Cold Lake, situated in the heart of east-northern Alberta, Canada, is a pristine destination that offers a diverse array of activities and stunning natural beauty. This lake is nestled near the city of Cold Lake, which shares its name and is home to the Canadian Forces Base Cold Lake. The surrounding towns, including Grand Centre, Bonnyville, and Elk Point, provide easy access to the lake and its myriad attractions.
During the summer, Cold Lake transforms into a haven for water sports enthusiasts. The lake is renowned for its abundant fish population, including pike, walleye, and whitefish, making it a paradise for anglers. Several marinas and boat launches dot the shoreline, facilitating effortless access to the water. Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, or canoeing across the lake’s expansive waters. For those seeking adventure, water skiing and wakeboarding are popular activities.
As winter sets in, the lake and its surroundings offer a new set of exciting experiences. The frozen lake becomes a playground for ice fishing, with many anglers venturing out to catch the local fish species. The area is also perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating. Nearby trails provide ample opportunities for snowmobiling and dog sledding, adding to the winter wonderland experience.
The scenic beauty of Cold Lake and its surroundings makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are looking to relax by the water or engage in adrenaline-pumping activities, Cold Lake has something to offer every season of the year.
- Surface area (km)
- 373
- Max depth (m)
- 99.1
- Elevation (m)
- 535
- Shoreline length (km)
- 141.4
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Wakeboarding
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Cross-country Skiing
Nearby amenities
When you find yourself near Cold Lake, Alberta, a plethora of attractions awaits to enrich your experience. For those seeking dining and entertainment, Casino Dene is a must-visit destination. Just 7 kilometers south of Cold Lake along Highway 28, the casino presents an array of dining options alongside over 250 slot and VLT machines, table games, and lively entertainment to keep your evenings buzzing.
The Cold Lake Museum stands as a testament to the area’s rich history, located on the historic site of 42 Radar Squadron. Here, you can explore a variety of exhibits including an Aboriginal Gallery, a Heritage Gallery, an Oil & Gas Gallery, and an Air Force Museum. Don’t miss the outdoor displays of aircraft and the radar dome that add an intriguing touch to your visit.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Cold Lake Provincial Park offers a paradise for water lovers, with ample opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and a variety of water sports. If hiking or cycling is more your speed, the Iron Horse Trail, featuring the impressive Beaver River Trestle, will provide you with stunning views and invigorating trails.
Sports aficionados will find plenty to cheer about at the Energy Centre, which regularly hosts an array of sporting events, concerts, and trade shows. If you are an avid golfer, both the Grand Centre Golf Club and the Cold Lake Golf & Winter Club at Canadian Forces Base 4 Wing Cold Lake promise a day of great golfing surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
In the winter months, thrill-seekers can head to Kinosoo Ridge, a popular ski and snowboard area that attracts winter sports enthusiasts from near and far. And for families looking to combine fun with education, the Cold Lake Fish Hatchery provides engaging tours that offer insight into local aquatic life. Whatever your interest, Cold Lake has something special to offer everyone, making it a worthwhile addition to your travel itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Cold Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, it is not safe to swim in Cold Lake at Kinosoo Beach currently. There is a water quality advisory due to elevated levels of fecal bacteria, which can cause gastrointestinal illnesses and other infections.
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Cold Lake is a popular destination because of its abundant outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy water sports like boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing. The city also features attractions like Cold Lake Provincial Park and the Cold Lake Museum, and hosts several annual events such as the Community Fish Fry and Aqua Days.
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The possession limits for Cold Lake, Alberta are: 3 Walleye over 50 cm, 1 Northern Pike over 63 cm, 15 Yellow Perch, 10 Lake Whitefish, 10 Burbot, and 1 Lake Trout between 65-70 cm from May 15 – Sept. 14 and Nov. 16 – March 31. No Lake Trout can be kept from Sept. 15 – Nov. 15.
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Kinosoo Beach is the best for families. It has a sandy beach, a splash park, beach volleyball and basketball courts, and a zipline over the water. The beach also features a full-service concession and walking paths, making it a versatile and fun spot for both kids and adults.
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Towns near Cold Lake, Alberta, include Grand Centre, Bonnyville, Elk Point, and Saint Paul. These towns are all located within a reasonable driving distance, with Grand Centre being the closest, just south of Cold Lake. They are part of the same general region in east-northern Alberta.