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High Level
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High Level, Alberta: A Hidden Gem in Northern Canada

High Level, Alberta is a small town located in the northern part of the province. Despite its size, it offers a variety of attractions and natural wonders that make it a great destination for tourists looking to explore the beauty of Canada's north.

Attractions

  • Mackenzie Crossroads Museum and Visitors Centre: This museum showcases the history of the area and its people, including the indigenous Dene and Cree communities. Visitors can learn about the fur trade, the building of the Alaska Highway, and the oil and gas industry that has played a significant role in the town's development.
  • High Level Golf and Country Club: This 18-hole golf course offers stunning views of the surrounding boreal forest and is a great way to spend a day outdoors.
  • High Level Heritage Trail: This trail is a 3.5 km loop that takes visitors through the town's history, including the site of the original settlement and the location of the first schoolhouse.
  • High Level Farmers' Market: This market is held every Saturday during the summer months and offers a variety of locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and baked goods.

Natural Wonders

  • Winagami Lake Provincial Park: This park is located just outside of High Level and offers camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch.
  • Hay River: This river is a popular spot for fishing and canoeing. Visitors can also take a guided tour to learn about the history and ecology of the area.
  • Muskwa-Kechika Management Area: This wilderness area is located to the west of High Level and is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, and wolves. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the area's rugged terrain and learn about its unique ecosystem.

Festivals

  • High Level Parade and Fair: This annual event takes place in July and features a parade, live music, and a variety of food and craft vendors.
  • Northern Lights Festival: This festival celebrates the town's northern location and features live music, cultural performances, and a fireworks display.

History

High Level was established in 1947 as a construction camp for workers building the Alaska Highway. The town was officially incorporated in 1966 and has since grown into a thriving community of over 3,000 people. The town was named after the high level of the nearby Hay River, which was used as a landmark by early explorers.

Conclusion

High Level, Alberta may be a small town, but it offers a wealth of attractions and natural wonders that make it a great destination for tourists looking to explore Canada's north. From the Mackenzie Crossroads Museum to the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this hidden gem of a town.

Sources

  • "High Level, Alberta." Travel Alberta. https://www.travelalberta.com/ca/places-to-go/northern-alberta/high-level/
  • "Mackenzie Crossroads Museum and Visitors Centre." Town of High Level. https://www.highlevel.ca/visitors/mackenzie-crossroads-museum-and-visitors-centre
  • "High Level Golf and Country Club." Golf Canada. https://www.golfcanada.ca/courses/high-level-golf-country-club/
  • "High Level Heritage Trail." Town of High Level. https://www.highlevel.ca/visitors/high-level-heritage-trail
  • "Winagami Lake Provincial Park." Alberta Parks. https://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/northwest/winagami-lake-pp/
  • "Hay River." Town of High Level. https://www.highlevel.ca/visitors/hay-river
  • "Muskwa-Kechika Management Area." Government of British Columbia. https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/plants-animals-ecosystems/wildlife/wildlife-habitats/conservation-lands/muskwa-kechika-management-area
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