Must Do Canada’s Wild Nordegg Adventure: From Waterfalls to Warm Fires
A Scenic Road Trip Through David Thompson Country
In their multi-season explorations of David Thompson Country, Matt and Karla from Must Do Canada showcase a region that offers equal parts tranquility and adrenaline. Their road trip spanned waterfalls, historic sites, wild animal sightings, and local eats—but their home base at Expanse Cottages brought all the adventure together.
“David Thompson Country is definitely one of the best places to visit in Alberta… every time we come here, we just have such a good time.”
This was no quick detour—it was a true immersion in one of Alberta’s most underrated outdoor destinations.
Cozy Cabins, Deep in the Trees
Located just minutes from Nordegg, Expanse Cottages gave Matt and Karla a peaceful forest retreat to return to each day. Their cabin was tucked far enough off the road to be quiet, but close enough to access major sights and services with ease.
Inside, the space was fully outfitted with everything they needed: a functional kitchen for cooking simple meals, a wood-burning stove that warmed the entire space, and even a firepit for evening s’mores.
“Situated fairly deep within the forest with no highway sounds to be heard… fully equipped with a living room, kitchen, TV, and a wood-burning stove.”
It wasn’t just lodging—it was a cozy reset between hikes, drives, and cold-weather challenges.
Chasing Waterfalls, Pie, and Wild Horses
From the iconic roar of Crescent Falls to the peaceful boardwalks leading to Siffleur Falls, their trip featured Alberta’s wild beauty at every turn. They journeyed to remote spots like Ram Falls and the scenic cliffs at Preacher’s Point, each location framed by mountain peaks and wide skies.
Their time wasn’t all about nature. A visit to the Miner’s Café proved to be a sweet stopover, where handmade pies—especially the blueberry mango and strawberry rhubarb—offered a delicious break from the trail.
They also stumbled upon something unexpected: wild horses roaming the region, descendants of the mining days. Their quiet presence added a magical touch to an already surreal landscape.
When Winter Takes Over: Ice, Wind, and Adventure
Their winter return visit was just as packed with unforgettable moments—but this time, snow and ice added new layers to the experience. They went ice climbing with guides at Girth Hitch, flew over glaciers and valleys on a helicopter tour, and trekked across frozen terrain during a snowshoeing excursion to Landslide Lake.
They also visited Abraham Lake to hunt for the famous frozen methane bubbles. But nature had its own plans: extreme wind, hidden ice layers, and blowing snow created real challenges—and real memories.
“Abraham Lake is known for its wind… if you don’t have microspikes, the wind will just take you.”
These weren’t passive activities. Everything required gear, planning, and respect for the elements—a reminder that true adventure isn’t always easy.
A Different Kind of Alberta Escape
Unlike the busy hubs of Banff or Jasper, Nordegg offers a quieter kind of magic. You’ll find world-class scenery—but you might have it all to yourself.
“You want a landscape as beautiful as Lake Louise? You can come here… but you won’t have all the tourists and the crowds.”
This trip revealed the real value of getting off the beaten path. With fewer crowds, more connection, and space to breathe, Matt and Karla found what so many travellers are looking for now: meaningful, grounded travel that doesn’t sacrifice comfort.
The Final Word from Must Do Canada
“We loved our stay and would happily return.”
With its unbeatable mix of natural beauty, authentic experiences, and cabin comfort, David Thompson Country—with Expanse Cottages at its heart—left a lasting impression on Matt and Karla. It’s more than just a great getaway. It’s a chance to rediscover Alberta, one trail, one pie, and one quiet evening fire at a time.
Write Your Own Alberta Story!
Whether it’s crossing a frozen lake in search of methane bubbles, hiking into a canyon for icefalls, or relaxing by the fire with fresh pie and no signal, Expanse Cottages is the perfect place to unplug—and plug into something better.
Related Reviews
Matt & Karla June 2020 & January 2021
During our visit, we stayed at Expanse Cottages. These cottages are located roughly 5 minutes from Nordegg and are situated fairly deep within the forest with no highway sounds to be heard. They’re fully equipped with a living room, kitchen, TV, and a wood-burning stove.
