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The best camping near Nordegg guide
Where to go
Abraham Lake
Sometimes called Nordegg’s “crown jewel” thanks to its brilliant turquoise waters, Abraham Lake is popular in summer, when campers flock to the massive, manmade reservoir for swimming, boating, and nearby hiking. The Vision Quest hike takes hikers above the lake on nearby mountain peaks through semi-alpine terrain. Abraham Lake is also solid enough for ice skating from December through March but is famous for its frozen bubbles in winter—trapped methane freezes before it can reach the surface. Nearby lakeside and riverside campgrounds help campers make the most of the water.
Crescent Falls
Crescent Falls is accessible by car, but there’s also a short, 5-km trail system offering hikers a quieter route with extra views of the powerful waterfalls, their deep blue plunge pools, and local wildlife. Running along the top of the winding Bighorn Canyon, Crescent Falls Trail is a mix of canyon views, deeper forested trails, and a couple of viewpoints of the upper and lower Crescent Falls. This short hike is perfect for an easy hike or a picnic destination. Close to Nordegg, Crescent Falls is also near private RV sites and even hot spring glamping spots.
Ram Falls Provincial Park
About 100 km outside of Nordegg, the quiet, rustic beauty of the Ram Falls region is a hidden gem. Featuring forested paths, riverside campgrounds, and the stunning Ram Falls, this area promises a wild experience. In summer, it’s common to see bighorn sheep resting near riverbanks, and campers can walk down the Ram Falls platform to experience the dizzyingly beautiful view of the rushing water. Campgrounds complete with fishing holes, tent sites on idyllic farmlands, and even cabin rentals are available nearby.
Allstones Lake Trail
A tough but well-worth-it hike, the 8-km Allstones Lake Trail consists of steep, uphill climbs through mountainous forest before breaking out above the treeline for a great view of Abraham Lake. The route carries on up the mountain (providing countless views of the other nearby peaks) before finally ending at an alpine lake with scenic picnic spots.
When to go
While many Nordegg trails are primarily intended for summer use (when temperatures are mild), most also offer some access in colder months, when some frozen lakes make for fun ice skating and petrified waterfalls can be hiked. Campers visiting Nordegg in winter should prepare for really cold conditions (average January lows of -20.1°C) and pack crampons or microspikes for safe hiking.