https://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/central/cooking-lake-blackfoot-pra/">Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area

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Located 60 kilometres east of Edmonton, the Cooking-Lake Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area boasts 97 square kilometres of peaceful forests, pastures, and wetlands. It’s a great place to view wildlife, as the park supports habitats for tons of wildlife species, including coyotes, deer, elk, foxes, moose, and lynx.

Where: 52365 Range Rd. 210, Sherwood Park, Alta.

World’s largest Ukrainian sausage

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Now THAT is a big hunk of meat. The World’s Largest Ukrainian Sausage was built in recognition of Stawnichy Meat Processing by the Stawnichy family. Clocking in at nearly 13 feet tall and weighing six tons, it’s hard to miss.

Where: 4916 53 Ave., Mundare, Alta.

Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary

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This scenic nature sanctuary near Devon has trails and boardwalks that allow you to pass through different landscapes, including marshland, pine forest, meadow, and parkland. Over 100 species of birds can be found in this protected area.

Where: Sanctuary Road, Spruce Grove

Métis Crossing

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Located one hour and 20 minutes northeast of Edmonton, this incredible place is well worth the visit. Métis Crossing is Alberta’s first major Métis cultural interpretive destination. Created as a place for Métis people to share Métis stories, it’s open to everyone for family fun and cultural learning. Make a weekend of it and check out the camping, trapper’s tents, the luxurious Lodge, and exclusive sky watching domes.

Where: 17339 Victoria Trail, Smoky Lake, Alta.

Strathcona Wilderness Centre

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The Strathcona Wilderness Centre is a beautiful spot, so lace up your hiking shoes and get ready for an adventure through the forest and grass. With plenty of wildlife and nature to enjoy, it’s a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city to serenity and calm.

Where: 52535 Range Rd 212, Uncas, Alta.

Elk Island National Park

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Get in your vehicle and take a short drive east of Edmonton to visit Elk Island National Park. There you will find yourself surrounded by lakes, towering trees, and the odd bison sighting. It’s a neat place! How lucky are we to have a national park so close to the city? So get your nature on and do a hike or two while you are out there.

Where: Improvement District No. 13, Alta.

With files from Laine Mitchell