Exploring Torren Chutes, MD Greenview

The Torrens Chutes south of Two Lakes Provincial Park is a unique geological formation in which the Torrens River narrows through a narrow canyon in a series of slabs and cascades of waterfalls. A 6km hike round trip with 150m Elevation change makes it a great day hike itself, or a side trip from Two Lakes or Kakwa Falls anytime of the year.

Living in Grande Prairie means embracing the cold and preparing for our temperamental weather, and today was no different. After grabbing a coffee and bison breakfast sandwich at Ole Smokes Coffee, we set out in the blowing snow and cold which didn’t give us high hopes for the day. Once we came to the Two Lakes Provincial Park, we could see the clouds melting off and giving us a nice snowfall with hints of blue sky peeking through for the hike in. After the 3km hike down we could hear the water and see the iridescent mountain water flowing through the fresh snow on the banks. Caution in the area is a must with slippery footing, flowing springs, and sharp drop offs next to the river.

After having a snack at the chutes, Mother Nature showed up with a refreshing late fall rainstorm cutting short our plan to have a hot lunch. With time to dry driving back to the city, we opted for a lunch at 14 Fourteen Food Company downtown. I highly recommend the Spicy Southwest Mac and Cheese with a bowl of their soup on a cold day. Inside the restaurant you will find the walls lined with artwork from local artists. And if art is your thing, a quick hop across 100ave will bring you to the Grant Berg Gallery with their showcase of paintings, sculptures, pottery, jewelry and more!

To add that little extra warmth to our core and a great way to to finish off a chilly day was a stop to Maddhatters a few blocks west of the Grant Berg gallery to try their menu of hot cocktails; the Salted Caramel Macadamia Coffee was the perfect choice.