Lac La Biche Region 2019 Visitor Guide

VISITOR GUIDE

Photo: Travel Alberta

TO THE LAC LA BICHE REGION

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Mayor’s Welcome Getting Here & Getting Set Plan Your Trip

2019 EVENTS 12 January 13 February, March 15 April, May, June 16 July, August 18 September, October 19 November, December

CULTURE & HISTORY 22 23

Culture & History Local Museums

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TAKE IT TO THE LAKE 28 29 30 33 36 38

Beaches & Boats Public Beaches, Watercraft Rentals Public Boat Launches Provincial Parks Lakeland Canoe Circuit Catch of the Day

ON THE WILD SIDE 42 44

Our Night Life Watchable Wildlife

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52 56

48 THE BASICS 48 Accommodations:

Bed & Breakfasts, Cabins 49 Campgrounds 51 Hotels 52 Brews & Chews

OUR COMMUNITIES 56 Lac La Biche 59 Plamondon 60 Rural Communities 62 Indigenous Communities

PARKS & RECREATION 66

Every effort has been made to include a wide variety of events, programs, and services that best represent our region. However, if you would like your program, event, or service included in the next edition of the Visitor Guide, please contact Lac La Biche County’s Tourism Marketing & Economic Development Coordinator at 780-623-6737 for more information on selection criteria.

Produced by: Lac La Biche County Published by: Lac La Biche Post Advertising sales by: Lac La Biche Post Photos representing pages 28 and 48 are courtesy of Travel Alberta. Photo representing page 52 is courtesy of Eats & Sweets.

Recreation Facilities

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We are pleased to welcome you to the Lac La Biche Region, your gateway to the incredible woods and waters of the Lakeland. Whether you’re looking for a short jaunt in the great outdoors or a multi-day excursion into the wild, the region has something for everyone in all four seasons. We offer outdoor adventures, unique events, cultural experiences and state-of-theart facilities. Our community is one of Alberta’s hidden gems, and we now invite you to take in its history, diversity and raw natural beauty.

Mayor Omer Moghrabi, LAC LA BICHE COUNTY

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Midway between Edmonton and Fort McMurray, the Lac La Biche Region is easy to find and easy to explore.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS From Edmonton (approx. two hours and 30 minutes of driving time): Follow Highway 28 north for 145 kilometres, then turn left onto Highway 36. Follow Highway 36 north for 70 kilometres, through Kikino MĂŠtis Settlement and straight into the hamlet of Lac La Biche.

From Fort McMurray (approx. three hours of driving time): Follow Highway 63 south for 240 kilometres, then turn left onto Highway 55. Follow Highway 55 east for 40 kilometres into Lac La Biche.

Don’t want to drive? Northland Travels runs a bus service between Edmonton and Lac La Biche. For more information, visit northlandtravels.ca.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE The Lac La Biche Regional Museum & Discovery Centre is your local source for information about our community and the region. Stop by to ask for directions, local attractions, restaurant recommendations and more.

Hours Year-round: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm May long weekend to August long weekend: Seven days a week, 8:30 am to 6 pm The museum is located on the corner of 99 Street and 101 Avenue (Main Street) in Lac La Biche. RV parking is available, and a public beach, playground and spray park are all just a short stroll away.

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EXPLORE Complete Alberta’s only backcountry paddling route, the Lakeland Canoe Circuit, and sleep under the stars in a Dark Sky Preserve.

•••

Reel in the catch of a lifetime at a remote fishing hole in the boreal forest.

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Spend a day cross-country skiing, and behold the Northern Lights on a clear winter night.

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Kayak, hike or cycle around Lac La Biche Lake, taking in the wildlife and towering oldgrowth forests.

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EXPERIENCE ESCAPE Relax in one of hundreds of drive-in campsites, a cabin or even a tipi for a weekend getaway with rustic comforts.

Soak in the summer sun on the beach.

•••

Golf our green fairways to heaven. The Lac La Biche Golf & Country Club has 18 holes in a spectacular lakefront setting.

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See history come to life at the Lac La Biche Mission, and immerse yourself in the region’s backstory at one of our local museums.

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Surround yourself with Indigenous culture at Beaver Lake Cree Nation and Heart Lake First Nation powwows, or join the cowboy-style fun at the Métis Settlement rodeos.

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Browse the shops in Lac La Biche and Plamondon and visit the Fat Unicorn Brewery, south of Plamondon, to taste a locally brewed IPA, ale or lager.

Witness the high-octane thrills of the Winter Festival of Speed on the frozen surface of Lac La Biche Lake. In the summertime, indulge your inner mud racer at the Plamondon Mud Bogs.

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Connect with locals at the Lac La Biche Legion on Steak Night every Friday evening, and watch the incredible sunset as you eat.

Visit the Farmers Market on Friday afternoons for fresh produce and a community showcase of locally made, multicultural goods.

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Winter Festival of Speed

2019 EVENTS Summer, winter, spring, fall, no matter the season, there is always fun to be had in the Lac La Biche Region.

For up-to-date information on events in the region, please visit the Lac La Biche County Community Events Calendar at laclabichecounty.com.

Horn Scoring Show You Go Girl! – Soccer and Indoor Climbing for girls 6-17 years old Be Fit for Life Centre - Portage College

Adult Group Ski Days Lac La Biche Ski Club

Moonlight Night Ski at Shaw Lake Lac La Biche Ski Club

Ladies Bonspiel & Banquet Plamondon Curling Club

Lakeland Yoga Festival That Yoga Spot

LibraryCon

Stuart MacPherson Public Library

Yuk Yuk’s at the Bold Center Lac La Biche Gymnastics Society

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February Bonspiels

Kinsmen Pond Hockey Tournament (photo: Luke Muise)

Plamondon Curling Club

Adult Group Ski Days Lac La Biche Ski Club

Community Ski Days Lac La Biche Ski Club

Family Day Festival Lac La Biche County

Fun in the Snow

Célébrer la Culture Française

Cabane à Sucre à Plamondon Hockey en Fête à Plamondon ACFA régionale de Plamondon - Lac La Biche

Health & Wellness Fair Stuart MacPherson Public Library

PAL & Alberta Parks

Hylo Annual Quad Rally

Muscle Release (SMR Stretching) Workshop

Kinsmen Pond Hockey Tournament

Lac La Biche County - Bold Center

Lac La Biche Kinsmen

Winter Festival of Speed

Regimental Ball

NASCC/Lac La Biche Winter Festival of Speed

Winter Walk Day

Lac La Biche County - Bold Center

Hylo/Venice Recreation & Agricultural Society

Lac La Biche Victim Services

Sno Pitch Tournament Lac La Biche Kinsmen

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Come On In & Experience The “Country” In Lac La Biche County August 2 & 3, 2019

Horticultural Bench Show Farmer’s Market Arts & Crafts Music on the Porch Children’s Festival BBQ Concession

Friday & Saturday at 7:00 p.m.

Ladies Breakaway ❖ Jr. Steer Riding ❖ PeeWee Barrels ❖ Bareback ❖ Saddle Bronc ❖ Bull Riding ❖ Team Roping ❖ Mini Bronc Riding ❖ Novice Horse Riding ❖ Barrel Racing ❖ Jr. Break-Away Roping ❖ Jr. Barrel Racing

at the AGRICOM

Don’t miss the Lac La Biche Farmer’s Market!

PH: 780-623-8002 Every Friday 3:00-5:30 pm April - December

780-623-7888 www.LacLaBicheAgSociety.com

Farmer’s Market

Devon Community Safety Night

Hope Haven Golf Tournament (photo: Michele McDougall)

Lac La Biche Safety Awareness Society & Devon Energy

Foot & Ankle Injury Prevention Workshop Lac La Biche County - Bold Center

Kikino Quad Rally

Kikino Silver Birch Resort

Volunteer Appreciation Event Lac La Biche County FCSS

Beaver Lake Cree Nation Pow Wow Beaver Lake Cree Nation

Community Garage Sale

Lac La Biche Agricultural Society

Environment Week

Lac La Biche County Environmental Services

Hope Haven Golf Tournament Hope Haven Women’s Shelter

Billy McDonald Open Rodeo Series Billy McDonald Rodeo Company

Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement Quad Rally Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement

Heart Ride Hoof-A-Thon Atmore

National Lifejacket Day Lac La Biche County - Portage Pool

Rich Lake Family Trail Ride Rich Lake Rec. & Ag. Society

Lac La Biche 4H Achievement Day Lac La Biche 4H/Lakeland Agricom

Lobsterfest Lac La Biche Rotary Club

National Aboriginal Day Celebrations Métis Nation of Alberta Region 1

Plamondon Jamboree Plamondon Festival Centre

Seniors’ Week

Lac La Biche Heritage Society Lac La Biche County FCSS

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Pow Wow Days

Alberta Parks Day Alberta Parks

Canada Day at the Lac La Biche Mission Historical Site Lac La Biche Mission

Circus Night Lac La Biche County FCSS

Lac La Biche Pow Wow Days & Fish Derby Lac La Biche Pow Wow & Fish Derby Association

Mad About Science Lac La Biche County

Plamondon Heritage Day Plamondon Mud Bogs & Mixed Slo-Pitch Tournament PDCDS Plamondon

Photos on this page are courtesy of the Lac La Biche Post.

Alberta Open Farm Days Boreal Biker Rally Lac La Biche Lions Club

Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement Rodeo Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement

Celebration Days & Kikino Silver Birch Rodeo Kikino Métis Settlement

Heart Lake First Nation Pow Wow Heart Lake First Nation

Hylo/Venice Harvest Days Lakeland Country Fair & Rodeo Lac La Biche Agricultural Society

Mad About Science Lac La Biche County

Mid-Summer Sports Days

Lac La Biche Minor Ball Association

GettinianDStirylte!y Canad

Plamondon

Mud Bogs

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July 5-7 th, 2019

infO

Slow Pitch Tournament • Demo Derby Entertainment and Dance • C.M.R.O. Sanctions Stock Modified & Superstocks • Shootouts Beer Tent Children’s Festival • Camping Available

Phone: Pdcds Office at 780-798-3478 Email: pdcdsplamondon@gmail,com

The world is coming to our doorstep

September 2-7, 2019.

Competitors from all around the globe are aiming at the Lac La Biche Region and bringing their skills to the World Archery 3D Championships. Join us for six days of world-class archery in one of Alberta’s most unique and scenic locales.

• • • • •

Opening ceremony at 4:30 pm on Monday at McArthur Place, following a lakeshore parade.

Qualifying and elimination shoots Tuesday-Friday at the Lac La Biche Shooting Range.

Finals from noon to 5 pm on Saturday at Lac La Biche Mission.

Entertainment every night in the Athletes’ Village at the Bold Center.

Closing ceremony and gala at 5 pm on Saturday at the Bold Center.

For more information, contact Rene Schaub at 780-689-8848, email acal@mcsnet.ca or visit 2019worldarchery3Dchampionships.ca.

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Alberta Culture Days

Wow Pow Volleyball Tournament

Spooktacular

Alberta Culture Days Kikino Quad Rally/Mud Bog/ Triple ‘R’ Triathlon/Kids’ Rodeo Lakeland Dark Sky Celebration Alberta Parks

Movies in the Park Lac La Biche County

2019 World Archery 3D Championships Lakeland Archers

JAWS Wow Pow Volleyball Tournament J.A. Williams High School

Lac La Biche Regional Museum and Discovery Centre Gala Lac La Biche Regional Museum and Discovery Centre

Murder Mystery Dinner & Halloween Dance PDCDS Plamondon

Rotary Wine Tasting Fundraiser Lac La Biche Rotary Club

Spooktacular

Lac La Biche County

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Festival of Trees

Santa Claus Parade (Photo: Scott Kunz)

Photo: Lac La Biche Post

Festival of Trees and Shopping Extravaganza

Christmas Festival de Noel

Métis Week

Lac La Biche Mission

National Child’s Day Greater Lac La Biche C.H.I.L.D. Coalition

Oilmen’s Bonspiel Lac La Biche Oilmen

Remembrance Day Ceremony Lac La Biche Legion

Rural Women’s Conference

Christmas at the Mission Light up the Night/ Santa Claus Parade

Lac La Biche Firefighter’s Society/ Santa’s Helpers

Santa Comes to Town!

Lac La Biche Firefighter’s Society/ Santa’s Helpers

Seniors’ Holiday Social Lac La Biche County FCSS

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CULTURE & HISTORY The Lac La Biche Region has a long and colourful backstory. Home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, the area has brought together a wealth of ethnic and cultural groups from all around the world.

In addition to museums, visit our historic places of worship like Lac La Biche’s Al-Kareem Mosque (pictured above), the second-oldest mosque in Canada, and Plamondon’s St. Isidore Church.

Famous explorer and mapmaker David Thompson was the first European to reach the shores of Lac La Biche Lake, back in 1798. A fort and trading post were built soon after, making the hamlet of Lac La Biche the second-oldest permanent settlement in Alberta.

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LAC LA BICHE MISSION 67453 Mission Road • Open 10 am to 6 pm every day from the May long weekend until the end of August The Lac La Biche Mission was established in 1853. It was an important landmark of the fur trade era and the pioneer age that followed. Take the guided tour of this picturesque National Historic Site to glimpse life in the olden days. The Mission is located 11 kilometres northwest of Lac La Biche.

780-623-3274 • laclabichemission.com

LAC LA BICHE REGIONAL MUSEUM AND DISCOVERY CENTRE Corner of 99 Street and 101 Avenue, Lac La Biche • Open Monday - Friday, 9 am to 5 pm year-round, and open seven days a week from the May long weekend to the August long weekend Explore the history of the Lac La Biche Region, from the early years to modern times.

Discover the people and events that shaped our community, and some unique items – like a giant, 14-foot model ship – that have stories all their own. The museum’s archives are open to visitors who want to delve even deeper.

780-623-1727 • laclabichemuseum.com

PLAMONDON MUSEUM & MINI PARC HERITAGE PARK Ask for access at Plamondon Festival Centre (9626 101 Avenue, Plamondon) The hamlet of Plamondon is one of the only places in Alberta that are officially recognized as bilingual, and residents are proud of their heritage. The Plamondon Museum takes visitors back to the early 1900s, when French-speaking pioneers came to start new lives in Alberta.

You can also visit the charming Mini Parc Heritage Park, and walk among miniature replicas of Plamondon’s first buildings and homesteads. If you speak français, residents will love hearing it!

780-798-3193

PORTAGE COLLEGE MUSEUM OF ABORIGINAL PEOPLES’ ART AND ARTIFACTS 9531 94 Avenue, Lac La Biche • Open Monday-Friday, 9 am to 3:30 pm Indigenous peoples have inhabited this land for thousands of years. Tour Portage College’s impressive collection of authentic Indigenous artworks, and join a workshop to learn first-hand about Indigenous culture. You can craft your own souvenir while gaining a new appreciation for time-honoured traditions, or buy a masterpiece from the gallery store.

780-623-5536 • portagecollege.ca/museum

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Lac La Biche Mission Historic Site

• Discover this 1853 mission site • Explore newly restored historical buildings • Learn about the lives of Mission residents • Examine new historical & cultural exhibits Celebrate Canada Day at the Mission July 1

Open from May Long Weekend until August 31 10am to 6pm Seven days a week Ph: 780.623.3274 E: llbhs@mcsnet.ca

A National and Provincial Historic Site Located 11km West of Lac La Biche

www.laclabichemission.com

BEACHES & BOATS

Photo: Mary Ann Flaherty

With more than 150 lakes to choose from, you’re never far from the water in the Lac La Biche Region. Lounge on our white sand beaches, speed across the open water, or enjoy a relaxing paddle on your way to getting that perfect picture of a pelican.

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Lac La Biche Lake: • McArthur Park, hamlet of Lac La Biche • Plamondon Whitesands Resort • Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park (Day Use, Boardwalk Beach, Camper’s Beach)

Beaver Lake: • Beaver Lake Provincial Recreation Area • Spruce Point Resort • Young’s Beach

Fork Lake Campground Heart Lake Campground North Buck Lake Campground Touchwood Lake Campground Whitefish Lake – Kikino Silver Birch Resort

Photo: Candace Bourque

Lakeland Expeditions

780-623-1941 • Lakelandexpeditions.com Canoes and fishing boats, plus fishing and camping gear

Off Road Rentals and Sales

780-623-8020 Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards

Plamondon Whitesands Resort

780-798-2254 Pedal boats, canoes, kayaks, rowboats and motor boats* *May only be removed from resort area at the discretion of staff

Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park

780-623-4144 • Albertaparks.ca Canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards

Winefred Lake Lodge

780-713-5578 • Winefredlakelodge.com Fishing boats

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Lac La Biche Lake: 1• Bayview Beach 2• Blais Resort 3• Golden Sands 4• Churchill Drive, hamlet of Lac La Biche

Sir Winston Churchill Park

5• Maccagno Point 6• North Shore 7• Old Trail 8• Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park 9• Sunset Bay

Beaver Lake: • Beaver Lake Provincial Recreation Area 10 • Holowachuk Estates • Spruce Point Resort

Old Trail

11 • Young’s Beach

Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area: • Ironwood Lake • Pinehurst Lake • Seibert Lake • Touchwood Lake

Elinor Lake Fork Lake Heart Lake North Buck Lake 12

Square Lake Whitefish Lake – Kikino Silver Birch Resort

Lac La Biche Lake is one of the largest bodies of water in Alberta.

Our namesake covers more than 230 square kilometres.

Churchill Drive

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HWY 858

HW Y 85 8

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Photo: Jaclyn Denman

Photo: Travel Alberta

Photo: Alberta Parks

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As the saying goes, “there is no Wi-Fi in the forest, but we promise you will find a better connection.”

BEAVER LAKE PROVINCIAL RECREATION AREA Sand, sun and surf are all on the itinerary. The large beach on the north shore of Beaver Lake is a great staging area for a day of boating, fishing or swimming. Individual and group camping facilities are available.

SIR WINSTON CHURCHILL PROVINCIAL PARK Alberta’s only park of islands protects a unique environment, beloved by nature enthusiasts. The park is renowned for old-growth forests and birdwatching opportunities. The main island features a variety of camping options, multiple beaches and year-round hiking trails.

LAKELAND PROVINCIAL PARK AND PROVINCIAL RECREATION AREA This park is all about size. A combined 590 square kilometres of protected area covers 11 major lakes, all connected by 45 kilometres’ worth of trails and portages through unspoiled wilderness. Mother Nature isn’t just your neighbour here – she’s your roommate.

LAKELAND CANOE CIRCUIT Here’s your chance to experience the boreal backcountry like never before.

Alberta’s only backcountry canoe circuit takes ambitious paddlers on a threeday, 40-kilometre journey through the interior of Lakeland Provincial Park.

The adventure begins at Jackson Lake Staging Area, a 30-minute drive east of Lac La Biche on Highway 663. The entire circuit includes Jackson, Kinnaird, Blackett and McGuffin Lakes.

ATV/UTV Trails

Dark Sky

Backcountry

Day Use

Beach

Educational Programming

Bird Watching

Fishing

Boat Launch

Hiking Trails

Boat Trolley

Paddling

Camping

Playground

Canoe/Kayak/SUP Rentals

Star Gazing

Cell Phone Reception

Store

Limited Cell Phone Reception

Wildlife

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• 18 Hole Course • Pro Shop Driving Range Licensed Food & Concessions Facility Golf Pro-Lance Palamaruk Greens Superintendent-Steven Levesque

Play 18 holes for the price of 9

Golf & Country Club

only with the rental of a power cart Monday to Thursday excluding holidays

Tel 780•623•4288 www.golflaclabiche.com

Coupon valid: May-September 2019

MUSEUM OF ABORIGINAL PEOPLES' ART & ARTIFACTS, AND TRADITIONS GALLERY AND STORE

Exhibits include:

With nearly 2,000 traditional and contemporary Indigenous artworks.

Giftware and Traditional Arts Store Guided and self-guided tours

Donna Feledichuk, Museum Director 780-623-5536 | Toll free: 1-866-623-5551 museum@portagecollege.ca

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Basket Display Ceramics Contemporary Art Hide Tanning

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Inuit Art Northwest Coast Art Professional Native Indian Artists Inc. Traditional Arts

Hours of operation: Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 3:30 pm

LA BICHE REALTY 780.623.2514

10214-101 Ave

www.remax.ca

Residential / Commercial / Industrial / Recrea Recreational / Condos / Farm

All Your Family Needs Prescription Service Passport Photos Kodak Picture Center Seasonal Items opening hours: monday - saturday 10 - 5 pm the one place stop for all your pet & farming needs.

10117 102 ave lac la biche, ab 780-623-3181

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Giftware & Souvenirs Health & Beauty Cosmetics Toys & Games

www.valuedrugmart.com Main Street, Lac La Biche

Tel: 780-623-4370

Like us

Tom’s

PIZZA & STEAKHOUSE 780-623-4499 10303-101 Avenue Lac La Biche, AB

2 for 1 Pizza Greek Cuisine Steak & Seafood Breakfast Daily Specials Soups & Salads Kid’s Menu Pasta Burgers & Sandwiches Appetizers Main Entrees Homespun Ice Cream

LAC La Biche’s Premier Dining Experience!

Dine In or Take Out tripadvisor

RATED #1

Hours Tuesday to Sunday 8:00am - 10:00 pm Closed Monday

Relaxing Atmosphere...Friendly Service...Reasonably Priced

For all your grocery needs! open daily 8 am - 9 pm

780-623-6400 10527-101 Avenue, Lac La Biche

www.fubrew.com facebook.com/fubrew

fat_unicorn_brewery Ph: 780.623.0280

Visit our tasting room Check website for schedule Located 4km South of Plamondon

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The greatest adventure to be found in our region is less than an hour’s drive outside of Lac La Biche. From Jackson Lake Staging Area, a trail leads south with the promise of an unforgettable experience. This is the beginning of Lakeland Canoe Circuit, the province’s only backcountry paddling route.

The full circuit includes Jackson, Kinnaird, Blackett and McGuffin Lakes and takes three days to complete. You may wish to stay longer, though, as the wilderness works its magic. Your days start with beautiful sunrises over misty lakes, and end with the sound of loons calling under starry skies.

Jackson Lake Staging Area is the preferred starting point for the Lakeland Canoe Circuit. It is located on Highway 663, east of Lac La Biche.

Map on opposite page is courtesy of Alberta Parks. For more information, visit albertaparks.ca/parks/northeast/lakeland-pp.

For more information, visit albertaparks.ca

Photo: Lakeland Expeditions

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CATCH OF THE DAY When you cast a line in our region, you’re not just catching fish – you’re catching great memories. The northern lakes are full of delicious perch, fighting pike and keeper-size walleye, enough to satisfy any angler.

Shop locally for bait and tackle, and you may even get a few tips about fishing hot spots from local outfitters. Grab a copy of the Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations, and obey catch limits so our fisheries can be enjoyed for years to come.

To protect fish stocks, only catch-and-release fishing is permitted for certain fish on many lakes.

You don’t even have to leave the hamlet of Lac La Biche to go fishing. Try fishing on the floating dock on Churchill Drive, or check out the trout pond in Alexander Hamilton Park.

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This information is current until March 31, 2019. Anglers should refer to the Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations for updated information. Anglers are responsible for making sure they follow the correct rules.

LAKE

FISH

NOTES:

Beaver Lake

Burbot, Perch, Whitefish

Very close to Lac La Biche, multiple access points

Blackett Lake

Burbot, Perch, Pike, Walleye, Whitefish

In Lakeland Provincial Park, part of the Canoe Circuit

Elinor Lake

Burbot, Perch, Pike, Walleye*, Whitefish

*Special Harvest License required

Fork Lake

Burbot, Perch, Pike, Whitefish

Grist Lake

Trout, Whitefish

Heart Lake

Burbot, Perch, Pike, Whitefish

Helena Lake

Burbot, Perch, Pike, Walleye, Whitefish

Ironwood Lake

Burbot, Perch, Pike, Whitefish

In Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area

Jackson Lake

Burbot, Perch, Pike, Walleye, Whitefish

In Lakeland Provincial Park, part of the Canoe Circuit

Kinnaird Lake

Burbot, Perch, Pike, Walleye, Whitefish

In Lakeland Provincial Park, part of the Canoe Circuit

Lac La Biche

Burbot, Perch, Pike, Walleye*, Whitefish

The biggest lake in the region, multiple access points *Special Harvest License required

McGuffin Lake

Burbot, Perch, Pike, Walleye, Whitefish

In Lakeland Provincial Park, part of the Canoe Circuit

Mile 07 Lake

Trout

North Buck Lake

Burbot, Perch, Whitefish

Pinehurst Lake

Burbot, Perch, Pike, Walleye*, Whitefish

In Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area *Special Harvest License required

Seibert Lake

Burbot, Perch, Walleye*, Whitefish

In Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area *Special Harvest License required

Steepbank Lake

Pike

Touchwood Lake

Burbot, Perch, Whitefish

In Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area

Whitefish Lake

Burbot, Perch, Pike, Walleye*, Whitefish

*Special Harvest License required

Winefred Lake

Burbot, Perch, Whitefish

Photo: Alberta Parks

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OUR NIGHT LIFE On clear nights, the skies above the Lac La Biche Region come to life. Here you have a front-row seat for stargazing and viewing the Northern Lights.

Even for locals born and raised in the area, the sight of the Northern Lights never gets old. You, too, will be amazed by the otherworldly banners of green and purple rippling across the sky. For the best chance of seeing this beautiful phenomenon, visit in the late fall or winter when daylight hours are shorter.

If you’re looking for a place that’s totally free of light pollution, then look no further than Lakeland Provincial Park & Provincial Recreation Area. This official Dark Sky Preserve is only a 30-minute drive east of Lac La Biche, offering fantastic opportunities to see constellations, meteor showers, the Milky Way and more.

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WATCHABLE WILDLIFE Nestled at the edge of the boreal forest, the Lac La Biche Region is rich in biodiversity. Hundreds of animal and bird species call the woods and wetlands home. Sightings of bald eagles, black bears, moose and pelicans are all possible – all in the same day, if you’re lucky! Remember to keep your distance and avoid disturbing any wildlife you encounter.

Northern Alberta is where several bird migration paths meet, and the Lac La Biche Region is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The area was declared a Bird Sanctuary in 1920 and Provincial Wildlife Sanctuary in 1930.

Migrating water birds are the region’s biggest claim to fame, but you will see (and hear!) hundreds of others from grouse to woodpeckers in the forests and meadows.

Moose are the biggest members of the deer family, typically weighing 700 pounds or more. They’re natural swimmers with a taste for aquatic plants, so look for them in wetlands.

Pelicans migrate to our region’s waters every summer to breed.

Bring your binoculars and look for them on the aptly named Pelican Islands, visible from the main island of Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park.

Deer are everywhere in our region, even sometimes in our urban centres. They’re often seen in small groups. Watch for them crossing the road, especially at twilight.

Birds of prey are frequent visitors to our region. Eagles and ospreys circle the lakes, owls swoop through the trees and hawks track their prey over the grasslands.

Water birds like cormorants, grebes, herons and terns are common sights in the warmer months. Some spend the winters on the coasts, or as far away as South America, but they return to the northern waters year after year.

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Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park (Photo: Travel Alberta)

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ACCOMMODATIONS Cornerstone Ranch Kikino Metis Settlement T. 780-520-5555

Beaver Lake Bed & Breakfast T. 780-623-4877 Dew Drop Inn Bed & Breakfast T. 780-623-7506

Diesel’s Owl Hoot Cabins Owl River T. 780-623-2134 E. owlriver8@mcsnet.ca Elinor Lake Resort Elinor Lake T. 780-623-3145 E. elinorlakeresort@gmail.com W. elinorlakeresort.com

Plamondon Whitesands Resort Plamondon T. 780-623-2254 E. whitesands@mcsnet.ca W. sites.google.com/site/ plamondonwhitesandsresort

Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park T. 1-877-537-2757 W. albertaparks.ca Winefred Lake Lodge Winefred Lake T. 780-818-6201 E. info@winefredlakelodge.ca W. winefredlakelodge.ca

Plamondon White Sands Resort ON SITE STORE FIREWOOD • PlaygROuNd WHITE SaNd BEaCH gROuP aREa aVaIlaBlE STORagE lauNdRy & SHOWER FaCIlITIES r workers’ ask about ou Season Of rates for fions accommodat

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157 FULLY SERVICED SITES CABINS FOR RENT ALL YEAR LONG

Phone: 780-798-2254 Email: whitesands@mcsnet.ca Visit us at https://sites.google.com/site/plamondonwhitesandsresort

Beaver Lake Provincial Campground Beaver Lake Provincial Recreation Area

Helena Lake South Campsite Helena Lake T. 780-623-7189 W. albertaparks.ca

T. 1-877-537-2757 W. albertaparks.ca

Jackson Lake East, South, and Peninsula Campsites Jackson Lake

Blackett East Island Campsite Blackett Lake

T. 780-623-7189 W. albertaparks.ca

T. 780-623-7189 W. albertaparks.ca

Kikino Silver Birch Resort Kikino MĂŠtis Settlement

Camp 3F Plamondon Plamondon

T. 780-623-3252

T. 780-798-3478 Chump Lake Chump/Big Johnson Lake E. chumplakecampsite@canada.com W. chumplakecampsite.tripod.com Crow Lake Provincial Campground Crow Lake Provincial Park T. 1-877-537-2757 W. albertaparks.ca Dabbs Lake Campsite Dabbs Lake T. 780-623-7189 W. albertaparks.ca Diesel’s Owl Hoot Campsite Owl River T. 780-623-2134 E. owlriver8@mcsnet.ca

Kinnaird Island Campsite Kinnaird Island T. 780-623-7189 W. albertaparks.ca Mile 10 Campsite Kinnaird Island T. 780-623-7189 W. albertaparks.ca North Buck Lake Campground North Buck Provincial Recreation Area T. 780-689-4602 W. albertaparks.ca Pinehurst Lake Campground Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area T. 780-623-7189 W. albertaparks.ca

Fork Lake Campground Fork Lake T. 780-404-6196 Heart Lake Campground Heart Lake Reserve T. 780-623-2130

Tenting

Boat Launch

Group sites

Store

RVs

Firewood

Showers

ATV

Playground

Backcountry

Paddling

laclabichecounty.com | 49

Plamondon Whitesands Resort Plamondon

Spencer Lake North, West and South Point Campsites Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area

T. 780-623-2254 E. whitesands@mcsnet.ca W. sites.google.com/site/ plamondonwhitesandsresort

T. 780-623-7189 W. albertaparks.ca

Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park

T. 780-623-3930 W. beaverlakecreenation.ca/Business

T. 1-877-537-2757 W. albertaparks.ca Seibert Lake Campground Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area T. 780-623-7189 W. albertaparks.ca

Almac Motor Hotel Lac La Biche T. 780-623-4123 Best Canadian Motor Inns Lac La Biche T. 1-888-700-2264 E. laclabiche@bcminns.com W. bcminns.com

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Spruce Point Resort Campground Beaver Lake Cree Nation

Touchwood Lake Campground Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area T. 780-623-7189 W. albertaparks.ca Young’s Beach Campground Young’s Beach/Beaver Lake

Canalta Hotel Lac La Biche T. 1-780-623-4490 W. canaltahotels.com

Parkland 1 & 2 Lac La Biche T. 780-623-4424 W. parklandmotels.com

Chez-Nous Motel Plamondon T. 780-798-2011

Pelican Hotel Plamondon T. 780-798-3759

La Biche Inn Lac La Biche T. 780-623-4427

Ramada Lac La Biche T. 780-623-2250 W. wyndhamhotels.com

www.ElinorLakeResort.com Lot Sales: 1-877-623-3990 42 km SE of Lac La Biche

Own your piece of paradise on spectacular Elinor Lake; on the doorstep to Alberta’s premier northern provincial park, Lakeland Provincial Park. Large annual lease lots available. Lots for sale in the Elinor Lake Condominium.

14068 Stanley Drive, Lac La Biche Complimentary Hot Breakfast Fitness Room Meeting Rooms

bcminns.com

Book Direct and Save!

1-888-700-2264

Jacuzzi Suites Dedicated Wifi in Every Room Big Screen TVs Big Rig Parking Available

TK

curtis@tinzin.com 1-888-623-3993 780-623-3993 elinorlakeresort.com

Visit our BCMInns and Kanata Inns locations Coleman Drayton Valley For McMurray HInton Lac La Biche Lloydminster Peace River

Blairmore Fort Saskatchewan Invermere Kelowna Whitecourt kanatainns.com

Gas & Groceries Liquor Store Soft Ice Cream Bait & Ice Propane Coin Laundry Clean Showers Cabin Rental Boat Rentals

facebook.com/pages/The-Haven-at-ELR

BREWS AND CHEWS A&W Fast Food 9951 103 St, Lac La Biche Bill’s Burger Baron Pizza, Donairs, Lebanese Food 10215 101 Ave, Lac La Biche Booster Juice Smoothies 8702 91 Ave, Lac La Biche (inside Bold Center) Boston Pizza Pizza, Burgers, Salads 14068 Stanley Drive, Lac La Biche Cafe on Main Coffee, Sandwiches, Baked Goods 10105 101 Ave, Lac La Biche Eats & Sweets Café Coffee, Sandwiches, Baked Goods 10027 101 Ave, Lac La Biche Eddie’s Mart Soups, Sandwiches 10251 101 St, Lac La Biche Ginger House Family Restaurant Chinese Food 10201 101 St, Lac La Biche Joe’s Grill Pizzas, Burgers, Donairs 67165 Lakeland Drive, 10 minutes east of Lac La Biche @ Hwy 881 Junction

Mac’s Grill (Almac Hotel) 10425 101 Ave Mo’s Billiards Pool Hall Bar/Bar Food 10117 102 Ave Pelican Grille and Restaurant Bar 10040 100 St, Plamondon Ricky’s All Day Grill Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 10015 101 Ave, Lac La Biche Rocky’s Pizza & Labones Sports Pub Pizza, Burgers, Dinner Entrees 10015 101 Ave, Lac La Biche Subway Fast Food 10101 101 Ave, Lac La Biche Tara’s Pizza Pizzas, Burgers, Donairs 10219 101 Ave, Lac La Biche Tom’s Pizza & Steakhouse Breakfast, Pizza, Steak, Greek Food 10303 101 Ave, Lac La Biche Top Shelf Grill Burgers, Soup, Sandwiches Plamondon (inside Plamondon Arena) Truckers Saloon Night Club

KFC/Taco Bell Fast Food 10003 101 Ave, Lac La Biche

V&H Drive-In Fast Food/Drive-through 10124 105 St, Lac La Biche

Lac La Biche Golf & County Club (Pelican Grill) Breakfast, Burgers, Dinner Entrees 10 Provincial Park Road, Lac La Biche (on the way to Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park)

Voyageur Grill Fast Food 9531 94 Ave, Lac La Biche (inside Portage College, only open during the school year)

Lucky 15 Restaurant Chinese Food 10 Nipewon Rd, Lac La Biche

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Fat Unicorn Brewery Brewery 4 km south of Plamondon

Cafe on Main

Flashing Cow

Beaverhill Shell

The Mill

Eats & Sweets

Lucky 15

LaBone’s Sports Pub

Rocky’s

laclabichecounty.com | 53

Photo: Zeyad Eludin

LAC LA BICHE The hamlet of Lac La Biche is the region’s primary service centre. From rugged beginnings as a fur trading post, the hamlet has grown to feature all the comforts of home. Enjoy lunch downtown or have a waterside picnic in McArthur Park, then stroll along the lakefront to the statue of David Thompson. The area around the hamlet is filled with attractions for those who don’t want to stray too far. Connect with talented artisans and vendors at the Farmers Market, play a round at the spectacular Lac La Biche Golf & Country Club, or pick your own produce at Shady Lane Berry Farm.

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Serving Lac La Biche & the surrounding area for over 53 Years!

Delivery Services Available

Groceries Meat Produce Deli Bakery Mon - Sat 7am-8pm/Sun 8am-6pm 780-623-4234 10114 - 101 St, Lac La Biche

laclabichecounty.com | 57

fresh flowers • giftware • jewellery 780-623-3018 www.reminiscenceflowers.com

Serving Lac La Biche & area for 14 years!

Fresh Flowers ¤ Silk Plants Giftware ¤ Cards ¤ Gold & Silver Jewellery ¤ Diamonds ¤ Gift Baskets Chocolates ¤ Books & Bibles Pictures ¤ Bath Bombs Ty ¤ Watch & Jewellery Repairs

The Mystic Thrift a variety store with everything from A to Z! New & Used Items

Open 10 am-5 pm Mon. - Sat. 780-623-8220 10226-101B Ave

#200, 10233-101 Ave Lac La Biche

Lakeland Real Estate Call Marie Warawa (780) 520-0247

Welcome to Lakeland County!

“Visit Our Showroom’’ 10140 - Main Street, Lac La Biche (780) 623-2634 realtor.ca

Call Roy Worthington (780) 404-3060

Lakelots / Acreages / Lakefront Homes / Commercial / Farm

www.homehardware.ca

9112 Beaver Hill Rd Lac La Biche, Alberta 780-623-HOME (4663)

Help is always close to Home.

Home Packages Hardware Electrical Lawn & Garden Greenhouse Building Supplies Plumbing Housewares Painting Camping Gear Seasonal Supplies

Call to book or for more information • multitestdrugandalcohol.com • FB @multitestdrugandalcohol

58 | laclabichecounty.com

Photo: Lac La Biche Post

PLAMONDON The spire of St. Isidore’s Church stands tall above the bilingual hamlet of Plamondon, located 30 kilometres west of Lac La Biche. With its francophone vibes, cultural mélange and homegrown fondness for the arts, music and theatre, Plamondon boasts a truly unique identity.

See what’s happening at the Festival Centre – it could be a community play; it could

You’re at home here.

be the musical showcase of Plamondon Jamboree – and take selfies with the waisthigh buildings in the Mini Parc Heritage Park.

Administration Office: 780-798-3766, 9937–101 Ave Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm Food Store: 780-798-3766, 9937-101 Ave, Mon.-Sat. 8am-8pm, Sun. 10am-5pm Gas Bar & Cardlock: 780-798-3772, 9917-102 Ave, Mon.-Sat. 7am-9pm, Sun. 9am-9pm Hardware & Agro: 780-798-3827, 10018-101 Ave, Mon.-Sat. 8am-6pm Conklin Cardlock: 780-798-3772, Hwy 881 Conklin 24/7 hrs Grassland Carlock: 780-689-4111, Hwy 55 Grassland 24/7 hrs

Serving the region since 1944 www.plamondoncoop.ca

laclabichecounty.com | 59

Photo: Simon Menard

RURAL COMMUNITIES Settlers converging on the Lac La Biche Region founded many communities based on farming, logging and other livelihoods throughout the 1900s. Each has its own special character and place in regional history. Events like Hylo-Venice Harvest Days, rodeos, trail rides and quad rallies celebrate local heritage and keep community spirit thriving. Come see what awaits in the rolling countryside.

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9210 91st Avenue Lac La Biche 780 623 9614 • Professionally Prepared Meals • Lots of Fun Activities • 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments

• All Appliances • Optional Housekeeping • 24 Hour Medical Staff On Site

Come for a tour and receive a FREE meal!

Great People, Great Food, Great Family Atmosphere!

Tarrabain Motors We treat you like family

Ph 780-623-4019 • Toll Free 1-800-310-4334 10339-101 Street, Lac La Biche

www.tarrabainmotor.ca

Lakeland Service & Carwash Your one stop shop for all your convenience needs.

Convenience Store - Truck and Car Wash - Gas Bar - Service and Sales - Daily Rentals Cummins Authorized Dealer

•

Front End and Suspension

•

Laser wheel Alignment

•

Air Conditioning Recharge

•

Brakes and Differential

•

Transmission and Clutches

•

Out of Province Inspection

Light & Heavy Duty Diesel Truck Specialist

•

Electronic Engine Diagnostic & repair

•

Approved Inspection Facility (C.V.I.P)

COMPLETE LIGHT & HEAVY TRUCK & TRAILER REPAIR EXPERT CALL US FOR REPAIR QUOTATION AND PARTS PRICING 200+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE UNDER ONE ROOF WE ARE ‘’YOUR’’ ONE STOP TRUCK REPAIR SHOP

Serving Oilfield - lOgging - TranSpOrTaTiOn fOr Over 23 YearS 780-623-7100 Mon-Fri 8.00am to 5.00pm

Site 645-2, RR2 Lac La Biche (Hwy 55 & Airport Rd.)

After Hours: Parts 780-623-0391

President:

Stephane Jobin laclabichecounty.com | 61

INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES The Lac La Biche Region has been home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Vibrant First Nations culture is preserved and celebrated with traditional powwows at Beaver Lake Cree Nation and Heart Lake First Nation. As the drums beat, dancers enter the circle in regalia, following the direction of the sun and serving as powerful examples of Indigenous artistry. A powwow is the perfect way to gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of authentic First Nations traditions.

The MĂŠtis people are descended from both French-Canadian and First Nations ancestors, and their culture reflects this blended heritage. Buffalo Lake and Kikino MĂŠtis Settlements display this culture to great effect with annual rodeos, cultural camps and other events. Sample bannock and feel the rumble as wagon racers round the bend at Kikino Silver Birch Rodeo.

62

Parkland Motels I & II In Plamondon ...

Lac La Biche

Stop by the

Pelican Hotel 780 798-3759

Restaurant & Bar VLTs Liquor Store Open 7 Days a Week

Toll Free 1-855-623-6825

Alexander Hamilton Park

RECREATION FACILITIES The Bold Center is Lac La Biche County’s big and bold way of encouraging healthy, active lifestyles and features the following amenities: •

Cenovus Child Mind Centre: paid child care and indoor playground

•

Cenovus Field Houses

•

Cenovus Fitness Centre: workout area, boxing ring and training area, steam rooms

•

Canadian Natural Track: three walking/running lanes, spin cycling and circuit training stations

•

Performance Arena and Swamp Cats Community Arena

•

Outdoor basketball & tennis courts

Visit boldcenter.ca or call (780) 623-3829 to find out about programs, drop-in recreation like public skating, and more. The Bold Center is also home to the Stuart McPherson Public Library.

Portage Pool features a five-lane main pool, a wading pool and a 25-person hot tub. Swimming sessions for the public are divided into lane swims, open swims, adults-only swims and women-only swims. Call (780) 623-6777 for details and directions.

If you love the outdoors but want to keep it local, bring the family to McArthur Park and hang out at the playground, Paul Richard Memorial Spray Park, public beach and beach volleyball court. There’s also the specially designed Rotary Adult Exercise Park nearby, so you can even squeeze in a gentle workout under the summer sun.

If you brought a four-legged companion along, visit Alexander Hamilton Park, a designated off-leash area for dogs. The park has a picnic shelter, and a pond stocked with trout for leisurely fishing.

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laclabichecounty.com | 67

lac la biche sporting goods ltd.

Your ourOutdoor Adventure

Starts Her Here!

The Ultimate Outdoor Experience

Boats

Outboards ATV/UTV/SUV Motorcycles Power Products Accessories Supplies

Celebrating 43 Years in Business

780-623-4145

Fax: 780-623-1744 • Mainstreet, Lac La Biche Email: LLBSportingGoods@telusplanet.net