The Peace Country region of northwestern Alberta covers an area of approximately 111,000 square kilometres—which can seem intimidating to a visitor looking to ride and experience the best of what the Peace Country region has to offer. Being an Easterner and new to the Peace region myself, I took some time and asked around for the best ATV riding in the Peace region.
The Saddle Hills
The Saddle Hills were probably mentioned the most when I asked, “Where’s the best place to ATV in the Peace Country?”
The Saddle Hills is a region just north of Grande Prairie with lots of trails for beginners and even more trails for the experienced rider ready to tackle some mud! With the great location and selection of trails, the Saddle Hills provide a great ATV experience for families and experienced riders.
I spoke with a lifelong resident of the Peace Country region about the Saddle Hills: “I take my family and even my employees into the saddle hills with ATVs and side-by-sides all the time for outings,” he said. “We can pick which trails we want to go on depending on who is with us. If we have more kids with us, we will take an easier trail with a little bit of mud but if it’s just some of my employees and I who have their own machines—we take on the muskeg and have some fun. The Saddle Hills are great for everyone at any riding ability.”
Kakwa and Horn Ridge
Next to the Saddle Hills, Kakwa was also mentioned frequently. Everyone I talked to said that Kakwa was definitely worth the long drive and the ride in. Even though the trails are limited in Kakwa and the only trail is to the falls, the mountain views and falls are quite spectacular and is a great destination for anyone!
Horn Ridge is another location that was mentioned. It is close to Kakwa so a rider could experience both in one day. I was advised that Horn Ridge is not for beginner riders as it climbs up the mountain above the treeline and is one of the tallest mountain peaks.
I got to speak with a four-season rider in the Kakwa area. He said, “I love riding in Kakwa in every season. It’s well worth the drive from Beaverlodge. Almost every long weekend, my family and I pack up and go camping there. We will spend an afternoon at Horn Ridge and even bring lunch in the back of my RZR—it’s great to get the family outdoors.”
Though this is a small list of many great locations to ride in the Peace Country region, there are many locations and trails in combination with the beautiful mountains, hills, field views and wildlife that make the Peace Country region great for ATVing.
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