Pretty much everybody loves music. Sure, our tastes tend to differ, but for the most part our phones, iPods, and mp3 players are all packed to capacity with the tunes we love. Sometimes, however, the same old playlists can get a little boring. Luckily, in beautiful High Level Alberta, there are several great ways to stay on top of today’s hottest music and if you’re lucky, discover your new favorite song!

Here are few of our favourite methods for just that:

Crank up the Radio

In High Level, you’ll have access to a couple of great local radio stations. For those with a preference for country music, tune to YL Country where you’ll find all the genre’s hottest acts and great programs like Mody in the Morning, The Bowker Breakfast Show, and Doug on the Drive. If top-40 music is more your thing, turn your dial to Kix FM (106.1) for the music of artists like Katy Perry, Rihanna, Bruno Mars and more.

Hit the Club                          

High Level may be a small town, but don’t be fooled. With a handful of great, local clubs and bars—all of which play great music and feature awesome live rock and country bands— we’ve got a vibrant nightlife. Try the Club in our conveniently-located Quality Inn and Suites location for proof of this!

Browse the Web

All of our cozy High Level hotels are outfitted with high-speed Wi-Fi. That means that you’ll always be able to stay connected with what’s hot in the music industry by visiting your favorite blogs, websites and music sharing tools. Happy listening!

In High Level, the music you crave is never far away. Whether you’re looking for something to dance to on a night out with friends, something to listen to on a drive around town, or some new tunes to listen to while you work out in one of our hotel gyms, you’re in luck!

Book a room at one of our excellent hotels today! We look forward to welcoming you to town! 

High Level may be a small town, but don’t let that fact fool you. Our charming corner of Alberta is home to excitement of all kinds. Spend your summers in High Level hiking, riding ATVs, or playing sports like golf and baseball. Spend your winters playing hockey or exploring the outdoors on a snowmobile. Or, if the weather doesn’t cooperate take a trip down to our town’s Mackenzie Crossroads Museum and Visitor Centre, where there’s always fun to be had. You’ll find the museum in the centre of town, just off the highway—and just an easy walk from all of our cozy hotels.  

Under the museum’s big, red roof, you’ll find plenty of enriching permanent features, like its authentic, early-1990s trading post, its winter carriage rides, and its butter making and candle dipping workshops. Of course, the museum also brings plenty of traveling exhibits to town, like its current attraction Black Gold, which showcases the work of contemporary artists who were inspired by the development of Alberta’s petroleum industry.

The museum also hosts frequent evening events for visitors with children, such as their recent rodeo themed night, and their fantastic ice cream making night. Give them a call to stay up to date on events of this kind.

Finally, the Mackenzie Crossroads visitor centre also functions as a bit of a community hub in High Level. Check out the centre’s bulletin board for news on community events of all shapes and sizes—from concerts, to volunteer opportunities, and everything in between.

Yes, on days when the weather puts a damper on your outdoor plans, head down to the Mackenzie Crossroads Museum and Visitor Centre for a day of exciting and educational fun—and when you’ve had your fun, head back to any one of our hotels for a bite to eat or a dreamlike sleep. Book your stay today!

We look forward to welcoming you to town! 

Recently, the Wood Buffalo National Park has received some media attention, and it’s not all just about the park’s incredible wildlife and scenery. It’s not a doubt that the park—Canada’s largest—is important. It’s home to a vastly diverse number of species, and is an extremely important environmental location, which is why it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In fact, it is that very committee—that is, the UNESCO World Heritage committee—that released a report stating the Wood Buffalo National Park is at risk from the Albertan oil sands and dam development. UNESCO is asking the federal government to increase protections on the national park, or at least reduce development that is bringing risk to the ecosystem.

This came to the attention of UNESCO when the Cree First Nation and the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation started legally combatting the Site C project. This brings focus to the importance of balancing energy use and the environment.

There is, of course, a way for all of us to help protect the Wood Buffalo National Park. As Albertans, the park is an integral part of our heritage, and it offers us countless benefits in terms of outdoor activities. Here’s what you can do to help protect the park:

1. Reduce your energy use. By conserving energy, we reduce the strain the Albertan government is facing, in turn reducing the strain on the environment—especially through hydroelectric dams.
2. Let your Member of Parliament know your concerns. Send a letter or email letting them know that you agree this is an issue.

With your help, we can protect our very own UNESCO World Heritage Site—there aren’t many people in the world that get to claim their very own UNESCO site as their backyard, and we are very privileged to do so!

We brought this to your attention because we love Alberta, and we love the Peace River area—part of which is our very own High Level. Next time you’re in town, stop by for a chat about the region, and of course, if you’re staying, we’d love to have you in our hotel! We look forward to your visit.

High Level is known for its excellent ATV tracks. Winding around and over dunes and hills, through beautiful forests and meadows, along creeks and in open plains, there are hundreds of kilometres of tracks to keep the avid all-terrainer entertained. However, it never hurts to have fun safely, which is why we’ve pulled together some of these top ATV safety tips, so you can enjoy your ride worry-free.

Take Proper Safety Courses

While ATVS seem simple enough, they’re still a powerful piece of machinery that should be used properly. Before you take your vehicle to the trails, make sure you understand how to use it. In addition, take any recommended safety courses with your vehicle so that in the case of an accident or incident, you’re able to handle yourself and your ATV properly.

Use the Proper Equipment                               

It may sound cliché, but the best advice is always the most given: wear your helmet! Not only will a full-visor helmet keep dust (and bugs) out of your eyes and mouth, it will keep you safe in the case of an accident. Besides, they look pretty cool. In addition, wear any safety pads or riding boots as you see fit, especially if you’re taking your vehicle on more extreme terrain. The proper outfit can make the difference between walking away from an accident or having to call for help!

Stick to the Trails

There are plenty of great trails in High Level, so there shouldn’t be a reason to stray off them. If you do go off the trails, only do so if you’re extremely comfortable with the area or you have a guide—there are hidden marshes and sand-pits that could have you stuck in no time. If you’re planning on exploring new trails, make sure you bring plenty of water and food, as well as survival equipment such as a compass, map, and communications device. ATVs make poor company on a cold and lonely night in the woods!

We know how much fun it is to take your vehicles off-roading, so if you have any more questions or want to know where to find the best trails, don’t hesitate to ask. Our staff is always willing to help. We look forward to your visit!

With much of Canada seeing very warm temperatures, we always run the risk of forest fires. The dry grass and lack of rain create perfect environments for them, and currently, the province is fighting over 120 wildfires. Many of these are reported to have been caused by lightning, including a large fire just north of High Level that has parts of the highway closed. While the town is currently safe, it’s important to remember the current climate. Here are a few tips on avoiding forest fires.

Avoid any burning

Make sure you have a permit or are following regulations for any brush or debris burning you might be doing. These fires may seem easy to handle, but if they are built in the wrong place—near trees or even on a patch of dry grass—they can spread quickly. Make sure you have proper extinguishing equipment nearby in case of emergencies. This also goes for pleasure fires, whether they’re on the beach, in your backyard, or on a campsite. Check if there’s a fire ban on before you light.

Manage your butts                              

If you’re a smoker, make sure you avoid using cigarettes in dry areas—in 2011, an estimated 90,000 fires were caused by smoking materials, an extreme number for such an avoidable problem. If you do use a cigarette, make sure you put the butt completely out before discarding it in a proper place. If you’re driving, never throw your butts out the window. They could bounce to dry grass on the side of the road, or even be carried by wind.

Know when to call it in

If you see a fire—no matter how small—call it in. Find the local firefighter number, or use 911 and report the fire. Don’t go near it without the proper equipment, especially if there’s a strong wind. Wind can spread fires extremely quickly, so get away from danger areas as fast as possible.

Good fire prevention tactics can keep High Level completely safe, which is how we like it! Instead of having a campfire, treat yourself to one of our modern rooms, many complete with their very own fireplaces. Book yours today. We look forward to your visit!

Whether you’re visiting on business or are in town for personal pleasure, you may, like any traveler, be wondering what you’ll do during your stay. While some prefer to live it up on their vacations, many more say that the best trip is one undertaken as a local. By steering clear of tourist attractions, you can really get to know a town, and no town is more open to travelers than High Level. So next time you’re in town, be sure to pull on your exploring shoes and take in some of these top High Level activities—local edition!

The Wales Movie Theatre

Before the era of eight, twelve, and even twenty-screen cineplexes (with absurd names such as the Colossus), theatres had a lot more personality. The Wales comes from that era, and still exudes every bit of class it once had. Created in 1927, was originally built for live theatre as well as movies (which were just starting to come out with sound and colour). The theatre is one of a kind, with upholstered chesterfield chairs imported from England and a full suite of art-deco designs. The theatre is now completely modernized for cinema while still retaining all its charm, so be sure to catch a talkie next time you’re in town!

Caesar’s Bowling Centre

If you’d rather make your own entertainment for the evening, Caesar’s is the place for you. Not to be confused with the one in Vegas, our bowling centre is a palace of a different sort. Here, locals of all ages gather to test their skill in the lanes. Will you throw a gutter, or will you throw a perfect strike? If you’re not interested in bowling, there are plenty of other options for you as well—Caesar’s is also home to billiard and snooker tables, a video arcade, and a licensed lounge, making it the perfect place to spend a fun-filled evening.

Stardust Lounge                            

If you want to spend a night on the town and want to end up with the locals, this is the place for you. Located in our very own Quality Inn & Suites, the Stardust Lounge only has one thing to say on their website: “We look forward to impressing you.” The lounge is host to live music, featuring both DJs and live bands six nights a week. And the pizza really is legendary—we recommend a slice of the “Cheeseburger”. Check out the menu and entertainment lineup here.

For a stranger, you sure know a lot about High Level already! So come on out to one of our venerable establishments and introduce yourself to the locals—they’ll be happy to see you! Whether you’re taking in a bit of the town’s history and a movie, throwing a strike, or dancing to a live band, High Level has plenty of fun for those who seek it. And while you’re in town, be sure to stay with us at one of our hotels. Book a room today. We look forward to your visit!

Winter has tucked tail and run. Spring is out in full force, and another splendid Alberta summer is well on its way—we’re expecting temperatures of 28 degrees next weekend! That means it’s time to get outside and soak up some rays. Thankfully for guests of our comfortable hotels, High Level is full of opportunities for awesome, outdoor fun.

Here are a few activities we recommend!

Knock it Out of the Park

High Level is home to two great baseball diamonds, each located in gorgeous, green parks on 100^th and 105^th respectively. What better way to spend a day in the sun? Head down to Canadian Tire, which you’ll find on Gateway Boulevard, just moments from all of our hotels, grab yourself a bat, ball, and glove, and you’re in business! Call up a few friends and make a day of it. Just don’t forget to apply plenty of sun screen!

Hit the Trails

All across High Level are beautiful walking paths, hiking trails and jogging routes. Lace up your hiking boots and go get some fresh air amongst the many beautiful birds of Northern Alberta, or tie up your running shoes for a nice walk, or cardio-blasting run. We’ve even got a great running club in town—membership is wonderfully affordable.

Tee Off

Just a few kilometers north of High Level, you’ll find Fox Haven Golf & Country Club. Enjoy a well-manicured 18 hole course, an excellent restaurant, and overall, the perfect choice for a day out in the sun.

Hit the Courts

On 103^rd street, you’ll find two tennis courts and a mounted practice board. Nets are installed in mid-May, and kept up until mid-September, which means you’ve got a whole summer of tennis to look forward to! Best of all, the courts are open to the public and entirely free to use.

With another summer upon us, there’s no excuse not get out there enjoy the beautiful outdoors of High Level! Then, when you’ve had your fill of sunshine, head back to your cozy room and enjoy the amenities that make our hotels so popular. Book your stay today! 

For guests with busy schedules, it can be difficult to find the time to stay in shape. Fitness routines often fall by the wayside to work, errands, and sorely-needed nights out at local hot spots like the club you’ll find at our Quality Inn location.

That said, we know how important fitness is to our guests. So, we’ve compiled a list of three great ways to stay in shape during your visit to beautiful High Level. Keep reading for the details!

Take a Hike

High Level’s location in the far-flung North of beautiful Alberta renders it a place of tremendous natural beauty. All around our charming town you’ll find great walking routes and hiking trails—the perfect way to see the sights, get some fresh air, and stay in shape while you’re at it. Simply set out on foot and explore, or turn to our staff for information on the area’s nicer walking routes.

Head to the Arena

In the heart of High Level, you’ll find the High Level Sports Complex, which is home to a regulation size hockey rink. In Canada it probably goes without saying, but that means hockey, the perfect way to have some fun and get your blood pumping in the process. Book the arena for a pickup game with your friends, or enjoy one of its open skates. The choice is yours! Just remember to stay hydrated.

Hit the Gym

There is perhaps no better way to stay in shape than a good, old-fashioned trip to the gym. Luckily for you, all of our High Level hotels are outfitted with well-equipped fitness centers. Sculpt your pecs, lats, bis and tris on our state-of-the-art workout machines, or get your heart pounding on of our treadmills. When you’re done, enjoy a nice shower in your room or, if you’re staying at our Best Western location, cool off in our water park!

There’s no reason your fitness should diminish during your stay in High Level. Thanks to our town’s picturesque location and our awesome in-hotel amenities, you can stay in shape with ease. Book your stay today! 

Last month we talked about the arrival of spring and with it the enjoyment of High Level’s beautiful outdoors. Now we’d like to point out that while High Level does have excellent mountains, lakes, and rivers for activities such as boating and hiking, there are also plenty of activities you can do right in town. Let’s take a look at some of the best local parks and recreation centres for getting in a bit of activity.

Centennial Park

Perfect for the taking the family, Centennial Park is full of amenities. Whether you want to get in a round of tennis, a set of beach volleyball, or a game of basketball, this is the place. The kids will also be plenty happy: with three playgrounds, there’s always plenty of room to play.

R.E. Walter Memorial Aquatic Centre

If you’d rather stay indoors and don’t mind getting wet, this is the place for you. With an oversized salt water lane pool fitted with a children’s swimming area, all paddlers can get their fix, from the Olympic crawler to the water-winged toddler. There’s even a climbing wall and a diving board, and when you’re through with your swim, you can relax in the large hot-tub.

Sports Complex Community Park

If the above activity centres didn’t catch your interest, this beautiful park will be able to fill in the holes. With two baseball diamonds for the ballplayers, a dog park for the dog-owners, and even a fishing pond for those looking to cast a rod, there’s no shortage of things to do. But there’s another reason for visiting this community park: aside from the available activities, this park is simply beautiful. With its open grass fields ringed by tall evergreens, a perfect walk awaits those looking to simply go for a stroll. And for the more adventurous travelers out there, the forest holds hidden water features that can be discovered upon a short hike.

High Level is absolutely full of activities, so drop that remote, turn off the computer, and join us for a bit of fun in the new spring sun. And when you’re ready for a rest, be sure to choose one of our high-quality hotels for your stay. Book your room today. We look forward to your visit!

High Level, Alberta is a hard-working town. It was built on business and it’s remained on business since its early conception as a fur-trading region. But every action has an equal and opposite reaction, so when it’s time for those hard-working High Levelers to relax, it’s really time to relax. Fortunately for us, there’s an upcoming holiday so Canadian that, well, only Canadians celebrate it: Victoria Day! 

A little bit of history

This year’s Victoria Day is May 18^th, but the funny thing is, Queen Victoria wasn’t actually born on the 18^th. She was born on the 24^th, dispelling the long-standing rumour that Canada’s “2-4 weekend” was named after the 24-packs of beers usually used to celebrate. Besides, Queen Victoria usually took tea… or so we imagine. 

How to spend your Victoria Day

As Victoria Day isn’t really a holiday built on any particular traditions, it’s generally left up to us—the recipients of the long weekend—to decide how we should use our time. If you’re in town on a visit and aren’t used to the holiday, take our advice on what to do: relax! 

That’s right. There’s no turkeys to cook, no eggs to hide, no presents to wrap, and no candy to give out, so your only obligation is to rest your best. Besides, you’ve earned it! If you must get out and do something, here are a few options: hiking, dirtbiking, mountain biking, boating, canoeing, fishing, and many more. High level is home to an unimaginable number of activities, both in the city and out in nature, so hit the lakes, trails, mountains, and forests and enjoy your vacation the way a true Albertan would. 

If you’re in High Level this Victoria Day, you’ll have plenty of options on how to spend your time. What’s that? You want to hear what we’ll be doing? Oh, probably enjoying a complimentary hot breakfast at the Econolodge, hitting the waterslide in the Mirage’s hotel pool, enjoying a great dinner at the Days Inn’s onsite restaurant, and watching an on-demand movie from the Jacuzzi at the Quality Inn & Suites. If those sound like good ideas to you, book your room at one of our great hotels today. Happy Victoria Day, and we look forward to your visit!

It’s that time of year again, where the snow starts to melt and nature comes out: flowers bloom, birds arrive, and yes, even bears come out of hiding after their long slumber. With all of the flora and fauna suddenly showing their faces, it’s no surprise everyone gets so excited for spring—after some long winter months, it’s time to head outside. If you’re in High Level this spring, be sure to pull on your outdoor gear and take part in this awesome spring activities.

Canoeing and Kayaking

Though it’s definitely still too cold to swim, it’s always perfect to hit the lake with a canoe or kayak (unless you fall in—don’t rock the boat!) and with spring coming in full force, there’s plenty of beauty to take in. For a beautiful paddling opportunity near High Level, head to Footner Lake. Surrounded by beautiful trees and perfectly still on a windless day, this is sure to be a trip you’ll remember. Keep your eyes out for animals on the shore and birds overhead. To grab your boat of choice, check out the Flow North Paddling Company.

Hiking and Mountain Biking

If you’d rather stay on land but still want to get closer to nature, there’s always hiking and mountain biking. High Level is surrounded by some of the most beautiful trail systems in Canada, such as Wood Buffalo National Park and the Rocky Lane Trails. There’s also Watt Mountain, hosting 300 kilometers of trails. Be sure to bring your camera—you’re going to need it!

Day-trips

With immaculate nature stretching for hundreds of kilometers all around, you won’t be able to see everything in one day. That’s why we recommend heading out on the road so you can see more of this beautiful area. One must-do day trip is the trip up to Twin Falls Gorge, where you can see the incredible Alexandra Falls.

Yes, Spring is definitely an exciting time in High Level. The next time you come up, make sure you bring your outdoor outfits, and make sure you stay at one of our great hotels. Book your room today. We look forward to your visit!

Since the beginning, High Level was a center of commerce: fur traders operated in this area all the way back to the 18^th century, and as the first settlers came, the town evolved into a place to trade resources. This spirit is still alive today along our city’s streets. You can see it in the local shops and businesses, and in the eyes of the people; a spirit of resourcefulness and gumption—the true spirit of the north.

The spirit of the north

This spirit has been captured perfectly by our annual gathering of businesses and browsers, the aptly named High Level Spirit of the North Trade Show. Featuring over fifty businesses of all types in the main arena alone—big, small, local, national, even home-based—this trade show is unlike any other in its aptitude for displaying the finest of the North in terms of ideas, goods, services, and, of course, people.

A booth for your business

If you own or are a part of a business, you won’t want to miss this event. Taking place in the arena and curling rink at the High Level Sports Complex, there’s a booth waiting for you to bear your logo and table your products. A spot at the trade show will let you meet with other business owners as well as plenty of potential customers. You can even choose the location of your booth. You’ll want to hurry though—spots are going fast, so don’t let your prime location get taken!

Browse at your leisure

If you’re just looking to browse through some of High Level’s finest, you’ll find something for everyone at the many displays. Take a look at the trade show’s website for updates on the vendors. There’ll even be a large food court so you can spend the day!

High Level is famous for its beauty as well as its brains and business savvy, and nowhere else is this displayed better than the Spirit of the North Trade Show. Whether you’re a business looking to set up a booth or a local looking to browse them, be sure to stay at one of our comfortable hotels. We’ve got a room for you and your team, so book today. We look forward to your visit!

Planning your trip north to Alaska? The route is considered to be one of the ultimate North American road trips. Of course, half (if not more) of the fun of a road trip is the journey, so while you’re on your way up, be sure to take a scenic detour to High Level, where you can experience some of the best Mother Nature has to offer. While you’re here, be sure to check out these three natural phenomenon.

Wood Buffalo National Park

Canada’s largest national park and a UNESCO world heritage site, Wood Buffalo National Park is an incredible expanse of untampered natural beauty. Comprised of the boreal forest, Wood Buffalo is home to the Peace River, Lake Claire, and plenty of other landmarks, and if you’re lucky you’ll see Grizzlies, elk, caribou, and some of the world’s largest herd of bison. For more on Wood Buffalo National Park, see our dedicated post.

The High Level Trails

High Level is surrounded by trails perfect for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Or, if you’re here when the snow is gone, try hiking, mountain biking, ATVing, and more. If you go far enough, you can ford rivers, climb to perfect vistas, and encounter fields of wild flowers. The beauty of our surrounding landscape is unmatchable, and our local trails will take you through to see it all. For tips on negotiating our local trails, read our trail safety-guide.

Aurora Borealis

Of all the natural phenomenon in the world, there are few more captivating and spellbinding than the Aurora Borealis. This is something that must be seen to be experienced, and everyone should experience it at least once in their lifetime. For an example of the view High Level can offer of the majestic lights, see our post here.

Whether you’re on the road north to Alaska or just travelling through Alberta, you won’t want to miss High Level and the surrounding scenery. While you’re in town, stop by at one of our hotels for all your accommodation needs. We look forward to your visit!

Punxsutawney Phil, world’s most famous groundhog (and the only groundhog to become a bona-fide movie star) recently saw his shadow. For those unfamiliar with Groundhog Day, this means we’ll be seeing six more weeks of winter. But the news isn’t all bad! The announcement is perfect for those looking to attend this year’s Winterfest in High Level. Taking place on February 21^st and coinciding with the town of High Level’s 50^th anniversary, the festival has the fun and exciting theme “Travel Through Time”, and is sure to speed up those six weeks and take the edge off the cold.

Attendants will start the day right with a free pancake breakfast, and be sure to load up because you’ll need the energy. After you’ve finished off your stack and syrup, you’ll be able to take part in classic team events and challenges, relays, snow carving, and plenty of new activities for the whole family to enjoy. And don’t worry about packing a sandwich; after the morning’s activities, you’ll be able to enjoy a free community lunch at the High Level Public School.

The last major activity of the day will be the team scavenger hunt—your team will race around the area looking to check off your list. Will you finish fastest and be the one to take home the prize? After the scavenger hunt is completed and the winner is crowned, the festival will wrap up in a grand High Level fashion.

The festival is being hosted together with the Watt Mountain Wanderers “Snowdeo”—a snowmobile rodeo unlike anything you’ve ever seen. There’s no word on whether the wranglers will be lassoing snowmen, but there will be  kid rides, a sled show, and an obstacle course for the land’s finest riders to test their chops.

The 2015 “Travel Through Time” Winterfest will be on February 21^st from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, so join us at the High Level Public School for a day of winter fun. When you’re ready to come in from the cold, be sure to stay in one of our comfortable and affordable hotels. We look forward to your visit!

We know how important a healthy lifestyle is to most of our guests. As a result, we’re pleased to offer well-equipped fitness centers at all of our great High Level hotels. But this town is also criss-crossed with several great outdoor jogging routes for those days when the sun is shining. Yes, even in the snowy winter, if you dress appropriately, you can get your heart pounding in the great outdoors. Just remember to keep an eye out for cars, especially when running at night.

Here are some of our favourite places to work up a sweat in High Level, Alberta!

High Level’s Parks

High Level’s public parks are beautiful all year round, and make a great location for a run. There’s Centennial Park, just off 100 Ave, Canfor Park on 104 Street, Community Park on 100 Ave, and 103^rd Street Park, which is on 103 Street as its name suggests! Run laps around any of these great public spaces, or give yourself a real cardio challenge by doing sprints through the snow—it worked for Rocky Balboa in Rocky 4! Of course, even in the snow, it’s important to remember to stay hydrated.

High Level’s Streets

High Level is intersected by many long, scenic streets and avenues that make for great running routes. 100 Ave, for example, runs in a U-shape over the Northern edges of High Level. At roughly 3km from one end to the other, it makes for a great light jog. Of course, more advanced runners can traverse it multiple times for tougher burn. 94 Street and 92 Street also make for nice running routes, especially for guests of our Days Inn and Best Western Plus Mirage Hotel and Resort, which are nearby. Just remember to stretch adequately, pace yourself, and of course, make sure you know the way back to your cozy hotel room!

Our Fitness Centres

While it’s true that winter jogs can be quite enjoyable, sometimes the weather just doesn’t permit. On such days, turn your attention to our well-equipped fitness centers, complete with not only weight machines, but also treadmills. Just remember, when running on a treadmill it’s important to first warm up properly, and when running, to focus on form—find a comfortable stride length to maximize the effectiveness of your workout. It’s also smart to give yourself a cool down period by decreasing your speed to a walk for a few minutes.

No, in High Level, there’s no reason to let your travels—or the weather—put a damper on your fitness routine. Raise your BPM in our parks, across our avenues, and of course, inside our convenient fitness centers. And when your workout is finished, wind down in your comfortable bed and enjoy our excellent hotel amenities.

Book your stay today!

Between busy work schedules, family life, travel, and distractions like television and the internet, it’s no surprise that these days, people occasionally forget to appreciate the little things. One of these “little things” that tends to fall by the wayside is the beauty of nature. Northern Alberta is home to a magnificent vistas, towering pines, majestic animals and of perhaps most notably, a plethora of birdlife that is easy to forget when occupied by other things. But should you choose to direct your gaze skyward, what kind of birds might you glimpse? Let us give you some of the highlights. Here is some of the feathered life you’ll find around High Level Alberta, and our comfortable hotels.

Waterfowl

Because Northern Alberta is home to so many sparkling lakes, it’s also home to an array of beautiful water birds. From the shores of the area’s lakes and rivers, you can glimpse a number of beautiful species of swan, such as the Tundra Swan and Trumpeter swan. You’re also likely to encounter a bevy of duck and goose species, from Canada Geese, to Snow Geese, to Long-tailed Ducks, to the beautiful, Ring-necked duck. And of course, as is the case in most lakes across this beautiful country, if you listen closely, you may just be privy to the haunting song of the loon.

Birds of Prey and Raptors

The High Level area is home to more than just water birds. Amongst the trees and crags of this beautiful land, you’ll also find a selection of stunning predators. You’ll encounter majestic Bald Eagles, Sharp-Shinned Hawks, Kestrels, Red-Tailed Hawks, fearsome Ospreys, and, the fastest moving creature on this planet, the Peregrine Falcon. When combing the sky for this sort of feathered fauna, binoculars are a big help!

Other Birds

Outside of waterfowl and birds of prey, beautiful High Level is also home to a plethora of other bird life. In this stunning region, you’ll also encounter grouse amid the foliage, herons and pipers by lakeshores, kingfishers over rivers, woodpeckers up tree trunks, and hummingbirds abuzz by flowers. Yes, this is an area of spectacular natural beauty. For proof of this, look no further than the hundreds of species of bird that call the area home.

All it takes to enjoy the majestic bird life of High Level is a good eye and a little patience. Of course, you’ll also need a comfortable home base. In High Level, there’s no cozier place to rest your head than our conveniently-located hotels. Book your stay today and reconnect with nature!

The holidays are a wonderful time, but they’re also an incredibly busy time. If you find your schedule is filled and overflowing or you’re too stressed to enjoy the season, try these three tips to lighten your load and help you relax.

1.    Do Less

One of the reasons people feel like they have no time over the holidays is because, well, they don’t. So to get more time, try taking on less things. Instead of driving to a tree farm outside of town, go to your local grocer or tree lot, or try cooking only two side-dishes instead of three at the big Christmas dinner. It may seem like the effects of your cutting-back would be disastrous, but in reality, they’re unlikely to be noticed. What will be noticed, however, is your newfound free time.

2.    Organize Your Time

Though you can’t eliminate your entire schedule, you can make sure that everything you do is done efficiently. Plan all your shopping in advance so you don’t find yourself in the car every day looking for that one last item, or even better, do your shopping online. Do the same thing with grocery lists—no last-minute run to pick up the cranberry sauce—and everything else on the to-do list, and you’ll find that you not only have more time to spend with the family, but lower stress levels.

3.    Find Time for Yourself

While it’s important to spend time with your family and the ones you love over your holiday season, it’s equally important to spend time with yourself. Holiday bickering is easiest when you’re stuck inside with your parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, and in-laws, so find a nook in the house to yourself, or get out of the house entirely. If you’re in town visiting relatives, book a room at our hotel. That way there’s less chance of over-visiting, and besides, our beds are much comfier than an air mattress or a couch!

Wherever you are this holiday season, High Level Hotels would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

It’s Christmas time, and while many people are dreaming of a hot chocolate by the fire, the winter season is also known for its outdoor beauty and fun. Between the snow-covered trees and the frozen lakes, December has some of the most beautiful scenery of the year. Wintertime also offers activities unavailable in other seasons, so if you’re prepared to brave the cold, be sure to enjoy some of High Level’s outdoor winter activities. 

Public Skating

Outdoor skating is a Christmas tradition, so whether you’ll be figure-eighting or falling on the ice, rent a pair of skates and lace up for High Level’s 1,600 square-foot outdoor skating rink. The rink is open most days through to March and stays lit until 11:00 p.m. Tickets are $4 for adults, with discounts for family, children, and seniors, so come show off your pirouettes! 

Snowmobiling

Our region of Alberta frequently sees 40 cm of snow on the ground, which makes it an ideal place for winter sports such as snowmobiling. These conditions, when combined with an excellent network of well-maintained trails, have made High Level one of Alberta’s premiere snowmobiling destinations. Deep in the evergreens, High Level’s trails snake along streams and rivers, and are complete with rest areas and emergency warm-up shelters. Visit the Watt Mountain Wanderers for a trail map and to see if there are any snowmobiling events on during your stay.

Aurora Borealis

We’re currently in the best time of the year to see the multi-coloured mystical lights that are the Aurora Borealis. The world’s first Christmas light show, this natural phenomenon should be seen by everyone in their lifetime, and with its dark skies and perfect location, High Level provides a prime viewing seat. If you’re in High Level this winter, keep one eye on the Aurora forecasts and the other eye on the sky. Even if you don’t see the lights you’ll still be able to see countless stars, so don’t forget your constellation chart!

High Level is a great place for a true winter experience, but when you are ready to sit in front of the fireplace with a hot chocolate, make yourself comfortable by staying at one of our quality hotels. With our emphasis on comfort, value, and service, we’ll help you make your Christmas season a great one. We look forward to your visit!

High Level may be a small town, but that doesn’t mean you have to look far for fun. Year round, our beautiful, Northern outpost boasts a plethora of fun activities, spanning from the arts, to sports, to community events. This December is no different.

So if you find yourself amongst the pines and snowdrifts of our charming town, where do you turn for good times? Let us point you in the right direction.

High Level Museum and Visitor Centre’s Christmas Open House:

On December 6^th (a Saturday), High Level’s visitor centre will be opening its doors for a day of Holiday festivities. The day’s highlights will include Horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowmobile rides courtesy of Watt Mountain Wanderers Snowmobile Club, photos with Santa for children, delicious refreshments, and of course, an awesome, pioneer crafts sale where you can cross some items off your Christmas shopping list. And the perks don’t end there: the event is free to the public, and the visitor centre is just a short jaunt from our Days Inn, Best Western, Econolodge and Quality Inn locations.

Watt Mountain Wanderers Toy Ride:

This event, hosted by Watt Mountain Wanderers Snowmobile club, revs up on December 14^th, and will take guests on a thrilling ride from High Level to the Chinchaga River. The cost of participation? Simple. Just bring an unused toy (for donation) to High Level’s Kentucky Fried Chicken, which is just minutes from all of our hotels. There, you can register for the ride, before heading over to U-Wash Car and Truck Wash, just a stone’s throw away, off the MacKenzie Highway. That’s where the fun begins. Dress warm, and get ready for some outdoor fun through the beautiful landscapes of our frontier town. Our sources say there will be hot chocolate!

Watt Mountain Riders Boxing Day Poker Rally:

In this case, the name says it all. Spend your boxing day exploring Watt Mountain Trailers with the Snowmobile Club and then playing poker for some great prizes. First place scores SKIDOO, and second earns $500 merchandise certificate from Northern Yamaha and Rentals. Not bad! Price of admission is simply the cost of a trail day pass ($20), plus $10 per person. Considering the fun, and the possible rewards, that’s a steal! The event’s organizers are calling this one their best of the 2014-15 season, so don’t miss it! For more information, contact club president Barry Toker at bts3@telusplanet.net.

No, fun’s not hard to find this December in High Level. Over the course of the month, you’ll have chances to experience pristine northern wilderness, do some Christmas shopping, help good causes, and if you’re lucky, win big! So why not book a room at one of our luxurious hotels and uncover all that this majestic northern town has to offer. You won’t regret it.

We have a lot of history here in High Level, Alberta. Before the European settlers arrived and the first fur traders made their way though in 1786, the area was home to the Dene, Beaver, and Cree people. Known for many years as Tloc Moi (Hay Meadow), the name "High Level" was derived from the height of the land separating the Peace and the Hay River. 



The Mackenzie Crossroads Museum and Visitors Centre offers a peek into Peace Country's past. The "Northern Trading Post" exhibit is a showcase of a typical 1800 to early 1900s trading post and general store, and features a collection of over 1,600 food and medicine containers, an attached living quarter, and a regional historical photography display. Travelling and local exhibits rotate around the Interpretive Gallery through the year, as well.



The Museum and Visitors Centre offers plenty of exciting activities, including rides on horse-drawn wagons and snowmobiles. Tours are also available for groups, where visitors are invited to dress up and participate in pioneer activities such as candle dipping and butter making. 

Welcome to High Level, Alberta. If you're looking for comfortable, affordable, and convenient accommodation while visiting our special town, look no further than one of our exceptional hotels. From elegantly appointed suites to full-service amenities, we've got you covered. Book your stay today!