Looking for mountain views without the Banff traffic? Just over 4 hours southwest of Edmonton, Nordegg delivers waterfalls, canyons, and offbeat history—without the tour buses. It’s an underrated fall destination for families who’ve already “done Jasper” and want something fresh.
Here’s how to spend a weekend soaking up the wild beauty of David Thompson Country.
Day One: Friday Evening Arrival
Aim to leave Edmonton by 4:00 pm. You’ll want to make the most of Saturday, and the drive itself is half the magic once you hit Highway 11.
Where to Stay:
- Expanse Cottages – family-friendly, rustic-modern, and pet-welcoming
- Nordegg Lodge – right in town with an on-site diner
- Coliseum Mountain Resort – Luxury level accommodations
- Campgrounds (if you’re hardy): Fish Lake Provincial Rec Area
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Settle in, then grab a hearty supper at Nordegg Canteen if it’s still open, or cook up something easy if you’re in a cabin.
Day Two: Waterfalls, Easy Hikes, and Ghost Town Vibes
Morning: Crescent Falls
Start your day with Crescent Falls, one of Alberta’s most photogenic (and accessible) waterfalls. It’s just a short drive and a short walk from the parking area, but stay back from the edge—there are safety concerns and signage for a reason.
Tips:
- Bring a packed breakfast or grab coffee/snacks in town first.
- Great for photos and for kids to burn off energy before hikes.
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Midday: Siffleur Falls Hike
Drive about 25 minutes west to the Siffleur Falls Trailhead. This is a family-friendly 8 km round-trip hike with:
- A suspension bridge (always a hit with kids)
- Boardwalk over a delicate alpine meadow
- Canyon views and roaring falls at the end
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It’s not steep, but bring good shoes—it can be muddy in fall.
Pack a picnic lunch and eat along the trail or back at the trailhead.
Afternoon: Nordegg Historic Sites
Head back into Nordegg to check out:
- Brazeau Collieries Mine Site – one of Alberta’s most intact historic coal sites. Guided tours may be limited in September—check here.
- The Miner’s Café – pie is practically mandatory (try the sour cream rhubarb)
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Wind down at Fish Lake (aka Shunda Lake) with a short stroll, paddle, or some lazy dock time.
Dinner: Cook back at your lodging or grab something casual if spots are open—many restaurants start closing earlier in the fall season.
Day Three: Morning Adventure, Then Home
Option 1: Coliseum Mountain Hike
Got a crew with energy to burn? Coliseum Mountain is a local classic with panoramic views from the top. It’s 7 km one-way and gains over 600m—doable with older kids or active teens, but budget 4–6 hours.
Option 2: Lazy Sunday
Want to take it slow? Revisit Fish Lake, grab coffee at Nordegg Canteen (if open), or take a scenic drive west toward Abraham Lake. You won’t see the frozen methane bubbles this time of year, but the turquoise water and bare rock peaks are worth it.
Plan to be on the road by 2:00 pm to get back to Edmonton for supper.
Good to Know
- No cell service in much of the area—download maps offline before you go.
- Gas up in Rocky Mountain House or Saskatchewan River Crossing; Nordegg has limited fuel options.
- Weather can turn quickly in September. Bring layers, and always check trail conditions if you plan to hike.
