Overview
Cold Lake is a small city of about 15,000 people set against one of Alberta's most beautiful lakes. It offers sandy beach access at Kinosoo Beach, regional events like Exercise Maple Flag and the Cold Lake Airshow, and a unique blend of military heritage and indigenous culture.
Beach · Budget Travel · Family Travel · Nature
Before you go
Accommodation
Cold Lake Provincial Park offers camping May-September. Hotels like Lakeland Inn (from $95) in Grand Centre and B&Bs like Waterfront Harbour (from $125) provide alternatives.
Events
Exercise Maple Flag (May-June) fills all regional accommodations. Summer events include Silver Buckle Stampede (June), Aqua Days (early August), and Cold Lake Airshow (early August).
Money
Cold Lake uses Canadian dollars (CAD). ATMs available in town at banks and credit unions. Major credit cards accepted at hotels and larger establishments.
Transport
Cold Lake Transit operates two bus routes with no Sunday or holiday service. A car is recommended for exploring the region. Highway 28 connects to Edmonton; Highway 55 connects to Saskatchewan.
Weather
Summer highs reach 21-24°C with July-August being warmest. Winters are cold with lows of -19°C in January. Snow falls primarily November-March with January-February heaviest.