6 Most Underrated Towns in Alberta
Often referred to as "The Energy Province" for its leading role in Canada's natural gas and oil industries, the province of Alberta does have another nickname: "Wild Rose Country." Adopted as the province's official emblem in 1930 and still used on license plates, this prolific pink flower can best be enjoyed with a fun road trip taking in some of the province's most picturesque places to visit.
It is also entirely possible to enjoy a fun Alberta travel experience by avoiding the usual tourist hotspots of Banff, and Jasper, and instead focusing attention on some of the province's less-visited towns, many of which are within easy reach of the US states of Montana, Idaho, and Washington. Learn more and take inspiration for your next road trip with these most underrated towns in Alberta, Canada.
Canmore
An easy 60-minute drive west of Calgary, Canmore makes for a scenic day trip from Alberta's largest city. The big draw here is the town's picture-perfect setting in the Canadian Rockies, most notably the majestic Three Sisters mountain peaks which serve as beacons for sightseers and outdoor enthusiasts. Those looking for adventure will find it hiking the Grassi Lakes and Ha Ling Peak trailheads. Come winter, the town transforms into a snowy wonderland attracting skiers and snowboarders to resorts like the Canmore Nordic Centre. Originally developed for the 1988 Winter Olympics, it provides world-class cross-country ski trails that are open to the public.
Downtown Canmore is also fun to visit. Highlights include the Canmore Museum & Geoscience Centre with its exhibits relating to the geological and cultural history of the area; and the Policeman's Creek Boardwalk, a two-mile-long scenic trail that begins in the downtown core.
Drumheller
Drumheller dubbed the "Dinosaur Capital of the World," is a fascinating destination located in Alberta's badlands. Popular attractions in Drumheller include the Royal Tyrrell Museum. This world-class facility is dedicated to paleontology and houses one of the world's largest displays of dinosaurs, with over 130,000 fossils. In addition to its interactive exhibits and educational programs, there is also a scenic lookout with views over the surrounding area where many of the museum's dinosaurs were discovered.
Other interesting scenery to explore here include the Hoodoos, peculiar rock formations shaped by centuries of erosion into natural pillars, while Horsethief, and Horseshoe Canyons boast panoramic views of the layered hills and valleys of the Badlands. Drumheller Valley is also a popular spot for hiking and biking, while the Red Deer River, which runs through the town, is popular for kayaking and canoeing.
Hinton
Hinton is another must-visit small town in Alberta in the west-central region of the province. It's a great jumping-off point for outdoor adventurers wanting to explore the Canadian Rockies and Jasper National Park, just a short drive away. Notable attractions here include the Beaver Boardwalk, a nearly two-mile wooden pathway that winds through wetlands and beaver habitats with the chance to spot other creatures including birds and even elk.
Enjoy mountain biking? Hinton Bike Park is a popular spot for mountain biking enthusiasts and features trails and courses suitable for all skill levels. Prefer hiking? Numerous trails crisscross the town and its surrounds, with standouts including Brule Sand Dunes. When the snow flies here, it's all about activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with the nearby Rockies providing ample opportunities for downhill skiing and snowboarding. In-town attractions include the Northern Rockies Museum of Culture & Heritage with its displays relating the region's history and the development of the town, as well as its connection to the Canadian Pacific Railway.
Waterton Park
Waterton Park (often called Waterton) sits in the southwest corner of Alberta, just a few miles north of the US border with Montana. Although more of a village than a town (its population is just over 100), its remote location means only extremely curious tourists typically visit. And lucky them. Set within the spectacular Waterton Lakes National Park, the unspoiled mountain views, framed by Upper Waterton Lake, are simply spectacular. Part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is a unique mix of prairie, forest, and mountain landscapes, ensuring plenty of great photo opportunities.
Some of the best views include the historic Prince of Wales Hotel. Built in 1927, this elegant wood-built hotel perches dramatically on a bluff overlooking the town and offers panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. From here, hikers can explore an extensive trail network including Crypt Lake Trail, known for its thrilling tunnel and even a cable traverse. Red Rock Canyon is another must-visit and offers a scenic loop with striking red argillite rock formations and a chance to spot wildlife. Visitors can also enjoy scenic cruises that cross the international border into Glacier National Park in Montana, US.
Crowsnest Pass
An amalgamation of several small towns in southwestern Alberta, the Rocky Mountain town of Crowsnest Pass played an important role in Alberta's growth. Mining in particular has featured strongly here, with the Bellevue Underground Mine tour offering a fascinating glimpse into the life of coal miners in the early 20th century.
Another attraction to visit in Crowsnest Pass is the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre. This interesting facility details one of Canada's deadliest natural disasters, the tragic rockslide that engulfed part of the town of Frank in 1903. Crowsnest Pass is also popular for its hiking and mountain biking, while the Pass Powderkeg Ski Area is a great destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.
Sylvan Lake
Sylvan Lake is in Central Alberta just a few miles west of Red Deer and makes for a fun alternative getaway to its larger neighbor. The star attraction here is Sylvan Lake itself, a crystal clear body of water that stretches for over nine miles and is perfect for activities including swimming, boating, water skiing, and wakeboarding. In the summer months, the top attraction is the Sylvan Lake Aquasplash, an on-water waterpark attraction featuring a 15 foot tower, climbing wall, slide, and much more! Sylvan Lake Marina provides easy access to the lake, along with rental services for boats and other watercraft including jet skis.
Sylvan Lake Park is a favorite spot for families and includes a large, sandy beach ideal for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and picnics. Sylvan Lake Pier is another must-visit here and is popular for a stroll or fishing, offering memorable sunset views of the Rotary Lighthouse.
The Canadian province of Alberta is home to numerous small towns worth exploring, each offering a variety of unique experiences that add to their appeal. From the scenic Rocky Mountain setting of Canmore to the dinosaur fossils of Drumheller, and from Hinton, the gateway to Jasper National Park, to the spectacular sightseeing opportunities in Waterton Park, these underrated towns in Alberta provide plenty of great excuses to get out and explore one of Canada's prettiest provinces.
