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Upland region in Central Alberta, Canada
Photo: ceasol, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Beaver Hills form a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Edmonton Capital Region of Alberta, Canada. The Biosphere Reserve is centred on Elk Island National Park which is located less than an hour's drive east of Edmonton on the Yellowhead Highway, and a half hour's drive west of Vegreville in East Central Alberta. Spanning across parts of five of Alberta counties, the Beaver Hills Biosphere Reserve is a large area of rolling and marshy terrain containing scattered farms and a few small bedroom communities, but no towns: all accommodations here are either camping with a tent or RV, or else short-term rentals including in a cabin or teepee.
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This award-winning provincial historic site showcases Ukrainian settlement in East Central Alberta. There are over 30 historic buildings including three churches, a fully-functioning grain elevator, blacksmith shop, and sod hut, all enlivened by costumed interpreters. Weekends are busier, however the crowds can be worth it with more interpreters on hand and often more things going on.
Public programming happens here daily in the summer.
Parking lot and trail head for the Tawayik Lake Trail, Shirley Lake Trail, and Simons Trail.
Parking lot and trial head on the west side of the Blackfoot.
Parking lot and trail head on the northeast side of the Blackfoot.
Parking lot and trail head on the southeast side of the Blackfoot.
Mostly known for its cross-country ski trails, which double as easy hikes in the summer, and for its school programs. Also includes disc golf, limited accommodations (a small hostel space and just four campsites) and rentable meeting space.
Canoe rental.
Private campground just outside the park boundaries, featuring yurts, tipis, and cabins for those without a tent of their own or just wanting a "glamping" experience.
A provincial campground a little to the south of Elk Island Park but still in the Beaver Hills Biosphere Reserve.
Elk Island National Park is approximately one hour's drive east from Edmonton city centre by traveling on Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway). It is open 365 days a year.
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No car rentals are available here, so plan ahead. There are several refilling stations scattered around, and repair shop in Ardrossan, however.
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Edmonton · International · YEG
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