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A person on skis is pulled behind a horse.

Foothills

Acquaint yourself with Alberta’s vast rolling hills and admire the Canadian Rocky Mountains beyond. Soak in the ambiance of a peak-filled horizon as you seek adventure in wide-open plains.

At a glance

  • Southwest Alberta
  • Key City: Bragg Creek
  • 66 km (41 mi) drive from Calgary International Airport
A group of people on a trail ride in the foothills.

Breathtaking big skies

Finish a day of exploration by watching an array of colours erupt overhead as the sun disappears behind jagged peaks. Here, constellations fill the sky in the absence of city lights.

Couple hiking in Bragg Creek

Rugged wilderness excursions

Smell the pine, hear the rustling of wildlife and free your spirit in the great forests of Alberta, by yourself or on an interpretive tour. Our coniferous trees stay green year-round.

Rural culinary delights

Kick back in classic soda shops, transportive cocktail bars, Western chuckwagon cafes and breezy Mexican-themed patios. Local ingredients and warm atmospheres await in the Foothills.

Hidden community gems

From garlic farms and jerky shops to blacksmiths, join local people for authentic experiences and get a front-row seat to their unique way of life. Step off the beaten path for special moments.

Let your Wild Side run free in the open landscapes and rugged wilderness of Canada’s Alberta. This is the place to be different. To be free.

Two people mountain biking over hills during sunset.

Bike winding routes through lush greenery and over rolling hills. Revel in rewarding views.

A group of friends saluting their beverages and enjoying dinner at the Azuridge Hotel.
Cheers to new ventures at the Azuridge Estate Hotel in Priddis.
Ride horseback through the Canadian Rockies year-round.
Couple standing at the bar enjoying a beer at the High River Brewing Company.

Trade travel tales over craft beers created with local ingredients.

Featured attractions

Bar U Ranch National Historic Site

Try your hand at a day of ranch life in the late 1800s with the Canadian Rockies as your backdrop. Cozy up to the fire, listening to crackling flames and old Western tales.

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Woman feeding a horse

Moose Mountain Horseback Adventures

Set out on year-round horseback rides and stay in a remote, comfortable lodge. Various single or multi-day tours are available with striking sceneries of snow-capped peaks.

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Granary Road

Enjoy the freshest local produce and explore over 36 acres of fun at Granary Road’s Farmer’s Market and Active Learning Park.

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Spirit Hills Winery

Sip on samples of wine created with Foothills-plucked flowers. A meticulous vinification process creates distinguishable products brimming with the flavours of Alberta.

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See more Foothills experiences

Leave behind dining norms with a charcuterie picnic or a plate of rural Albertan fare.

Discover places to eat

Couple walking out of the the Beef Jerky Store in Longview.

Stop along the Cowboy Trail to browse charming shops and stock up on road trip snacks.

Key towns

Little towns with big spirits dot the Foothills region. Rest, eat and roam in these welcoming locales.

Bragg Creek

Embark on a day of outdoor activities or enjoy the quaint hamlet’s shops. This hub for exploration boasts waterfalls, hiking trails and much more nearby.

Millarville

Witness stunning views of the Canadian Rockies from this quiet community. Although small, the town hosts mighty horse races, farmers’ markets and festivals.

Longview

Take a break along the Cowboy Trail and explore unique eateries. Once referred to as “Little New York,” this town has easy access to the Canadian Rockies and plenty of charm.

Diamond Valley

Visit the gathering place for hundreds of farmers, artisans and collectors. Unique shops and restaurants line this community’s streets.

Okotoks

Discover breweries, museums and parks in and around town. Between the history, geological wonders and craft beer, you won’t want to leave.

High River

Fill your trip with rich history, year-round events and camping ventures or lace your shoes for 30 km (19 mi) of walking and biking trails.

Nanton

Hunt for hidden gems in this agricultural-focused Southern Alberta town. Journey through relaxed streets and shop at boutiques with unique artifacts.

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Stories from the Foothills

Couple walking out of the the Beef Jerky Store in Longview.

3 min read

Five Restaurants in Alberta’s Foothills That Will Satisfy Your Appetite and Your Curiosity

Work up an appetite and a thirst on an action-packed Alberta one-day getaway in the Foothills. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and breweries where you can take care of both. Head for:

Two people mountain biking in the Foothills during autumn.

3 min read

Five Adventures for Those Who Want to Get Their Feet Wet in Alberta’s Foothills

Head for Alberta’s Foothills to get a taste of adventure. The fun includes rivers, waterfalls, well-appointed campgrounds and trails for hiking or mountain biking. So dip in a toe or take the plunge:

Know before you go

Where to Stay
Getting Here
Climate & Weather
Maps & Transportation
Health & Safety
Frequently Asked Questions