Travel Jottings

For me, journeys often weave along city streets or wander through remote landscapes, spanning from European familiarity to North American unknowns. While each of these begins with inevitable preparation, it is the art of embracing the unexpected that brings these experiences to life. Every step, whether through bustling cityscapes or tranquil countryside, adds another piece to this evolving anthology of exploration. As new horizons continue to beckon, I look forward to sharing more discoveries with you, letting each journey inspire the next in an endless quest for wonder.

Alberta: From the Rocky Mountains to the Prairie Badlands

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Alberta, a province situated in the heart of Western Canada, offers an enticing blend of natural wonders, urban sophistication and rich cultural heritage. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the vast prairies and badlands, Alberta's diverse landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for unforgettable experiences. Whether you're seeking outdoor delights, urban experiences, or a journey through history, Alberta has something to offer every traveller, whether it is in better known locations like what you find below or lesser known spots like Grande Cache or Red Deer.

Urban Exploration

Calgary: A Dynamic Metropolis

Calgary, Alberta's largest city, is a vibrant urban centre that seamlessly blends cowboy culture with modern amenities. The city is currently undergoing significant developments, including the construction of a new Event Centre and an expansion of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) network, which will add 10 kilometres of track and seven stations to improve connectivity between the southeast and downtown areas. Visitors can explore the city's numerous attractions, dine at world-class restaurants and experience the famous Calgary Stampede, a celebration of the region's western heritage.

Edmonton: The Festival City

Edmonton, the provincial capital, is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, diverse culture and numerous festivals. The city offers a wealth of attractions, including the sprawling West Edmonton Mall, the picturesque River Valley park system and the historic Old Strathcona district. Visitors can access information about city services, community programs and local events through the official city website, ensuring a seamless exploration of this dynamic urban centre.

Natural Wonders

Banff National Park

Banff National Park, Canada's oldest national park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Visitors can explore pristine lakes, including the iconic Lake Louise, hike through stunning alpine meadows and witness diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. The town of Banff serves as a perfect base for explorations, offering a range of accommodation and dining options. Don't forget to obtain a Park Pass, which is required for all visitors to access the park's myriad attractions.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park, established in 1907, is a vast wilderness area known for its rugged mountains, glaciers and abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing and rafting while exploring the park's breathtaking landscapes. The Jasper SkyTram offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, while the Icefields Parkway, connecting Jasper to Banff, is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. Anyone looking for a place to stay could do worse than check out what is offered by the Jasper Home Accommodation Association.

Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park, located in the southwest corner of Alberta, offers a unique blend of prairie and mountain landscapes. The park is renowned for its diverse hiking trails, stunning lakes and the historic Prince of Wales Hotel. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Unique Experiences

Blackfoot Crossing

Blackfoot Crossing, located near Cluny, Alberta, is a site of profound cultural and historical significance for the Siksika Nation and the Blackfoot Confederacy. This scenic location along the Bow River is renowned as the place where Treaty No. 7 was signed in 1877, establishing a crucial agreement between the Blackfoot Confederacy and the Canadian government. The site has served as a gathering place for Indigenous peoples for millennia, and today it hosts the Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park.

Opened in 2007, the park features an interpretive centre showcasing Blackfoot culture, history and traditions through exhibits, guided tours and cultural performances. Visitors can engage with Siksika interpreters, explore archaeological resources including Crowfoot's grave and experience the rich heritage of the Blackfoot people. Situated about an hour's drive east of Calgary, Blackfoot Crossing offers an accessible and immersive opportunity to understand Indigenous history and culture in Canada.

Dinosaur Valley

Known as the "Dinosaur Capital of the World", Drumheller offers a fascinating journey through prehistoric times. The Royal Tyrrell Museum, a world-renowned palaeontology research centre and museum, showcases an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils and interactive exhibits. The surrounding badlands landscape provides a striking backdrop for exploration and outdoor adventures.

The Cowboy Trail

For a taste of Alberta's western heritage, travellers can embark on a journey along The Cowboy Trail. This scenic 700-kilometre route along Highway 22 showcases the province's rich ranching culture, stretching between the Rocky Mountains and the Canadian prairie. Visitors can enjoy horseback trail rides, farm stays and western-themed attractions, immersing themselves in the authentic cowboy experience.

Outdoor Experiences

Alberta's diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. In the winter months, world-class ski resorts such as Lake Louise Ski Resort, Banff Sunshine and Mount Norquay provide excellent skiing and snowboarding experiences. During the summer, visitors can explore numerous hiking trails, enjoy canoeing on pristine lakes, or embark on wildlife viewing tours. While not an interest of mine, fishing is another attraction for many.

Nestled to the west and southwest of Calgary, Kananaskis Country is a stunning outdoor destination that offers a less crowded alternative to the nearby Banff National Park. This vast area encompasses five provincial parks, four wildland provincial parks and several recreation areas, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The area has Canmore, 22 kilometres (12 miles) east of Banff and approximately 88 kilometres (55 miles) west of Calgary, as a gateway. To use the place as a base, check out Canmore Holiday Accommodation to see what is available as a place to stay.

Visitors can enjoy a wide array of year-round activities, including hiking breathtaking trails like Grassi Lakes and Wasootch Ridge, mountain biking, camping and scenic drives along the Trans-Kananaskis Highway. Winter sports enthusiasts can hit the slopes at Nakiska Ski Resort, while unique experiences such as stargazing and dog sledding add to the area's charm. To access Kananaskis Country, visitors are required to obtain a Kananaskis Conservation Pass, which supports vital conservation efforts in this natural wonder.

Practicalities

Travellers to Alberta can benefit from various resources to enhance their visit. The Alberta BearSmart program provides essential information on bear safety and coexistence with wildlife, crucial for those exploring the province's wilderness areas. For road travellers, the AMA Road Reports website offers real-time updates on road conditions, construction alerts and weather impacts, ensuring safe journeys across the province.

Those coming from further away can arrive at Calgary International Airport or Edmonton International Airport. From the former of these, either Banff Airport Shuttle or Banff Airporter will convey you the rest of the way towards the destination included in their names (though there may be intermediate stops like Canmore as well), the urban centre in the heart of Canada's first national park. In advance of your arrival, you may find accommodation and activity options offered by the Banff Jasper Collection that work for you. It never hurts to have travel and accommodation arranged beforehand.

Public transportation options are available in major cities, with Calgary Transit and Edmonton Transit Service providing comprehensive networks for urban exploration. For those travelling between cities, services like On-It Regional Transit offer convenient options for regional connections. When getting around the Bow Valley, Roam Transit is an asset, particularly for getting between Canmore and Banff.

Tempted?

Alberta's blend of natural beauty, urban sophistication and rich cultural heritage makes it a compelling destination for travellers from around the world. Whether you're seeking adventure in the Rocky Mountains, exploring the province's fascinating history, or enjoying the vibrant city life, Alberta offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveller. With its well-developed tourism infrastructure and warm hospitality, Alberta welcomes visitors to discover the wonders that make this Canadian province truly special.

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