Authentic Indigenous Experiences MÉTIS CROSSING, ALBERTA

At a cultural centre and wildlife park in Alberta, visitors can participate in hands-on interpretive programming designed and run by Indigenous people

Métis Crossing, located northeast of Alberta’s capital city, Edmonton, sits on the original river lots of some of the first Métis settlers in Alberta. During the fur trade, these settlers used rivers as highways and often arrived at Métis Crossing in canoes. Visitors can relive that journey today with the “Paddle into the Past” voyageur canoe experience.

Métis Crossing is a historical voyage that fuses Indigenous and European ancestry, with roots dating back to the 18th century. The Métis Nation began in Canada’s early years when French and Scottish fur traders married First Nations women. Over time, their descendants developed their own language and culture. For those who want to experience the uniqueness of Métis culture, this cultural site is a good place to start.

Authentic experiences

Métis Crossing was designed, built and is operated by Métis people to tell their story in their own way. Lilyrose Meyers, the Elder and Knowledge Holder at Métis Crossing, hosts cultural and interpretive programmes, imparting knowledge, teaching traditions and sharing culture – such as the traditional art of moose-hair tufting.

Wildlife watching

At Métis Crossing’s new wildlife park, visitors can spot rare bison – believed by many Indigenous people to be the most sacred living being on earth. In 2021, bison were reintroduced to the land after being wiped out of this region in the 1860s. Percheron horses, elk, white elk, wood bison, plains bison and white bison can all be found

Indigenous-inspired cuisine

Guests can enjoy a hearty meal at the onsite restaurant serving Indigenous-inspired cuisine. Menu options include bison burgers served on bannock buns, bison stew, three sisters vegetarian soup, wild rice coconut pudding and Saskatoon berry lemonade.

Overnight accommodations

Choose between an equipped trapper’s tent, a boutique guest lodge, or even sleep beneath the stars in one of Métis Crossing’s new sky-watching domes. Transparent ceilings provide a perfect view of the sky, stars and constellations that once served as guiding lights for the Métis people.

When to visit Métis Crossing

There is something special about every season at Métis Crossing. In the spring, baby bison can be seen in the wildlife park. Summer is a time for canoeing, camping and more extensive interpretive programmes. Fall is the season for berry picking and stunning autumn foliage. Skating, crosscountry skiing, sledding and snowshoe adventures are available in winter. Whenever one chooses to visit, Métis Crossing is a special spot that helps guests appreciate the distinct culture of the Métis people. •

bison are sacred to the Métis people

participate in authentic experiences

sleep in a sky-watching doMe