Discover Fun Summer Activities in Grimshaw, Alberta
In northern Alberta, far from the hustle and bustle of major cities, the small town of Grimshaw offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and features several interesting historical sites. If you're looking to switch things up this summer and enjoy a relaxed, slow-paced getaway, head to Grimshaw!
Things to do in Grimshaw, Alberta
Mile Zero Monument Site
Mackenzie Highway leads from northern Alberta up into the Northern Territories and beyond — and it starts right here in Grimshaw. Stop for a unique photo op before heading out of town and while you're there, be sure to check out the informational signs for fascinating history about the area. The historical Northern Alberta Railway car sits beside the Mile Zero marker, offering up another great photo backdrop!
Peace River Wildland Provincial Park
Situated in the valley where the Peace and Smoky Rivers meet, Peace River Wildland Provincial Park is an important, unique protected area comprising both dense forest and expansive grasslands. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bears, and hundreds of bird species. Explore the multi-use trails, fish the river, take a kayak or power boat out, and for those brave enough, backcountry camping is permitted year-round in the park.
Misery Mountain Trail
Near the postcard-worthy Misery Mountain Ski Area, this 4.3-kilometre hiking trail follows a ridgeline and features some of the best views in the Peace River area. At some points along the trail, the views are 360 degrees and depending on the time of year, you may spot wildlife and tons of colourful wildflowers!
Grimshaw's charming, historic Main Street is lined with a good variety of businesses and eateries. Spend the morning shopping (or simply window shopping!) for gifts and souvenirs to take home and enjoy a meal at one of the locally-owned restaurants. Best of all, the shop owners and employees are some of the friendliest, most welcoming people you'll ever meet, so you may just come away with a new friend!
Mighty Peace Golf Course
It may surprise some folks to learn that there's a championship golf course in this part of rural Alberta, but the 18-hole Mighty Peace Golf Course is a major destination and a beloved part of the Grimshaw community. The golf course is technically just outside of Grimshaw, situated conveniently between the town and nearby Peace River.
Aside from being a scenic course with a variety of terrain and obstacles, as well as having different tee decks to suit players of all experience and skill levels, the golf course also has a well-stocked pro shop, cart rentals, full-service restaurant, and clubhouse. There's also a practice facility offering lessons! The clubhouse, serving traditional pub fare, has a full bar and offers daily and weekly specials, as well as takeout.
Mile Zero Regional Multiplex
A multi-purpose recreation centre in Grimshaw, Alberta offering several ways to get some exercise in and burn off some energy, the Mile Zero Multiplex is one of the best things to do in Grimshaw. Visit the fitness centre for weights and cardio, walk or run the elevated 175.3-metre track, play basketball or volleyball, or let the little ones play on the playground. There’s also a heated outdoor swimming pool that is open all summer.
Mile Zero Multiplex also offers a field house with plenty of available space to rent for weddings, parties, corporate retreats, and other special events, and there's a concession stand onsite as well. Best of all, the multiplex is conveniently located just across the street from the Coast Grimshaw Hotel & Suites!
Grimshaw, Alberta Restaurants
You won't find any chain restaurants here; Grimshaw is home to several excellent small, family-owned restaurants.
Krooked House
A small pub focused on local Alberta-brewed craft beers, Krooked House has a simple yet delicious menu featuring elevated takes on traditional pub fare. Think Charcuterie, nachos, burgers, salads, and pizza, all perfect pairings for fresh brews.
Norm's Pizzazz
As its name may imply, Norm's is renowned for its delicious, hearty pizzas. Truthfully, everything on the menu is fantastic, but the pizzas are hard to beat! They're notoriously loaded with toppings (bring a hungry friend!), and there are even several gluten-free options.
The Junction Candy, Creamery & Coffee House
A beloved local institution, The Junction serves up over 60 premium ice cream flavours from Foothills Creamery (also local) and a variety of specialty Dutch treats, including licorice and other candies, plus delectable fudge and toffee. The Junction is open full-time during the summer, and on Friday evenings and weekends while local schools are in session.
Where to Stay in Grimshaw
Grimshaw is the type of place that urges you to slow down and relax, unplug, and stay awhile. The town's intriguing combination of endless activities and its tranquil rural scenery and unhurried pace of life will both charm you and draw you in. There's no better place to stay in town than the Coast Grimshaw Hotel and Suites, conveniently situated at the junction of Highway 2 and Highway 2A — AKA Mile Zero on the Mackenzie Highway.
Our Grimshaw hotel is not only the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the Peace River valley and Northwest Territories, but it also offers a long list of upscale amenities. Guests will enjoy free wi-fi, parking, and daily grab-and-go breakfast onsite. The Grimshaw hotel is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring Fido along to join in on the fun and adventures!