A Centre Dedicated to the History and Culture of the Métis
Why Go?
History buffs will love a trip on the Victoria Trail along the North Saskatchewan River, just 10 miles south of Smoky Lake off Highway 855. Start at Victoria Settlement, where interpreters bring this former Fort and pioneer settlement to life. Work your way west to Metis Crossing where you’ll find a gift shop, campground and boat launch and 10 NEW comfort camping trappers tents overlooking the North Saskatchewan River.Metis Crossing is a 512 acre site, comprised of five river lot titles that had been owned by Metis settlers in the late 1800s. It is the first and only major Metis Cultural Centre in Canada. So you can learn the rich history of the Metis, daily guided tours are now available for booking.
Today, Metis Crossing, along with Victoria Settlement, are part of a National Historic Site. Both Historic Sites are open May to September with special events during the summer.
What’s Unique?
Don’t forget to book your spot for the new ‘Paddle into the Past’ tour, a four-hour cultural program with Voyageur Canoe rides offered on select dates.WINTER
The snow is falling, the land and the seasons are changing, and Métis Crossing is welcoming you to discover and experience their distinct Indigenous culture this winter. They are reopening December 10th, in accordance with the provincial restrictions exemption program.
Signature Experiences
Tales from the Trapline Experience
Tales from the Trapline is a 3-hour immersive Indigenous experience that explores Métis traditional winter activities and skills on a historic Métis River Lot Farm. Strap on a set of snowshoes, set a snare, build a survival shelter, and learn a traditional art as you create your own unique and beautiful keepsake.Vision, Hopes, and Dreams, Wildlife Park
Metis Crossing has welcomed the return of heritage species to the Crossing! The Visions, Hopes and Dreams at Métis Crossing Wildlife Park welcomed the return of Woods Bison, Plains Bison, White Bison, Elk, White Elk, and Percheron horses to the traditional Métis Lands at Métis Crossing. The bison, or “bufloo” in Michif, the language of the Métis, last roamed these hills in and around 1865. They have re-introduced these majestic beasts to their natural habitat.Beginning December 11th, visitors to Métis Crossing will have the opportunity to experience the majesty of these animals through interpretive programming and tours.
Métis Crossing Horse-Drawn Sleigh & Wagon Rides
Métis Crossing welcomes you to experience the beauty of the North Saskatchewan River on a traditional Métis river lot. Celebrate the winter season by exploring the land by horse-drawn wagon with your friends and family.Group bookings are available by request. Please contact Métis Crossing.
Traditional Workshops
Métis Crossing offers a variety of Traditional Workshops, providing an opportunity for interactive, hands-on learning experiences. This Winter they are offering a series of workshops for individuals of all skill levels.
- Sunday, January 9, 2022 - Gauntlets or Métis Mittens Workshop
- Sunday, January 16, 2022 - Métis Ribbon Skirt and Shawls Workshop
- Sunday, January 30, 2022 – Intro to Fingerweaving
- Sunday, January 23, 2022 - Métis Capote Making Workshop
- Sunday, February 6, 2022 – Moss Bag Workshop
Daily Experiences
This winter season, Métis Crossing is offering the following activities as part of the general admission experience;
- Riverside Skating Rink (bring your own skates, rentals not available)
- Snow Tubing on the Riverbank (tubes included)
- Snowshoeing (rentals available, Adult pricing: $25 full-day, $15 per half-day. Youth pricing: $20 full-day, $12 half-day )
- Cross-country Skiing (bring your own skis, rentals not available)
Groomed beginner, 1km, 4km, 5km and 10km trails. Head out and experience the beautiful back country terrain and scenery of Metis Crossing on skis or snowshoes!
- Métis Cultural Exhibits
- Gift Shop
