Trail Profile: Town of Innisfail Trail
Explore the Trans Canada Trail in the heart of beautiful Innisfail, Alberta. This accessible paved Trail section is ideal for walking, cycling and rolling. Discover its fascinating history and wonderful attractions!
What we love about this Trail section
• It’s ideal for a variety of activities, winter and summer, from walking and cycling to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
• It passes through the heart of town and takes trail users to beautiful outdoor spaces.
• It’s a great way to learn more about the town’s heritage and history along part of the Destiny Urban Trail.
Photo credit: Town of Innisfail
Following the original Calgary-Edmonton Trail
Journey along historical routes on this section of the Trans Canada Trail, which follows the original Calgary-Edmonton Trail that was used in the late 1800s as a land transport route. One of the first stopping houses, the Spruces, which was used by stagecoaches on the Calgary-Edmonton Trail is right in Innisfail! Today, the Trail takes users through town, in proximity to restaurants and cafés, ideal for a snack or coffee break en route.
Beautiful views and walking trails at Napeoleon and Dodd’s Lakes
You’ll find two lakes along this Trail section. The first, Napoleon Lake, features a great 3-kilometre interpretive trail that is ideal for school groups, families, and bird and nature enthusiasts. Self-guided field trips are available through the Town of Innisfail, and include information about the trail’s history, plus several activities for all ages.
Positioned between the two lake areas is Centennial Park. You’ll find a play area for the little ones and a covered picnic area on site. The park is home to several cultural events in town.
At Dodd’s Lake along the Trail, explore the wide range of shoreline walking options and lakefront activities. It’s an ideal spot for families, and walkers and hikers of all ages. Dodd’s Lake also offers a boat launch and fishing areas. Fun fact: Dodd’s Lake hasn’t always been a lake! Before the lake gradually started forming in the early 20th century, it was home to a picnic area and racetrack!
Photo credit: Town of Innisfail
Discover Innisfail’s cultural and historical attractions
The Town of Innisfail Trail follows part of the Destiny Urban Trail, which takes visitors to several cultural and historical points of interest around town. A must-stop for history buffs is Innisfail Historical Village, featuring 17 historical buildings over 2 acres, giving visitors a glimpse of life in the area a century ago. You may come across Dr. George’s historic home, once the only private museum of its kind in Alberta – though it’s not open to the public, the site provides lovely views of Dodd’s Lake.
Family fun at Discovery Wildlife Park
Another popular attraction along the Town of Innisfail Trail is Discovery Wildlife Park, open seasonally, which offers visitors educational presentations on animal safety and conservation, campsites, a play area and much more.
Photo credit: Town of Innisfail
Explore more Alberta trails on our interactive map!
About Trans Canada Trail
Stretching nearly 30,000 kilometres across every province and territory, the Trans Canada Trail is cared for locally by trail and community groups. As a charity, Trans Canada Trail advocates for and stewards this nationwide system. We support community-led trail projects through the Trail Catalyst Fund and we share reliable trail knowledge through the Centre for Trail Excellence.
Main photo credit: Town of Innisfail
