Historic Plains | Canada's Alberta

Discover a place where archeological and natural wonders divulge secrets of yesterday. Where spaces and skies span as far as the eye can see. Where Canada’s Wild Side awaits.

At a glance

Southern Alberta
Key City: Lethbridge
295 km (183 mi) drive from Calgary International Airport
Tourism Medicine Hat

Wild prairies

Some of Canada’s sunniest and wildest places are in Southern Alberta. Gaze across enormous stretches of fields teeming with flora and fauna, from cattails to grizzly bears.

School group walking the pathways at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump with an Indigenous guide.

Indigenous experiences

Learn about Indigenous history at two UNESCO World Heritage Sites within Alberta’s Historic Plains: Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump and Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park / Áísínai'pi.

Rural communities

Charming small towns and rural areas like Elkwater and Fort Macleod boast enchanting artisanal stores, handmade souvenirs and restaurants featuring Albertan-grown goods.

Running rivers

Camp, fish or take leisurely walks alongside the tepid waters of the Oldman and Milk Rivers. A lack of crowds in river ravines enhances the sounds of fish jumping and grass rustling in the breeze.

Trek the trails of Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park and see ancient Indigenous stories etched on geological wonders.

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Couple kayaking on Elkwater Lake at Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

Paddle under big skies and admire the rolling hills and vast plains.

Stroll the Nikka Yuko Japanese Gardens in Lethbridge.

A young couple mountain biking in Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park. — Mountain bike through Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.

A person walking through the Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park with the sun peaking through in the distance.

Feel centuries of nature’s work beneath your feet.

Featured attractions

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre

Learn about Indigenous hunting techniques at one of Alberta’s six UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Its hiking trails offer a heightened perspective of the Plains Peoples’ culture and past.

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A warp formation of stars in the nights sky above a single tree.

Cypress Hills Provincial Park

Stargaze and take in stunning sights at Alberta’s first Dark Sky Preserve. This area protects the night sky from light pollution and supports ecosystems. Lengthen your stay by tent camping or booking a cabin.

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Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden

Surround yourself with flowers and greenery in a lush oasis created as a symbol of friendship. The grounds are open year-round for enjoyment. In the colder months, winter lights and events harness warmth.

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Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park / Áísínai'pi

Revel in North America’s largest collection of Indigenous rock art in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Daily guided tours through the archeological preserve offer a deeper understanding of the area’s significance.

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Sample fresh local ingredients in Canada’s Premier Food Corridor. From craft breweries to vibrant eateries, pursue a dining experience to remember.

Discover places to eat

Customer ordering food at Redcliff Bakery and Eatery in Medicine Hat with fresh bread and pastries in the background.

Tour through the towns and cities that shape this southern region.

Key cities and towns

Search for modern eats, intimate accommodations and more in the Historic Plains’ cities and towns.

Medicine Hat

These city streets are alive with small-town energy. Lose yourself in the natural and cultural diversity of this sun-soaked community to the south.

Lethbridge

Discover three personalities in one city—remote parks and paths in the west, century-year-old homes in the north and a medley of culture in the south.