The Alberta Small Brewers Association has announced the launch of the Alberta Ale Trail.
With support from Travel Alberta and the Government of Canada’s Tourism Relief Fund, the aim of the Alberta Ale Trail is to support and promote beer tourism, as well as the association’s 140-plus small breweries.
“By creating itineraries with our breweries as the main points of interest, the Alberta Ale Trail will not only be a go to source of information for beer enthusiasts it will also encourage the curious to try out some local businesses,” said Blair Berdusco, the association’s executive director.
“This project will support tourism partners throughout Alberta, highlighting parks, events, hospitality, tour operators and more with seasonal considerations.”
The number of Alberta breweries has more than doubled since 2018 – the Alberta Ale Trail will include all small breweries. Through the summer, the association will release new trails on a regular basis, to give locals and tourists something new to try throughout patio season and beyond.
The Alberta Ale Trail is expected to contribute more than $5 million to the economy in its first three years. The complimentary app, along with the Alberta Ale Trail website, is expected to grow to more than 500,000 unique annual visits within this period.
Shane Groendahl, co-owner at Blindman Brewing in Lacombe and chair of the Alberta Small Brewers Association, said brewers are excited to add the Alberta Ale Trail.
“We are already collaborative by nature, but this adds to the guest experience as much as it does our own,” said Groendahl.
“One the great features of the Alberta Ale Trail is getting to support businesses which support us, from the local pub with craft on tap, to the events we participate in, these options included on trails creates a complete experience.”
John Mamela, Travel Alberta’s chief commercial officer, described the Alberta Ale Trail as “the perfect platform” to share the stories of the brewers behind the pint glass and showcase unique travel itineraries across the province.
“This will encourage both Albertans and visitors to explore the many regions of our province. We look forward to our ongoing collaboration with the Alberta Small Brewer’s Association and Alberta breweries as we collectively grow Alberta’s reputation as a must-visit destination for world-class breweries and agri-tourism,” said Mamela.
For more information, visit www.albertaaletrail.ca.
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