Southern Alberta Road Trip
This summer, my daughter came to visit from Winnipeg. We decided to take a fantastic road trip across southern Alberta.
Starting off our adventure in Medicine Hat, my daughter and I were buzzing with excitement. Our first stop was the Atlas Coal Mine, a preserved slice of Alberta’s mining history. This isn’t just a walk in the park; it’s a full-on immersion into the gritty, real-life tales of coal miners. Don’t forget to wear decent walking shoes – this place has tunnels and tipples that transport you back in time. It is best to book guided tours ahead of time if you want them. They book up quickly. You are always free to take a self-guided tour, but some areas are restricted unless you are on a tour.
Next, we hit the Hoodoo Trail in Drumheller. Hoodoos are incredible, tall rock formations that look almost otherworldly. It’s an easy hike, perfect for families, and you get epic views worth the sweat.
We then took the famous 11-bridges road to Wayne. It’s exactly what it sounds like – a winding road that crosses 11 bridges in the span of just a few kilometers. Most of the bridges are single-lane and have a wooden plank surface. Every twist brought us closer to a gem: the Last Chance Saloon. This place is a quintessential cowboy hangout, with saloon doors and stories seeping out of every corner. A must-visit for a hearty meal and some local lore.
Our afternoon was dedicated to the Royal Tyrrell Museum. This is the place if you’ve got even a sliver of interest in dinosaurs. Fossils, skeletons, and life-sized models had both of us wide-eyed. I strongly recommend giving yourself plenty of time here – it’s easy to lose hours roaming around, gawking at prehistoric wonders.
As the sky started to dim, we checked into our cozy hotel in Drumheller for the night. Reflecting on the day’s adventures, I realized how much variety southern Alberta packs into a single day. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow holds!
Day 2: From Majestic Canyons to Cowboy Trails
Waking up in Drumheller was like stirring alive in a natural history museum. We kicked off the day with a trip to Horse Thief Canyon. The view here is breathtaking, a sprawling vista of rugged cliffs and winding paths. Photographers, this one’s a gold mine. With every step, the landscape almost whispers the tales of wild horses and bandits who once roamed these parts.
Not far from this, we found ourselves at Horse Shoe Canyon. The name might sound simple, but the spot is anything but. The dramatic U-shaped valley, deep and textured, makes for stunning hiking and even better memories. My daughter was in awe, and honestly, so was I. Due to the busy agenda today and to be honest, we were tired from yesterday, so we just went to the lookout. We need to come back someday for the hike. If you go hiking, pack plenty of water and a snack.
To learn more about things to do in Drumheller, click HERE.
Our next destination was Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park. This place is steeped in Indigenous culture and history. Take your time here. The exhibits are rich with storytelling, showcasing the deeply rooted heritage of the Siksika Nation. It’s more than a museum; it’s a heartfelt dive into the past.
We then made a quirky stop at the Okotoks Erratic. Imagine a giant rock plopped randomly in the middle of the prairie by glaciers that brought it from the Rocky Mountains in the distance. This 16,500-ton boulder is a geological wonder that kids find particularly fascinating.
Cruising into Black Diamond, we found ourselves on the Cowboy Trail. This picturesque route feels like a scene out of an old Western. We made a pit stop at the legendary Longview Jerky Shop along the way. The jerky here is out of this world. Whether you’re into spicy or sweet, there’s a flavor to suit your fancy.
Lundbreck Falls
The day’s finale was an encounter with nature’s beauty at Lundbreck Falls. Though not towering, the waterfall is mighty in its flow and serene surroundings. It’s a peaceful spot to wrap up a day of exploration before heading to Pincher Creek for a restful night.
Day 3: Natural Wonders of Waterton National Park
Starting our day early, we ventured into Waterton National Park, and wow, was it a feast for the senses. Our first stop was Red Rock Canyon. This vibrant gem boasts striking red and white rock layers that look unreal in the morning sun. My daughter couldn’t stop snapping photos, and I couldn’t blame her. Don’t forget your camera, and wear shoes suitable for walking on rocky terrain. A paved path circles the canyon on the top, in case you don’t want to go down into the rocky terrain.
Next, we headed over to Cameron Falls. This isn’t just any waterfall; it practically bursts out of the hillside, making for a mesmerizing sight. We spent some time there, just soaking in the view and letting the sound of cascading water refresh our spirits. It’s an excellent spot for a picnic, so pack some sandwiches if you can.
Waterton is full of surprises, one of which was stumbling upon wild mountain goats right in the town. These friendly critters seem unbothered by humans, grazing casually as if we weren’t even there. It’s a great way for kids to get up close with wildlife; remember to keep a respectful distance.
A highlight of our park visit was the iconic Prince of Wales Hotel. This historic site offers panoramic views of Waterton Lake and surrounding mountains. We took the chance to explore its charming interiors. We felt underdressed and too dirty from hiking to take in the high tea experience. Maybe next time. We did grab a chia tea from the barista in the gift shop, though.
For more information on things to do at Waterton Lakes National Park, click HERE.
Before leaving Waterton, we took a drive on the Buffalo Paddock Road. This less-traveled path is perfect for spotting buffalo in a more natural setting. These magnificent creatures roam freely; seeing them in their element is awe-inspiring. Pro tip: go slow and have your camera ready! Do not get out of the vehicle if you have a close encounter!
We wrapped up the day with a visit to Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, known for its incredible hoodoo formations and ancient First Nations carvings. We embarked on a hike along the Hoodoo Trail, where every twist and turn revealed new carvings and stories etched in stone. It’s an enlightening experience, but watch out for the rattlesnakes known to be lurking in the area. If you would like more information about rattlesnake safety when hiking, click HERE.
Before settling down for the night in Lethbridge, we grabbed dinner at Two Guys and a Pizza. This is a must-visit pizza place if you ever visit Lethbridge. Their creative pizza toppings make for a fun and delicious ending to a day packed with nature’s wonders.
Day 4: Delightful Discoveries in Lethbridge and then back to Medicine Hat
Our final day of exploration began with a visit to Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden in Lethbridge. This serene haven offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. Its traditional Japanese landscaping, ponds, and pathways make it an ideal spot for peaceful reflection. Kids loved feeding the koi fish, and we both found the tea house experience enriching and Zen-like. This was the perfect start for our day.
Next, we made our way to the Birds of Prey Centre. This place is a must-visit for animal lovers. The center rehabilitates injured birds and offers interactive experiences like handling and feeding. We learned so much about the importance of raptor conservation, and the live demonstrations were simply captivating. Watching a hawk take flight is something magical. You can also feed the ducks in the pond, but watch out for the cobra chickens (Canada Geese); they are mean.
We couldn’t leave Lethbridge without marveling at the High-Level Bridge. As the world’s highest and longest trestle bridge, it’s an engineering marvel. We took a leisurely walk around the area and snapped some great photos. Pro tip: visit just before sunset for the best lighting and a gorgeous backdrop.
We stopped at Red Rock Coulee on our way back to Medicine Hat. The massive red boulders scattered across the Alberta landscape look like they’ve been transported from another planet, and many people can’t resist climbing and exploring these geological wonders. Still, we both agreed we were too tired after our long adventure. We will leave the climbing to another day. It’s one of those unique spots you don’t want to miss – bring plenty of water and wear sun protection because there isn’t much shade.
Returning to Medicine Hat, we reflected on our 4-day adventure. From historical tours and natural wonders to cultural sites and hands-on experiences, Southern Alberta genuinely has it all. We were both enriched by the trip and cherished every moment of our journey together. This Southern Alberta road trip not only strengthened the bond between my daughter and me but also deepened our appreciation for the diverse beauty this region has to offer.
So, if you want to create unforgettable memories while exploring hidden gems, pack your bags, grab a map, and hit the Southern Alberta road. If you travel in the summer, don’t forget a hat, some sunscreen, and bring some water!
