Vermilion, Alberta is quietly nestled a stone’s throw off the Yellowhead Highway just west of Lloydminster, which is along the Alberta / Saskatchewan border. It’s a quaint town with a population of just over 4000. Most motorists would miss it as they sped past towards their intended destination, but here is why you should take a moment to stop and enjoy this town.
The scenery
Once you leave the highway behind, Vermilion offers up beautiful natural scenery. The Rotary Lookout overlooks Vermilion Lake, and a trail from here winds down into Vermilion Provincial Park.
You can also access the park by vehicle and once you are in the park, you have access to a launch area for boats and canoes, or just have a picnic along the shore and enjoy the scenery.
The Claude N. Brennan Memorial Trout Pond is located in the Vermilion Provincial Park and offers a serene area to walk around or fish in and it is stocked with trout. The park also offers tent and camper/RV campsites so you can stay awhile.
Unique spaces
If you enjoy photography like I do, there is no shortage of interesting subjects to capture. Exploring around, I came across this fully restored CN train station and caboose.
Looking inside the caboose through the window of a locked door reveals a number of books and the chance at an eerie photograph.
In the heart of Vermilion lies Heritage park. It is the location of many town gatherings including this year’s Art in the Park taking place on October 1. A favourite feature here is the outdoor oven which will be serving up fresh baked cinnamon buns during the festival. Looking into this oven, I can only imagine all of the deliciousness that has come out of here.
Read my post about Art in the Park on FestivalSeekers.
Gardens
During the summer and fall months, flowers can be seen all around. Lakeland college has a beautiful garden area including a bench surrounded by flowers that would be perfect for family photos or weddings.
Local artists
Vermilion has no shortage of talented artists. From painters to potters and everything in between, I encountered so much creativity in my short time in Vermilion. This is what makes Art in the Park, now in it’s second year, so successful. There are just so many local artist to showcase.
An old fashioned sign decorates Heritage Park in recognition of community builders past and present.
If you get the chance to drop in on your way by, you won’t be disappointed. Or better yet, make Vermilion your destination this October 1 and take in Art in the Park in conjunction with Alberta Cultural Days. You can read my post on FestivalSeekers for more information about this festival.
Thank you to FestivalSeekers for sponsoring this post.
Sheri publishes, and writes at This Bird’s Day where she shares all of the thoughts in her head without the voices. Sticking mainly with content for Canadians, Sheri shares family stories, product information and anything that fits into her (and her family’s) daily activities.
