It’s no secret that Alberta is made up of breathtaking natural wonders, but what is lesser known is that you can find many of them in the southwest region of the province. From crystal-clear waters and majestic mountain ranges to undiscovered backcountry trails that lead you into the wilderness, the South Canadian Rockies is an incomparable outdoor playground waiting to be discovered.
Only about a two-and-a-half-hour drive south from Calgary, the Crowsnest Pass, Castle Provincial Park and Pincher Creek regions make up the wonder-filled area and boast exciting things to do, from adrenaline-filled activities to rejuvenating experiences. Discover what’s on this summer and how to make the most of an adventurer’s paradise.
Mark your August calendar
Festivals and events are always happening in the South Canadian Rockies, and the summer is no exception. No matter what feeds your adventure appetite, you’ll find it here.
For music lovers of the Renaissance, Baroque and Classical periods, do not miss the Pass Early Music Festival in Crowsnest Pass starting August 11.
Pincher Creek will host its annual pro-rodeo from August 15-18, with a parade and special lemonade day on August 17, when young entrepreneurs will compete in hosting lemonade stands for the public to sample from.
Gather with friends for a good time at the annual Huckleberry Festival at Castle Mountain Resort on August 24. Hike up the mountain or take the ski lift to pick huckleberries and enjoy live music at the base area.
If you’re looking for action-packed activities that will have you breaking a sweat, the United Riders of Crowsnest hosts Friday night races for mountain bike lovers and the Crowsnest Pass Quad Squad hosts day rides for those who love to ride on four wheels.
Enjoy the great outdoors
Immerse yourself in the towering mountains and sprawling backcountry of the South Canadian Rockies, and enjoy time well spent in the beauty of these often uncrowded landscapes. Choose from any outdoor activity, from horseback riding, fly-fishing and bird watching to mountain biking and backcountry hiking.
Discover the sounds of roaring cascades and the sights of rushing rivers as water plunges down 12 metres at Lundbreck Falls. Explore off-the-beaten paths and conquer new mountain peaks up Turtle Mountain or Crowsnest Mountain. Enjoy warm small-town hospitality as you wander from local artisanal shops, and immerse yourself in a rich history that lends itself to what the South Canadian Rockies are today.
To make the most of your time here, fuel up at a local eatery. For instance, grab a bite of wood-fired pizza and a pint of delicious craft beer at the Pass Beer Company. Then, tuck in for the night whether it be camping under the stars or an elevated experience at a luxury timber home at Thanksgiving Ranch, a beautifully appointed cabin or yurt at Glamping Resorts or a storybook cottage at Charmed Resorts.
From a family-friendly excursion, a daring escapade or a getaway to reconnect with nature, the South Canadian Rockies caters to experiences of all kinds.
To plan your visit, go to southcanadianrockies.ca.
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