The Cowboy Trail (Highway 22) is a famous driving route in Alberta that takes you from the town of Mayerthorpe (90 minutes from Edmonton), south to Lundbreck, or vice versa. (We like going north to south as the scenery just gets more spectacular as you travel.)
Making its way through the beautiful rolling foothills, with views of the Rockies, and farmers fields full of bright canola, tall wheat, or herds of cattle and horses flanking each side of the highway, this lovely route holds parts of Alberta’s past and some of the most interesting and beautiful scenery.
You can always drive just enjoying the view without stopping at museums and other interesting sites. But historic sites and ranches found along the way, along with some interesting adventure activities, good food and plenty of chances to get out to spend some time taking pictures makes the trip more interesting. Keep your eyes open for wildlife and birdlife, especially at dawn and dusk.
The entire route is 584 kilometres one way, so with activities and stops you may want to plan for a minimum of two days to explore (suggested: extended stays at Rocky Mountain House/Clearwater County and Sundre), certainly more if you want to include everything on this list!
From Lundbreck you can continue down Highway 3 to Pincher Creek, Highway 6 to Waterton, or Highway 5 to Cardston.
Mayerthorpe
You can make this small prairie town your start point, or your end point, depending on which way you are headed. Located approximately an hour and a half to the northwest of Edmonton, Mayerthorpe was voted one of the most adorable small towns in Alberta. There is a new Cowboy Trail sign on Highway 22, so make this your first picture stop! You’ll also find a brief description of The Cowboy Trail and the “Cowboy’s Prayer for the End of the Trail”. There are plenty of places to stay in the area if you want to spend the night. Details
Also, visit Fallen Four Memorial Park which commemorates the sacrifice of four RCMP Officers.
Rustic Ridge Ranch & Lodge
In case, you want a ranch stay on your journey along Cowboy Trail, visit Rustic Ridge Ranch & Lodge located amidst rolling hills of Central Alberta. Details
Tipple Park Museum
Situated in the town of Evansburg, which lies at the junction of Highway 16 and Highway 22, this museum offers tours and visits through the historic buildings onsite. Take some time to tour the old Holly Springs School, the original Mazeppa log house, the Scout Hall, an A-frame, and the machine shed that houses antique machinery and equipment. As well, on Saturdays during the summer months (until the end of September) there is a local farmers market held here. Details
Address: 4924 48 Ave, Evansburg
Pembina River Provincial Park
Located just 10 minutes off Highway 16 and the junction of Highway 22 south, slightly north of the hamlet of Entwhistle, this lovely provincial park is a great place to stop and stretch your legs or take a dip in the water. The striking gorge in the area reaches to an amazing 62 feet in height. In this park you can spend time camping, fishing, canoeing or kayaking, hiking the maintained trails, mountain biking, or swimming. Details
Pembina River Tubing
Credit: Pembina River Tubing
A totally fun and different way to see the scenery along the riverside, this company will provide tube and lifejacket rentals, along with a shuttle service to bring you back to the start point. The river passes through a 62-meter gorge created from the Ice Age, and along the riverside you may glimpse various wildlife. The joy of relaxing while the current drifts along this amazing and winding river will make your day.
Address: 53217 Range Rd 74 A, Entwistle
Drayton Valley Museum
Dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of artifacts from the area, this museum is a great place to spend a bit of time in Drayton Valley. Here you can discover the histories of the fur trade, the first settlers, and the growth of the town. Check out our five historic buildings on site and catch a guided tour with the trained interpreters. Details
Address: 5009 Weycan Dr, Drayton Valley
Eagle Point Provincial Park
Located along the shores of the North Saskatchewan River, Eagle Point Provincial Park is a great stop to stretch your legs. Go hiking, mountain biking, kayaking/canoeing, or fishing at this park established to protect the natural landscape and habitats that live within it. Details
Raven Meadows Golf & Resort
Alder Flats is home to a great 18-hole golf course which is set in the stunningly beautiful foothills of the Rockies. A family-owned and operated business, this course is decently challenging, which has made it a favourite of locals. This course is family-friendly and even has a small hotel and an RV resort where you can stay the night. A restaurant completes this site, with a full-service lounge. Details
Grey Owl Meadery
Nestled in the rolling foothills, this is the perfect spot to stop to try their famous honey wines. The wine here is made from honey extracted right on site from the hives that are located in the Alder Flats and Buck Lake area. Serving charcuterie boards, mead by the glass, and gourmet coffee, you can enjoy the vistas from the patio and learn more about the unique history of mead. Of course, there is also a gift shop onsite that carries products made from beeswax and honey. Details
Address: 452036 AB-22, Alder Flats
Crimson Lake Provincial Park
Just a short 14 kilometers west of Rocky Mountain House you will find this amazing provincial park. With a very large beach to sit back and relax on, the lovely lake to enjoy watersports, and ample camping spots make this an ideal place to spend the day or even the night. Take a walk on one of the trails or sit and watch the sunset over the lake. If you are spending the night and happen to be a stargazer, you will be happy to know that the night skies here rank #4 on the Bortle Scale. Details
Rocky Mountain House Museum
Showcasing the history of the pioneers who homesteaded this area, worked in the lumber camps and sawmills, and sent their children to one-room schoolhouses, this museum is an interesting stop along the Cowboy Trail. The exhibits include the Meadows Forestry cabin, which is one hundred years old, and the Glacier School house. Details
Address: 5406 48 St, Rocky Mountain House
Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site
An excellent place to learn about the history of the fur trade and how it helped shape this area. In this historic site you can enjoy exhibits, walk through the archaeological remains of the four forts, and get hands-on experience with Métis skills of the fur trade. Spend some time hiking interpretive trails, taking photos of the bison herd or trying on period costumes in the exhibit gallery. If you want to stay awhile, you have the chance to camp in Indigenous trapper’s tents and tips. Details
Address: Site 127 Comp 6 RR4, Rocky Mountain House
Prairie Creek Antiques
This antique shop boasts a diverse collection of casual to formal pieces to suit any decorating theme, with a fantastic collection of rocking chairs, dining room sets, tables, chairs, desks, sideboards, buffets, hutches, benches, and display cases, not to mention the antique toys, china, crockery, lanterns, jewelry and much more. Details
Address: 4839 49 St, Rocky Mountain House
Kurt Browning Arena – Kurt’s Corner
As Kurt Browning’s hometown, of course there is an arena named after him. The four time world figure skating champion has much notoriety here, and figure skating fans will want to check out the memorabilia from his skating career housed in “Kurt’s Korner” inside the arena.
Address: 5103 48 Ave, Caroline
Caroline Wheels of Time Museum
The Wheels of Time Museum and Historical Village features the history of pioneers in the area. Visit the Trunnell House, a two-storey log home built in the early 1900’s and furnished with era related antiques. Next door, inside the Anderson Brothers “trapper’s cabin” you will find a number of mounted animals indigenous to the area. Visit the combination Village Office, Lock-up and Fire Hall complete with a jail and fire engines. In the back row there is the Big Bend School – a one room country school and a teacherage. In the main building you can see other exhibits, along with the 100 year Family Pioneer Genealogy collection. Details
Sundre Pioneer Village Museum & the World of Wildlife
Credit: Sundre Pioneer Museum & World of Wildlife
A fantastic place to take a step into the past and see how the pioneers lived in the area. Take the opportunity to learn about the mixture of cultures and people who have shaped the region and left their mark on the landscapes and the sites. The quirky world of wildlife here offers the chance to see 170 taxidermized animals from around the world. Details
Address: 211 1 Ave SW, Sundre
Bergen Rocks International Sculpture Park
A very unique stop just ten minutes off the Cowboy Trail, you won’t find another one quite like it. This sculpture park is a place where one man with a vision has brought together artists and art from around the world, including Vietnam, Germany, Thailand, India, China, Turkey, Korea, Mongolia, Iran, Ireland, Kenya, Cuba, Italy and Canada. Get out, stretch your legs, and enjoy the sculptures along with the fresh Alberta air. Details
** Plan to stay in Sundre and go horseback riding to see wild horses and white water rafting**
Don Begg Studio West Bronze Art Foundry
Going through Cochrane, you must take some time to stop at this foundry. The site features works by Don Begg and “Calgary’s Original Cowboy Artist,” Doug Stephens, as well as the western art of many well-known professional artists. In addition to stunning bronzes and monuments, Studio West also features an assortment of paintings, fine art, western prints, artifacts, and much more. Details
Address: 205 2nd Avenue E, (Industrial Park), Cochrane
Cochrane Ranche
Credit: Pat O’Malley
Ranching was, and still is, a large part of the province’s history, and certainly a foundation of history along this Trail. A historic 110-year old building on this property is home to an interesting museum, along with a reconstructed corral, an interpretive trail, archeological remains, walking trails and more. You can easily spend a couple of hours here, especially if you climb the hill to take a picture of the “Men of Vision” statue that looks over the valley. Details
Address: 101 Ranchehouse Rd, Cochrane
Half Hitch Brewing
If you have some time to sit back and enjoy a local brew, then this is the place to do it. Family owned and operated, you will find fun brews like Papa Bear, Shotgun Wedding, Farmer’s Daughter and more to try. Flights of beer are available (if you are not driving) and they carry other Alberta made brews as well. The food is great as well, using local produce and products, and the unique atmosphere makes this a great place for either dinner or lunch. Details
Address: 10 Griffin Industrial Point #1, Cochrane
MacKay’s Ice Cream
You can’t go to, or go through, Cochrane without a stop at MacKay’s Ice Cream. Nestled in the quaint downtown area in the town, there are other stores and restaurants to be enjoyed, but this, in our opinion is the most famous and most enjoyable. Originally this ice cream was served from the general store, which was opened in 1948, and the shop still holds some of that old-time vibe. Choose from 50 different flavours, including some that are made with local products, such as haskap berry. Details
Address: 220 – 1st St West, Cochrane
Bragg Creek Paintball
Credit: Bragg Creek Paintball
Choose from a field of obstacles, bunkers and varied terrain and play paintball outdoors! There is also a large picnic area and you can bring your own food. Details
Address: 2221 Highway 22, Bragg Creek
Original Historic Bragg Creek Trading Post
For over 90 years this trading post has been serving the community and the surrounding area. The same family, with the same values, continues to own and run this unique business. Stop in to soak in the history and perhaps purchase some genuine native crafts, moccasins, mukluks, the real Cowichan Knitwear and much more. Details
Address: 117 White Ave, Bragg Creek
Bragg Creek Provincial Park
Just 5 minutes off the main highway you will find the lovely Bragg Creek Provincial Park, where you can spend some time exploring the creek, woods and trails. On the edge of Kananaskis Country in the front ranges of the Canadian Rockies you will find the perfect place to camp, fish, or just simply relax. Details
Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area
Taking a slight detour off the main Highway 22 onto the secondary Highway 22X, you will come to the 4,800-acre wildlife preserve – the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area. There is a slight charge to park for the day, but you can experience some wilderness and outdoor adventure here by taking a remote hike. You must register for your hike as there are restrictions for visitors, including timelines and access, but it is very much worth it to experience the outdoors here. Soak in the beauty and the quiet as you explore. Details
Leighton Art Centre
This amazing site has 80-acres for exploration and for artists to find some inspiration, along with a fabulous art gallery and museum. The former home of Alberta artists A.C. Leighton and Barbara Leighton, this site is in a stunning location, on a hilltop looking out over the foothills and front ranges of the Rocky Mountains. Admission is by donation, so make sure you take some cash with you. Details
Address: 282027 144 St W, Millarville
Millarville Farmers’ Market
https://www.instagram.com/p/BWSm92DgUMP/
Held every Saturday from 9 am until 2 pm, this Farmer’s Market makes a fun stop along the Trail if you happen to be travelling through on the right day. Open seasonally until mid-October, you can find an incredible number of booths to look through and choose from. Check out the local bakers, artists, farmers, and much more. This is one of the largest and oldest markets in the province, guaranteed to have what you are looking for. Details
Address: 306097 192 Street, Millarville
Turner Valley – Chuckwagon Cafe
Famous for their all-day breakfast along with the claim that they have the best burgers in the province, you can’t go wrong with breakfast, lunch or dinner at this Turner Valley restaurant. This eatery has been included in the television show “You Gotta Eat Here” and once you’ve been here you will understand why. The western themed interior is a good accompaniment to the great food. Details
Address: 105 Sunset Blvd NW, Turner Valley
Eau Claire Distillery
Although you can not yet have a tour here, this Alberta craft distillery offers up a limited, amazing craft cocktails and food items. The unique structure that houses the distillery was originally a movie theater, built in 1929, so you know there will be some great atmosphere along with the drinks. Details
Address: 113 Sunset Blvd SW, Turner Valley
Turner Valley Gas Plant
https://www.instagram.com/p/B1UUE4EH_RT/
You won’t find another site like this along the Trail. This unique historical site is the first commercial oilfield and processing plant in Western Canada. This National Historic Site offers up the chance to see exhibits based on this interesting industry, along with tours of the buildings. Take the time to explore the birthplace of Alberta’s petroleum industry! Details
Full Circle Adventures
To get a really off the beaten track experience along the Trail, book a tour with this company. They have been taking visitors onto the land to teach them about wild and edible plants for more than a decade. Not only that, but they take travellers out in the winter to teach them survival skills and snowshoe safety. Learn all you need to know about wilderness survival with a nature educator and guide in the gorgeous scenery that this area provides. Located in Turner Valley, this activity should be booked ahead of time. Details
Friendship Trail
Linking the two communities of Turner Valley and Black Diamond, this paved, three-kilometer trail will take you past several great viewpoints and interesting natural formations as you enjoy a walk, run or bike ride down this lovely path. Details
Black Diamond – Marv’s Classic Soda Shop
One of the best things about this diner is the fact that it is an actual 1950’s classic restaurant. The memorabilia takes you back to the golden age of diners and the classic style burgers, fries and milkshakes will fill you up to keep you continuing along the Trail. Details
Address: 121 Centre Ave W, Black Diamond
Bluerock Gallery
This gallery represents the best of fine arts and crafts and carries such unique things that you will not find another place like it in the country. With art creations from more than 200 artists, most of the local, along with books from local authors and a huge number of lovely cards for sale, you will be sure to find something to take home with you. Details
Address: 110 Centre Ave W, Black Diamond
Black Diamond Coal Car
The coal car and big black diamond represent Black Diamond’s mining history. Even the name of the town is taken from the coal beds in the vicinity. Volunteers restored it and dedicated it to the town in 2004, the year the town celebrated its 75th anniversary of incorporation. Look for it on Main Street, you can’t miss it! Details
Address: 301 Centre Ave W, Black Diamond
Twin Cities Hotel and Saloon
A quaint little hotel to spend the night in and enjoy dinner at, along the route. With its original 1938 charm and decorations, this hotel will take you right back to the oil and gas boom days. The name dates back to the time when Longview was called Little New York and the sister “city” of Little Chicago turned into the surrounding ranches. There is a great little gift shop along with the restaurant, which serves up local produce and perfect Alberta beef. Details
Address: 105 Morrison Rd, Longview
Longview Steakhouse
Alberta beef is already famous for being the best, but if it wasn’t, this steakhouse would make it great. Using local ingredients and well known for the great service, it is a good stop along the Trail. We recommend making a reservation, as this is a popular place for both locals and tourists. Details
Address: 562076 Highway 22 West, Longview
Longview Jerky Shop
If you don’t have time to enjoy some Alberta beef at the steakhouse, you can stop by the Jerky Shop to pick up some high-quality beef jerky to take on the road with you. There are 32 different types of jerky to be had here, including some unique ones such as Mandarin Ginger, Dill Pickle and Maple Beef. Details
Address: 148 Morrison Rd, Longview
Bar U National Historic Site
This was once one of the largest working ranches in Alberta and here you can experience how the ranches were, and how much they contributed to the province. This is such an important place along the Cowboy Trail, as it not only has such historic value, but also provides the beauty of the area to visitors. The cowboys that work the ranch can tell some amazing stories, as well as give insight into the farming ways. Watch as traditional techniques are used to plow, make saddles, and care for the farm animals. Details
Chain Lakes Provincial Park
If you are looking for a chance to camp along the Trail, this is an excellent place to stay the night as they have both services and unserviced sites. If you happen to have a kayak or some fishing gear with you, head out onto the lake to glide over the waters or throw your line in to try to catch your dinner. There is also a playground, a concession (just in case you don’t catch anything) and a communal fire pit. Details
Porcupine Hills Trail
Porcupine Hills lie between Highways 2 and 22 and are a lovely, scenic area that most travellers don’t stop to experience. This sparsely populated zone allows for a fantastic trail that leads out and back, for a total of about 4 kilometers. This hike is great for all skill levels and, if you are travelling with a horse or a dog, they are also allowed on the trail. Details
Lundbreck Falls
At the very end of Highway 22 you can detour just five minutes to the west to Lundbreck Falls Provincial Recreation Area. Here you can view the gorgeous water flowing over these falls and enjoy the day use area. Bring a picnic, take a short walk, swim in the calmer waters, or fish for rainbow or cutthroat trout in the Crowsnest River. You may want to choose the campground in the provincial recreation area to spend your last (or first) night along this drive route. Details
If you would like to continue to Waterton National Park
1. Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village
Located in Pincher Creek, this pioneer village is home to a large number of authentic historical buildings from the area, which are chock full of interesting exhibits and items for visitors to enjoy. You can also spend some time in the beautiful rose garden and Garden Café. Designate a morning or an afternoon to really soak in everything housed on the six acres of this village. Details
Address: 1037 Bev McLachlin Dr, Pincher Creek
2. Lebel Mansion
This historic building is also located in Pincher Creek. It was once a home, then was used as a hospital, and now is home to an art gallery and gift shop. Showcasing local artists, you can peruse the exhibits and purchase unique items to take home with you. As well, there is a stunning rose garden featuring 55 different types of roses. Details
Address: 696 Kettles St, Pincher Creek
3. Heritage Acres Farm Museum
Showcasing antique and vintage cars and machinery, this open-air museum is a good stop if you have any interest in vehicles or farming. Years ago, the Oldman River Antique Equipment and Threshing Club was created to gather and collect equipment and buildings that were about to be sent to a watery grave. Volunteers continue to work diligently to restore and display the buildings and equipment for the general population to view and experience what the early pioneers had done to earn a living to raise their families. Details
4. Waterton Lakes National Park
Heading down Highway 6 from Pincher Creek, you will come to the gorgeous National Park that borders Montana. Here you will find a plethora of activities to enjoy. From scenic drives to hiking, biking and kayaking, there is something for every type of explorer. Stay the night in the historic Prince of Wales Hotel or enjoy the high tea available there with pretty views of the lake. Watch out for wildlife, visit some waterfalls, or take a scenic cruise. You may want to dedicate a day or three to spend in the area. Details
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50 things to do? The list seems a bit too excessive, doesn't it? Sure, there can indeed be a lot of options, but 50 seems like too much of a stretch for me.