Explore Cold Lake's Rich History

Cold Lake’s Aboriginal history dates back long before Europeans came to the North American Continent. Here the Dene Suline and Cree nations shared the resources that the lake and the surrounding areas had to offer. Artifacts from dream catchers to fishing and trapping gear are mixed in a storyline depicting the history of the Dene Suline, Cree nations and Metis peoples living on the shores of Cold Lake and its surrounding areas.

Step back in time to pre-WWII Cold Lake! Here you will find artifacts that illustrate the history of European immigrants to Cold Lake. Before oil and the air force, Cold Lake was a land of farmers, fishermen, fur trappers, and loggers who came west for the new opportunities this land of lakes offered.

Visit the Oil and Gas Interpretive Centre. Discover the great developments that occurred in Cold Lake’s Oil Sands industry. Learn about the history, geology, production, transportation, and various uses for Cold Lake oil. With the assistance of interactive exhibits, understand why unique technology was developed specifically for the Cold Lake Oil Sands.