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Farmers’ Markets
An ideal way to meet your local makers and producers is to visit Farmers’ Markets. The area’s many markets have adapted to ensure safety during the pandemic. From relocating outdoors to following guidelines for masks and distancing, you can safely enjoy an outing while getting to know your local market gardeners, bakers, butchers, beekeepers, and more. There are many markets across the County including the popular Baseline Market and historic Sherwood Park Farmers’ Market, which has been in operation since 1975.
Beaver Hills Biosphere
Those in the County may be surprised to learn how close they live to a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) site. Designated by UNESCO in 2016, the Beaver Hills Biosphere is a great place to learn, explore, and get involved in one of the most distinctive geographical landscapes in Alberta. Biospheres focus on the relationship among land, nature, culture, life, and work to ensure long-term global solutions for the intertwined relationship challenges. The harmony among life and land is important, as is the recognition of this biosphere’s location and history. Beaver Hills is located within Treaty 6 territory and continues to be a site of importance for the Indigenous population. By learning about and helping to conserve the Beaver Hills Biosphere, we all gain a greater understanding of our responsibly to the land, the people, and the diversity it supports.
Playgrounds and Outdoor Green Spaces
Technically they are for kids but who among us can resist the thrill of a swing or the challenge of monkey bars? This summer get outside and enjoy one of Strathcona County’s playgrounds or green spaces. On a hot day, cool down at the Ardrossan Spray Park. Call ahead to make arrangements for a private party at Strathcona Olympiette Centre’s indoor preschool playground. Roam around Antler Lake, enjoy the wetland viewing area at Centennial Park, or use the accessible/special needs swing for the differently abled in Forrest Greens Park. No matter your age or ability, you’ll find an outdoor space in Strathcona County to enjoy.
Strathcona County’s Regional Trails
Spend a day meandering along the Strathcona County Regional Trail, which is part of the greater trail system that winds along the North Saskatchewan River. The Strathcona trek is 22 kilometres long. Also part of the area’s trail system is Riverside Nature Trail. Here you will find over 5 kilometres of accessible (wheelchair friendly) trail that runs alongside the river. Most of the trail is flat with some small hills and rolling terrain. A bench is provided about 1 kilometre from the trail head. Well behaved dogs on a leash are welcome.
Local Businesses
One of the great things about travelling is visiting the boutique shops that bring the world, as well as locally made goods, to your door. Thanks to the many small businesses in Strathcona County, you can have this same experience in your hometown. Local businesses have adapted to continue offering the products and services you need, and you can discover new places to love as you support local. So, what experience are you after? Finding the perfect bottle of wine? The most comfortable hand-made sweater? Escaping for the weekend to a hotel? Discovering your favourite new restaurant? Planting your finds from the local greenhouse? Whatever you desire, you’ll find it in Strathcona County with a local business ready to give you a safe shopping customer experience.
