Athabasca County, Alberta. (Pembina River Tubing)

Alberta is well-known for being home to the Rocky Mountains, but the province’s lakelands offer outdoor experiences that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether it’s for a day-trip or the long weekend.

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“If you’re looking to explore a new part of Alberta, outside of the popular mountain destinations, this summer is a great time to get off the beaten path and explore the Northern Rockies and Lakelands regions,” said Rene Rondeau with Travel Alberta. “There is no shortage of family fun or thrill-seeking adventures to be had.”

Here is a look at some of Alberta’s best lakes near Edmonton:

Sylvan Lake

With around one million visitors each year, Sylvan Lake is likely the most popular lake destination in Alberta outside of the Rocky Mountains.

Once known for its now-defunct outdoor water park, the town still has plenty to offer with mini golfing, go-karting, shopping, breweries, restaurants, the lighthouse and more.

You can relax along the sandy beaches or take to the water whether it’s swimming, boating or paddling. There is also an on-water playground with a 15-foot slide and climbing wall, a trampoline and monkey bars. Rates for the Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash range from $18 for one hour to $40 for a day pass.

Camping is available around the lake but there are also plenty of hotels to accommodate you on your lake trip.

Sylvan Lake is about 160 kilometres south of Edmonton.

Wabamun Lake

Wabamun Lake, located just 65 kilometres west of Edmonton, is one of the most heavily used lakes in Alberta. Its name comes from the Cree word for mirror, wâpamon.

The lake is well known for its large population of northern pike and natural beaches.

It is also home to a sailing club and is frequently used for canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, power boating and water skiing.

There are also trails for hiking, cycling and mountain biking.

Several campgrounds are available around the lake as well as day-use areas.

Pembina River

Although it is not a lake, Pembina River deserves a spot on the list for its popularity.

The river, which splits off of the Athabasca River, is widely known for its winding curves and gentle current that can be appreciated on a relaxing tube.

Pembina River Tubing is located south of Entwistle and offers tubing rentals and a shuttle service so you can enjoy the Ice-Age-created gorge.

Tube reservations are available but not required as there are first-come-first-serve spots available. Prices for tubing range depending on the age of the riders but are around $35 to $38. Life jacket rentals and shuttle service is included in the price.

There is also camping just north of Entwistle in Pembina River Provincial Park.

The provincial park is located about 100 kilometres west of Edmonton.

Lac Ste. Anne/Alberta Beach

The beach town of Alberta Beach located on the south shore of Lac Ste. Anne is a popular locale for Edmontonians due to its close proximity.

The lake is known for its warm waters as well as the Lac Ste. Anne Pilgrimage that attracts thousands to the lake in the last week of July.

The quaint village has shops, cafes and restaurants along its main drag near the shore that has access to a boat launch.

Campgrounds and the Alberta Beach Golf Resort are just minutes away from the village as well as several summer villages.

Alberta Beach is about 70 kilometres northwest of Edmonton.

Skeleton Lake

Although the name sounds spooky, Skeleton Lake is a hub for fishing, golfing and boating.

The lake’s Cree name, Cheply Sakhahigan, translates to “place of the skeletons.” It is believed that a Cree chief is buried along the eastern shore of the lake.

The Shoreline Shore Resort on the southeast side of the lake has camping that can accommodate tenting and RVs. Cabins are also available.

The resort has an outdoor heated pool, beach volleyball, horseshoe pits, two playgrounds, a restaurant, convenience store and an ice cream stand.

The resort is known for its swimming, fishing, ATV riding, wildlife spotting and nature walks. It is also minutes from the Skeleton Lake Golf and Country Club and the summer villages of Mewatha Beach and Bondiss.

Skeleton Lake is in Athabasca County, about 150 kilometres north of Edmonton.