Metis Crossing enables people to view starry skies
Metis Crossing says it has accommodations that should leave visitors somewhat star-struck.
The Metis-owned, Alberta tourism enterprise includes what are billed as Sky Watching Domes, lodging that Metis Crossing CEO Juanita Marois says enable guests to see spectacular displays of nighttime skies, thanks to transparent panels on the upper part of the structures.
“The attraction of staying in a Sky Watching Dome is about an intimacy with nature,” she says of the lodging, found in an area northeast of Edmonton. “Being able to lay in bed and gaze upon the night sky in complete comfort can be a transformative experience. Coupled with Métis experiences that immerse our guests in The Metis culture — one of the distinct Indigenous peoples of Canada — will create memories that last a lifetime.
“With a Dark Sky Preserve designation application being reviewed, the night sky is ideal for stargazing. On clear nights, many stars not visible from urban areas emerge with the majesty of cosmic wonder. When celestial events occur under the right conditions the spectacle can be an unforgettable marvel.”
The domes are equipped with blinds that provide privacy. The transparent panels for observing the sky are positioned higher to ensure privacy. They are available year-round and have running water and ensuite washrooms and showers, as well as kitchenettes.
Single suite domes have the likes of king beds, heated floors, air conditioning and electricity.
“They have everything needed for a peaceful night’s stay,” Marois says.
Métis Crossing’s single shareholder is the Otipemsiwak Métis Government of the Metis Nation within Alberta. All money spent at Metis Crossing is reinvested into the local community.
“It is a signature destination of Métis cultural sharing, education, gathering, and business development. There are four main goals: to be a gathering place, to share the Métis story with all people, to become financially sustainable and to minimize capital debt,” Marois says of Metis Crossing.
Metis Crossing is by the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, a wildlife corridor. It is common for visitors to hear the howls of coyotes at dusk as they gather for the evening hunt, migrating geese and hawks and owls on their nighttime hunts. Deer and moose are often spotted traveling through the area.
“The visions, hopes and dreams at Metis Crossing Wildlife Park guarantee guests an opportunity to observe bison, elk and horses in a protected habitat through one of our tours, which is the best way to observe wildlife and experience the significance of these animals to the Métis People,” Marois says.
Marois says Metis Crossing is eager to familiarize people with Metis culture.
“At Métis Crossing we share stories of the Metis people, our relationship to the land, water, animals and skies,” she continues. “We seek legendary ways to engage our guests. Our goal was to create year-round accommodations that provided night sky watching opportunities. Coupling this interest with an intriguing design would be a draw. This also laid the groundwork for developing Indigenous Night Sky programming. There are similar accommodations in the country but they are not available year-round as these are. This choice in particular also supported our commitment to local procurement as the supplier is located only 75 km from Metis Crossing
“Cultural sharing is at the heart of what we do at Métis Crossing. Education, in a fun way, has always been a fundamental part of the Métis Crossing experience. The experience packages are the best way to experience Métis Crossing as they include accommodation, culinary and experiences. The Night sky was fundamental to Métis guides, and trappers as it was used for navigation. They led our early settlers to know when to plant crops and expect weather changes. There are many stories centered around the night sky that share moral lessons passed down between generations.
“Metis Crossing, as a cultural destination, has been authentically dreamed of, planned, designed, built and operated by Metis people. Our Nation, our people, our elders, youth, artisans, and entrepreneurs guide all that we do here.”
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROAM CREATIVE.
