With Alberta’s safe opening on the horizon, it’s time to plan how you’ll explore Hinton this summer. Here are some easy itineraries to help you make the most of your overnight visit or long weekend getaway in Alberta’s scenic Northern Rockies.
Where is Hinton and why should I visit?
Hinton is located minutes east of the Jasper National Park gates in Alberta—centrally located close to many incredible places and experiences you won’t want to miss out on this summer. Hinton and its surrounding area, which includes numerous provincial parks and Jasper National Park, has become increasingly known as a hidden gem to explore in western Canada.
Where should you stay?
In Hinton, you have the option to stay in accommodations that range from incredibly scenic campsites, cabins, and traditional hotel accommodations both in town and at the doorstep of Alberta’s Northern Rockies. Learn more about Hinton’s accommodations.
Eager to get planning your next Alberta getaway? Read on to see what should be on your to-do list!
You have: an overnight trip
Day 1: explore the town
Trails, local charm, local food. Check out some of Hinton’s local municipal parks like the Beaver Boardwalk, the Athabasca Riverfront Park, Mary Reimer Park, or the Natural Resources Interpretive Park to learn about local life and history. To dig deeper consider checking out the Northern Rockies Museum for a deeper look at our region’s unique history, or visit local shops.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, rent some discs at Explore Hinton’s Visitor Information Centre and try our 18-hole disc golf course. If mountain biking is your thing, check out Hinton’s renowned Bike Park.
Day 2: explore nearby
When you stay in Hinton, it’s easy to grab a local cup of coffee and breakfast before you head out to explore. When Hinton’s your base camp, there are adventures to be found within an hour in every direction:
- East: Emerson Lakes, Obed Provincial Park, and Sundance Provincial Park, where you’ll find Alberta’s northern hoodoos tucked away on a lush, scenic trail.
- South: Cadomin, Cardinal Divide, Whitehorse Wildland Park—where you’ll find incredible sights even when you aren’t looking for them. Watch out for wildlife!
- North: William A. Switzer Park, which includes the Kelley’s Bathtub visitor centre, Joachim Valley Trail, the Athabasca Lookout, Jarvis Lake, and so much more.
- And to the west: where you’ll find Miette Hot Springs and Jasper National Park.
These are just a few of the many, many things that Hinton and the surrounding provincial & national parks have to offer. After a day of exploring, come back and relax at your accommodations, grab some takeout, and enjoy some of our local green spaces.
You have: an entire long weekend!
This is without a doubt the best way to explore all there is to see and do in (and near) Hinton—whether you’re taking a traditional long weekend to explore, or you’ve made your own DIY long weekend in the middle of the week.
Day 1: Once you’ve checked into your hotel or campsite, it’s time to figure out what’s for dinner.
Check out a local restaurant in town, and top it off with a movie at the PATH* or a sunset walk at the Athabasca Riverfront Park. End your day by making a list of the incredible photo spots you won’t want to miss during your Hinton getaway.
Day 2: This is your day to go out and explore.
There are endless opportunities of things to see and do. Stop by the Explore Hinton Visitor Information Centre for tips and advice.
- Are you a hiker? There are several hikes ranging from 30 minutes to full day adventures within minutes of Hinton.
- Want to get out on the water? Check out the dozens of lakes within a short drive of Hinton. Spending some time at Jarvis Lake or Gregg Lake in William A. Switzer Park? You can rent kayaks, canoes, and stand up paddleboards right at the lake for hourly, and daily rentals.
- Here to mountain bike? Explore Hinton’s bike park, and the connecting trail network with a wide variety of trails for all ages and abilities.
- Saddle up! You can also explore the region on horseback.
Don’t have your own equipment? Check out some local businesses in town like Vicious Cycle, Maximum Outfitters, and High Calibre Sports for any purchasing or renting needs. These business owners are also avid adventurers themselves and can provide advice on things to see and do.
Day 3: Take some time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Go for an easy stroll around the Beaver Boardwalk, or head into Jasper National Park to take a soak in the Miette Hot Springs. If you haven’t yet, consider hitting the links! Book a tee time for a round of golf right in town, where you’ll be able to enjoy panoramic mountain views from the course.
Day 4: Before you head home…
Dine at one of our local establishments and pick up a souvenir from your travels!
*Due to COVID-19, operational closures may be in effect.
Tight for time?
Read about how you can make the most of your Hinton stopover or day-trip!
