We're Out Of Here...Rejuvenating Family Day Trips - Pigeon Lake

Written by Colleen Lomas

Pigeon Lake is one of the most popular recreational lakes in Central Alberta. Situated SW of Edmonton in Alberta's parkland, the area is dotted with ranches, rolling hills, evergreens and lots of crystal clear lakes. As a matter of fact, along Hwy. #13 there are five distinct lakes great for water sports, fishing, environmental protection, scuba diving, and wilderness camping.

Visitors to the area can choose the type of services they need from quiet and secluded to full RV services with area boat rentals and great restaurants, shopping and creamy smooth ice-cream shops.

Pigeon Lake is 72 km in circumference with two main service areas: Mulhurst Bay on the north side and The Village at Pigeon Lake on the south. The lake was probably named for the Passenger Pigeon that was once abundant in the area. These little birds were easy targets for early settlers and the last bird named ‘Martha’ died in the Cincinnati Zoo in 1914. Settlement of the Pigeon Lake area began in 1847 when Reverend Robert Rundle built Rundle Mission, a provincial historic site on the NW side of Pigeon Lake at Mission Beach. The site still has a lodge, mission church and historic walking path for visitors to enjoy.

Recreation Pursuits are a highlight of the area and we encourage visitors to explore with driving tours to the many craft shops, restaurants, beaches, and great shopping areas.

Tour # 1 - Exit Hwy. #2 at Hwy. #13 and travel west. Your first stop is at Steven's Strawberries to pick fresh juicy in season fruit, then to the best beach for kids in Ma-Me-O Beach. When you are hungry come stop at Pauline's Coffee Shop for lunch overlooking the lake. Shopping at Backstreet Antiques, Black Bear Pottery and Shaw's Stained Glass all at Westerose gives Mom a break and some unique gifts for the holiday season.

Tour # 2 - Make your destination ‘The Village at Pigeon Lake’ just 25 km west of Hwy. #2 and enjoy year round special events, full size supermarket, country decorating shops, lunch at the famous ECOcafe, creamy smooth ice-cream at Scoops Ahoy and an enjoyable relaxing evening in the Fireplace Suite at The Village Creek Country Inn. The suite has a separate bedroom so you can watch your favorite video and relax by the fire while the kids sleep soundly in the next room. For reservations, please call 1-877-688-0006.

Tour #3 - Golf at one of the five area courses from 27 holes at Black Bull to Wicked Witch Par 3 all within 15 minutes of ‘The Village at Pigeon Lake’ There is a great restaurant and pub at Black Bull Golf Club with Karaoke nights and special theme meals. In the afternoon book a session with Vreni to learn how to make candles or have a relaxing massage with Monica at The Village at Pigeon Lake.

Tour #4 - Leave Hwy. #13 and travel north along Hwy. # 771 to Zeiner Provincial Park. Rent a boat and do some excellent Whitefish and Pike fishing in Pigeon Lake. Travel a little further east to Mulhurst Bay for the best pizza around at ‘The Pizza Place’ and take it to the nearby park and playground. Have an ice cream for a treat and travel to the east end of town to see the Purple Martin Conservancy. Del can give you a tour and explain the needs of this special bird. Dinner at ‘The Ole House’ which overlooks Pigeon Lake rounds out the evening. Just look for the pink combine.