Feeling a bit down and out following the bleakness of winter? Well, spring is around the corner and with the warm weather, a number of recreational groups in the community will be hosting their annual general meetings and club membership drives. Getting involved in a new activity and meeting new people is a great way to get recharged and excited by the upcoming seasons. Eagle Point Park and Blue Rapids Recreation Area are home to recreational facilities managed and operated by local clubs who depend on members, volunteers, and enthusiasts who love to recreate in nature. Getting involved can mean making new friends, having memorable experiences and finding an activity that brings you joy.
The Brazeau Bowbenders Archery Club offers indoor and outdoor shooting ranges for archery hobbyists and competitive shooters. They have a beautiful outdoor shooting range on RR 71, just off the Willey West Campsite Road. To contact the club for questions or membership, email bbarcheryclub@gmail.com.
The Brazeau ATV Club has 75 kilometers of maintained trails with bridges along the North Saskatchewan River in Blue Rapids Provincial Recreation Area. Club President Cassy Janishewski cautions all ATVers to be aware of spring melting conditions, to use caution when driving to the staging area (tire chains or 4×4) and to look for washouts on trails. The club is planning a season opener trail ride and spring cleanup in the coming weeks and will have their Annual Poker Rally on September 9, 2023. The club is always looking for new members and volunteers. To get involved contact Cassy Janishewski on Facebook@ Brazeau ATV Club for more information.
The Drayton Valley Horse Club has 80 kilometers of short and long loop riding trails along with a staging area with campsites. The club has information on Facebook, as well as their own website at www.draytonvalleyhorseclub.com.
Evergreen Shooting Club has been open since 1974. Their Club offers two covered skeet and shooting lanes for all skill levels. They have target boards at various ranges from 25 to 400 yards and reactive steel targets at 100, 200, 300 and 400 yards. They also host various pistol and trap nights. To contact the club for questions, email evergreen.shootingclub@gmail.com. Club memberships can be purchased at Mulligan Registries.
The Drayton Valley Paddling Club offers canoe and kayak adventures with day and overnight stays. They are open to all ages and skill levels. You can follow them on Facebook@ Drayton Valley Paddling Club or text Danielle at 780-898-2440 for more information.
The West Central River Boat Association promotes safe boating for families. If you have ever been out on a river boat it is an exciting, beautiful way to see the river. For more information about the club reach out to Wayne at 780-542-3217.
The Pembina Nordic Ski Club isn’t just for skiing. This picturesque facility offers snowshoe trails, skiing, fat biking in the winter and during the other seasons you can enjoy mountain biking, trail running, hiking and disc golf. Memberships for this four-season facility can be found at www.zone4.ca.
The Parks Council also has some fun events happening this spring. Camping 101 is a one-day course being held April 29 from 9:00-3:00 PM. This course will teach you all you need to know about tent camping. Registration is $50 and includes lunch.
Global Big Day, for bird enthusiasts, happens on Saturday, May 13, 2023. This day will have you meet other birders to spot species and do bird counts in the region. Get out your binoculars and join the fun.
For more information about events, guided experiences, trails, and recreational clubs view our website at www.epbrparkscouncil.org
With so many options we hope you will try a new activity this year that has you enjoying the beauty of nature while making some new friends.
“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure some of them are dirt.”-John Muir
