Cygnet Lake (12.8 km)
This area stretches across both sides of Highway 11 and includes wetland and marsh habitats. Although there are no formal trails, visitors can access the lake by kayak or raft. The lake’s greenish tint is visible from the shore, and it's a great spot for birdwatching. Waterfowl species such as Mallards, Lesser Scaup, Redhead, Cinnamon Teal, Shovellers, Canvasbacks, and Green-winged Teal can often be seen, along with land birds like the Barn Swallow, Common Grackle, and Red-winged Blackbird. Sora, Yellow Rails, and Eared Grebes are also commonly found in the water. The shoreline, cattails, and willows provide nesting sites for waterfowl, so it's important to be cautious and avoid disturbing these areas. This location is mainly suited for naturalists and those interested in roadside viewing from the ditch. Due to its proximity to a busy highway, visitors should exercise caution, and the site may not be ideal for families with young children.
Access: From Red Deer, travel west on Highway 11 towards Sylvan Lake. After 9 km, park in the ditch by the bridge.
Partners: Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC)
Alberta Discovery Guide: E3-40
This area stretches across both sides of Highway 11 and includes wetland and marsh habitats. Although there are no formal trails, visitors can access the lake by kayak or raft. The lake’s greenish tint is visible from the shore, and it's a great spot for birdwatching. Waterfowl species such as Mallards, Lesser Scaup, Redhead, Cinnamon Teal, Shovellers, Canvasbacks, and Green-winged Teal can often be seen, along with land birds like the Barn Swallow, Common Grackle, and Red-winged Blackbird. Sora, Yellow Rails, and Eared Grebes are also commonly found in the water. The shoreline, cattails, and willows provide nesting sites for waterfowl, so it's important to be cautious and avoid disturbing these areas. This location is mainly suited for naturalists and those interested in roadside viewing from the ditch. Due to its proximity to a busy highway, visitors should exercise caution, and the site may not be ideal for families with young children.
Access: From Red Deer, travel west on Highway 11 towards Sylvan Lake. After 9 km, park in the ditch by the bridge.
Partners: Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC)
Alberta Discovery Guide: E3-40
