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Region known for:
  • Sweeping horizons
  • Twisting canyons
  • Indigenous history

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.

  • Key City: Lethbridge
  • Don't miss: An incredible concentration of rock carvings and paintings
  • Claim to fame: One of North America’s oldest buffalo jumps

Historic Plains highlights

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

Wild land

Some of Canada’s sunniest and wildest places are in Southern Alberta. Stroll leisurely trails, hike striking geology, summit the tallest point on the prairies or camp on a riverbank while listening for sounds of wildlife.

A couple hand in hand walking towards a large tipi made out of metal.

Indigenous experiences

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

A couple visiting Medalta in the Historic Clay District in Medicine Hat.

Rich heritage

See Medicine Hat history through the lens of Medalta potteries, then visit independent cafes to buy contemporary pottery crafted from local clay. Relax in Lethbridge’s Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden or learn about the illegal whisky trade at Fort Whoop-Up.

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Two skiers retrieve their skis from a rack at the base of the hill with a chairlift in the background.
Riders race on horseback in an Indian Relay Race in Medicine Hat.
Long-table guests laughing and eating together at Cattleman's Chophouse.
A family roasts marshmallows over a fire pit in Elkwater in Cypress Hills.
Mother and daughter enjoy the lights at Nikka Yuko Japanese Gardens in Lethbridge.
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Highlighted attractions

Woman walking past a tipi in a meadow at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump.

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

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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Wide shot of hiker walking through hoodoos.

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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Suggested itineraries

Car driving ice fields parkway
14 days
Epic Alberta

Enjoy two exhilarating weeks in Alberta, exploring the mountains, lakes and wildlife in the Canadian Rockies, hiking, and getting to know Calgary and Edmonton.

A couple walks along the rocks at Lundbreck Falls, located near the Crowsnest Pass.
7 days
Experience Southern Alberta

Discover what southern Alberta has to offer, like the landscape of the Canadian Badlands, towering mountains and four UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

View all road trips & itineraries

Nearby cities to explore

A woman sits on a bench in front of the Medicine Hat mural in winter.

Medicine Hat

Medicine Hat
Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden in Lethbridge, lit up on a winter's night

Lethbridge

Lethbridge
Winter sunrise/sunset scene of Peace Bridge in Calgary

Calgary

Calgary