Need to escape? Grab some snacks and hit play on your ‘road tunes’ playlist! We live in a beautiful province and one of the easiest ways to wind down is to experience its beauty. Luckily, when it gets chilly outside you can still do so from behind the wheel.
Start your engines and look ahead, here are some of the most scenic drives in Alberta.
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Highwood Pass
This winter check out Highwood Pass, the highest paved road in Canada. At an astounding elevation of 2,206 metres, or 7,273 feet above sea level, Highwood Pass offers incredible views of the mountains, trees and lakes below. Whether you’re headed to Calgary, Canmore or Banff, this magical route serves as the ultimate photo op and will take your next road trip from good to great.
Cowboy Trail
Alberta’s historic Cowboy Trail is an Alberta must-visit. From Longview take Highway 22 South and see mountains, towering larch trees, and lush farmland as far as the eye can see, plus plenty of cows and horses.
Crowsnest Highway
A beautiful route from Alberta to BC, the Crowsnest highway is well kept, well known and well-liked by those who frequently have to make trips from one province to the other. This winding road offers travellers mountain views, iconic roadside sights like Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump, as well as Frank’s Slide, and is only a turnoff away from natural wonders like Lundbreck Falls.
Dinosaur Trail
The Dinosaur Trail is one of Alberta’s most unique. From Hoodoos to river views, there really is never a dull moment when you’re on the Dinosaur Trail. If you’ve got the time, we’d recommend stopping for a hike, a tour through one of Drumheller’s many museums or a bite at Wayne’s haunted saloon.
Icefields Parkway
Stretching from Banff to Jasper the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 North) is revered as one of the most scenic drives not only in Alberta but in the entire world. See mountains waterfalls, bears, birds, and big blue lakes, and experience the absolute best that the Rockies has to offer. If you’re looking to take a memorable road trip, we’d recommend starting here.
Smith Dorrien Trail
A drive along the Smith Dorrien Trail is as close as you can to Alberta’s crystal clear waters without getting out of your vehicle. Along the way admire the greenery, the animals, and of course the Spray Lakes reservoir in all of her glory.
Bow Valley Parkway
Alberta’s Bow Valley Parkway connects beautiful Lake Louise and Banff so naturally, this drive is incredible. While on this 51 km stretch of road, travellers will see everything from emerald green lakes, towering trees, mountain peaks, and of course, elk, sheep, and deer. Heck, maybe you’ll see a bear! You never know.
Akamina Parkway
Akamina like every other drive on this list is a gorgeous trip. This stretch of road will take you from Waterton to Cameron Lake, past trees, animals, mountains and hills. This one might be the shortest drive on here, but it might be one of the most memorable.
Boomtown Trail
Much like Alberta’s Cowboy Trail, Boomtown is another drive we’d recommend to those who are chasing that Wild West feeling. With fun roadside attractions, historic architecture and a horse sighting or two this one has it all!
There you have it, friends. Just a few of the most scenic drives in Alberta. Now get out there and explore!
