Explore the Cowboy Trail: Ultimate Southern Alberta Road Trip Guide

The Cowboy Trail is an exceptional Alberta road trip from Calgary to the Rocky Mountains, through the prairies, and across the badlands. It stands out as one of the most stunning road trips you can experience in Canada’s most beautiful province.

Cowboy Trail – A Southern Alberta Road Trip

While most visitors often head west from Calgary towards Banff and eventually Jasper, we recommend following our Southern Alberta Travel Guide instead. This route reveals a treasure trove of experiences beyond the well-trodden tourist path.

8 Day Southern Alberta Itinerary

This eight-day itinerary through Southern Alberta starts in Calgary and offers ample time to explore the sights and engage in numerous activities. If you wish to incorporate Banff and Jasper, consider extending your journey by an additional four days.

Many travelers only experience Banff and Lake Louise during their time in Alberta. While these destinations are spectacular, there is an entire province waiting to be discovered, three times the size of Great Britain. Buckle up as we take you on a remarkable road trip through Cowboy Country.

Day 1 – Calgary

Upon arrival in Calgary, pick up your rental car at the airport and settle into the city for one or two nights. Calgary is a vibrant city, offering a wealth of attractions for tourists.

We chose to stay at the luxurious Kensington Riverside Inn, located in Kensington Village just across the river from downtown. They provide complimentary bikes for guests to explore the area.

If you’re seeking adventure, head to Canada Olympic Park. Experience the thrill of the bobsleigh track, zip line, or an exhilarating luge down the ski jump track. Mountain biking is also available.

Don’t forget to indulge in Calgary’s world-class dining scene. Recommended spots include Model Milk, Charcut, and The Beer Hall.

Day 2 – Black Diamond

After exploring Calgary, hit the road on your Alberta road trip, beginning on the Cowboy Trail. Heading west on Highway 1A, you’ll uncover the rich history encapsulated in towns like Cochrane and Turner, where charming shops and main streets reflect a bygone era.

Take a break in Black Diamond at Marv’s Classic Soda Shop, where poutine and coke floats can satisfy your cravings, along with some nostalgic candy for the journey.

Bar U Ranch

Your first stop on the Cowboy Trail should be the Bar U Ranch, a National Historical Site that was once Canada’s largest ranch. Now open to visitors, it celebrates Alberta’s ranching heritage.

Enjoy cowboy coffee around a campfire as a storyteller recounts tales of life on the range in the 1800s. Experience roping a stationary calf, embark on a wagon ride, and explore historic buildings preserved from a century ago.

Afterward, don’t miss a chance to savor a cappuccino and fresh apple pie in Longview before returning to Black Diamond.

Day 3 – High Mountain Trail Ride

An Alberta cowboy adventure wouldn’t be complete without a genuine trail ride. Unlike standard trail rides, a guided trek into the mountains with Dewy at Anchor D Ranch will immerse you in the cowboy experience. With 105 sure-footed horses, enjoy breathtaking Alberta scenery as you cling to the mountainsides.

Alberta Dude Ranch Experience

If time permits, extend your stay at the ranch, relish meals with ranch hands, and embark on thrilling multi-day rides into the mountains. You may even be treated to a song on the accordion for a true cowboy experience.

Day 4 – Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park offers breathtaking mountain views in the south, merging pristine prairies with the majestic Rocky Mountains. With multiple accommodation options, including inns and hotels like the Prince of Wales, your adventure here can range from camping to luxury stays.

Experience magnificent hikes, horseback riding, canoeing, and exploring Red Rock Canyon—all while keeping safety in mind.

Day 5 – Pincher Creek

Instead of spending the night in Waterton, we drove to Pincher Creek, less than an hour away, and checked into the Ramada Inn, which boasts a free breakfast and a waterslide. Our spacious room featured a jacuzzi tub, sitting area, and cozy fireplace.

Explore natural attractions like **Lundbreck Falls** and Frank Slide’s Interpretive Centre, which details Canada’s Deadliest Rock Slide on Crowsnest Pass. Discover the scenic beauty of the vast ranchlands and the iconic Burmis Tree on your travels.

Day 6 – Pincher Creek to Dinosaur Provincial Park

The drive to Dinosaur Provincial Park offers historical gems like Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fort McLeod is also worth a visit to witness old RCMP Barracks from 1892, bringing Alberta’s history to life.

Bonus Stop: Detour to Vulcan

If time allows, consider a detour to Vulcan, a town celebrating its Star Trek theme with attractions like a replica of the Starship Enterprise and annual conventions that draw fans from around the globe.

Day 7 – Dinosaur Provincial Park

As you continue your journey, don’t miss Dinosaur Provincial Park, an exceptional site located in Alberta’s Badlands. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers unique landscapes adorned with fossilized remains and various hiking trails for a memorable experience.

• Accommodation: Consider Comfort Camping in the park. Stop at Brooks for supplies like steaks to enjoy a barbecue at your luxury tent after a day of adventure.

Day 8 – Route to Drumheller

The drive from Dinosaur to Drumheller is captivating. Despite a dull initial stretch, the latter half reveals stunning vistas and numerous engaging attractions. Allocate a full day to explore this area without disappointment.

Atlas Coal Mine

Drumheller is teeming with sights, including the Historical Atlas Coal Mine, where you can venture underground, ride a narrow-gauge train, and explore the last wooden tipple in Canada.

The Hoodoos of Drumheller

Famous for their unique formations, hoodoos—sandstone spires capped with hard stones—are an incredible sight easily accessible from the road.

Last Chance Saloon

For a bite to eat, make a detour to the Last Chance Saloon, a remnant of Alberta’s mining past. This rustic saloon welcomes visitors with a glimpse into history, complete with bullet holes in the walls.

Day 9 – Drumheller

Concluding your Alberta road trip in Drumheller is a worthy finale. This vibrant town is renowned for the world’s largest dinosaur and the Royal Tyrrell Museum, home to real dinosaur bones.

Views

Drumheller offers breathtaking views from Horse Thief Canyon and Horseshoe Canyon, perfect for capturing picturesque sunsets. Taking advice from locals can lead you to the best vantage points, ensuring a memorable experience.

Where to stay in Drumheller

Heartwood Inn and Spa is a delightful option, known for its inviting atmosphere and exceptional breakfast offerings. After your travels, you’ll appreciate this cozy inn and its attentive service.

Back to Calgary

Your Southern Alberta Road Trip comes to a delightful conclusion. Here’s a Google Maps route for your journey…

South Alberta Road Trip Map

• Special thanks to Alberta Tourism and Calgary Tourism for their support. For more information on exciting things to do, visit the Alberta Tourism website.

Travel Planning Resources

For your next trip planning, consider utilizing these reliable resources.

Travel Insurance: Ensure your safety while traveling with recommended providers.

• Safety Wing – Occasional Travelers.