Hideaway Adventure Grounds: Your Cultural Retreat

Nestled within the settlement's 160 acres of pristine wilderness, Hideaway Adventure Grounds offers travellers a rare blend of cultural immersion and outdoor adventure.

Founded by John Ritchie in 2018, this extraordinary retreat connects guests to the land through authentic Indigenous experiences.

Engage with knowledgeable Indigenous guides in hands-on cultural activities that bring Métis traditions to life.

Learn to make traditional bannock over an open fire, master essential bushcraft skills like fire-starting and shelter-building, and discover the deep connection between the Métis people and Alberta's landscape.

Choose from canvas wall tents or cozy cabins discretely tucked into well-treed sites.

The property comes alive at night with coyotes howling and abundant wildlife, providing pristine wilderness experiences.

Don't miss their signature wilderness sauna - a private outdoor cedar wood-fired retreat perfect for ultimate relaxation.

Whether you're seeking a solo retreat, family adventure, or corporate wellness event, Hideaway Adventure Grounds adapts to your programs, and gathering spaces.

Located just a scenic drive from Edmonton, Kikino represents authentic Alberta experiences showcasing Indigenous culture and natural beauty.

Contact John Ritchie at: 780-623-8885 | hideawayadventuregrounds.ca

Visit their Rumble Alberta Listing: https://rumblealberta.com/hideaway-adventure-grounds

Historic Vilna – From First Winner to 2025 Nominee

The Village of Vilna holds a special place in Alberta’s story. In 2022, Vilna became the very first winner of Alberta’s Most Friendly Community in the Best of Alberta Awards. Since then, the awards have been revamped and expanded, but Vilna continues to shine — and is nominated again in 2025.

Founded in 1907 and incorporated as a Village in 1923, Vilna quickly grew around the CN Railway, a general store, and its most iconic landmark: the Vilna Historic Pool Hall. Opened in 1920, the Pool Hall is still Alberta’s oldest operating pool hall and barber shop — where you can get a hot shave, sip free coffee, and grab a Saturday burger between 11am and 3pm.

Vilna’s name means “peace” in Ukrainian — an ironic choice in 1919 when the world was gripped by war, revolution, and prohibition. Moonshining was as common as farming, and Vilna’s beginnings were anything but quiet. Today, the Village blends that spirited past with modern amenities, making it one of Alberta’s most charming boomtowns.

🌟 Things to See & Do in Vilna

• Vilna Historic Pool Hall & Barber Shop – Alberta’s oldest, still in operation.

• Vilna Giant Mushrooms – quirky roadside photo stop.

• Vilna Farmers Market – generally held the 1st Sunday of every month.

• Boomtown Days Parade, Fair & Farmers Market – generally held in mid-August.

• Historic Vilna Show N’ Shine – generally held the day after Boomtown Days.

📸 Pro Tip: Visit on a Saturday in summer — the Pool Hall serves up fresh burgers, cookies and coffee are always free, and the market scene is a local favourite.

Grande Cache Express Tour – Ride or Drive the Scenic Route

Discover Alberta’s wild beauty on the Grande Cache Express Tour. Whether you choose the guided motorcycle version or the non-guided option (open to all vehicles), this 3-day tour combines breathtaking scenery with Indigenous and Métis experiences, museums, and heritage stops.

🛵 Guided Motorcycle Tour

Ride with experienced guides who know the roads, the stories, and the best stops along the way. Perfect for those who want camaraderie and confidence while exploring.

🚗 Non-Guided Tour (Open to Everyone)

Prefer to travel at your own pace? This option is open to all vehicles. Use our electronic brochure packed with maps, must-stop attractions, local dining suggestions, and insider tips.

🌟 Highlights Along the Route

• Whitecourt Forest Interpretive Centre & Heritage Park

• DeBolt & District Pioneer Museum

• Veterans Memorial Gardens & Interpretive Centre (Grande Prairie)

• Kleskun Hills Museum

• Galloway Station Museum & Travel Centre

• Overnight stays at Grande Cache Inn & Suites and Peavine Inn & Suites (High Prairie)

🏨 Featured Stays

• Grande Cache Inn & Suites – Your mountain-side base with cozy rooms and modern amenities.

• Peavine Inn & Suites, High Prairie – Comfortable lodging in the heart of the Peace Country, offering full-service hospitality for tour travellers.

🎉 Experiences Along the Way

This tour is short but full of authentic encounters:

• Horseback Riding with Indigenous Operators – Explore the foothills around Grande Cache the traditional way, on guided horseback rides with local hosts.

• Indigenous & Métis Experiences – Connect with culture through storytelling, crafts, and guided walks.

• Spa & Wellness Products – Discover locally made Indigenous and Métis wellness goods, a chance to take home a piece of the experience.

• Community Heritage – Museums and memorials in Grande Prairie, Whitecourt, and Edson bring Alberta’s past to life.

🏘️ Communities Along the Route

This tour takes you through a series of welcoming Alberta towns and cities, each with their own flavour:

• Edson – a hub for outdoor recreation and rail history.

• Hinton – gateway to the Rockies with trails and cultural stops.

• Whitecourt – heritage parks, forests, and friendly cafés.

• Grande Cache – mountains, Indigenous operators, and adventure.

• High Prairie – Peace Country hospitality and comfortable lodging.

• Grande Prairie – home to the Veterans Memorial Gardens & Interpretive Centre.

📱 Electronic Brochure Included

Every tour comes with a digital brochure, filled with:
✔️ Must-see attractions
✔️ Dining & accommodation info
✔️ Indigenous and Métis experiences

📸 Pro Tips

• Fuel Smart: In the North, never miss an opportunity to fill up if you’re on a bike. Cars and trucks have more range, but options can still be spread out.

• Book Early: Horseback riding and Indigenous-led experiences have limited spots — secure yours in advance.

• Mountain Magic: Don’t miss sunrise views in Grande Cache — the mountain backdrop is unforgettable.

• Local Flavour: In High Prairie, plan extra time to explore local dining before your overnight stay.

📞 Book Your Tour Today

Call (780) 933-0182 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Seniors Tours to Métis Crossing – History, Culture & Comfort

Step into the rich heritage and peaceful surroundings of Métis Crossing, where history comes alive through engaging cultural experiences designed with seniors in mind. Whether you’re exploring interactive exhibits, joining a guided tour, or simply relaxing in nature, Métis Crossing offers a unique opportunity to connect with Canada’s Métis story in a welcoming, senior-friendly environment.

🚍 Travel in Comfort

We now offer two travel options:

• Luxury Motorcoaches (52 passengers) – reclining seats, Wi-Fi, TVs, USB power, onboard washrooms, and full accessibility.

• Mid-Size Buses (14–24 passengers) – in partnership with Driver Seat West (Calgary & Airdrie). Comfortable, air-conditioned, ideal for in-province groups. No onboard washrooms, but frequent planned rest stops ensure comfort.

🏡 All-Inclusive Packages

The only meals not included are lunch on your travel days (to and from Métis Crossing). Everything else is included:
✔️ Accommodations
✔️ Attractions & entertainment
✔️ Cultural activities
✔️ Bus fare

🌟 Activities at Métis Crossing

• Stories by the Fire – gather around the fireplace as interpreters share Métis stories and traditions.

• Meet the Métis – explore art, dance, storytelling, language, and the historic Sinclair and Cromerty family river lot homes.

• Métis Craft Workshop – learn a traditional craft and take home a keepsake.

• Kitchen Party for Seniors – enjoy food, music, and laughter in a lively gathering that celebrates community spirit.

• Victoria Trail Tour – follow the historic fur trade route with interpreter-led storytelling.

💲 2025/26 Tour Packages

📸 Why Choose This Tour?

Because it’s more than a bus trip — it’s a cultural experience wrapped in comfort and connection. Seniors will enjoy:

• Travel that’s tailored to their comfort

• Senior-friendly accommodations and activities

• Inclusive pricing with no hidden costs

• Authentic Métis experiences that bring Alberta’s history to life

Visit their website for more information: Métis Crossing

Call Renee Charbonneau if you are interested in a seniors trip to  Métis Crossing or any other Alberta destination.

Phone: (780) 933-0182. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.