Happy Trails

The authentic western way of life is still alive in Alberta. Waterton is the southernmost community along Hwy 22, affectionately known as The Cowboy Trail. If you are heading north, drive this scenic route along the eastern slopes of the Canadian Rockies and be sure to stop at the Bar U Ranch, a National Historic Site operated by Parks Canada. For more about what you can see and do along this incredible 700 km journey, be sure to pick up a copy of our sister publication, Experience the Cowboy Trails.

Canada’s Mormon Trail is a 2-4 hour self-guided driving tour in Alberta near the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. Located just 45 minutes east of Waterton, along Hwy 5, the town of Cardston is the westernmost community on this trail. Here you will find the Remington Carriage Museum which features more than 250 horsedrawn vehicles. Three other communities belong to the Mormon Trail, namely: Magrath, Raymond and Stirling. Each June, two of the 4 towns host Alberta’s Chautauqua

a festival of local history with lively entertainment and tons of wholesome family fun. albertachq.ca

The North-West Mounted Police (NWMP) was the forerunner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). You probably recognize the scarlet tunic and blue trousers of this, Canada’s iconic federal police force.

Established in 1873, the NWMP was modelled after the Royal Irish Constabulary. Reports stressed the symbolic importance of the traditional British army uniform among First Nations. The NWMP ended the whiskey trade on the southern prairies and the violence that came with it.

The Fort Museum is located 75 minutes northeast of Waterton, in Fort MacLeod. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the NWMP and First Nations People. It was first opened in 1957 and started its world famous Musical Ride in 1973. nwmpmuseum.com