Things To Do
in Cold Lake

Cold Lake, Canada is a picturesque city located in Alberta, known for its stunning lake views and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is situated on the shores of Cold Lake, offering a range of water sports and activities throughout the year. With its rich military history and vibrant local culture, Cold Lake provides visitors with a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.

The area is also home to various wildlife and natural landscapes, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cold Lake
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at The Breakfast Nook, famous for its hearty omelets and fresh coffee. After breakfast, head to Cold Lake Provincial Park for a leisurely nature walk along the scenic trails.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the beach at Kinosoo Beach, where you can relax and soak in the sun. In the afternoon, visit the Cold Lake Museum to learn more about the local history and culture.

evening
:

For dinner, dine at The Moose's Nook for a taste of local game meats. Afterward, take a stroll along the waterfront for a stunning sunset view.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Kick off your day with a visit to the local farmers market for fresh produce and homemade goods. Afterward, rent a kayak at the Cold Lake Marina and spend the morning paddling on the lake.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at the marina's café, then head to the nearby Cold Lake Air Force Base to explore the aviation museum. Participate in a guided tour to learn about Canada’s military aviation history.

evening
:

Finish your day with dinner at The Lighthouse, known for its fresh seafood. Conclude your trip by enjoying a local craft beer at one of the cozy bars in the downtown area.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-30
Cup of Coffee$3-5
🛒Groceries (weekly)$50-100
🏨Hotel Room (per night)$100-150
🚗Gasoline (per liter)$1.20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly local community and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Rich cultural history and unique local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas may be remote, requiring transportation.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter months.

Places to Visit in Cold Lake

Visit one of these nice places.

Kinosoo Beach

A beautiful sandy beach that offers stunning sunset views over Cold Lake, perfect for landscape photography.

Cold Lake Provincial Park

Featuring lush greenery and diverse wildlife, this park provides a variety of scenic backdrops for nature photography.

Cold Lake Air Force Base

Capture unique military aircraft and historical displays that tell the story of aviation history.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cold Lake

Cold Lake offers a delightful culinary scene with an emphasis on local flavors and fresh ingredients. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, showcasing the region's rich agricultural and fishing heritage.

Cold Lake Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bison Burger

A juicy burger made from locally sourced bison, served with fresh toppings.

Must-Try!

Lake Whitefish

Freshly caught whitefish from Cold Lake, often grilled or fried.

Wild Mushroom Risotto

Creamy risotto featuring wild mushrooms foraged from the nearby forests.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cold Lake Farmers Market

Held every Saturday, this market features local produce, artisan goods, and homemade treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cold Lake experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dropping below -15°C (5°F). Spring and fall are transitional seasons, characterized by mild weather and occasional rainfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and wildlife, following all local regulations.

Greeting

A friendly 'hello' or nod is common when meeting locals, reflecting the small-town culture.

Punctuality

Being on time for appointments or gatherings is appreciated and considered respectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cold Lake is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in more isolated outdoor areas. Always follow local guidelines when engaging in outdoor activities and keep emergency contact numbers handy.

Tipping in Cold Lake

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A standard tip of 15-20% is customary in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer offers warm weather perfect for water sports, beach activities, and outdoor festivals.

Fall

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, making it a great time for hiking and enjoying the changing landscapes.

Winter

Winter transforms Cold Lake into a snowy wonderland, perfect for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Cold Lake at Night

Cold Lake offers a modest nightlife scene with a few bars and pubs that cater to locals and visitors alike. Many venues host live music events, trivia nights, and dance parties, providing a lively atmosphere. The downtown area features cozy lounges where you can enjoy craft cocktails and local brews in a relaxed setting.

Hiking in Cold Lake

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Birch Bay Trail

This scenic trail offers a moderate hike with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding forests.

Kinosoo Ridge Trail

A more challenging hike that takes you up to Kinosoo Ridge, providing panoramic views of Cold Lake and the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Cold Lake by plane.

Cold Lake Airport

Located just outside the city, Cold Lake Airport serves small aircraft and is primarily used for military and private flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cold Lake is a moderately walkable city, with many essential services and attractions concentrated in the downtown area. Sidewalks and pedestrian paths are available, making it easy to explore on foot, though some attractions may require a vehicle for access. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to hike or explore the surrounding nature.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Military Families

Due to the nearby air force base, Cold Lake has a significant population of military families and personnel.

Indigenous Communities

The region is home to several Indigenous groups, who contribute to the cultural diversity of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a popular sport in Cold Lake, with local teams and leagues engaging the community.

Curling

Curling is also widely played, with several clubs offering facilities and training for enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cold Lake is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car. Public transportation options are limited, with a few local bus routes connecting key areas. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, so plan accordingly if you need to travel during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cold Lake.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to inform your server.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available at most restaurants, but checking with the staff is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Cold Lake is primarily provided through the Cold Lake Health Centre, which offers emergency services and general care. For specialized treatments, residents often travel to larger cities like Edmonton. It's recommended for visitors to have travel insurance that covers healthcare needs.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide