Commuter Route
Take Highway 2 north from Edmonton for 150 kilometres. The drive takes approximately an hour and a half. Be warned, the divided highway becomes one-lane in each direction shortly after Morinville.
Economic Picture
The town of Athabasca has a working population of approximately 1,300 people. The vast majority are employed by either Alberta Pacific Forest Industries Ltd. (500 employees) or Athabasca University (400). The town is the health, education, shopping and service centre for the region. Rounding out the top five large employers are the Aspen Health Region (174), Aspen View School District (149) and Extendicare (70).
Under construction
Athabasca University is planning a $30-million expansion to its facility. The Greater North Foundation, an affordable senior and community housing project, worth $5.7 million is slated for development. Several pipeline projects are in the works including Terasen’s $600-million Corridor Pipeline and the Devon Energy/Meg Energy $200-million Access Pipeline. On the retail front, Athabasca is getting its first Canadian Tire.
Conversation starter
A recent coup for the town was the February opening of the Multiplex, a $16-million sports facility and meeting space. And last month brought spring breakup on the river. It’s a town event in which residents try to guess the precise moment that the ice will start flowing. Ask about their “system” for picking the date.
Where to eat
The Riverhouse Eatery is the unofficial town hangout complete with local artwork, live music and a gorgeous view of the valley. Whether you’ve got a hankering for a full meal, an import beer or a chai latte, this restaurant with a cosy coffee-shop feel is the place to be. For some international flair, The 49th Street Grill serves a mix of Canadian and Greek cuisine. The Athabasca Burger Bar, meanwhile, is a town icon.
Where to sleep
The modern facilities at Cabins by the River provide all the amenities of home (queen-sized bed, fridge, microwave and satellite TV) in a picturesque setting. Overlooking the valley, The Red Roof Gallery lives up to its name. Run by artist Della McLean, this funky guesthouse is also a showcase for local artwork.
Diversion
You might start with a self-guided historical tour through the town and along the riverfront. Visit the Town Office or Visitor Information Centre for the brochure. Fishing is one of the more popular outdoor activities in the summertime. But even if you just want to get out on a tour of the river, the guide at Reel Angling Adventures can accommodate. Summer festivals abound. The biggest include classic rock and country music at the Magnificent River Rats Festival (June 30 to July 1), Harley talk at the Hawg Flatts Bike Rally (July 11-13) and foot stompin’ at the Old Time Fiddlers’ Weekend (Aug 30 -31).
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