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The drive along Cowboy Trail that leads to the Crowsnest Pass may be one of the prettiest in Alberta. The rolling foothills through ranch country are a can’t-miss sight in the summer, especially if you catch a glimpse of a real working cowboy on horseback. The destination is worth the journey, too.
Make the most of your trip and explore these must-see places in the Crowsnest Pass area.
Frank Slide
The Frank Slide is one of the most infamous sights in the area, and the site of Canada’s second-largest landslide. A segment of Turtle Mountain collapsed in 1903, and the landslide that ensued buried part of the mining town of Frank in just 90 seconds. You can still see where 110 million tonnes of limestone slid down the mountain face, and the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre is the place to start if you want to learn more about the disaster. The 1.5-km (0.9-mi) Frank Slide Trail also winds through car-sized boulders where the slide hit.
Turtle Mountain
If you’re in the mood for a longer hike, take the 6.9-km (4.3-mi) trek to the top of Turtle Mountain to peer over the slide path. It’s a steep and challenging one, so be prepared. But it’s a thrill to reach the summit, especially knowing that one day there will be another slide there. Don’t worry, the mountain is closely monitored and there will be ample warning if it’s about to happen.
The Burmis Tree
This may be the most photographed tree in Alberta. The legendary Limber Pine stands on the eastern edge of the Crowsnest Pass, just 10 minutes from Frank Slide. These hardy trees are among the longest-living trees in Alberta and thrive in harsh conditions. It’s believed the Burmis Tree lived for around 700 years before it died in the late 1970s. It’s now become a landmark of the area, and it makes for a fantastic photo background – particularly around sunset.
Lundbreck Falls
You’ll want to make a stop here, because posing in front of this thundering waterfall makes for the perfect selfie. Plus, there are two viewing platforms that enable you to take in Lundbreck Falls from different vantage points.
If you’ve worked up a thirst after all your exploring, stop in for a cold one (and grab a bite) at Oldman River Brewing in the village of Lundbreck.
Chinook Provincial Recreation Area
Spend some time outdoors in a picturesque setting. Chinook Provincial Recreation Area is set against Crowsnest Mountain, and the serene park is equipped with fire pits and campsites if you want to spend some more time in the area. The calm water also makes for great stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking.
Window Mountain Lake Hike
How does a hike to an alpine lake sound? This hike is 7.6 km (4.7 mi) out-and-back and leads to a sparkling blue lake surrounded by mountains on three sides. The scenery is unbeatable, especially when the wildflowers are out in full force during the summer. Stay a while and take a dip in the water. The nearby campsites are also free to use – just come prepared for a true backcountry adventure.
Bellevue Underground Mine
Take one of the most popular tours in the area and beat the summer heat at the same time. It’s a win-win. The mine’s temperature hovers around zero degrees, so you’ll want to bring some layers. The tour lasts around an hour and takes you 45.7 m (150 ft) below the surface to learn about the mine’s history and hear the stories of the people who worked there from 1903 to 1961.
