Smoky Lake, Alberta: A Hidden Gem in Canada
Smoky Lake is a small town located in the province of Alberta, Canada. It is situated approximately 116 kilometers northeast of Edmonton, the capital city of Alberta. The town is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. In this article, we will explore the various attractions, natural wonders, and festivals that make Smoky Lake a must-visit destination for tourists.
Attractions
Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village
The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village is a living museum that showcases the Ukrainian settlement in east-central Alberta from 1892 to 1930. The village features more than 35 restored buildings, including a church, a school, a blacksmith shop, and a general store. Visitors can experience the daily life of Ukrainian pioneers through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and guided tours.
Smoky Lake Golf Club
The Smoky Lake Golf Club is a 9-hole golf course that offers a challenging and enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. The course is surrounded by beautiful scenery and features well-manicured fairways and greens. The club also has a clubhouse that serves food and drinks, making it a perfect spot for a post-golf meal or drink.
Smoky Lake Pumpkin Festival
The Smoky Lake Pumpkin Festival is an annual event that takes place on the first Saturday of October. The festival features a giant pumpkin weigh-off, where growers from all over North America compete to see who has grown the heaviest pumpkin. The festival also includes a parade, live music, food vendors, and a variety of activities for kids.
Natural Wonders
Smoky Lake
Smoky Lake is a natural lake located just outside the town of Smoky Lake. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including beavers, muskrats, and waterfowl.
Victoria Settlement Provincial Historic Site
The Victoria Settlement Provincial Historic Site is a historic site that preserves the remains of a Hudson's Bay Company trading post and Methodist mission that operated from 1862 to 1920. The site features a museum, a reconstructed church, and several original buildings, including a blacksmith shop and a carpenter's shop. Visitors can learn about the history of the fur trade and the role of the mission in the settlement of the area.
Smoky Lake Wetland
The Smoky Lake Wetland is a protected area that is home to a variety of plant and animal species. The wetland is an important habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, and other migratory birds. Visitors can explore the wetland on foot or by canoe, and learn about the importance of wetland conservation.
History
Smoky Lake was established in 1908, when the Canadian Northern Railway built a line through the area. The town was named after the nearby Smoky River, which was named for the smoke that rose from the fires set by Indigenous peoples to drive bison into the river for hunting. Smoky Lake was incorporated as a village in 1922, and as a town in 1963.
The town was founded by John McDougall, a Scottish immigrant who came to Canada in 1875. McDougall was a farmer, businessman, and politician who played a key role in the development of the area. He served as the first mayor of Smoky Lake, and was later elected to the Alberta Legislature.
Conclusion
Smoky Lake is a hidden gem in Canada that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you are interested in exploring the Ukrainian heritage of the area, playing a round of golf, or experiencing the excitement of the Pumpkin Festival, Smoky Lake has something for everyone. So why not plan a visit to this charming town and discover all that it has to offer?
Sources
- "Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village." Alberta.ca, Government of Alberta, www.alberta.ca/ukrainian-cultural-heritage-village.aspx.
- "Smoky Lake Golf Club." Smoky Lake Golf Club, www.smokylakegolfclub.com/.
- "Smoky Lake Pumpkin Festival." Smoky Lake Pumpkin Festival, www.pumpkinfest.ca/.
- "Victoria Settlement Provincial Historic Site." Alberta.ca, Government of Alberta, www.alberta.ca/victoria-settlement-provincial-historic-site.aspx.
- "Smoky Lake Wetland." Alberta Wilderness Association, www.albertawilderness.ca/wild-lands/wetlands/smoky-lake-wetland/.
- "Smoky Lake." The Canadian Encyclopedia, www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/smoky-lake.