Calgary 
Embark on an enchanting journey through Alberta’s Battle River valley on Battle River Train Excursions.
Credit: Battle River Train Excursions
The tours treat passengers to the picturesque views of the Alberta countryside and the charming communities of Flagstaff County carved along Battle River Valley, including Alliance, Galahad, Forestburg, Heisler, Rosalind, and Kelsey aboard a classic 1950s vintage passenger car.
Each excursion combines scenic train rides with cultural and culinary experiences, showcasing the best of rural Alberta hospitality and traditions. The 2026 season kicks off with the Sip n’ Ride Train tour on May long weekend from Kelsey to Rosalind, featuring a visit to the Detention Brewery in a converted school, complete with tours, tastings, and lunch.
The Historic Heisler Hotel Excursion in June offers a nostalgic journey to Heisler, where participants can admire Canada’s largest baseball glove, indulge in locally made Heisler sausage, and enjoy a meal at the historic hotel.
The Prairie Town Train Excursion takes travellers to Rosalind and Heisler, featuring a brewery tour and tastings at The Detention Brewery, and local culinary delights.
August’s Farm to Fork By Train focuses on agriculture, offering insights into local farming practices, and visits to heritage sites in Forestburg, and concludes with a communal meal featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Late November will see an engaging themed Murder on the Battle River Express.
The season usually concludes with holiday train tours, Light up the Night and Santa Daze to Alliance, which are yet to be announced.
Trip Planning: Battle River Train Excursions
About: Founded in 2010, the Battle River Railway began as a cooperative effort among farmers to provide a vital rail connection to the Canadian National line, facilitating access to major port facilities in British Columbia.
Since 2014, Battle River Train Excursions has introduced themed heritage tours, offering a series of day-long adventures throughout the year. Each excursion is meticulously designed to offer a fun, immersive experience, allowing passengers to indulge in the romance of rail travel while discovering the unique heritage and landscapes of central Alberta.
When: May to December, 2026
- Sip n’ Ride Train Excursion – May 16, 2026
- Historic Heisler Hotel Excursion – June 13, 2026
- A Prairie Town Train Excursion – July 25, 2026
- Explore Farm to Fork By Train – August 15, 2026
- Murder on the Battle River Express – November 28 & 29, 2026
Where:
Depending on tours, excursions start from Kelsey, Forestburg or Alliance.
Forestburg is located 90 minutes from Red Deer and 2 hours from Edmonton.
How Much: $120 & up
