Photo credit: Historic Dunvegan Provincial Park/Facebook.

By rdnewsNOW staff

Alberta

Parks Day encourages Albertans to get out and explore

Jul 19, 2024 | 6:00 PM

As the annual Parks Day approaches, this year on July 20, Albertans are encouraged to get outside and enjoy the hundreds of provincial parks and recreation areas the province has to offer.

Government officials say Alberta’s parks showcase unique landscapes and a variety of opportunities for recreation while conserving the land for future generations. From beautiful scenery and wildlife to memorable visitor experiences, Alberta’s provincial parks have a lot to celebrate, officials point out.

First recognized across Canada in 1990, Parks Day highlights how Albertans take advantage of its illustrious provincial parks and the role these parks play in protecting ecosystems, habitat and species at risk. The government says this year’s celebration also marks 94 years of Alberta’s provincial parks system.

“I would like to wish all Albertans a happy Parks Day,” says Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks. “From the mountains to the badlands, prairies to boreal forest, our provincial parks allow Albertans and visitors to access and enjoy our province’s natural beauty. Whether you’re returning to one of your favourite provincial parks or experiencing a new one this weekend, let’s continue exploring, experiencing, and enjoying Alberta’s great outdoors.”

Government officials say Alberta’s provincial parks system contains 464 provincial parks and protected areas ranging from conservation-focused to recreation-focused parks. This year, Alberta’s government says it grew Alberta’s parks by 1,400 hectares, including the establishment of La Biche Provincial Recreation Area and Kleskun Hills Provincial Park.

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Parks Day features special events across the province, including bike parades and scavenger hunts, as well as educational programs that celebrate Alberta’s wildlife, biodiversity and history. A complete list of Parks Day celebrations across the province is available here. Officials note, Alberta’s parks offer many more activities for the whole family, such as guided tours, hikes and educational programs designed to provide fun for all ages.

The Provincial Parks and Protected Areas Act was passed in 1930 and Alberta’s first park – Aspen Beach Provincial Park – was established in 1932. Government officials say the current value of Alberta’s parks to the provincial economy is close to $1 billion in GDP, $400 million in labour income and almost 9,000 jobs per year.