Often referred to as the “Energy Province” due to its leading role in Canada’s natural gas and oil industries, Alberta also has another nickname: “Wild Rose Country.” Adopted as the state’s official emblem in 1930 and still featured on license plates, this rich pink flower is best enjoyed on a fun road trip through some of the state’s most beautiful locations.
It’s also very possible to enjoy an enjoyable Alberta travel experience by avoiding common tourist attractions like Banff and Jasper and focusing on the province’s lesser-visited towns. Many are within easy reach of U.S. states. Montana, Idaho, and Washington. Learn more about Alberta, Canada’s most underrated town and find inspiration for your next road trip.
canmore
A 60-minute drive west of Calgary, Canmore is the perfect scenic day trip from Alberta’s largest city. The biggest attraction here is the picturesque town setting in the Canadian Rockies, especially famous for the majestic Three Sisters peaks, which are a landmark for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Adventure seekers can hike to Grassy Lake or the Ha Lin Peak trailhead. In the winter, the town transforms into a snowy wonderland, drawing skiers and snowboarders to resorts such as Canmore’s Nordic Center. Originally developed for the 1988 Winter Olympics, it offers a world-class cross-country ski course that is open to the public.
Downtown Canmore is also fun to visit. Highlights include the Canmore Museum & Earth Science Center, with exhibits about the region’s geological and cultural history. Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk is a beautiful 2-mile-long trail that begins in the heart of downtown.
drumheller
Dubbed the “Dinosaur Capital of the World,” Drumheller is a fascinating destination in the Alberta wilderness. Popular attractions in Drumheller include Royal Tyrrell Museum. This world-class facility specializes in paleontology and features one of the world’s largest dinosaur exhibits, including more than 130,000 fossils. In addition to interactive exhibits and educational programs, there is also a beautiful observation deck that overlooks the surrounding area where many of the museum’s dinosaurs were discovered.
Other interesting landscapes you can explore here include hoodoos, unique rock formations formed by the erosion of natural pillars over centuries. Also, Horsethief’s Canyon or Horseshoe Canyon offers panoramic views of the Badlands’ layered hills and valleys. Drumheller Valley is also a popular spot for hiking and biking, and the Red Deer River that runs through town is popular for kayaking and canoeing.
hinton
Hinton is another must-see small town in west-central Alberta. It’s the perfect starting point for outdoor adventurers looking to explore the Canadian Rockies and Jasper National Park, which are just a short drive away. Notable attractions here include the Beaver Boardwalk, a nearly 2-mile boardwalk that winds through wetlands and beaver habitat, with opportunities to spot birds and other creatures such as elk.
Do you enjoy mountain biking? Hinton Bike Park is a popular spot for mountain bikers, with trails and tracks suitable for all skill levels. Prefer hiking? Numerous trails crisscross the town and its surroundings, with famous spots such as the Brule dunes. When it snows here, activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing become popular. The nearby Rocky Mountains offer plenty of downhill skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Attractions in town include the Northern Rockies Heritage Museum, which features exhibits about the history of the area, the town’s development, and its connection to the Canadian Pacific Railway.
Waterton Park
Waterton Park (often referred to as Waterton) is located in the southwest corner of Alberta, just a few miles north of the U.S. border with Montana. Although it’s more of a village than a town (population is just over 100 people), it’s remote location means it’s usually visited only by the most curious tourists. And they are lucky. Located within the spectacular Waterton Lakes National Park, the pristine mountain views surrounding Upper Waterton Lake are truly spectacular. Part of Waterton Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this area is a unique mix of prairie, forest, and mountain scenery, with plenty of great photo opportunities.
Some of the best views include the historic Prince of Wales Hotel. Built in 1927, this elegant wooden hotel sits magnificently on a cliff overlooking the town, offering panoramic views of the surrounding lake and mountains. From here, hikers can explore an extensive network of trails, including the Crypt Lake Trail, known for its thrilling tunnels and cable traverses. Red Rock Canyon is another must-see, with a scenic loop through impressive red claystone rock formations and opportunities for wildlife spotting. You can also take a scenic cruise across the border to Glacier National Park in Montana, USA.
crows nest pass
The Rocky Mountain town of Crosnest Pass, an amalgamation of several small towns in southwestern Alberta, played an important role in the growth of Alberta. Mining is particularly strongly featured here, and on the Bellevue Underground Mine Tour he offers a glimpse into the lives of coal miners in the early 20th century.
Another must-visit attraction on Crowsnest Pass is the Frank Slide Interpretive Center. This interesting facility details one of Canada’s deadliest natural disasters, the tragic rockslide that swallowed part of the town of Frank in 1903. Crowsnest Pass is also popular for hiking and mountain biking, and Pass Powderkeg Ski Area is a great place to go skiing or skiing. Snowboarding in winter.
sylvan lake
Sylvan Lake is located in central Alberta, just a few miles west of Red Deer, and offers a fun break from the larger lakes nearby. The biggest attraction here is Sylvan Lake itself. Sylvan Lake has more than nine miles of crystal clear water and is perfect for activities such as swimming, boating, water skiing, and wakeboarding. During the summer, the most popular attraction is Sylvan Lake Aquasplash. This is a floating waterpark attraction with a 15-foot tower, climbing wall, slides, and more. Sylvan Lake Marina offers easy access to the lake and rental services for boats, jet skis, and other personal watercraft.
Sylvan Lake Park is a popular spot for families, with a wide sandy beach perfect for sunbathing, sandcastle building, and picnicking. Sylvan Lake Pier is also a must-see here, offering memorable sunset views of the Rotary Lighthouse, and is popular for walking and fishing.
Alberta, Canada has many small towns worth exploring, each offering a variety of unique experiences that enhance its charm. From the scenic Rocky Mountains of Canmore to the dinosaur fossils of Drumheller, from Hinton, the gateway to Jasper National Park, to the stunning attractions of Waterton Park, Alberta’s underrated towns invite you to get out and explore. There are lots of great excuses for. One of Canada’s most beautiful provinces.
