Picture a lawless 1869 whiskey trading fort patronized by shady characters of the Wild West. The Aboriginals had frequented the region for thousands of years, but it was the unruly trading post that spurred the Mounties to build a barracks nearby. The infamous origins of Lethbridge are now celebrated with an annual party.

Just over two hours southeast of Calgary lies this vibrant city steeped in history, culture and green spaces. The Oldman River winds through Lethbridge, and along its banks is an immense network of urban parks. Spanning the river is the longest and tallest railway bridge in the world, an impressive 1909 engineering feat.

Spend an evening at the theatre, ball game or rockin’ out to the live music scene. Grab your clubs and swing into action on a Lethbridge golf course. Join the locals for a barn dance, or get lost in a corn maze. Connect with Alberta’s Wild West, then and now.

Scoundrels. Serenity. Bridges. Birds of prey. Here’s your insider Lethbridge checklist!

Whoop it up

Lethbridge celebrates its Wild West heritage during Fort Whoop-Up Days, five days of rodeo, parades and rides. Wander around notorious Fort Whoop-Up and see what put the “wild” in west. 

Bridges, bovines and beer

Relive the history of Southern Alberta at the Galt Museum, with interactive displays, unusual artifacts, neat programs and a giant beer bottle.

Urban tranquility

Align your yin with your yang in the serenity of the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden.

If bison could fly

The Aboriginals drove herds of bison over the cliffs for nearly 6000 years at nearby Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Art attack

Hit the Southern Alberta Art Gallery by day and the theatre or the symphony by night.

Sticks and bats

Spot tomorrow’s superstars at a WHL Lethbridge Hurricanes hockey game or a WMBL Lethbridge Bulls baseball game.

The eagle has landed

Get close to rescued hawks, falcons, eagles and owls at the Alberta Birds of Prey Centre. 

Get outta town!

Swish the day away on Castle Mountain Resort’s 78 runs and terrain park. Ride a snow cat to untouched backcountry powder. 90 minutes west of town. Tackle 366 m (1200 ft) of vertical day or night at Pass Powderkeg 140 km (87 mi) west of Lethbridge.

Immerse yourself in the authentic towns of Alberta’s southwest. North of Lethbridge is Coalhurst, and the towns of Taber and Milk River are southeast. Relive the drama of the Frank Slide and discover the ancient art at Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park. Witness the collision of prairies and mountains in Waterton Lakes National Park. All just over an hour from Lethbridge!