Winter Recreation

Camping

Winter camping available at:

13 kilometres of groomed cross-country ski trails from Kelley's Bathtub day use area on Jarvis Lake Trail
Joachim Valley Trail from Jarvis Lake campground beyond park boundaries to Black Cat Guest Ranch
Over 35 kilometres of skate and classic cross-country ski trails at Athabasca Lookout Nordic Centre

You can ice fish on any of the lakes in Switzer.
For regulations and restrictions: Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations.
Fishing licenses and Wildlife Identification Number (WIN) cards (required to purchase sportfishing licences) available online:
- everyone between the ages of 16 and 65 years old must have an Alberta anglers license
- seniors residing outside of Alberta must also purchase an Alberta angling license
For your safety:
- be prepared for weather changes, wild animals, equipment breakdowns and accidents
- use caution on ice! Never travel alone. Springs can cause ice to melt in unexpected places. According to the Canadian Red Cross, ice should be a minimum of 20 centimetres thick for group activities and a minimum of 25 centimetres thick for snowmobiles. Ice should be clear and solid in texture.
Switzer hosts an ice fishing derby in February as part of Hinton's annual Winter Magic Festival.

You can skate on any of the lakes in Switzer Park, conditions permitting. Try Kelley's Bathtub for a great view.
Use caution on ice! Never skate alone. Springs can cause ice to melt in unexpected places. According to the Canadian Red Cross, ice should be a minimum of 20 centimetres thick for group activities. Ice should be clear and solid in texture.

Snowshoeing permitted only on trails that are not track-set for cross-country skiing. Try Friendly Vista Trail.
To book group & school snowshoe programs:
- Scott Sunderwald - phone 780-817-3797 (to be connected toll-free in Alberta, dial 310-0000 followed by the number); email: scott.sunderwald@gov.ab.ca