Athabasca River

The Athabasca River is one of Canada's largest rivers and runs through Alberta, a sparsely populated yet scenic province in the country's Western region of the Rocky Mountains. Measuring just over 890 km in length, with a drainage basin of around 65,000 km², the river flows from its source in the Columbia Icefields in the form of two headwater streams, the Athabasca Glacier and the Brazeau River, before passing through several lakes and reservoirs before finally discharging into the Peace River valley at Fort Chipewyan. Along its course, the river has created a vast range of dramatic landscapes, from its rocky mountain origins, to its marshy delta at the end of its long journey. The Rockies here offer plenty of opportunities for hikers and nature lovers, who can explore its glaciers, hidden river valleys and canyons, while downstream, visitors can enjoy fishing, camping and boat tours along the Athabasca. Wildlife viewing is also popular and you can expect to see a variety of birds, deer, and even elk, wolves and bears in some parts. For photography enthusiasts, the river is also home to incredible opportunities - the changing seasons reflect on the surface of the Athabasca and its reflection offer unique, memorable shots.