About Slave Lake

The Town of Slave Lake, population 6,836 (Canada Census 2021) is located two and a half hours northwest of Edmonton, and is at the southeastern tip of the massive Lesser Slave Lake. 

Characterized by many as "The Jewel of the North," Slave Lake is a progressive, dynamic town and one of Canada's ten youngest communities. A tourists hub, within 15 minutes of the town you will discover Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park , Alberta's 6th largest Provincial Park, Canada's northernmost Bird Observatory , Alberta's easternmost foothills, Marten Mountain and the most beautiful stretch of white sand beaches in Alberta!

Outdoor Recreation

Lesser Slave Lake, the largest lake entirely within the Alberta border, boasts one of the finest recreational beaches in the province. Seven kilometers of pristine, white sand beaches are located within the Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park which has been featured on the Discovery Channel as part of the Great Canadian Parks Series.

The Pelican Mountain range is to the northeast where Marten Mountain rises some 1020 meters above sea level. The views from Marten Mountain are scenic and beautiful, something rarely found in the Boreal Forest. Slave Lake offers year round activities for sightseers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The following Tourism & Recreation activities are enjoyed by many April through October.

• Biking
• Camping
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Off-Roading
• Recreational Boating

In the summer months the town hosts various events such as Riverboat Daze, concerts and fishing tournaments.

 When the cold weather sets in, ice fishing presents anglers with an opportunity to hook a big Walleye, Northern Pike (Jackfish) or Whitefish. As well, incredible cross-country skiing and back-country sledding are favourite winter pastimes enjoyed by many.

Amenities

Slave Lake is considered the “hub” of the area and offers an impressive selection of all amenities including hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, retailers and community facilities. Our downtown core houses some great businesses with local shop owners who pride themselves on great customer service.  There are a number of boutique stores that have some great household items.   Clothing, drug stores, furniture, electronics and gifts stores are just some of places you will want to check out during your visit.  And after a big day of shopping or hiking, you can go to one of our many beauty and health service providers for some rest and relaxation. 

South of Highway 2, you will find Cornerstone developments which is home to a number of familiar franchises and the Slave Lake Centre mall provides a variety of eating establishments as well as child and professional services.

And of course, we invite you stop by the Visitor Information Centre located just east of town. It has a gift shop full of local jewellery, clothing, artwork and more. We will also help you maximize your visit by letting you know of our attractions and activities, including the Trans Canada Trail, boat launches and equipment rentals. 

The comforts of a slower lifestyle and recreational activities like these are contributors to the community's growing tourism industry.  We invite you to come and experience it yourself!

Economy

The oil, gas and forestry industries that thrive on the abundant resources of the area, have been instrumental to the Slave Lake economy. Marten Hills oil reservoir which is just over one-hour from Slave Lake, is one of the most exciting and active drilling areas in the province….and Slave Lake is fully capable and highly interested in servicing the oil exploration and extraction in the “Hills”.