NORTHEAST ALBERTA TRAILS
New Provincial Trail Map of Northeast Alberta Covers a lot of Ground
Northeast Alberta is blessed with an extensive system of multi-use trails. 
These range from long linear routes along old rail beds to networks of park paths and quiet strolls through the region’s small cities, towns and villages. There’s something here for everyone: hikers, cyclists, off-highway vehicle enthusiasts, equestrian riders, snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, snowshoers, dog sledders and even wagon trekkers. Now users can access a comprehensive mapping guide - read on!
Mapping the Roads Less Travelled
A significant portion of the sprawling, 53,000 sq km (20,463 sq mi) covered by this map is lightly populated, and so are the trails. One can often travel alone for long stretches of time—perfect for quietly admiring the passing scenery, pausing at sweeping vistas or stopping to scan the woods, marshes and skies for an abundance of bird and animal life. Still, civilization intervenes sufficiently for trail users to restock supplies, enjoy a well-earned meal and sample the area’s rich, diverse culture and history.Alberta’s Iron Horse Trail, portions of the Trans Canada Trail and the Trans Canadian Snowmobile Trail figure prominently in the trails in this map region.
Follow the links below to discover the Trails of Northeastern Alberta.
The Iron Horse Trail (Western, Northeastern, and Southeastern)
Trails Northeast of Edmonton
Trails Along Highway 16
Snowmobile Trails
Maps
Northeast Alberta Map: WestNortheast Alberta Map: East
These maps provide a general orientation to trails in northeast Alberta. All trail locations are approximate, and some trails may not appear on this map or be up to date. The suggested map series for detailed topographical information is the National Topographic Series (NTS).
Maps includes designated, managed trails; many can be used year round.
Trail quality and difficulty of use can vary considerably, with surface materials ranging from pavement and groomed snow to dirt and corduroy. Some trails are signed and regularly maintained; others are not. Even maintained trails can be challenging when wet or covered in fresh snowfall.The recreational trails shown on this map are unsupervised and are used at the personal responsibility and risk of persons using them.
For information on how to receive the Northeast Alberta Trail Maps, please go to the Alberta TrailNet Information Centre or call 1-877-987-2457
Explore Our Ecosystems
The landscapes the trails on this map traverse are a pleasant mix of rolling farmland, heavier, wetter forests, wandering rivers and one of the largest concentrations of lakes in Alberta. Some of the most magnificent terrain is set aside in national and provincial parks, and ecological reserves.The mapped region embraces two primary natural regions:
Aspen parkland – the transition zone between grasslands to the south and boreal forest to the north – reaches into the southern portions of the area. It is characterized by open stands of aspen with wildlife ranging from deer and coyotes to blue
herons and Swainson’s hawks.Boreal forest – is the region’s predominant landscape. Aspen groves give way to dense forests of white spruce broken by lakes and large areas of muskeg dominated by black spruce and tamarack. This is one of Alberta’s most productive habitats, home to such animal species as moose, black bear, snowshoe hare, lynx, wolf and weasel. Elsewhere, there are surprisingly extensive pockets of sand dunes, often covered in jack pine forests.
World’s Largest Ecomuseum
The 20,000 sq km (7,722 sq mi) Kalyna Country , which covers the parkland drained by the North Saskatchewan River, has been declared the world’s largest ecomuseum. This unique region promotes heritage, cultural and natural attractions and outdoor adventures east/northeast of Edmonton.Much of the area covered in this map is also included in Alberta’s Lakeland, a region with a rich mosaic of history, culture and natural settings, featuring more than 250 lakes, spectacular boating, camping, fishing and hunting opportunities and over 400 km (249 mi) of multi-use trails.
Respect for the Land
Access to recreational opportunities on public and private lands is built on a foundation of responsible use. By focusing your activities on managed trails, you are contributing to the sustainable enjoyment of Alberta’s magnificent natural landscapes.
Trail Etiquette and Safety
Be a leader and ambassador for your favourite outdoor activity. Join the many hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, cross country skiers, off-highway vehicle users, snowmobile enthusiasts and other recreationists who proudly take a stewardship role by embracing these guidelines:- Know and abide by applicable regulations and trail signs.
- Stay on designated trails and restrict your use to approved activities.
- Share trails with courtesy and respect – Wheels yield to heels; heels yield to horses.
- Respect landowners by leaving gates and fences as found and avoiding livestock.
- Leave artifacts and natural features undisturbed.
- Control pets and keeping them on leash.
- Properly dispose of all waste in provided facilities and follow the pack-in, pack-out philosophy.
every trip and using certified weed-free feed for pack animals. - Minimize the threat of wildfire by ensuring flammable debris is kept away from hot exhaust systems.
- Keep campfires small, contained and in designated areas and ensure they are fully extinguished.
- Respect wildlife by observing from a distance and properly managing food and garbage.
- Avoid recreation use during sensitive times (e.g. wet conditions, wildlife mating and rearing seasons) and in sensitive areas (e.g. watercourses, stream banks, wetlands and alpine areas).
- Ensure motorized vehicles are licensed and insured, and that all vehicles and equipment are operated with care.
- Wear an approved helmet for your particular activity.
- actively participate in local club and trail stewardship programs.
Know Before You Go
Temperatures can range from winter lows of -40 C ( -40 F) to summer highs in the upper 30s (90s F). Precipitation and harsh conditions can occur at any time. Be prepared that in late spring and summer, poison ivy and nettles may be present. Insects will be sharing your space, especially in wet and shaded areas, so remember your bug repellent. You may encounter wildlife, including black bears and large ungulates. Fall hunting is permitted in some areas; be aware, and dress and behave appropriately.
Trails may be remote from services or help. Carry sufficient food, water, clothing, first aid and emergency/survival supplies, repair gear, navigation equipment and a mobile phone.
To maximize enjoyment of these trails, gather additional details from nearby communities and recreation associations about the trails, current conditions, local sites of interest, area services and access points. Resource Round-up
Alberta’s Lakeland (includes Alberta’s Iron Horse Trail): 1-888-645-4155Kalyna Country: 1-888-452-5962
Lac La Biche Region: 1-877-623-9696
Gateway to Alberta's Parks
Alberta Sustainable Resource Development
Alberta TrailNet (see links to provincial trail user associations)
Thank You!
The Alberta Trail Mapping Partnership is made possible through the combined efforts of, and funding from, the following organizations under the auspices of the Alberta Recreation Corridor and Trails Designation Program:Alberta Tourism, Parks, Recreation and Culture
Alberta Sustainable Resource Development
Alberta TrailNet Society
Alberta Off Highway Vehicle Association
Alberta Snowmobile Association
Travel Alberta
Gratitude is expressed to all local clubs, groups, organizations, individuals and municipalities for their review, comments and updates in developing this map.
