The Alberta Small Brewers Association has launched 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.”

Since 2018, the number of Alberta breweries has more than doubled.

The Alberta Ale Trail is expected to contribute more than $5 million to the economy in its first three years. Between the complimentary app and the Alberta Ale Trail website, both are expected to grow to more than 500,000 unique annual visits within this period.

“We are already collaborative by nature, but this adds to the guest experience as much as it does our own,” said Shane Groendahl, co-owner at Blindman Brewing in Lacombe and chair of the Alberta Small Brewers Association.

“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.”

“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 Brewers Association and Alberta breweries as we collectively grow Alberta’s reputation as a must-visit destination for world-class breweries and agri-tourism,” said John Mamela, Travel Alberta’s chief commercial officer.

SOURCE: Red Deer Advocate
PHOTO CREDIT: Alberta Ale Trail/Instagram