This abandoned Alberta town was once named one of the ‘world’s most fascinating’

From memorable ruins on the surface to those underground and underwater, there is no shortage of historical hamlets from coast to coast — but few are as haunting as Bankhead, a ghost town in Alberta.

Alberta’s 20-year town

Located less than 20 minutes from Banff, this incredible destination used to be a bustling mining town that was said to “add dimension” to the national park.

With 900 residents and mountain views, the town became a popular tourist spot.

“In 1905 there were no cars and the streets were not paved. Except for the boardwalks in front of the major buildings, sidewalks didn’t exist,” explains the National Coal Association of Canada. 

In addition to being pedestrian-friendly, the town was also pretty modern, with a sewage system, indoor plumbing, and electricity.

From a community hall, general store, butcher shop, library, and sports fields, Bankhead was thriving, but it wouldn’t last.

In 1922, the mine was closed, and everything, including the equipment, buildings, and even the houses, were packed up and moved — many of them to Banff.

All that’s left now? The town’s foundations, coke ovens, train tracks, and an interpretive trail, where you can walk through what once was.

Interested? Even CNN thinks it’s well worth the drive!

In 2022, the publication named Bankhead one of the world’s most fascinating abandoned towns and cities.

Our advice? Wear comfortable footwear. You won’t want to miss a brick, rod or path in this place.

Enjoy and happy learning!

Bankhead Ghost Town

Where: Bankhead Banff National Park Bankhead, Alta.

This article was originally published in August 2023

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