Kuhnen Natural Area (48.5 km)
Kuhnen Natural Area is a 65-acre natural site located east of Red Deer, accessible via Highway 11 and Range Road 230. Donated by the Kuhnen family, this area borders the Red Deer River and offers diverse habitats for wildlife and plants. Birdwatchers can spot species like Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, Canada Warblers, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, Tree Swallows, Hairy Woodpeckers, and American Goldfinches. The area also features plant species such as Trembling Aspen, Paper Birch, Wild Rose, Canada Anemone, and Purple Prairie Clover. A steep, unmaintained trail leads to the river, where a beaver run must be crossed. Wildlife includes White-tailed Deer, Moose, Coyotes, Red Foxes, and occasional sightings of cougars or black bears. Benches and a picnic table are available for visitors, though caution is advised due to the rough terrain in some areas.
Access: From Red Deer, head east on Highway 11 for 13 km, then turn south onto Range Road 230 and continue for 3 km to the Kuhnen Natural Area entrance.
Partners: Lacombe County
Alberta Discover Guide: No
Kuhnen Natural Area is a 65-acre natural site located east of Red Deer, accessible via Highway 11 and Range Road 230. Donated by the Kuhnen family, this area borders the Red Deer River and offers diverse habitats for wildlife and plants. Birdwatchers can spot species like Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, Canada Warblers, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, Tree Swallows, Hairy Woodpeckers, and American Goldfinches. The area also features plant species such as Trembling Aspen, Paper Birch, Wild Rose, Canada Anemone, and Purple Prairie Clover. A steep, unmaintained trail leads to the river, where a beaver run must be crossed. Wildlife includes White-tailed Deer, Moose, Coyotes, Red Foxes, and occasional sightings of cougars or black bears. Benches and a picnic table are available for visitors, though caution is advised due to the rough terrain in some areas.
Access: From Red Deer, head east on Highway 11 for 13 km, then turn south onto Range Road 230 and continue for 3 km to the Kuhnen Natural Area entrance.
Partners: Lacombe County
Alberta Discover Guide: No
