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Go East of Edmonton

Go East of Edmonton and see Where Culture Meets Adventure! Highways 15-45 and Highway 16 are your main routes for a scenic ride to explore the Birthplace of Ukrainian Settlement, the Beaver Hills Biosphere, Elk Island National Park, the Vermilion River Region & more.

Highway 15, 45 Tour

This route will take you through the city of Fort Saskatchewan, Lamont County, as well as many towns and villages, including Bruderheim, Chipman, Two Hills and more.

This route takes you East of Edmonton from Sherwood Park, the newly established Beaver Hills Biosphere through Vegreville, Vermilion to Lloydminster at the Saskatchewan Border. Enjoy lots of awesome attractions and shops all along the way.

Go East Video Showcase

Go East Events

Take part in events East of Edmonton

Strathcona County Student Art Show

Strathcona county.

Sherwood Park: Recording Artist Travis Dolter Performance

Sherwood Park Sherwood Park

Marwayne Community Wide Garage Sale

Marwayne Marwayne

Mundare Town Wide Garage Sale

Mundare Mundare

Vegreville Annual Home and Business Makers Market

Top destinations east of edmonton, city of fort saskatchewan.

A vibrant City located at the junction of Highways 15 and 21

Lamont County

Just a quick trip east of Edmonton, the perfect destination for day trips and weekend getaways.

County of Two Hills

A diverse region situated in beautiful rolling hills near the North Saskatchewan River.

Set in the centre of Alberta's energy and agricultural heartland, Sherwood Park and Strathcona County is a thriving, vibrant community.

Town of Vegreville

Only 1 hour drive from Edmonton on Highway 16. Visit the World's Largest Pysanka, plus unique shops and eateries.

Town of Vermilion

Travel two hours east of Edmonton to Experience New Ideas for Living.

Travel Articles & Trip Ideas

Read our regional travel stories! Get inspiration for building your next East of Edmonton travel itinerary or try one of our suggested trips.

Women In Horticulture Week

Get Inspired With Our New Travel Guide! Plus, Marvelous May Events and More!

The Great Greenhouse Tour

Celebrate Mom with a Scenic Countryside Tour!

Electric Roadtrips East of Edmonton

North Saskatchewan River Adventures

Explore our Regions...

10 Fun Multi-Day Road Trips from Edmonton, Alberta

Dear reader: This article contains links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you.

While there are certainly loads of things to do in Edmonton , the capital of Alberta, sometimes you just want to get out of town. FAR out of town. That’s where road trips come in!

For this article, I’ve put together 10 tried-and-tested Edmonton road trip ideas. To be clear, these will all be multi-day road trips from Edmonton, and we’ll be mostly sticking to Alberta, Canada’s most beautiful province (according to me!), and knocking off several items in my Alberta bucket list . You’ll be spending some hours in your car, so if traveling with kids, consider planning some road trip games !

If you’re looking for something that can easily be done in a single day, here are my 30 recommended day trips from Edmonton . Also see this super detailed post about how to make the best of GoogleMaps for planning your road trip .

For those who don’t have a consider, use this Canada train guide to plan trips by train from Edmonton!

Table of Contents

Edmonton Road Trips to the South

As inhabitants of Canada’s northernmost city of over 1 million, we Edmontonians have every inclination to go south. (If you’re stuck in the city in winter, here are my favourite Edmonton winter activities !)

Luckily, Southern Alberta offers a wide range of unique landscapes, not to mention a wealth of provincial and national parks, perfect destinations for a road trip.

1. Red Deer & Calgary (2–4 days)

For a fun long weekend road trip from Edmonton, don’t overlook the province’s largest and third largest cities, Calgary and Red Deer.

Heading south from Edmonton, you can consider making stops at Pigeon, Gull, or Sylvan Lake for some beach time. Beer lovers can choose from Hawk Tail Brewery in Rimbey, Snake Lake in Sylvan Lake, Blindman in Lacombe, or Troubled Monk and several others in Red Deer. Also think about stopping to buy fancy gouda at Sylvan Star Cheese !

Many Edmontonians have a habit of bypassing Red Deer on road trips to the south, or only stopping in Gasoline Alley for a pee, gas, and snack break. But spend a day in Red Deer proper and you may be pleasantly surprised!

With young kids, don’t miss tubing and an artificial beach at Discovery Canyon . Older kids and adults may prefer to go tubing on Red Deer River – Fort Normandeau is the perfect launching point. Heritage Ranch and Alberta Sports Museum are two other cool stops just off the highway (see here for more cool museums around Edmonton !)

For even more ideas, see my guide to 40 things to do in Red Deer. If you decide to spend the night in Red Deer, Cambridge Red Deer Hotel (see on Booking / TripAdvisor / Agoda ) is a good value choice with a pool.

Continuing past Red Deer, families with kids will love DINOS Centre in Innisfail, while mom and dad may prefer a stop at Field & Forge Brewery . Approaching Calgary, make a stop at Nose Creek Park in Airdrie, a lovely pond-side green space with an off-leash area, playground, and a collection of large Korean totem poles.

In Calgary, the list of things to do is nearly endless. Some major highlights include the expansive Calgary Zoo , Telus Spark Science Centre , Heritage Park Historical Village , Glenbow Museum , and Calaway Park .

You could also explore the Stampede Grounds, check out the view of downtown from Rotary Park, see the medicine wheel at Nose Hill Park, walk across iconic Peace Bridge, get a gelato sample tray at Righteous Gelato , go to the original Peter’s Drive In, or stop in at some of Canada’s best breweries, according to the Canadian Brewing Awards.

If you’re visiting with kids, we recommend staying at Sheraton Cavalier (see on Booking / Tripadvisor / Agoda ) or Best Western Port O’ Call (see on Booking / Tripadvisor / Agoda ) by the Calgary International Airport, both of which have indoor waterparks with waterslides. You can even see planes landing and taking off from the hotels.

2. Waterton Lakes National Park & Cowboy Trail (3–5 days)

You’ve probably been to Jasper and Banff a million times, but have you ever made the journey to Waterton Lakes National Park in the southwestern corner of Alberta?

To focus solely on the national park, take the fastest route there, Highway 2. After passing Calgary, Highway 2 eventually turns into the 810, and a few others. The total driving time (without stops) is about 5.5 hours.  

Some possible stops or scenic detours on this trip after Calgary include Okotoks erratic, the colorful grain elevators and amazing candy store in Nanton, and the impressive Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Historic Site .

For a slower and more scenic route, however, consider taking Highway 22, the Cowboy Trail, which runs parallel to the Rockies through Alberta’s ranch land. It’s a slower but far more scenic drive.

You can access the 22 via numerous smaller highways north or south of Calgary. Some essential stops include the Western-style town of Longview, Bar U Ranch National Historic Site , and Lundbreck Falls.

For Waterton Lakes National Park, budget a minimum of two nights, or more if you can, to enjoy the park’s many impressive hiking trails, water sports, and other outdoor activities. Here’s my full guide to the best things to do in Waterton .

There are several camping options in Waterton, or you can stay at the iconic yet affordable Prince of Wales Hotel (see on Booking / TripAdvisor / Agoda ).

To extend your trip, you can also venture into Glacier National Park in the United States, or take Crowsnest Pass into southern British Columbia.

3. Drumheller – Medicine Hat – Lethbridge Loop (1 – 2 weeks)

This awesome road trip from Edmonton takes in some of the best provincial parks in Alberta, plus lots of dinosaurs and hoodoos.

Heading south from Edmonton, enjoy the prairie scenery along Highway 21 then 56, with potential stops in Stettler for the Alberta Prairie Railway , remote Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park , and Rowley Ghost Town .

Next, spend a 1–3 nights in Drumheller, the “dinosaur capital of the world”. Don’t miss Horseshoe and Horsethief Canyons, the hoodoos, the World’s Largest Dinosaur, Last Chance Saloon in Wayne, Little Church, and Royal Tyrrell Museum .

For more info, here are my favorite things to do in Drumheller .

From Drumheller, head south of town, stopping at Atlas Coal Mine , then continue on to Dinosaur Provincial Park. Spend a night or two in the excellent campground , and find real dinosaur bones on one of the park’s excellent guided tours. Here’s my guide to Dinosaur Provincial Park .

Next, make your way to Medicine Hat, where you can see the world’s largest teepee, the excellent Medalta Potery Historic Site , and explore beautiful green space likes Strathcona Island Park, Police Point Park, and Echo Dale Regional Park. There are also some excellent breweries in town, including Hell’s Basement and Medicine Hat Brewing .

For more info, here are my top recommended things to do in Medicine Hat . An optional side trip would be to visit the Alberta side of Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park , around Elkwater.

After a few days in Medicine Hat, travel south to remote Red Rock Coulee , then make your way to the impressive Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park . A few hours is enough to admire the park’s famous rock paintings and towering hoodoos, but there’s also an excellent campground if you want to stay longer.

Finally, save a few days for Lethbridge, Alberta’s fourth largest city. Top sights include the serene Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden , Fort Whoop-Up , and watching trains cross the expansive Lethbridge High Level Bridge. Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Lethbridge .

On the way back to Edmonton, make a stop at the Vulcan Starship Monument, one of the best “Giants of the Prairies” (we’ll cover more of those in the “Edmonton road trips to the north” section below).

Edmonton Road Trips to the West

I’m willing to bet that a significant portion of road trips from Edmonton are to the west, either to Jasper and Banff in the Rocky Mountains, or further west into British Columbia.

I won’t cover road trips to BC here because there are just too many possibilities; we’ll save that for another article!  

4. Jasper and Banff Loop (1 week)

The most obvious (and probably most popular) road trip from Edmonton is to Jasper National Park, 3.5 hours to the west. This trip takes in the best of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, stunning lakes, and some of the best waterfalls in the province .

Along the way, consider making stops around Edson ( Rocky Mountain Big Horn Distillery and Apex Predator Brewing are great, when open), Hinton (Beaver Boardwalk, Athabasca Riverfront Park), the excellent William A. Switzer Provincial Park (where fine campgrounds abound), Whitehorse Lake, and the outstanding Folding Mountain brewery just before the Jasper National Park gates.

For information on things to do in Jasper, see my guides to visiting Jasper with kids , Jasper in winter , and the best lakes in Jasper .

After a few nights in Jasper, make your way south down the epic Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), with some of the best waterfalls near Edmonton , to Banff National Park, stopping at Athabasca Glacier and some of the most beautiful lakes in Banff .

Reaching Banff, spend a few nights there, basing yourself in one of the many accommodations in town. See my recommended Banff itinerary , things to do in Banff with kids , and guide to Banff in winter . 

Next, you can either return to Edmonton via Calgary (4.5 hours), or base yourself in Canmore to explore the greater Kananaskis area (see next entry).

5. Canmore and Kananaskis (3–5 days)

While Kananaskis country is a favorite playground for Calgarians, as it is only an hour away from them, Edmontonians tend to be less frequent visitors. But if you haven’t been, you’re seriously missing out!

Also, we Edmontonians often assume that Jasper is the closest to us, but we forget that Canmore and Jasper townsite are a similar distance from Edmonton, and Kananaskis’ Nakiska Ski Area is actually a slightly shorter drive than Marmot Basin in Jasper!

Canmore is the main access point to Kananaskis and one of my favorite places in Alberta. It could be an add-on to your Banff trip, or you could even stay there as a cheaper and less touristy base for exploring Banff. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Canmore and easy hikes in Canmore .

Canmore would certainly serve as an excellent base for a mountain-focused road trip from Edmonton. It has the best and cheapest range of accommodations in the region. For planning your road trip, either follow my Edmonton-to-Calgary route then veer west at Calgary, or take the slower but more scenic Cowboy Trail (Highway 22).

A budget friendly hotel with hot tub that we like in Canmore town is Rocky Mountain Ski Lodge (see on Booking / TripAdvisor / Agoda ). For a classy stay in a hotel voted one of the best in the world, try The Malcolm Hotel (see on Booking / TripAdvisor / Agoda ).

After spending a few days in Calgary town to enjoy its numerous art galleries, restaurants, breweries, and scenic walks, you can venture into Banff National Park to the north, or explore vast Kananaskis country to the south. Canmore is a convenient base for exploring either one as day trips.

If you do want to stay somewhere in Kananaskis country, hotel options are quite limited. Kananaskis Wilderness Hostel is a budget-friendly retreat, Kananaskis Mountain Lodge features a Nordic Spa, while Mount Engadine Lodge is perfect for really getting away from it all.

For more information on the area, here are the most beautiful lakes in Kananaskis , the best hikes in Kananaskis , and other things to do in Kananaskis .

6. Nordegg Region (2-4 days)

Where do local Albertans go when they want a natural escape away from the tourist crowds of Jasper and Banff? One great option is the Nordegg region.

From Rocky Mountain House (directly west of Red Deer), the David Thompson Highway (Highway 11) provides access to the area–the regions is sometimes also called David Thompson country.

The area features countless lakes perfect for camping and fishing, the mesmerizing Crescent Falls, Crown Lands where anything goes, and a huge number of hiking trails, both easy and difficult.

The prize at the end is Abraham Lake, a stunningly beautiful water reservoir where you can camp for free, and with several excellent hikes starting near its shores. In winter, the lake becomes a mini hot spot thanks to its visually stunning methane ice bubbles. Here’s my guide to when and how to see ice bubbles at Abraham Lake .

After Abraham Lake, you can continue on to Saskatchewan Crossing, where the highway meets the Icefields Parkway. From there, head north for Jasper National Park, and complete a loop back to Edmonton, or south for Banff National Park or Canmore and Kananaskis – follow the relevant road trip itineraries above to complete your return trip.

Edmonton Road Trips to the North

The vast region north of Edmonton is sparsely populated, with few notable attractions. What it does have, however, is a whole lot of lakes and excellent campgrounds, as well as possibilities for hunting and fishing.

7. Fort McMurray (3–4 days)

Unless they work there, few Edmontonians ever think of visiting Fort McMurray, the oil capital of Canada 4.5 hours north of Edmonton. I’ve been, and I can attest that there are enough sights to make a worthwhile road trip from Edmonton.

Making your way northeast from Edmonton, you can consider making a stop at Jurassic Forest with the kids. Another good spot along the way is Long Lake Provincial Park , where you can swim/picnic in the day use area, or camp in the excellent campground.

Continuing north, an optional detour would be Lac La Biche, including Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park , which occupies an island on the lake.

Once you get on Highway 63, the highway speed limit picks up to 110 for the remaining cruise to Fort Mac. There are few stops of interest until you reach the turnoff for Gregoire Lake , a very popular spot among locals.

In Fort McMurray, some of the top attractions are Heritage Village , Oil Sands Discovery Center (an excellent museum covering local history and mining), and Macdonald Island Park. Complete your road trip by driving up to the Giants of Mining near the massive oil refineries that are the raison d’être for the town.

To really witness the vastness of the oil sands, consider taking a scenic flight over them like we did. See all the details in my guide to the best things to do in Fort McMurray .

To extend your road trip, you can drive as far north as Fort Mackay and the “Bridge to Nowhere,” while in winter you can even drive the ice road all the way to Wood Buffalo National Park and Fort Chipewyan (when conditions are safe enough to do so).

A top-rated hotel in Fort McMurray is Microtel Inn & Suites (see on Booking / TripAdvisor / Agoda ).

8. Wood Buffalo National Park (1 week)

For the ultimate remote road trip from Edmonton, embark on a journey by car to Wood Buffalo National Park in Northern Alberta and Northwest Territories. It is the largest national park in Canada and second largest in the entire world!

The main thing that stops a lot of people from doing this is that it’s a real long drive–longer even than driving to Vancouver. And unlike driving to BC, there is very little to see along the way.

One notable stop you can make on the way is Lesser Slave Lake, which (despite the name) is huge. To break up the 14-hour drive to Fort Smith (the main access point to Wood Buffalo), you’ll probably want to overnight somewhere along the way. High River is a logical halfway point with a few decent hotels, with the pick of the bunch being the Super 8 (see on Booking / TripAdvisor / Agoda ), complete with pool and waterslide.

Even though Wood Buffalo is mostly in Alberta, you’ll have to cross into Northwest Territories to reach it. When Alberta’s Highway 35 crosses the 60 th parallel into NWT, it becomes Highway 1. The section from there to Great Slave Lake is known as the Waterfalls Route ; don’t miss Louise Falls and Alexandra Falls .

After that, make a quick stop at Great Slave Lake to say you’ve been there. From there, it’s a 3 hr 15 min drive east on Highway 5 to Fort Smith, and you’ll drive through a section of Wood Buffalo along the way, including stops to see huge sinkholes.

From Fort Smith, you can venture south to Salt River Day Use Area and Pine Lake, which has a campground. See the Wood Buffalo National Park official site for more information for planning your trip.

Edmonton Road Trips to the East

If you haven’t already been to Elk Island National Park and Ukrainian Village east of Edmonton, then make sure you do! But is it worth taking a road trip from Edmonton further east?

Well, according to Go East of Edmonton , a whole website devoted to the area, yes! Check out their site to find loads of activities besides the couple road trips I mention below. There are also some excellent lakes with campgrounds east of Edmonton, including Miquelon Lake and Cold Lake.

9. Giants of the Prairies (1 day to 1 week)

My favorite Edmonton road trip to the east is to tour the “Giants of the Prairies.” These giant roadside attractions are scattered across our province, but some of the best ones are located east and northeast of Edmonton.

The classic giants of the prairies road trip from Edmonton can be done in a single, long day. The route goes something like this: Giant Sausage in Mundare, Giant Easter Egg in Vegreville, UFO landing pad in St. Paul, Giant Pyrogy in Glendon, Giant Mushroom in Vilna, Giant Pumpkins in Smoky Lake, Mallard Duck in Andrew, Giant Oil Derrick in Redwater, and back to Edmonton.

Heads up that there is a whole lot of driving through farmland to be done between the giants, so bring good music, snacks, and/or a friend to chat with.

For more details about the route, including a map, see my guide to the Giants of the Alberta Prairies . Besides this route, the article includes four more road trip itineraries for visiting more giants in other parts of the province. You could even combine them all into one giant (pun intended) week-long road trip!

10. Edmonton to Saskatchewan Road Trip (2 weeks)

This is an Edmonton road trip that I have yet to do, but I’m planning it for next summer. It involves driving directly east of Edmonton to Lloydminster on the border with Saskatchewan. Lloyd has the tallest border markers in the world and a cool museum.

From there, I plan to visit Fort Battleford National Historic Site en route to Saskatoon, where I’ll stay for a few days to explore the city. An optional side trip from Saskatoon would be up to Prince Albert National Park .

Next, I’ll head over to Little Manitou Lake , Saskatchewan’s version of the Dead Sea, before traveling south to Moose Jaw to see giant Mac the Moose, check out the tunnels under the city, and soak in thermal waters at Temple Gardens Hotel & Spa (see on Booking / TripAdvisor / Agoda ).

From here, you could head to Regina for a few days, but I plan to bypass it and head further south to spend a few days camping in Grasslands National Park and a few more in the Saskatchewan side of Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park. And we can’t miss the T-Rex Discovery Center in Eastend, which houses the world’s largest T-Rex skeleton!

From there, I’ll return to Edmonton on one of several routes, which could involve stops in Medicine Hat, Dinosaur Provincial Park, and/or Drumheller along the way.

Well, that sums up my recommended best road trips from Edmonton. I hope you find some good ideas for planning your next road trip out of Edmonton. Let me know how it goes!

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1 thought on “10 Fun Multi-Day Road Trips from Edmonton, Alberta”

Think we will try a few of the routes to the North. Thanks for the information, helped us decide what we wanted to see.

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Best Road Trips From Edmonton

Top road trip destinations from edmonton.

Jasper National Park

🚗 315 km ⏱️ 3 hours, 15 minutes

Visit Jasper National Park for spectacular views of glaciers, blue lakes and snow-capped mountains. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers endless outdoor activities year-round.

This drive to Jasper National Park is a feast for the eyes with Wabamun Lake Provincial Park and William A. Switzer Provincial Park on the way.

🚗 390 km ⏱️ 3 hours, 45 minutes

Visit the lakes, go on a hike or two, and take your time as you leisurely drive along this scenic roadway to Canmore, a mountain town perfect for exploring Banff and Kananaskis Country.

On your way to Canmore, you can visit the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame in Red Deer , the beautiful Sylvan Lake and even detour to Calgary .

Banff National Park

🚗 415 km ⏱️ 4 hours

Banff National Park is possibly most iconic park in Canada, with towering mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, glaciers and therapeutic hot springs. Ideal for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.

We recommend putting aside some time to explore Red Deer , Calgary and Bow Valley Provincial Park on your way to Banff.

🚗 300 km ⏱️ 3 hours, 10 minutes

If you are looking for a cosmopolitan experience, Calgary will definitely tick that box. Famous for its beautiful skyline and Calgary Stampede, the city is also a great place for shopping and dining.

As you drive to Calgary, you can make a short detour to Wetaskiwin to visit the Reynolds-Alberta Museum and spend some time in Red Deer .

🚗 1,165 km ⏱️ 13 hours

Vancouver is one of Canada's most diverse and beautiful cities, with a spectacular mix of coastline juxtaposed with mountains. You can go whale-watching and see the ocean, and the weather is mild in summer and winter.

We recommend stopping at Red Deer and Calgary for an urban fix and Kootenay , Banff and Yoho National Parks for some stunning scenery.

🚗 150 km ⏱️ 1 hour, 50 minutes

This destination is a charming town on the bank of the Athabasca River. The Athabasca Riverfront is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, and the historic buildings provide a glimpse into the area's past.

On the way to the charming and friendly town of Athabasca, you can make a short detour to Cross Lake Provincial Park .

Yoho National Park

🚗 485 km ⏱️ 5 hours, 10 minutes

See the stunning Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, which is equally as scenic as Banff but much less crowded. This park is known for its high elevation scenery, with rugged peaks, ice walls, glaciers and wildlife.

On your way to Yoho National Park, enjoy otherworldly views of Columbia Icefield , Banff National Park and Lake Louise .

🚗 700 km ⏱️ 7 hours

Revelstoke is a mountain community with small-town hospitality - it has everything from high class dining and craft beer drinking, to adventure mountain sports, beautiful scenery and romantic charm.

As you drive from the city towards the Canadian Rockies past Red Deer and Calgary , you can also visit Banff , Yoho and Glacier National Parks .

Glacier National Park of Canada

🚗 605 km ⏱️ 6 hours

You will fall in love with the rugged beauty of Glacier National Park of Canada. Known for its historic Rogers Pass, the park offers challenging hikes, stunning vistas, and historic Canadian rail and alpine exploration.

Another stunningly scenic drive, Banff , Yoho , and Kootenay National Parks are only a few of the breathtaking landscapes you will enjoy en route.

🚗 890 km ⏱️ 9 hours, 30 minutes

Located in the heart of a fantastic wine region of Canada, Kelowna is home to plenty of vineyards to tour. A chance to escape the typical mountain settings of Canada, you can head to this lush wine valley.

Past Calgary, some of the amazing national parks you can visit on this drive to Kelowna are Banff , Yoho and Glacier National Parks .

🚗 810 km ⏱️ 8 hours, 30 minutes

Kamloops is a hub for outdoor sports and activities, featuring everything from hiking and biking to golf and water sports. It's also known for its popular seasonal festivals.

In addition to the incredible national parks en route, such as Banff National Park , make sure to add charming towns, such as Sicamous and Salmon Art , to your itinerary.

Giants of the Prairies Loop

🚗 530 km ⏱️ 6 hours, 10 minutes

This quirky road trip takes in some of the unique and random roadside attractions and giant statues across Alberta. It's a fun way to explore the lesser-travelled towns—you'll certainly get a few artsy Instagram pictures!

As you visit one giant, quirky culture after another, you can also spend some time at Elk Island National Park and the cute town of Vegreville .

Waterton Lakes National Park

🚗 550 km ⏱️ 5 hours, 20 minutes

Waterton Lakes National Park borders the US Glacier National Park and pulls its weight in terms of scenery, offering vistas of mountain peaks, colourful lakes and crashing waterfalls.

As you drive to the national park, you can visit cities like Red Deer and Calgary or enjoy the small-town charm of Nanton and Fort McLeod .

Elk Island National Park

🚗 50 km ⏱️ 35 minutes

Just a short drive from Edmonton, here you can see majestic elk and bison roaming, and explore a boreal forest (or “taiga”) within this fenced national park that features fantastic hiking trails.

This is a short drive, so we recommend extending your road trip to make a detour to visit Cooking Lake - Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area .

🚗 155 km ⏱️ 1 hour, 40 minutes

Red Deer is located along the scenic Red Deer River and offers quaint shopping, swimming holes, and parks to explore. Sylvan Lake nearby is a popular getaway where you can swim, boat, or fish.

If you'd like to spend more time on this otherwise relatively short drive, you can visit William F. Lede Park just outside Edmonton and Pigeon Lake Provincial Park .

Hard Luck Canyon

🚗 200 km ⏱️ 2 hours, 10 minutes

Visit Hard Luck Canyon near Whitecourt for a scenic adventure. The canyon features stunning geological formations and a series of waterfalls that provide a great backdrop for hiking and photography.

If you are not in a hurry to reach your destination, you can visit Wabamun Lake Provincial Park and Rotary Park Outdoor Waterpark en route.

Drumheller and Dinosaur Provincial Park

🚗 490 km ⏱️ 4 hours, 50 minutes

Located in Drumheller, make this a dinosaur-themed road trip and see rare, preserved dinosaur bone fossils and active paleontological dig sites at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On your way to Drumheller and Dinosaur Provincial Park, you can spend some time at Sylvan Lake and Red Deer and detour to Calgary .

🚗 70 km ⏱️ 1 hour

Visit Wetaskiwin to see a whole host of unique cultural centres and museums to learn about indigenous people. The town is located on Treaty 6 Territory and is rich in First Nations ancestral history and influence.

If you have time, stop at Millet & District Museum, Archives and Visitor Information Centre and learn more about the small towns of the area.

🚗 100 km ⏱️ 1 hour, 10 minutes

Discover Vegreville, home to the world's largest pysanka (Ukrainian Easter egg). This unique attraction symbolizes peace and cultural identity, nestled in a lively community with a rich Ukrainian heritage.

One stop you will not want to miss en route from Edmonton to Vegreville is the beautiful Elk Island National Park .

🚗 380 km ⏱️ 3 hours, 40 minutes

A drive to the charming small town of Nanton is a nostalgic journey through time. Explore its antique shops, the Bomber Command Museum of Canada, and other historic sites that offer a peek into the past.

Make sure to plan for stops in Red Deer and Calgary on your way to this pretty small town, and enjoy sightseeing and a meal en route.

Longer road trips from Edmonton

Yellowknife

🚗 1,450 km ⏱️ 15 hours, 10 minutes

Yellowknife is the capital of Canada's Northwest Territories, known as one of the best places to view the Northern Lights.

🚗 1,560 km ⏱️ 16 hours, 30 minutes

While in Seattle, make sure to visit the iconic Space Needle, the bustling Pike Place Market, and enjoy the city's vibrant music scene.

🚗 3,120 km ⏱️ 34 hours

Experience Alaska's rugged beauty and vast wilderness, where you can witness both the Northern Lights and the midnight sun.

14 Day Trips From Edmonton That You Didn’t Know Existed + themed itineraries

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: June 17, 2022  - Last updated: July 31, 2023

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You don’t need to use up your vacation days to find some of the best fun-filled spots in Alberta.

There are a ton of hidden gems and unique places to visit near Edmonton that are less than two hours from the city, which make for some budget-friendly travel ideas.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing, a couple’s getaway (maybe with your dog, too) or something fun to do with your besties for the day, escape the city and check out some of these ideas for day trips from Edmonton.

If you’re bored of the ‘Alberta’s Largest’ roadside attractions road trips, this list provides a new set of ideas for you to check out.

Take a peak and then visit my list of 40 of Alberta’s hidden gems and most unique things to do.

From waterfalls to breweries to historic towns to rural gems and outdoor adventures, take a mini road trip and choose your own adventure with these unique getaways from Edmonton.

If you can’t go very far from the city this summer, any of these trips would make for the perfect cheap vacation from Edmonton!

I’ve tested all of these day trips and certify that they’re unique, adventurous and showcase some of the best of Alberta!

And scroll to the end to catch the full YouTube video !

This post contains some affiliate links, I may make a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you click through and make a purchase. I only share information about places, products and services I know, love and trust.

14 Best Day Trips From Edmonton

1. waterfalls, breweries and distilleries.

Head west on Highway 43 for some different scenery other than the usual Highway 16.

Stop in Alberta Beach for some coffee, lunch or antique shopping, or a picnic by the water.

Continue on Highway 43 to Whitecourt and follow the signs for Hard Luck Canyon . It’s an easy 5-minute hike and then some stairs which take you down into the canyon bed and waterfall.

It’s a gorgeous spot to play in the water on a hot summer day.

Then, head south on Highway 32 for one of the nicest drives around Edmonton. This road is almost a copycat of the scenic David Thompson Highway (but with no cars).

Stop in at the Apex Predator Brewery just north of Edson.

It’s tucked away in the woodlands, but makes for a delightful patio experience (and you can bring your dog to this one).

For more bevvies, head over to Rocky Mountain Big Horn Distillery (only 15 minutes away) for some craft cocktails.

Make a weekend out of it and stay in a tiny house cabin in the middle of the woods nearby. This cabin is located in your own private, forested oasis. It’s close to some amazing trails, is dog-friendly and the perfect spot for a secluded, quiet weekend.

If you’re headed to Jasper , stopping at the waterfalls or the Apex brewery is a great way to break up the drive.

2. Babas, Bison and Big Burgers (or Caesars)!

This road trip from Edmonton takes you east of the city.

Take the Yellowhead Highway to the quaint town of Mundare, Alberta.

Along their adorably scenic main street you’ll find Baba’s Bistro. Stop in for authentic Ukrainian food – try homemade Borsch and a plate of perogies, sausage and cabbage rolls (it’s all made super fresh).

If you’re not that hungry, not to worry. Have a slice of pie or gigantic cinnamon bun and a cup of coffee.

Local art adorns each wall and antique furniture finishes off the charm of this bistro.

Down the street, you’ve got to stop by the world’s biggest sausage!

Then make your way to the town of Lamont and go hunting for treasures at the Elk Island Thrift Store.

Just south of Lamont is the north entrance to Elk Island National Park. Go for a scenic cruise and see if you can spot some bison!

The bison roam wild throughout the park, and sometimes they’ll come right up to your car!

If you need to work off some lunch, there are a variety of hiking and walking trails throughout the park.

When you’re ready for a big meal to finish the day, it’s time to head to the Unwind Bar & Grill in Andrew, Alberta – home of the revved up drinks!

Order the Caesars that comes with a burger, poutine, mac ‘n cheese bites and fried pickles ON TOP of the burger!

I order the one that comes with a bit of everything – dry ribs, cactus cut potatoes, jalapeno poppers, fried pickles, onion rings and who knows what else was on there!

The staff and locals are super friendly, and if you find yourself wanting to do this day trip on a Sunday, make Andrew your first stop. They serve a breakfast buffet and bottomless mimosas for $15!

3. Botanical Garden Tour

How about a road trip to stroll through gorgeous flower gardens?

Stop by the St. Albert Botanic Park , and wander through the adorable cottage gardens for some of the most picture perfect photography spots near Edmonton.

Then, continue west along Highway 43 for another 45 minutes until you reach the George Pegg Botanic Gardens, a spectacular peaceful spot in rural Alberta.

There are a couple historic farmhouses, flower gardens, interpretive signage and a tranquil boardwalk through the trees.

Round out your floral day trip from Edmonton with a visit to the University of Alberta Botanic Garden, just north of Devon.

And if you time it right, you can visit on an evening where you can reserve a picnic in the garden during evening twilight hours.

Be sure to book in advance because this is popular!

4. Wine Spa & Unique Goodies in Red Deer

This one is perfect for a girls getaway or even a fun way to celebrate a low-key bachelorette party.

Make reservations at the Solorzano Spa, Café and Wine Bar . This day spa is located within a cozy historic home built in 1906 and has kept all of its vintage charm.

Upon entering, you’re swept away to a Victorian past, among the original brick and woodwork and collection of vintage decor and antiques.

I recommend booking a vino therapy treatment! Try something like the vino pedicure.

Enjoy 90 minutes of heaven while your feet soak in a tub of merlot and includes a special cabernet scrub and a Grenache spray.

After your treatments, enjoy light snack and a glass of wine in the tea room or on the garden patio.

Then head to Sweet Capone’s for a sweet treat – the best Italian cannoli!

Not only are these pastries to die for (there’s usually dozens of flavours to choose from), the inside of the cafe is eclectic and adorable.

If you want to get outdoors in between the spa and Sweet Capone’s (or afterwards), Red Deer has an abundance of parks and trails to explore.

Visit the Bower Ponds and enjoy the scenic trails, have a picnic with your goodies from the bakery or even rent a paddle boat and get out on the water.

Make this a weekend trip from Edmonton by booking this gorgeous newly renovated home in the heart of the city, close to trails and parks.

5. Trains, T-Rexes and Treats (best for kid-friendly)

This unique day trip north of Edmonton includes trains, dinosaurs and an adventure farm.

On this adventure, you’ll find some of the best kid-friendly places to visit near Edmonton.

Start your day with a stop at the Alberta Railway Museu m where you can witness one of the only few remaining steam locomotives in Canada that still operates.

Continue your road trip by heading north to the Jurassic Forest .

Here, you can explore 40 acres of trails that pass by life size animatronic dinosaurs in the bushes.

Plan to spend 1.5 to 2.5 hours here! You can also bring a packed lunch and enjoy a picnic onsite.

There’s also dinosaur themed mini golf, a playground and a sandbox where kids can dig for dino bones and fossils.

If you have time, the Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm where they have a u-pick, petting zoo animals and fun outdoor farm games for the little kids.

This place is extra special in the fall though, with all the pumpkins and harvest colours and decor.

Or you can head into Fort Saskatchewan and go straight to Miller’s Ice Cream.

It’s located inside an old train station and at the start of a beautiful municipal park where you can stroll around and enjoy the sunshine.

Read Next: Why Agritourism Should Be Part of Your Next Weekend Getaway in Alberta

6. Central Alberta Craft Breweries

For the bigger kids, one of my favorite day trips from Edmonton with a dog is to visit some rural Alberta breweries and their patios!

Of course, you can still visit without your furry friend, but these ones are dog friendly.

Head south to Rimbey (about 1.5 hours) to visit Hawk Tail Brewery. The views from the patio are picturesque as you overlook the farmer fields across the highway.

Travel tip – the last couple weeks of July is when the canola fields pop their gorgeous golden colour.

Then head to Sylvan Lake to visit Snake Lake Brewery. It’s not located on the lakeshore, but the patio is big and the beers are crushable!

From here, you can head into Red Deer and start to make your way back north. We loved Sawback Brewing and Troubled Monk.

Make one more stop in Lacombe at Blindman Brewing which always has a ton of unique beers on tap, and they’ve got a great big patio area complete with couches.

Make this into a weekend trip from Edmonton and spend some time at Gull Lake.

It’s got a massive beach and is perfect for swimming or catching some rays.

You can book this cozy guest house for the perfect weekend getaway from Edmonton.

Not into beer? Follow this wine & wellness road trip from Edmonton (itinerary here)

7. Historic Lacombe and Rural Attractions

Lacombe is less than 1.5 hours from Edmonton, and has one of the most picturesque historic downtowns in the province.

Most notably is the flatiron building which is the oldest in Alberta and now home to the visitor centre.

Go boutique shopping, take a walking tour of all the murals and be sure to end your day with dinner at Cilantro and Chive .

P.S. don’t miss the Sweet Capone’s Bakery for their famous cannoli or another sweet treat.

If you want to spend a whole day in the area, spend some time at the rural attractions nearby.

Ellis Bird Farm deserves a visit, where you can stroll through the trails, butterfly gardens and ponds, admire the large collection of bird houses and enjoy a coffee or snack at the tea house.

For a little more adventure-paced, head to Kraay Family Farm for a corn maze, mini golf, farm animals, tractor train rides, a mini zipline and over 30 more activities for the kids.

Tip – take a look at these other ideas in this local guidebook titled Best Day Trips from Edmonton .

8. Hiking and History East of Edmonton

For a couple places that aren’t too far from Edmonton but feel like a world away, head east for about 45 minutes.

Start at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village , an outdoor living museum that tells the important history of the Ukrainian settlers to this area from the late 1800s to the 1930s.

All the buildings in this establishment are real houses, businesses and churches that were donated and moved to the museum to be restored for visitors to enjoy.

Fuel up with some Ukrainian food at the restaurant and then work it off with a hike at Elk Island National Park, only a few minutes away.

If you visit at dusk you’ll have a better chance to see bison and other wildlife! And if it’s going to be a clear night, stay for the star gazing.

Read More About 8 Scenic Hikes Near Edmonton

9. The Village at Pigeon Lake

Only an hour south of Edmonton is a cute tourist destination known as the Village at Pigeon Lake.

All the buildings remind you of cape cod style architecture and the community has a cute little park in the middle of the shops.

There’s a great antique store, a couple of boutique shops, great ice cream and a couple restaurants.

The lake is 5 minutes away if you want to check out the beach, have a picnic by the water and then go play mini golf at Blackstone.

You could even stay overnight at the Village Creek Country Inn , which made the list for the top romantic getaways in Alberta .

10. The Dreamcatcher Association

Spend a morning or afternoon outside at the ranch feeding horses, donkeys, goats and chickens.

This organization’s main mandate is providing nature-assisted therapy, but they’ve recently added public programming called Time on the Land for those that just need to get out of the house and spend some time with the animals.

The ranch is located near Ardrossan, about 30 minutes east of Edmonton.

If you want to continue your day outside, a little further east is the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Outdoor Recreation Area with lots of hiking trails.

11. Wine Tastings and Historic Camrose

Make your way east for some wine tasting, historic main streets and sweets.

Your first stop is at Barr Estate Winery, just off of Highway 14, only 20 minutes from the city.

This rustic-chic farm is a picturesque setting for a fruit winery. Stop in for a tour and tasting, where you’ll sample both whites and reds made from rhubarb and raspberries.

Continue east of Edmonton toward New Sarepta, home to Alberta’s newest mead winery – Old Station Honey and Mead .

Tastings are conducted in an old renovated fire hall – you’ll love the story of how this winery came about.

Once you’re ready for some more country scenery, make your way to the historic community of Camrose.

Downtown Camrose has one of the best main streets in all of Alberta.

Enjoy some boutique shopping or stop in at one of the many bakeries for some sugary sustenance. The Sweeterie is my favorite.

If you prefer to stroll through some parks, Mirror Lake is stunning in the summer time, where you can watch Trumpeter Swans glide through the water.

If it’s hot out, the local ice cream shack at Mirror Lake is the best way to beat the heat.

And if you’re able to stay in town for dinner, Hart House offers a fine dining experience among a casual gastropub vibe, inside a heritage home!

Try the locally sourced menu items like buffalo or walleye – but the wine selection and charcuterie boards are always a hit.

12. Country Delights and Flower Farms

On this day trip you’ll discover donuts, antique shopping, a flower farm and maybe more wine or a brewery!

Start this one early! Head southwest to the hamlet of Calmar, and go straight to the Calmar Bakery.

They sell out early so you don’t want to miss out. Just read the reviews – many of them say they’re the best in Canada!

If you like antique shopping, you’ll love strolling through treasures to be found across the street at the aptly named, Yesterday’s Treasures.

Not far from here, you can visit Bio-Way Gardens, which has a mini-farmer’s market and a tea house on site!

Continue onwards to Sunnybrook to visit a flower farm – Farm Fresh Florals, where you can u-pick your own flower bouquet!

Don’t miss shopping at the Silo Farm Store (onsite at the flower farm), which has locally made goods and vintage and antique home decor.

If you’re feeling thirsty or peckish on your way back to Edmonton, make a stop in the Village of Pigeon Lake at Familia Brewing, just opened in 2022.

13. A Vintage Adventure

This trip takes you south through a small town to the Reynolds Alberta Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of agricultural, industrial, mechanical and aviation artifacts and technologies of the past.

Make your way south to Highway 2A to the town of Millet. Stop in at the Old Bank Café, located in – you guessed it – an old bank building!

This cafe, bakery and bistro has kept the vintage charm of its early years and now serves the perfect cup of coffee, breakfast plates and light lunches.

If you’re a fan of fancy breakfasts, try the brioche French toast stuffed with cheesecake filling!

Then only 15 minutes down Highway 2A, you’ll arrive at the Reynolds Alberta Museum.

If you’ve never been here before, or if it’s been years since your last visit, you’ll be so impressed by the every growing collection of restored vintage cars and farm equipment that was used all over Alberta.

The aviation portion of the museum has plenty of activities for kids, and you can even take part in a behind the scenes ‘white glove’ warehouse tour.

There are often events happening all summer long, so check the website for more info!

14. Country Cafes and Confections: Rural Foodie Tour

Start off at Cherry Lane Café (also a bed & breakfast). This quaint country setting is aptly named and looks like you’re entering a scene from the Notebook.

Dine in the vintage-inspired café, where you can choose from gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.

I had to try the Albertan – layered brisket, bacon, cheddar, mozzarella and caramelized onions – I’m still dreaming about this 2 weeks later

And make sure you save room for the decadent salted caramel, 4-layer chocolate cake.

Our next stop was Stettler – known as the heart of Alberta. I’m a sucker for small town mainstreets, and Stettler fits the bill.

Our main mission though was to pay a visit to Bloke’s Bakery , a Stettler staple.

Here we found classic donuts – you won’t find crumbled potato chips or unicorn parts on top of these to mask the bland dough.

Just the opposite – soft, fresh, gooey and just sweet enough – one might say the perfect donut. If you can’t bring yourself to buy half a dozen, the cream johns are their signature treat. 

We continued south on Highway 56, passing through Big Valley , a charming village with an aesthetic grain elevator and little blue church on the hilltop.

A great place for photography, picnic and a road trip pit stop.

The Jimmy Jock Boardwalk is perfectly quirky and offers fudge, pie and ice cream if you haven’t had enough sugar yet. 

Finally, after descending into the Alberta badlands landscape, we arrive at DNA Gardens which has everything you could want in a country getaway – a farm store, café, trail walks, greenhouses, the friendliest and most hospitable staff and a winery!

We’re not ones to shy from a beverage or two, so we were delighted to partake in a wine tasting.

Alberta has a budding wine industry, and the fruit wine grown here, from the onsite Delidais Estate Winery is an exceptional showcase of our province’s bountiful produce.

We sampled 8 wines, ranging from cherry, rhubarb, black currant and Saskatoon berries.

Unexpectedly, this fruit wine was dry and crisp, on par with something you’d find along the Naramata Bench in the Okanagan Valley. We left with too many bottles to mention.

This is a full day trip or you could make a weekend out of it! Stay overnight at Cherry Lane B&B, or the Phoenix House B&B , a lovely heritage home in Stettler. 

Here’s a YouTube video of us exploring the best day trips from Edmonton!

I hope you enjoy your time discovering more of Alberta – don’t forget to pack your road trip essentials for a smooth ride.

If you liked these ideas, be sure to subscribe to be notified for new posts. Stay tuned – I’ll be updating this list with more ideas as I travel around Alberta!

Looking for More Alberta Ideas? You Might Like These Posts:

• 8 Warmest Lakes in Alberta for Swimming (no leeches or swimmer’s itch)
• You Can Go on a Wine & Wellness Road Trip Through Alberta This Summer: Here’s the Itinerary
• 13 Unique Calgary Day Trips (fresh ideas + mini itineraries)
• 35 Unique Things to Do in Alberta (+hidden gems and secret spots)
• 6 Iconic and Unique Alberta Road Trips
• 23 Best Things to do in and Around Drumheller
• 27 Things to Do in Alberta That Are Bucket List Worthy

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Go East of Edmonton and Play the Amazing Roadtrip Adventure Game This Summer!

By calgary events | june 8, 2023.

We love summer and we love roadtrip adventures! Day trips or camping trips, weekends or long summer weeks, exploring our beautiful province never gets old. This summer, you can make it even more fun AND have a chance to win prizes from fuel and food to attraction passes and cash. Go East of Edmonton and play the amazing Roadtrip Adventure Game !

Go East of Edmonton is a tourist information resource for roadtrips and itineraries to enjoy. With ideas to send you down new roads or to reconsider old favourites, they can help your family make magical memories this summer — and the Roadtrip Adventure Game might help you WIN, making roadtrips even sweeter!

The Roadtrip Adventure Game encourages families to head out and explore. This all-new game features 43 sticker stations to play and win across the East of Edmonton region and 10 different prize categories. It’s easier to play and easier to win than ever before, with over $6000 in prizes to be won!

The game runs from June 1 to September 3, 2023. You can see the Travel Guide on the website or pick up a paper copy at over 100 different locations in Calgary. It’s a one-of-a-kind magazine with over 150 pages describing everything to see and do across the region. The inside front cover has a map of the region and the inside back cover includes the Roadtrip Adventure Game with the rules, how to play, and the gameboard.

How to Play

1. Sign up online for any changes and updates and to be eligible for bonus prizes.

2. Plan a fun roadtrip with your family using the Travel Guide or the website. Go Northeast, Go East, or Go Southeast of Edmonton!

3. You and your kids can collect FREE Icon Stickers at the Sticker Stations in 43 Communities. You must present your Gameboard at the Sticker Stations to collect your sticker.

4. Scan the QR code at every station for bonus prizes and to get local deals, places to eat and shop, and find great things to do!

5. You have until September 10, 2023, to upload your Gameboards and enter for the prizes.

6. But, don’t delay your entries! Each month there will be Bonus Prizes for people who have already entered Gameboards.

And that’s all you need! Gas up the car, pack up the kids, and turn up the music. Don’t forget snacks and your travel guide. It’s time for a Roadtrip Adventure Game with Go East of Edmonton !

Go East of Edmonton Roadtrip Adventure Game:

When: June 1 – September 3, 2023 Where: Alberta road trips East of Edmonton ( See map ) Website:   www.goeastofedmonton.com

Categories: Day Trips , Special Offers , Sponsored Tags: June , September , Sponsored

Calgary Events

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11 FUN and Unique Day Trips from Edmonton (for 2024)

Disclaimer: this page may contain affiliate links. please review our full terms and conditions for more information and our privacy policy. note that any pricing, operating hours, or other such information provided below may have changed since initial publication..

Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Last updated on January 23, 2024

While Alberta’s capital city has plenty to offer on its own, if you want to escape the bustle of the city for a day during your trip, there are many options to choose from. Day trips from Edmonton can include bison-spotting, exploring a cultural heritage village, or strolling on a beach! Those activities (and much more) are all possible.

So pack up early from your Edmonton hotel and hit the road for a unique experience in the areas surrounding the city.

Ideas for Day Trips from Edmonton

A ukrainian tour including the ukrainian cultural heritage village.

With hundreds of thousands of people claiming Ukrainian heritage in the province, Ukrainian immigration has played a huge role in shaping Alberta’s cultural identity. Explore that side of Alberta’s culture with a day trip to the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, a living museum found approximately 45 minutes east of Edmonton. There, you can walk through more than 40 authentic homes and buildings restored to their original early 20th-century appearances, or visit the main museum to learn about Ukrainian history through exhibits and galleries. The Ukrainian Cultural Village is open from June to September – Wednesday to Sunday and visitors should plan for two or three hours to tour the museum and see all the buildings.

But the Ukrainian tour doesn’t have to stop there! Other notable Edmonton day trips for a Ukrainian experience include a visit to the Glendon Pyrogy (the world’s largest pierogi sculpture), the Vegreville Pysanka (a giant Ukrainian-style Easter egg), and a taste of the world-famous Mundare sausage (found at Stawnichy’s Mundare Sausage).

Elk Island National Park

Found only a half-hour drive east of Edmonton , Elk Island National Park is one of our favourite day trips from Edmonton. Perfect for families, the park focuses on the conservation of the Plains bison. A refuge for bison, elk, and more than 250 types of birds, the park is excellent for wildlife viewing, stargazing, picnicking, cycling, and even camping. It’s also a fantastic spot for viewing northern lights in Alberta so be sure to check the forecast.

Hikers will love the 80 kilometres of trails to explore , while kids will absolutely love witnessing a “bison traffic jam” – a herd of bison crossing the street – all from the safety of your vehicle. If you’re looking for a reprieve from city life, Elk Island National Park might just be it.

Anthropological History in Alberta

With such rich and diverse anthropological history in Alberta, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly the best day trips from Edmonton to experience it for yourself. The Historic Markerville Creamery Museum, approximately two hours south of Edmonton, is a terrific place to start.

Head to this traditionally Icelandic community where you’ll see the original building and learn about butter production in the early 20th century. Just make sure to enjoy an ice cream afterward! You can also visit nearby Stephansson House , once the home of Icelandic poet Stephan G. Stephansson. Often called the “Poet of the Rocky Mountains” this farmer by day, poet by night was inspired by the natural beauty of Alberta.

If you’re interested in the Indigenous history in Alberta and don’t mind a slightly longer road trip, head south of Edmonton to Sundre. Here you’ll find guided tours through the Mahikan Trails , where you can learn about the significance of the nature that surrounds you.

You can also head to the Painted Warriors Indigenous Outdoor Experience, a place to experience the traditional and present-day lifestyle, skills, and activities of the Saulteaux and Cree peoples of Alberta. (This is one of many exceptional Indigenous experiences in Alberta .)

Sylvan Lake

We shouldn’t play favourites, but one of our top picks for day trips from Edmonton has to be Sylvan Lake. Less than a couple of hours from Edmonton (south), this town has it all: superb shopping and great restaurants in Sylvan Lake , gorgeous views over the water, and plenty to do.

In summer, spend your day on the lake in a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, while in winter, take advantage of the local rentals of snowshoes and ice-fishing shacks. With a golf course, farmer’s market, and aquatic playground on the lake, it’s almost guaranteed there’s something for everyone in Sylvan Lake.

Nearby, you’ll also find Sylvan Lake Provincial Park , where you’ll find fantastic walking and hiking trails, a beach, and picnic spots (though be warned, the beach gets busy on the weekend!). All in all, a visit to Sylvan Lake is worth the road trip. For more info, check out our article on all the fun things to do in Sylvan Lake .

About an hour and a half south of the city, Lacombe is an amazing choice when it comes to day trips from Edmonton. A walk through Lacombe may feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, especially when you head to the Blacksmith Shop Museum or Michener House Museum, or if you sample some of the farm-to-table cuisines served at local restaurants and the farmer’s market.

A real highlight of a trip to Lacombe is a visit to the Kraay Family Farm ; in summer, the farm is home to a giant corn maze, tractor pull, petting zoo, mini-golf, obstacle courses, and so much more, making it an amazing place to take children.

Lacombe is also the site of Alberta’s first provincial park: the Aspen Beach Provincial Park . Gull Lake continues to be a popular vacation spot within the park; head here for a day on the beach, where you’ll find a boat launch, picnic tables, fire pits, and a play area for the kids.

Just south of the city, a visit to Leduc is one of the best things to do near Edmonton. Leduc’s Main Street alone could keep you busy for a day… think bakeries, a craft brewery, and restaurants serving cuisine that represents the diverse immigrant history in Canada. Shopaholics will love the range of local boutiques, selling everything from vintage clothing to sustainable bath products to Canadian-made housewares, while nature enthusiasts will enjoy the scenery, wildlife, and water activities available at Telford Lake.

A city that prides itself on its artistic inclinations, expect to see a lot of musical instruments around town, too; xylophones, drum sets, and sound tubes are installed all over the city to encourage people to play, have fun, and make some art of their own. We’d say that this makes a day trip to Leduc perfect for kids, but let’s face it, adults will find the instruments just as fun!

Coming from the Cree word wītaskiwinihk , meaning “the hills where peace was made”, Wetaskiwin is a small city about an hour’s drive south of Edmonton. History buffs will love exploring the community, as it’s home to Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame, the Wetaskiwin District Heritage Museum Centre, and the Reynolds-Alberta Museum, where you’ll find an outstanding collection of antique planes and automobiles.

Nearby, you’ll also find the Alberta Central Railway Museum, a charming railway museum featuring the history of the rail and grain industries in Central Alberta and their impact on Canada as a whole.

But there’s more than just museums – there are lots of fun things to do in Wetaskiwin . Spend some time in the local cafés and coffee shops, go for a walk in By-the-Lake Park, shop at Wild West Gallery for Indigenous art and jewelry, and head to the water tower in town, one of the oldest in Canada.

Jurassic Forest

Perfect for a fun day trip with the kids, you’ll find Jurassic Forest about 40 minutes north of Edmonton. This 40-acre prehistoric reserve is home to a beautiful boreal forest and, most excitingly, dozens of animatronic dinosaurs that can be seen from wooden trails (wheelchair and stroller friendly).

Known as THE spot to learn about dinosaurs in Canada, Alberta naturally has plenty of opportunities to study extinct animals, and Jurassic Forest is no exception. It’s quite the thrill to walk through the forest and see what life may have been like for these Jurassic creatures! Both educational and entertaining, this is one of our favourite day trips from Edmonton and you can spend hours exploring one of the best interactive experiences in all of Western Canada.

University of Alberta Botanic Gardens

The University of Alberta Edmonton Botanical Gardens is Alberta’s largest botanic garden, and it’s certainly worth taking the time to explore. Found a short distance west of Edmonton, the 97 hectares are filled with botanical beauty representing the best of Alberta and around the world. Spend several hours or a whole day in nature as you picnic, walk along the trails, and take in one of the many exhibits or specialty gardens, including the Kurimoto Japanese Garden, the Indigenous Garden, and the Aga Khan Garden. Book a twilight picnic experience in June or July to celebrate a special occasion, or take advantage of one of the many events that take place all summer.

In the colder months, head to the University of Alberta Botanic Garden to participate in Luminaria, where all of the trails become illuminated with lights and candles to create a magical winter wonderland.

UFO Landing Pad

A UFO Landing Pad? In Alberta? That’s right, about two hours east of Edmonton you’ll find this quirky landmark in the town of St. Paul. Perhaps one of the most fun and unusual Edmonton day trips, the landing pad was proposed and approved in 1967. Although it’s yet to be used… one never knows when it might come in handy!

While you’re not on the search for Martians, explore the town, play a round of golf at the St. Paul Golf Course, or wander through one of the local museums.

Hiking in Athabasca

Don’t be fooled into thinking that all the best hiking in Alberta is done in the Rockies. There are great hiking day trips from Edmonton, too! Your best bet is to head north of Edmonton to the Athabasca region , where you’ll find plenty of hiking trails with beautiful views over Central Alberta, including Poacher’s Landing, Peace River Trail, Muskeg Creek Trail, and the Athabasca Landing Trail. Many of the trails are also used as biking trails in summer, while snowmobilers will love the region in winter.

Most trails include interpretive signage to explain the history of the region and the wildlife you may spot along the way. Pack a picnic, enjoy the fresh air, and spend a few hours in nature to relax and rejuvenate.

Want More Edmonton Information?

Have we inspired you to take one of these day trips from Edmonton? If you’re looking for more, check out the best things to do in Edmonton including the our picks for the best Edmonton museums and best Edmonton craft breweries .

Or if you’re looking for a light bite and java fix before heading out of the city, don’t miss our guide to the best Edmonton cafes and coffee shops.

Safe travels!

Pete is a co-founder of Road Trip Alberta. Growing up in Edmonton he has an extensive knowledge of Alberta and everything the province has to offer. He loves to eat good food, hike (especially in the winter), play tennis and curl. Apart from running Road Trip Alberta, he is a director with HMI, a digital media agency, half of the Hecktic Travels duo, and a co-creator of the popular card game Trip Chaser.

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2024 Edmonton debut of e-scooters waiting on city review

At this time last year, e-scooters had been patrolling Edmonton streets for almost a month.

This year, they have yet to make their debut — and likely won't until the end of this month.

Jenny Albers, Edmonton's general supervisor of planning and permitting, told media on Thursday the city and prospective vendors are "in the final stages of a request for proposal" and hopes to soon announce which companies will supply shared e-scooters and e-bikes, with the "micromobility" vehicles "hopefully on streets by the end of May."

Last year, Bird Canada and Lime operated e-scooters and e-bikes in Edmonton in the final year of a two-year permit program, with Bird deploying 750 e-scooters and 250 e-bikes on city pathways, Lime about 1,500 such vehicles.

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According to a city operations report presented Thursday to city council's urban planning committee, administration is updating the city's e-scooter program "based on the results of a program review, jurisdictional scan and public engagement," adding it will "provide more consistent service across the city and improve supplier compliance."

The report also said e-scooter trips increased 124 per cent from 2022, e-bike trips went up six per cent, and total trip kilometres increased by 98 per cent.

It says new program features will include parking locations, no-parking zones, slow zones and no-ride zones.

Albers said the city will continue to expand parking corrals and add no-parking zones in places it doesn't want them parked.

Committee member Karen Teng, the councillor for Ward Karhiio, said some of the changes to the e-scooter program the city wants to see includes "elevating" expectations for safety and accessibility.

"We have invested heavily in active transportation to meet our goals for shifting our modes of transportation to achieve our livability, our climate goals, etc.," Teng told media.

"This is about creating more alternative modes of transportation on the road. It's creating more options for people to get around our city. The report has some impressive numbers on the growth of usage.

"It means Edmontonians are very open to it. They're using it. People are excited about it. We're hearing lots of commentary about why (e-scooters are) not on the road already, so there's an eagerness."

With files from CTV News Edmonton's Jeremy Thompson 

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Oilers can knock Kings out of playoffs again. Stars-Knights tied going into Game 5 after 4 road wins

Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner, left, makes a glove save as Los Angeles Kings center Phillip Danault watches during the first period in Game 4 of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup first-round playoff series Sunday, April 28, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Edmonton Oilers’ Mattias Ekholm (14), Evan Bouchard (2) and Zach Hyman (18) celebrate after a goal against the Los Angeles Kings during the first period of Game 1 in first-round NHL Stanley Cup playoff hockey action in Edmonton, Alberta, Monday, April 22, 2024. (Jason Franson/The Canadian Press via AP)

FILE - Dallas Stars’ head coach Pete DeBoer, center, shouts instructions to his players against the Winnipeg Jets during the third period of an NHL hockey match in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023. The Stars are heading toward the NHL playoffs with the league’s most balanced scoring team. (Fred Greenslade/The Canadian Press via AP, File)

Edmonton Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch looks at the overhead scoreboard during the first period of the team’s NHL hockey game against the Colorado Avalanche on Thursday, April 18, 2024, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid, left, battles with Los Angeles Kings center Anze Kopitar, right, and defenseman Mikey Anderson during the third period in Game 4 of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup first-round playoff series Sunday, April 28, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Dallas Stars center Roope Hintz (24), goaltender Jake Oettinger (29), and center Matt Duchene (95) celebrate after Hintz’s empty net goal during the third period against the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 4 of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup first-round playoff series Monday, April 29, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Ian Maule)

Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Brayden McNabb (3) skates past Dallas Stars center Wyatt Johnston (53) during the third period in Game 4 of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup first-round playoff series Monday, April 29, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Ian Maule)

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The Edmonton Oilers have won in these NHL playoffs with a couple of big-scoring games.

They got their latest victory when limited to 13 shots on net and with only one of those going in for a goal.

The versatile Oilers , who scored a combined 13 goals in the first two wins of their series against the Los Angeles Kings, are now back home Wednesday night with a chance to advance to the second round. Edmonton will take a fourth win in the best-of-seven series any way it can get it.

“Having in our portfolio that we can play a lot of different games is going to be huge here coming down the stretch,” Oilers defenseman Mattias Ekholm said. “These games, we’re not afraid of them.”

After an extra day off since that 1-0 win on Sunday night for a 3-1 series lead, the Oilers will try to eliminate the Pacific Division rival Kings in the first round for the third year in a row when they play Game 5. Los Angeles has dropped its past four playoff series since being Stanley Cup champions 10 years ago.

The only other NHL game Wednesday night is Game 5 in Dallas, with the Stars and reigning Stanley Cup champion Vegas Golden Knights tied 2-2. The road team has won every game in that series , with the Stars winning 4-2 on Monday night to sweep both games in Vegas after the Western Conference’s No. 1 seed lost twice at home last week.

“You look at the four games, I don’t think we’ve played a poor game yet,” Stars coach Pete DeBoer said. “I thought the first two games in Dallas, (the Knights) were opportunistic in different situations. I loved Game 3, and for Game 4, you’re going to see their best, and I thought we were good considering the situation. So I’m excited about our group getting home.”

GOLDEN KNIGHTS at STARS, Series tied 2-2, 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN)

This is now a best-of-three series, with the Dallas Stars having home-ice advantage — if that really is an advantage in this series.

After clinching the Western Conference Final in Game 6 last year in Dallas, Vegas won the first two games in this series there . The Knights are comfortable in American Airlines Center, where they also won their only two regular-season games before Christmas.

“Each team’s probably had their way in one of these games,” Vegas coach Bruce Cassidy said. “But in general, here we are tied 2-2, all close games. So we have to be the team that makes the right plays the next game like we did there the last trip.”

The Stars have played the past three games without forwards Mason Marchment and Radek Faska after both left with undisclosed injuries in the third period of the series opener. They have been without big-bodied defender Jani Hakanpää since mid-March because of a lower-body injury.

Ty Dellandrea, a healthy scratch for the Stars their past two games at home, scored the game-winning goal in Game 4. He also didn’t play in the first two games of the West final against Vegas last year before scoring twice in the third period of Game 5 then after that game was tied.

“It’s two really good teams going at it,” Dellandra said about this series. ”We’ve kept going back and forth. It’s playoff hockey and it’s exciting.”

KINGS at OILERS, Edmonton leads 3-1, 10 p.m. ET (ESPN)

While enough to win, Edmonton’s 13 shots in Game 4 tied a franchise record for their fewest in a playoff game.

The Kings have never allowed fewer in the playoffs, and that gives them some confidence.

“We’re facing elimination. Last game was a pretty good indicator of what we need to do. We need to play in their zone and put them on their heels, be a lot hungrier around the net,” Kings captain Anze Kopitar said. “We just have to go and play our game. It’s win or go home, play desperate, with emotion and discipline and go from there.”

Special teams have been the difference in this series, and the only goal in Game 4 came on the Oilers’ lone chance with a man advantage. That was their eighth power-play goal, while Los Angeles is the only team in the postseason without one at 0 of 11.

Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner has stopped 51 consecutive shots, including that 33-save Sunday for his first career playoff shutout.

Los Angeles interim coach Jim Hiller did not say who would start in net on Wednesday. David Rittich got the start in Game 4 and made 12 saves after Cam Talbot had a 5.31 goals-against average and .891 save percentage in the first three games.

AP Sports Writers Mark Anderson in Las Vegas and Joe Reedy in Los Angeles, and The Canadian Press contributed to this story.

AP NHL playoffs: https://apnews.com/hub/stanley-cup and https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

‘Finding Rams’: One year behind the scenes of the NFL Draft scouting process, Part I

HERMOSA BEACH, Calif. — On the opening night of the 2024 NFL Draft, the Los Angeles Rams decided to wait eight of their allotted 10 minutes on the clock before submitting their selection to the league.

It had been eight years since the franchise’s previous first-round pick. Eight minutes felt symbolic.

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L.A. would take Florida State outside linebacker Jared Verse at No. 19. And for every selection, there’s a phone call from the general manager.

“Hey, Jared, this is Les Snead, Los Angeles Rams …”

Snead’s call is a beginning and an end. Months spent by the scouts on research, evaluation, discussions and debate are over. Whether a player succeeds or fails now depends on a number of variables, some that will come to reflect upon the scouting process and some that are out of evaluators’ hands entirely.

Jared Verse is the first Rams’ first-round draft pick since they selected Jared Goff No. 1 overall in 2016. (Eric Thayer / AP Photo)

And less than two hours after this year’s draft ended, Rams scouts had a list of 2025 prospects emailed to them, the onset of their process all over again.

Over the last 10 months, The Athletic was granted access inside the team’s scouting and draft operation — from shadowing scouts on school visits and all-star events to sitting in on the internal meetings that shaped the team’s draft board and attending the beachside mansion where they held their draft. Some details do not include identifiers to protect the competitive nature of the process.

They call it “finding Rams.”

During his first interview with The Athletic, Rams senior personnel executive Taylor Morton looked out the back window of his Florida home and realized he had to set the phone down for a moment. “Call you right back,” he said in a relaxed drawl. “There’s an alligator in my backyard.”

Scout enough years and nothing rattles a person.

Morton met Snead almost 25 years ago at Auburn. They’ve stuck together since, launching their pro careers in the Atlanta Falcons’ personnel department, where they bonded more closely via the trials of lives spent on the road.

One year, on a scouting trip in the Southeast, their car blew a tire on the highway. Neither could figure out how to attach the spare. Sweating, furious and past due for their appointment, Snead grabbed the intact tire and heaved it into a thicket of brush next to the road. They laugh about it now, and when the two reminisce, people have a hard time telling their voices apart.

Morton joined Snead again in St. Louis when Snead became GM of the Rams in 2012, before the team moved back to L.A. in 2016. He is one of six evaluators with the “senior personnel executive” title who are known informally as “over-the-top” scouts (OTT). Each region of the country also has an “area” scout who builds profiles and evaluations of the players over multiple years, flying under the radar at games, practices and pro days.

From May to July, the scouting staff puts together an initial list of about 200 prospects for OTT scouts to “cross-check” from September through November — about 20 per week — to supplement the work of the area scouts. Other players are added as the process continues.

Left to right: Ray Farmer (Rams senior personnel executive), Les Snead (Ram GM), Taylor Morton (Rams senior personnel executive), Matt Berry ( Seahawks senior director of player personnel) in Atlanta in 2002. (Courtesy of Taylor Morton) 

The two groups of scouts, plus analysts and consultants, make up a staff of 25. Many have been together for a decade or longer, and the continuity has led to a shared language that helps move them through evaluations and in and out of debates.

The Rams allow their scouts to live in their respective evaluation areas. Snead, Morton and director of scouting James Gladstone believe the literal distance between them for most of the year discourages “groupthink”; Morton also believes remote work increases productivity and generally sticks to the Southeast for any in-person college visits during his cross-checks.

He has done this for a quarter-century and knows that each school merits a different approach. The evening before his visit to a Division I program in early September, Morton connected with the area scout to refresh his information about the two players he wanted to get a closer look at. The area scout also flagged a few others who might eventually make the Rams’ list.

The day started in the early morning hours at the pastry window of a local Starbucks. Morton ordered a bag full of assorted baked goods to be presented to the assistant at the front desk of the program’s coaching offices. Years ago, before college film was widely available to watch on personal computers, these pastries probably would have gotten Morton first dibs on the remote in the school’s film room — the other NFL scouts in attendance would have had to defer to how he wanted to watch tape.

Now, the pastries are both a small gesture of kindness — Morton remembers certain favorites — and a signal: when they are set out at the desk, sources in the building know to find him and give him a tidbit or two about one of the players he’s evaluating.

“They don’t have to accommodate us,” Morton said. “Our business is all about relationships.”

Some schools are finicky about the level of access provided to scouts, whether from paranoia about information-sharing or simply because they want players focused on the season ahead. But this particular program allowed Morton a full-access visit, including a practice viewing, alongside a handful of other scouts.

Most college football programs have a pro liaison who is authorized to discuss draft-eligible players with visiting scouts. Scouts keep almost as many notes on that liaison and the amount and quality of information provided as they do on prospects themselves. The liaison set Morton up in a private room and logged into the school’s film system as Morton fired up his iPad and got comfortable with the toggles on the remote.

Morton had already watched tape on these prospects, but his presence in that particular room served another purpose. College staffers quietly rotated through as Morton asked questions about schemes, personalities, practice and study habits. He has a rule: Never criticize a player’s tape in front of a coach or staff member but certainly listen if they have their own critiques.

Other scouts underwent the same process in separate rooms throughout the football building. By lunchtime, they all convened in Morton’s room and waited for the pro liaison to join. Many knew each other — one had a lighthearted but unprintable nickname for Morton — and they caught up on families and travels.

They shared more unwritten rules similar to Morton’s: Don’t abuse the liaison’s time by asking about underclassmen. Don’t go to the school in person if it’s obvious only one player is drawing interest. Don’t make coaches uncomfortable or paranoid. Don’t visit your alma mater’s rival during rivalry game weeks. Stay at hotels with free breakfast, fill an insulated coffee cup with eggs and bacon and bring it to the school to consume mid-morning.

Background checks with the pro liaison and the strength coach started in the early afternoon. The scouts sat around a large table with the pro liaison at the head and got out their tablets. One veteran scout instead used a paper notepad and two different-colored pens.

Most NFL teams have a data and information processing system, usually constructed in-house, into which scouts, coaches, medical staff, front office executives and others input notes on players. The Rams’ is JAARS, “Joint After-Action Review System,” built a little over a decade ago by director of data and analytics Jake Temme and analyst Ryan Garlisch. Before JAARS, the Rams used magnets on a giant whiteboard.

Once purely an information-storing program to help keep team personnel organized, the constantly updated JAARS now helps the Rams build out and combine hundreds of thousands of data points that form the DNA strands of any one prospect’s profile. And its value lies not only in its player data — JAARS is the keeper of an entire language. Some Rams staffers joke that the system will eventually need a new, more human-sounding acronym to reflect its approaching sentience.

Morton added his notes from the pro liaison and strength coach to the corresponding JAARS profiles in a shorthand that included colors and emojis. The strength coach had the deepest insight into any of the draft prospects. He and his staff spend the most time with them throughout the year, and he discussed everything from practice and training habits to whether a player’s frame could handle more weight or subtract it and how teammates interacted with each other — lots of details Morton could use.

The scouts pressed the strength coach on specifics — among Morton’s favorite questions is, “Do you trust (the player)?” — then scheduled individual meetings with position coaches for after practice. They spent practice on the sideline. Morton roamed up and down the field, quietly meeting with support staff and hardly reacting as they told him things, which encouraged them to tell him more.

Morton’s wife, Carissa, joins him on trips when her schedule allows, and this visit ended with dinner at a local spot they both knew from years of travel. He filed his last notes into JAARS before the drive to the next college. Four days later, the Rams’ regular season began in Seattle.

On Fridays in late October and early November, as OTT scouts finished their cross-checks, they also held position meetings with the idea of eventually creating a consensus “top 15” per position. Until April, that list is very malleable. Round-by-round projections or grades are never assigned.

Gladstone, the scouting director; Temme, the director of data and analytics; and scouting strategist Nicole Blake are on every Zoom call. So is Snead, but he tries to speak or react very little. The point of the meetings is to get OTT scouts discussing players as candidly as possible, and Snead believes that having “the boss” responding to debates or presentations introduces a subconscious bias to identify prospects he might like.

Gladstone, a former high school teacher and football coach in St. Louis with an MBA in education administration, runs all of the draft-related meetings — even when Snead is in them. He sees the reports and data entered by scouts and analysts, then selects certain threads to pull or people to call on for more information or even debate. Sometimes Gladstone is a conductor. Sometimes he is an instigator.

Les Snead was a pro scout for 14 years and has been GM of the Rams since 2012. (Michael Hickey / Getty Images) 

“The way we operate in meetings is a passion project of mine,” he said.

Scouts viewed Gladstone’s shared screen as he moved through 20 prospects. Every time JAARS is opened in full, an enormous amount of information is on display — a detailed language predicated on visual cues. Each player profile features his college headshot and a long row of tabs that can be individually expanded.

JAARS tabs, which have movable sliding scales, contain information on anything from character and mental assessments to medical history, athletic testing results and the composite scores built by weighing the different results together. The number of total tabs along a row varies by position — some weigh over a dozen different physical traits.

There is a section where staff can easily access film cut-ups and a section for “chatter” — leaks, agent-driven reports, videos of workouts shared on social media, quotes from news conferences and more. There is also a section for anonymous surveys, created by Temme and Blake, that gather a variety of opinions from scouts after each position evaluation to help the group better understand its consensus or disagreements.

Consensus opinions of prospects’ top strengths are “superpowers,” while weaknesses are “kryptonite.” A section called “the wisdom of the crowd” references group opinions or collective findings.

A JAARS tab’s color gradient quickly shows where a player currently sits in terms of production, testing, medical checks or in scouts’ opinions. Outlier colors more easily catch scouts’ eyes when absorbing massive amounts of information. Blue, red and maroon are favorable; green and purple, less so.

Those colored tabs can also be stamped with “badges” (emojis), which represent evolving sentiment — fire and sun symbols signify favorable evaluations while an icicle or snowflake means a scout is cooling on the prospect. On the far side of the row, scouts can also assign a player different badges to quickly describe other traits, from a brain emoji to a beaker or set of glasses, a medical cross, a flexing arm, an hourglass, a dynamite blast and dozens more.

Scouts stamp badges and change colors on prospects throughout the entire year. Spoken as a language, it sounds something like this: “(OTT scout) has a maroon hot on (name) after a health flag was cleared up by two school sources — no longer snowy, and medical badge was removed.”

JAARS reflects both Snead’s decades-long tenure as a scout and his rejection of many of the profession’s archetypal practices. Scouting reports used to be hundreds — if not thousands — of words long apiece. Snead grew to hate scouting language and terminology and loathed reading the lengthy reports almost as much as scouts did writing them. Eventually, scouts do compose a “one-liner” that summarizes their general sentiment of a player beyond the colors and shapes — but even those reflect an entrenched, idiosyncratic language.

One year, a senior scout was cross-checking a prospect with a generally average evaluation — lots of greens, some purples. But his color suddenly spiked blue on a tab that assessed ball skills. The player, average in most categories and tests, simply caught everything thrown his way. The scout stamped a hand emoji on the blue tab and wrote two words in his one-liner: “Peripheral cyanosis.” Blue hands.

Gladstone believes the colors and badges deliver a clear point of view in a simple way. And the fact that each scout can see a picture and mentally translate it into dozens of words in an instant reflects the staff’s continuity.

As the group rolls through the Friday meetings and toward the new year, JAARS constantly receives new data from area scouts still on the road and from OTT scouts as they continue their cross-checks and gather information from all-star events like the Senior Bowl. By now, they all know to be malleable and to speak up when they have the floor, because someone is always listening — or watching, via JAARS.

At the end of every session, Gladstone opens the virtual room for a period of free discussion they call the “water cooler.”

It comes with a story: Before the second day of the 2018 draft, two personnel executives ducked down the hall to grab a snack and a water refill. Snead followed a couple of minutes later, and as he approached the two men, he overheard them discussing an outside linebacker they really liked with a level of gusto they had not shown in the meetings. Snead turned around, walked back to the draft room without the two others knowing he had been there and later called in his pick for Ogbo Okoronkwo in the fifth round.

From that day forward, Gladstone worked “water cooler” periods into meetings.

Morton hit the road again in late January, this time to Mobile, Ala., for the Senior Bowl. The first day’s work began, once again, at a local Starbucks.

Special assistant to the GM Andy Sugarman stood in line a couple of paces behind Morton with scouting fellow Michael Young behind him. Morton ordered a large black coffee and egg white bites, stashing the latter in his bag. Sugarman got a ham and Swiss croissant while Young ordered a venti iced blonde espresso, with four extra shots — eight total. Light ice. Scouts .

The Rams are among a couple of teams who do not attend the Senior Bowl en masse. After 2020, Snead, McVay and their direct staff stopped going to Mobile in person because they felt they could work more efficiently remotely.

All 32 teams receive the same data and tape from the event, so Temme and the Rams’ video team upload measurements and daily film cut-ups from drills and practices into JAARS. The video cut-ups of drills and game film are organized by player, so Snead and others can watch those in sequence without jumping from player to player all over a field as they would in person. Temme also receives tracking data, a highly valuable resource in assessing how a prospect moves when actually playing football.

Many NFL teams use movement tracking data in player evaluations — what it is, how it works

Because the film of each practice drill uploads daily, Snead found his staff could get through the entire week almost in real time. When they traveled to the event, they only began watching practice cut-ups after they got home, so the prospect evaluation process after the Senior Bowl used to take the Rams two or three additional weeks.

They still believe having an under-the-radar presence at all-star events is important — Young’s report from last year’s East/West Shrine Bowl helped reiterate to senior staff that nose tackle Kobie Turner , an eventual starter and Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate, was bigger than he looked on tape — and the trio of staffers in Mobile absorb what Morton refers to as “free-flowing information” throughout Senior Bowl week.

A third-round pick in 2023, Kobie Turner finished third in AP Defensive Rookie of the Year voting. (Kevin Sabitus/AP)

Morton watches some drills in person, but he’ll comb through most of the week in film study. He uses his time on the sidelines to get information from the many college position coaches and coordinators in attendance.

“When you have the opportunity to talk to somebody — particularly if they have coached or know one of the players at the (practice), to me that takes precedence over watching practice,” said Morton.

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As the first practice of the week began at the University of South Alabama’s Hancock Whitney Stadium, the three men split up. Sugarman spent the first half in the metal bleachers with several dozen other scouts and team personnel before moving up to the press box. Young and Morton rotated between the sidelines and the stadium’s lower bowl.

They seemed to know everybody — Morton stopped to talk with two college head coaches and a handful of assistants at various points of the practice. He got a full report about one draft-eligible prospect from a coach after running into him outside the bathroom. (Later in the pre-draft cycle, fans of that college noted the Rams as the lone absence among NFL teams from that player’s pro day.) Young asked questions of different contacts while keeping one eye on the drills and simultaneously typing notes into his phone.

When the three met back up at Sugarman’s rental car after practice hours later, the tidbits of information flowed. Morton finally finished his coffee from the morning and ate the egg bites that had been sitting in his bag the entire day.

Turns out nothing can rattle a scout’s stomach, either.

After a brief dinner break, the three men reconvened at the Mobile Convention Center, joining a horde of NFL coaches and scouts slowly making their way to a cavernous room on the ground floor sectioned into 32 spaces by tall black curtains — one per team. This is where the nightly prospect interviews took place, a process nicknamed “the car wash,” where four players at a time rotate from space to space — team to team — in 10- to 15-minute intervals over three nights.

For some coaches and senior scouts around the league, it’s the first meeting between team and potential players, but the Rams don’t believe conducting interviews in this setting is valuable. The sessions are late after a full day of practice and classroom work — some players get to their scheduled interviews after 9 p.m. — and prospects are trained for the process by their agents.

“By the time they get to the Senior Bowl and the East/West and all the all-star games, they’ve been coached up somewhat,” Morton said. “And then at the combine, it’s even more so. … The more they are interviewed, the more they know what questions are coming at them.”

The Rams find value in these settings by collecting a large amount of a specific type of information. Over the last couple of years, they have administered to players a customized version of an existing personality, emotional intelligence and leadership assessment called HEXACO. Their version was developed by Sam Walker, a former Wall Street Journal editor who wrote “The Captain Class” — a book on leadership qualities within championship teams — and now consults for the team.

The test consists of 28 questions and takes about six minutes to complete. The answers go directly into JAARS for Walker’s analysis. He hopes to project how each player’s leadership qualities could best be maximized in the Rams’ environment taking into account the team’s existing personality balance. Between the nights of interview sessions at the Senior Bowl and East/West Shrine Bowl, the Rams annually file over 300 customized HEXACO submissions.

Young, Morton and Sugarman each set up a computer along a few tables in their section and directed players to them as they filtered in. Young reassured them that “there are no right or wrong answers.”

Because the players moved through rooms in groups of four, there was often someone waiting on a computer. After setting up the others, Young would open up a conversation with the waiting prospect. His strategy was to immediately mention a detail or connection with each that he had identified beforehand — a coaching contact, something he picked up from film or even a move he saw at practice that day.

“Just finding different ways that I can relate to them,” Young said. “Once they look at you and they know you’re doing your research and your homework, their eyes get a little bit bigger.”

Like every other data point compiled by the Rams’ scouts, the test is eventually weighed with a number of other items, like the area and OTT scouts’ sourcing on character and personality (the “deep dig”), formal background checks, learning assessments and more. “All of it is just a piece of the puzzle,” Morton said.

While Morton and Young floated between players and made conversation as the prospects finished their assessments or waited for their turn, Sugarman quietly observed. His unique role in finding Rams was only beginning.

Coming Friday, Part II …

(Illustrations by Maria Fedoseeva / For The Athletic )

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Jourdan Rodrigue covers the Los Angeles Rams for The Athletic. Previously, she covered the Carolina Panthers for The Athletic and The Charlotte Observer, and Penn State football for the Centre Daily Times. She is an ASU grad and a recipient of the PFWA's Terez A. Paylor Emerging Writer award (2021). Follow Jourdan on Twitter @ JourdanRodrigue