Red Deer is a city built around a park and it’s no ordinary park. Waskasoo Park is the crown jewel of the city. It is home to Alberta’s first federal migratory bird sanctuary, a beautiful river valley, Bower Ponds, and more than 110 kms of trails. If you want to get to know Red Deer, you have to explore the park that’s at its heart. While you can walk or hike the trails, you will see Waskasoo from a whole new perspective while on a bike.
There are plenty to see in Waskasoo Park and we have put together a list of some places where you can stop and take a break. So, grab a map, pick a trail, and start exploring!
Kerry Wood Nature Centre
You will find a permanent exhibit gallery, a great little bookstore, and washroom facilities inside the Nature Centre. Staff run interpretive programs based on the flora and fauna found in the park throughout the year, from topics such as nature walks to Meet the Critters.
Right next to the Kerry Wood Nature Centre is Gaetz Lake Sanctuary. Set on 118 hectares of protected land, Gaetz Lake Sanctuary is Alberta’s oldest federal migratory bird sanctuary. Take a walk through the sanctuary and see if you can spot any birds from inside the bird blind. Just remember to protect the wildlife, no skiing, jogging, pets, or cycling are permitted in the Sanctuary.
Cronquist House
This 1911 Victorian-style farmhouse has a lovely tea room that overlooks Bower Ponds. You can stop in for lunch or afternoon tea and enjoy the view. Staff give historical tours upon request and after tea, you can rent a boat and go for a paddle on the ponds.
Heritage Ranch
Stop for lunch or dinner at Westlake Grill or just enjoy looking at the horses and riding on the lovely, paved trails that run through the ranch. The ranch occupies 207 acres of Waskasoo Park.
Fort Normandeau
Pop by the replica of Red Deer’s 1885 fort and check out the outdoor and indoor displays that tell of its history. The Fort commemorates the First Nations, Métis, and European people who influenced the development of central Alberta.
City Parks
There are 18 different parks and recreation areas within Waskasoo Park, including the popular pollinator parks. These pollinator parks act as a habitat for native pollinators. Take the time to stop by and enjoy the challenging work of our native pollinators!
Local Markets
Make a stop at one of the markets to get some locally made food for your picnic basket. The market supports local farm families and locally sourced food products. On Saturdays, you can also get local food and produce at the Red Deer Market from the May long weekend until Thanksgiving weekend or check out the Downtown Red Deer Market on little Gaetz every Wednesday from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm during the summer. Gasoline Alley Indoors Farmer’s Market is open every Friday & Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm all year long. As an Alberta approved market, 80% of all products sold at the market are made, baked and grown in Alberta.
