The great outdoors is one of Alberta’s prime attractions, and a diverse array of activities is available to those who seek them out.

The mountains are the centre of most activity. Raft and canoe tours operate on many mountain rivers, and the vast wilderness provides virtually limitless opportunities for camping, photography, and wildlife viewing.The national parks are a major draw for hikers and climbers in summer, downhill and cross-country skiers in winter. Fishing is good in almost all lakes and rivers in the province, and golfers can enjoy more than 230 courses.

Alberta has five national parks, 68 provincial parks, 32 wildland parks, 16 ecological reserves, four wilderness areas, 150 natural areas, 248 provincial recreational areas, and one forest reserve. Combined, they encompass all of the province’s most spectacular natural features, are home to many of Alberta’s mammals, provide safe nesting areas for millions of birds, and protect areas that would otherwise be given over to agriculture or other resource-based industry.