Alberta Destinations

Peace River offers a warm winter welcome

(Special)—Alberta’s Peace River Country was built on exploration and opportunity, but its foundation of missionaries and settlers gives way to a modern slice of Canadiana where winter is king, pond hockey rules and warm Albertan hospitality is served up with a smile.

An event not to be missed is Peace River’s hugely popular Alberta Pond Hockey championships, February 17 to 20, featuring the World’s Largest Pond Hockey Game, with more than 440 players. Register soon to get into the game with your team or make the trip to watch.

The hamlet of St. Isidore, just 16 kilometres south east of Peace River, with a population of 300, hosts one of the biggest winter carnivals in the North. Taking place February 18 to 21, during the Family Day long weekend, it offers plenty of live entertainment, and hearty competitions such as log sawing.

Things to do anytime include a stroll through the Peace River Museum, Archives and Mackenzie Centre, open year-round, for a peek into the history of this industrious town from the adventure of the fur trade to explorer Sir Alexander Mackenzie’s wanderlust for discovery.

You might also be able to take in a theatrical performance put on by the Peace Players. They will be producing a collection of one-act plays in February.

If you are looking to stay somewhere a little out of the ordinary, consider the Third Mission Heritage Suites, a former Catholic mission where history meets high-tech. There are eight luxury suites equipped with full kitchens, WiFi, and business amenities in the heart of downtown Peace River proper.

An alternative to staying in town is the Wild Rose Guest Ranch, on the banks of the river known as the “Mighty Peace.” The 3,000-square-foot ranch house provides ample living space, plus all the creature comforts of a home office. Curl up on the leather furniture in front of the fireplace, play in the games room, work out in the exercise room or soak outside in the hot tub overlooking the river.

For more fun winter activities in the Peace Country, please visit DiscoverThePeaceCountry.