Where History Meets the Peace River

Where History Meets the Peace River: Discover Dunvegan

Join the MD Summer Bus Tour on August 21, 2026 for a day of history, scenery, gardens, and a little summertime fun!

There are places in the Peace Country where the landscape itself seems to tell a story—and Dunvegan is one of them.

Nestled along the banks of the mighty Peace River, Dunvegan Provincial Park and Historic Dunvegan offer visitors the chance to step into more than 200 years of local history while enjoying one of the most beautiful river valleys in our region. On August 21, the MD Summer Bus Tour will head to this remarkable destination, where there is something for just about everyone to enjoy.

A Place Where History Runs Deep

Long before fur traders and missionaries arrived, the Dunvegan valley was an important gathering place for Indigenous peoples, including the Tsattine (Beaver) people, whose traditional lands encompass the area.

In 1805, the North West Company established Fort Dunvegan on the Peace River. Named after the ancestral home of the McLeod family in Scotland, the fort became an important centre of the fur trade and one of the significant posts in the Peace River valley. In 1821, following the merger of the North West Company and Hudson’s Bay Company, Fort Dunvegan became a Hudson’s Bay Company post.

The valley later became home to missionary activity as well. The Roman Catholic St. Charles Mission was established in 1867, followed by the Anglican St. Saviour’s Mission in 1880. For generations, Dunvegan was a meeting place where Indigenous communities, voyageurs, fur traders, missionaries, farmers, and settlers crossed paths.

The fur trade eventually faded, but Dunvegan continued to play an important role in the region. The Hudson’s Bay Company remained at Dunvegan until 1918, and the valley became increasingly known for its productive gardens and agriculture.

Today, that history has been carefully preserved at Historic Dunvegan, a provincially and nationally designated historic resource.

During the tour, visitors can explore the Historic Dunvegan site and its four original, authentically restored and furnished buildings. Costumed interpreters help bring the stories of the fur trade, missions, and life along the Peace River to life.

The buildings include the Hudson’s Bay Company Factor’s House, built in 1877–78, along with the St. Charles Church and Rectory and the Revillon Frères fur trade post.

The Factor’s House is particularly special. Built during the Hudson’s Bay Company era, it is the only surviving building from that later Fort Dunvegan post that remains on its original site.

The Historic Dunvegan Visitor Centre provides an opportunity to learn even more about the people and events that shaped the region. Visitors can also explore the grounds and interpretive displays at their own pace.

And while you are learning about the past, don’t forget to look around. The historic site sits in a spectacular setting above the Peace River, where the valley provides a beautiful backdrop to the stories unfolding around you.

Take a Walk Along the Peace

For those who would rather enjoy the outdoors, Dunvegan offers plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.

Walking paths wind through the park and along the river valley, offering beautiful views of the Peace River and surrounding hills. There are trails for a leisurely stroll, places to stop and enjoy the scenery, and paths that lead down toward the river. On a warm August day, you may even want to dip your feet in the cool water and enjoy a little Peace River summertime refreshment.

The park also offers a day-use area with picnic tables, fire pits, cook shelters, a playground, and horseshoe pits—making Dunvegan a wonderful place to slow down and enjoy a summer day.

From Fur Trade Gardens to Dunvegan Market Gardens

Gardening has been part of Dunvegan’s story for generations. Even during the fur trade era, the gardens at Fort Dunvegan played an important role, reflecting the growing importance of producing food locally. Market gardens continued in the valley through the 20th century, with commercial operations beginning in the 1940s. That agricultural tradition continues today at Dunvegan Market Gardens.

The family-run operation traces its roots back to 1952, when Bill Friesen purchased Dunvegan Gardens. Today, the farm grows vegetables, fruit, flowers, and other garden products, while also raising bison.

Visitors can browse fresh seasonal produce, locally produced bison products, plants, flowers, and other goods. Depending on the season, the gardens may also offer U-pick opportunities.

It is a wonderful reminder that while Dunvegan has changed considerably over the past two centuries, its connection to the land—and to growing food—has remained.

A Little Friendly Competition

And then there is the fun part!

At Dunvegan Market Gardens, visitors can enjoy a 10-hole mini-golf course, making it an ideal stop for families, friends, and those who are young at heart. The course offers a relaxed bit of friendly competition in a beautiful rural setting.

After a round—or perhaps while cheering on the other players—you can also enjoy a scoop of ice cream or stop at the on-site kitchen for something to eat. Because really, is there a better way to finish a summer outing than ice cream after a little mini golf?

Whether you are fascinated by local history, love exploring gardens, enjoy walking outdoors, want to dip your toes in the Peace River, or simply want to spend a summer day somewhere beautiful, Dunvegan has something to offer.

It is a place where several chapters of Peace Country history come together: Indigenous history, the fur trade, missionary life, transportation, agriculture, and settlement—all set within one of the most scenic stretches of the Peace River valley.

And that is what makes the Dunvegan Summer Bus Tour such a great opportunity. You don’t have to choose between history and recreation. You can spend the morning learning about the people who came before us, wander through historic grounds, take in the river views, explore the gardens, challenge someone to a game of mini golf, or find a shady spot and enjoy the day. So, come along, bring your walking shoes, your curiosity, and perhaps your appetite—and discover why Dunvegan has been drawing people to the Peace River valley for more than 200 years.

Come for the history. Stay for the scenery. Enjoy the gardens. And maybe settle the question of who is the better mini-golf player!

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Space is limited, so contact the MD office at (780) 864-3500 to reserve your spot on the bus!

Bus Fare: Age 16+ $25.00; Under 16 $5.00 

Fare is due upon registration. Riders are responsible for all expenses over and above the bus fare. 

The bus leaves the MD garage at 8:30 AM to pick up passengers at designated locations and will return between 3:30 PM and 4:00 PM. 

Priority is given to seniors and people with limited mobility.