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Region known for:
  • Rugged mountains
  • Endless skies
  • Wildflower fields

Uncover one of Canada’s best-kept secrets. An absence of crowds in the Southern Rockies makes the views, experiences and journeys that much more special. Take your time to connect with nature and enjoy the sights—there’s nobody else in line.

Useful links:

  • Key City: Waterton
  • Don't miss: Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Claim to fame: Waterton Lakes National Park, an International Dark Sky Park

Trending in the Southern Rockies

Southern Rockies highlights

An ice climber standing on a snowy cliff while ice climbing at the top of Eisenhower Tower on Castle Mountain

Picturesque viewpoints

Scenery in the Southern Rockies is unlike anywhere else. Capture mountain-filled photos without strangers competing for the best angle, picnic lakeside among the peaks, hop the iron-rich boulders of Red Rock Canyon or simply relax and take in 360-degrees of tranquility.

Road of wonders

The Crowsnest Highway runs through this region, boasting views of rolling green hills and mountain summits. Take a road trip along the smooth and curvy road to visit waterfalls, historic sites and rubble from Canada’s biggest rockslide.

A bison stands in tall gold grass in Waterton Lakes National Park in Southern Alberta.

Wildlife and stargazing

Bison, bears, swans and many other animals meander or fly across the plains and ridges of the region. Waterton Lakes National Park is a Dark Sky Park, protecting nocturnal animals and providing phenomenal stargazing.

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Trailriders stop with their horses in Waterton Lakes National Park with mountains surrounding them.
Visitor exploring plant species during the Waterton Wildflower Festival
Ice-walk with children exploring nature with Uplift Adventures at Star Creek Falls
A women stands on an outcropping looking down at Waterton Lakes National Park, surrounded by mountains.
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Group of snowboarders playing in the snow on Castle Mountain in Southern Alberta.
Aerial view of Twin Butte Silos with mountains in the distance.

Things to do in the Southern Rockies

Key towns

Get a deeper understanding of the Southern Rockies by resting, eating and exploring its towns. No matter where you are, the mountains stand guard.

The town of Waterton view from above at sunrise from Bear's Hump.

Waterton

The town of Waterton is a perfect basecamp when exploring this region. Wildflowers, winter activities, hikes and more are always nearby.

Waterton Tourism
Family on a winter walk exploring limestone boulders from the aftermath of Frank Slide..

Crowsnest Pass

This off-the-beaten-path gem is a stunning mountain playground in every season, weaving together a fascinating tapestry of heritage and adventure.

Visit Crowsnest Pass
Two friends sitting outside enjoying breakfast on a outdoor patio in Pincher Creek.

Pincher Creek

From a pioneer village to the thundering Lundbreck Falls and hiking trails, this little town sparks big curiosity and excitement.

Town of Pincher Creek

Stories

A man with a child on a hike with pink flowers and lush greenery near the path at the Athabasca Lookout.
6 min read Experience Alberta's Wildflower Season in Full Bloom

Our wildflowers decorate the province with a kaleidoscope of colours. If you’re one to stop and smell the flowers, you’ll thrive on an Alberta getaway.

Person with feet in the water skipping rocks into lake in Waterton Lakes National Park.
6 min read Summer Fun in Waterton: 11 Things You Have to See and Do

Discover the ultimate in summer fun in Waterton! Explore 11 must-see attractions and activities that will make your vacation unforgettable.

Two people looking out from a path towards nearby large boulders and mountains in the background.
6 min read Discover the History of the Crowsnest Pass

'The Pass' is a colourful region of southwest Alberta where stories of mining disasters and rum-runners bring history to life.

Couple eating at Miners Mercantile and Bakery in Pincher Creek
3 min read Six Great Watering Holes to Visit After a Day of Adventure in Alberta’s Southern Rockies

After your Alberta one-day getaway, kick back and relax at a pub, craft brewery or distillery in the Southern Rockies.

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Suggested Itineraries

3 days
Journey Along the Highway 3 Ale Trail

Follow the Highway 3 Ale Trail through Southern Alberta on a three-day road trip, pairing craft breweries with prairie skies and mountain views.

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

A southern Alberta road trip from Calgary, taking in the Canadian Badlands, four UNESCO World Heritage Sites and towering mountains along the way.

View all road trips & itineraries

Nearby cities to explore

Scenic Trail Ride overlooking the town of Waterton.

Waterton

Waterton
A group of buoyancy-aided friends leisurely float down Calgary's Bow River on inner tubes, passing under the iconic Peace Bridge. Lush tree-lined riverbanks create a serene backdrop, with the distant cityscape adding to the carefree summer atmosphere.

Calgary

Calgary
Hot Air balloons over Medicine Hat

Medicine Hat

Medicine Hat