1. **Hiking and Backpacking**:
– **Crescent Falls and Bighorn Canyon**: Located about an hour’s drive west of Rocky Mountain House, this area offers trails with stunning views of waterfalls and canyons.
– **Coliseum Mountain**: Known for its panoramic views, it’s a great day hike, roughly a 45-minute drive from Rocky Mountain House.
2. **Fishing**:
– **North Saskatchewan River**: Accessible from various points near Rocky Mountain House. It’s known for excellent fly fishing.
– **Mitchell and Strubal Lake**: About a 20 minute drive, these lakes are known for its private and quiet settings.
3. **Canoeing and Kayaking**:
– **North Saskatchewan River**: Offers excellent opportunities for river paddling with varying levels of difficulty.
– **Cow Lake**: Just south of Rocky Mountain House, this lake is ideal for more serene kayaking or canoeing experiences.
4. **Mountain Biking**:
– **Baseline Mountain**: About an 30 minute drive west, offering a range of trails through the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
– **Frontier Lodge**: They have a mountain bike park and are located near Nordegg.
5. **Horseback Riding**:
– **Mukwah Tours**: Offers guided horseback riding tours through the scenic wilderness, located just east of Rocky Mountain House.
– **Chinook’s Snowy Owl Tours**: Located a bit further away but offers unique horseback experiences in the Rocky Mountains.
6. **Camping**:
– **Crimson Lake Provincial Park**: Offers well-equipped campsites about 15 minutes drive from Rocky Mountain House.
– **Cow Lake Campground**: Located near Rocky Mountain House, suitable for both tents and RVs.
7. **Historical Exploration**:
– **Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site**: Located right in Rocky Mountain House, this site offers insights into Canada’s fur trading history.
8. **Wildlife Watching**:
– **Bighorn Backcountry**: An extensive area west of Rocky Mountain House, known for its diverse wildlife including elk, deer, and occasionally bears.
9. **Winter Sports**:
– **Pine Hills Golf**: Offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities, located about a 10 minutes drive west.
– **Crimson Lake**: Popular for ice fishing in the winter months.
10. **Stargazing**:
– **Crimson Lake**: Located just 15 minutes form town, it offers a remote location ideal for stargazing and possibly viewing the Northern Lights.
Each of these locations offers a unique experience, so depending on your interests and the season, you might want to plan your trip accordingly. Always check for any required permits, especially for fishing and backcountry adventures, and be mindful of wildlife and environmental protection guidelines.