Clearwater Ricinus Natural Area (99.0 km)
The Clearwater Ricinus Natural Area covers 212 acres along the Clearwater River, featuring steep banks and a mix of trembling aspen, balsam poplar, and white spruce. The area has multiple quad trails that provide access for hiking and exploration. Off-trail, the forest becomes denser but eventually opens to a clearing with a view of the highway and a path leading down to the river. Wildlife signs, including coyote and deer tracks, are common. Bird species like the ruby-crowned kinglet and black-capped chickadee, along with others, can be found here, though activity varies with conditions. Plants such as trembling aspen, white spruce, balsam poplar, wild rose, and gooseberries grow throughout the area. Visitors can hike, fish, or use pre-existing trails for OHV riding.
Access: Travel west on Highway 54 from Caroline and turn left onto Range Road 65A before the bridge. Watch for a yellow “Natural Area Boundary” sign on the right and park along the ditch. Ignore GPS directions to turn left after the bridge, as it leads to the wrong side of the river. The access point is somewhat hidden and steep.
Partners: AEP
Alberta Discover Guide: No
The Clearwater Ricinus Natural Area covers 212 acres along the Clearwater River, featuring steep banks and a mix of trembling aspen, balsam poplar, and white spruce. The area has multiple quad trails that provide access for hiking and exploration. Off-trail, the forest becomes denser but eventually opens to a clearing with a view of the highway and a path leading down to the river. Wildlife signs, including coyote and deer tracks, are common. Bird species like the ruby-crowned kinglet and black-capped chickadee, along with others, can be found here, though activity varies with conditions. Plants such as trembling aspen, white spruce, balsam poplar, wild rose, and gooseberries grow throughout the area. Visitors can hike, fish, or use pre-existing trails for OHV riding.
Access: Travel west on Highway 54 from Caroline and turn left onto Range Road 65A before the bridge. Watch for a yellow “Natural Area Boundary” sign on the right and park along the ditch. Ignore GPS directions to turn left after the bridge, as it leads to the wrong side of the river. The access point is somewhat hidden and steep.
Partners: AEP
Alberta Discover Guide: No
