Packhorse to Pavement

Buck Lake, a hamlet in central Alberta, is a serene retreat nestled within the County of Wetaskiwin. Located approximately 100 kilometers southwest of Edmonton, it sits on the shore of its namesake, Buck Lake. The lake is part of the North Saskatchewan River system, and the hamlet is situated on its southwest shore. Buck Lake is known for its tranquility and natural beauty. The lake’s forested shorelines and the large parts of the lake shore being protected natural areas contribute to its unique charm. Unlike the bustling southern prairie lakes, Buck Lake offers a peaceful respite with its low-density large lots that almost eliminate the feeling of city developments.

Moving west of Highway 22, we find Alder Flats, another hamlet within the County of Wetaskiwin. Known as the “gem of Alberta”, Alder Flats is located approximately 120 kilometers southwest of Edmonton. The first homesteaders arrived in Alder Flats as early as 1919. The early residents were employed in several logging camps, while others made a living by trapping and hunting. The discovery of oil and gas in the early 1950s slowly replaced logging as the main employer.

Lastly, we have the Pendryl District, a locality within the County of Wetaskiwin. Although not as well-known as Buck Lake and Alder Flats, Pendryl holds its own rural charm. It is located within a radius of 100 kilometers from the center of several other localities, with Buck Lake being the nearest.