Saddle up for unforgettable equine experiences as you journey across cowboy country. See sweeping views of Alberta's foothills, filming location of one of Netflix's most-watched shows, Heartland.
This itinerary is great for Heartland fans, admirers of western culture and horse lovers.
At a glance
- 3 day itinerary
- 285 km (177 mi) total distance
- 3 hrs 43 mins drive time
- Your starting point is in Calgary
Spruce Meadows
World-class show jumping tournaments are held throughout the year at this premier equestrian facility. And yes, Spruce Meadows is also a major Heartland filming location! Families especially love its large outdoor playground, lush grounds and visiting the horses in the East and West Meadows Barn.
Rocking R Guest Ranch
Surrounded by nature, this guest ranch has all the amenities to provide legit cowboy experiences. The cozy yet luxurious cabins are kitted out with full kitchens and fireplaces. And if you need a little help decompressing, there’s an outdoor hot tub plus a massage room to help speed up the process.
Horse Grooming Experience
With stables mere steps away from the cabins, guests can easily fall out of bed and into the saddle. Those not yet ready to gallop off into the sunset can ease themselves into cowboy life. During grooming experiences, guests bond with horses as they learn brushing and cleaning techniques.
Trail Ride
It’s time to giddy up! From an introduction to horseback riding to trotting through the Canadian Rockies, you can choose your own equine adventure. Riders are set up for success with a picnic lunch and expert instruction. But first you’ll learn how to catch a horse in the field – for real.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Experience a vibrant community and art scene with a performance from nearby Rosebud Theatre.
Museum of the Highwood
Inside this historic former Canadian Pacific Railway station lies the largest collection of Heartland memorabilia with costumes, props from the set and souvenirs to purchase. It’s also where the High River Visitor Information Centre resides, and staffers can dish on Heartland hangouts and gossip.
Maggie’s Diner
Downtown you’ll find the only permanently accessible Heartland set location that fans can visit. While you can’t go inside Maggie’s Diner, you can peer through its windows to see just how intricate the set design is. And with colourful building sets on either side, it’s a great backdrop for photos.
Evelyn's Memory Lane
Hudson has Maggie’s Diner and High River has Evelyn's Memory Lane. From their sandwich bread to ice cream, pretty much everything here is made from scratch. Stew and pie are what Heartland folks would surely order, but their curries and buddha bowls are also lip smacking good. Dessert is a must.
Walking Tour of High River
Framed by rolling foothills, High River is one of Alberta’s most picturesque small towns. Stroll through downtown, admiring the many historic murals that grace the sides of buildings. George Lane Park is a leafy expanse with a gazebo that was featured at Amy’s graduation ceremony in season four.
High River Brewing Company
It’s not just miles of pristine ranch lands that surround High River (AKA Hudson), but plentiful fields of barley, too. Hit up High River Brewing Company for hyper local beers and beer cocktails in their taproom. After popping in for a pint or flight, don’t be surprised if you leave with a growler.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
A classic dairy bar experience can be had at the Hitchin Post. Ask for seasoned fries like locals do.
Journey Down Cowboy Trail
Weaving past historic ranches, picturesque farmland and historic homesteading cabins, take a journey down Alberta’s Cowboy Trail. Time takes on a quality of its own as you cruise past these legendary landscapes. Pop into Marshall’s Country Store in Diamond Valley (yes, that Amber Marshall).
Anchor D
With the amount of leather chaps and handlebar moustaches on display, you know this ranch is the real deal. It’s also the closest spot to view the Heartland ranch, which is on private land. Ask for the John Ware trail ride for stunning scenery and to overlook where the homestead scenes are shot.
Chuckwagon Café
Reaching iconic status, the Chuckwagon Café hasn’t changed much over the years and that’s just the way locals like it. In true western fashion, it sports an all-day breakfast and a retro vibe that’s hard to replicate. Touted to have Alberta’s best burger, it’s been featured on the Food Network's You Gotta Eat Here.
Eau Claire Distillery
Alberta's first craft distillery has racked up numerous awards for its hyper local gin, vodka and whisky. To get the complete grain to glass experience, take a tour of the distillery before hitting the tasting room to sample creative riffs on classic spirits and ready to drink cocktails.
Explore Millarville
If you notice any green and white horse stables in an episode, know that it’s been filmed at the Millarville Farmers' Market and Race Track. Visit the Millarville Farmers' Market from mid-June until early October and again in November and December for a festive holiday market with over 100 vendors.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Whether you’re exploring this area in winter or summer, Rollick Company has bike and snowshoe rentals.
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