Nature Alive Retreat

"I had the great pleasure of staying at the Nature Alive Retreat Centre for a few days this fall. Dale and Colleen were excellent hosts, welcoming, helpful, friendly and informative. Their cabins were a perfect get-a-away for a silent retreat full of nature walks through the meadows, forests and wetlands.

We had many encounters with grouse, owls, deer, and snowshoe hare. We woke up before dawn one morning and were awestruck with the beautiful sounds of 4 owls hooting to each other. The sound echoed through the tree tops, very magical experience given there were no other noises to interfere with their performance.

The accommodations were comfortable and clean and perfect for sleep ins and reading books. There was also a really nice central fire pit for hanging out, visiting with friends, cooking smokies and contemplating life ( bush tv ).

It was also a perfect location to launch a canoe trip down the Athabasca River. That is another adventure in itself and highly recommended if you have the time.

Being from the city, it's hard to see the night sky. At this retreat centre there is no light pollution and the stargazing was first rate. If you need a few days of rest and relaxation, unplugged from our normal hustle and bustle check this place out!"

"I have enjoyed staying in the 4 season cabin at the Nature Alive centre. The cabin is cozy and comfortable and I had a great sleep on the bed. The cabin was very clean and has everything you'd expect along with some surprises. The bedroom has a great bed, some storage and it has a cute little kitchen, and full bathroom. I did not expect to find a washer and dryer, which is so handy if you get a little grubby exploring near the creek.

The property itself is tranquil and welcoming. At night you can enjoy watching the stars from the deck of the cabin and listen to the forest animal sounds. I have explored through the forest, picked raspberries in the meadow, and rested alongside the burbling creek. It is truly a great place to unwind and experience nature.

Thank you to Dale and Colleen for opening up your property so that others can experience the restorative effects of time spent in nature. I will definitely visit your property again."

"We have stayed in both the Log cabin, and Rest Nest Cabin for several nights and loved both experiences. The log Cabin is stunning in its location as well as inside beauty. Tucked near the forest, 4 people can comfortably sleep here in any weather. There is room for an extra cot as well, if desired. The queen size bed on main floor is very comfortable with beautiful bedding, giving the feel of being at home in one’s own bed. The single beds in the loft, accessed by a ladder, add adventure for guests looking for their own space and view. The table and chairs, as well as warm pellet stove, make it feel completely homey and comfortable. The wood siding inside and out adds to the charm and coziness of the cabin.

The Rest Nest Cabin is also an easy, deluxe, cozy stay for 4 people. Located with beautiful views of the fields and forest, the full amenities heated cabin gives both comfort and convenience. The comfy cabin is complete inside with full-service plumbing, 4 piece bathroom with hot running water, as well as a cute kitchen boasting a fridge, sink and hot plate. The inviting and comfortable queen size bedroom adds privacy for 2 guests while the pull-out couch in living room gives space for two more guests. Charmingly furnished and in such a wonderful location, you will have a hard time pulling away to return home!

Our stays at Nature Alive Outdoor Retreat Center have felt like a step into stunning wilderness and raw outdoor beauty as one walks the deep wooded forest, strolls close to the babbling stream or wanders across meadows and rolling fields. The breathing in of the fresh air and the quiet of nature soothes the restless soul and resets and restores the spirit.

Colleen and Dale are amazing hosts with a wealth of knowledge. Their kindness and warmth will draw you in and make you feel at home. Their keen outdoor knowledge will hold your fascination as you grow in areas of tracking animals, understanding their habitats and behaviour, the wonder of nature around you and finding our human connection that we all have to the earth and our natural world around us."