OUR Alberta by St Joseph Media Inc

ouralberta www.ouralberta.ca

DRIVING GUIDE FOR TRAVELLERS

2008

WESTERN ADVENTURES Explore the best Alberta has to offer

SCENIC ROAD TRIPS MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS FARMERS’ MARKETS

Published by

HOTEL GUIDE MAPS & MILEAGE TABLES SUMMER EVENTS

PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

CONTENTS O U R A L B E R TA 2 0 0 8

DRIVING GUIDE FOR TRAVELLERS

PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

THE REGIONS Y ROCKY MOUNTAINS PAGES 19-26 >> Map & Mileage p. 21 >> Towns, Attractions & Events p. 22 >> Canmore’s Sisters p. 22 Y ALBERTA SOUTH PAGES 27-34 >> Map & Mileage p. 29 >> Towns, Attractions & Events p. 30 >> Tranquil Gardens p. 32 Y CALGARY & AREA PAGES 35-52 >> Map & Mileage p. 37 >> Attractions & Events p. 38 >> The Greens of Calgary p. 43 Y ALBERTA CENTRAL PAGES 53-58 >> Map & Mileage p. 55 >> Towns, Attractions & Events p. 56 >> The 2008 David Thomson Brigade p. 57 Y EDMONTON & AREA PAGES 59-85 >> Map & Mileage p. 61 >> Attractions & Events p. 64 >> The Beautiful Body p. 66 Y ALBERTA NORTH PAGES 86-89 >> Map & Mileage p. 88 >> Towns, Attractions & Events p. 89 ON THE COVER: Lac Beuvert Photograph by Michael Logatoc

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Maligne Canyon, Jasper National Park.

IN THIS ISSUE 8

ESSENTIAL ALBERTA Indispensible information for travelling through this province.

10 ROAD TRIPS Explore Alberta with these scenic tours. 16 FARMERS’ MARKETS Guide to the province’s freshest, home-grown meat and produce.

ROAD MAPS 4 ALBERTA 21 ROCKY MOUNTAINS

HOTEL DIRECTORIES

29 ALBERTA SOUTH

46 CALGARY

37 CALGARY & AREA

74 EDMONTON

55 ALBERTA CENTRAL

90 ACCOMMODATION GRIDS

61 EDMONTON & AREA 88 ALBERTA NORTH 3

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Hay

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Cardinal Lake

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River

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Cadotte Lake

River

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Snipe Lake

HIGH PRAIRIE

FOX CREEK

Winagami Lake

McLENNAN

Kimiwan Lake

VALLEYVIEW

Bison Lake

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Loon Lake

Utikuma Lake

SWAN HILLS

Freeman

Saulteaux

Lesser

Muskwa Lake

River

SLAVE LAKE

Wentzel Lake

Peerless Lake

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RED EARTH CREEK

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McClelland Lake

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Colin Lake

Andrew Lake

FORT CHIPEWYAN

Mamawi Lake

Baril Lake

FORT McMURRAY

Namur Lake

River

Calling Lake

River

ATHABASCA

South Wabasca Lake

North Wabasca Lake

River

Birch

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Salt

WOOD BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK

Little

River

TERR ITOR IES

NORTHW EST

River

R. ffa Bu

River

Bistcho Lake

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River

GRANDE PRAIRIE

SPIRIT RIVER

HINES CREEK

RAINBOW LAKE

Bear Lake

WEMBLEY

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CYPRESS HILLS WRITING-ON-STONE PROVINCIAL PROVINCIAL PARK PARK

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SMOKY LAKE

BOYLE

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GIBBONS

BEAUMONT Lake

LACOMBE BLACKFALDS

CALMAR Pigeon Lake

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Wabamun Lake

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River

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River

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BANFF NATIONAL PARK LAKE LOUISE

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Saskatchewan

MAYERTHORPE

Chip Lake

43 22

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WHITECOURT

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Brazeau Reservoir

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Riv

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River

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Visitor Information Centre

Queen Elizabeth II Highway

Primary Highways

Trans-Canada Highway

Trans-Canada Yellowhead Highway

Crowsnest Highway

Airport

UNESCO World Heritage Site

U.S. Port of Entry

U.S. Port of Entry Open 24 Hours

ouralberta

A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

DRIVING GUIDE FOR TRAVELLERS

www.ouralberta.ca

2008

St. Joseph Media Ltd. Suite 250, One Palliser Square 125 - 9 Ave SE, Calgary, Alberta T2G 0P6 p: 403-299-1888 • f: 403-299-1899 www.where.ca/calgary EDITOR Laura Pellerine LISTINGS & WEB EDITOR Sally MacKinnon CONTRIBUTOR

Michael Logatoc

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Chloe Jones, Ally McConnell ART DIRECTOR, PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Veronica Cowan GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Emily Bachor

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Ashley Templeton, 403-299-1896 Dennise Watson, 403-299-1895 SALES & CIRCULATION COORDINATOR

Emilia Farrace, 403-299-1884 PUBLISHER

Beautiful Rocky Mountains, wide-open prairie skies, rustic wilderness and prehistoric badlands. These are the calling cards of Alberta. If it’s your first time visiting, welcome to our scenic province—you’ll find it one with a diverse landscape, rich cultural heritage and friendly people; if you’ve been here before, welcome back. Alberta offers something for everyone—in our cities find a sophisticated urban atmosphere with boutique shopping, refined dining, and wonderful things to see and do. Meanwhile our rural areas offer backcountry nature sites you’ll want to explore, small towns with local charm, and historic interpretation centres where you can experience what life was like in a different time. Let the following pages be your guide to journeying through our province. They’re filled with sightseeing road trips; comprehensive listings of farmers’ markets, events and attractions; hotel guides for Calgary and Edmonton; plus maps and mileage tables. I encourage you to get out and make your visit with us a memorable one—try some of our famous Alberta beef, explore our natural beauty, and experience Western hospitality first-hand with our many attractions. It’s a fun place to visit, and your photos will be spectacular.

Tanner Young Publishing Group #4 Parkwood Ofﬁce Centre 9343 - 50 St, Edmonton, Alberta T6B 2L5 p: 780-465-3362 • f: 780-448-0424 www.whereedmonton.com EDITOR Susan Phelan LISTINGS COORDINATOR Jackie Roth ART DIRECTOR

Clara Cheung

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Zuzana Benesova, Rost Koval TRAFFIC COORDINATOR

Cheryl Lindquist

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Gerry Leibel, Doug Stirrett INTERNET MANAGER

Mike Treloar

CUSTOMER RELATIONS MANAGER

Marie Tanner CIRCULATION

Kendra Mah

ACCOUNTING ADMINISTRATOR PUBLISHER

Fossina Crytes

RH (Rob) Tanner

For our complete privacy policy go to www.tanneryoung.com/privacy or call us at 1-866-714-5903. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited. Where is a registered trademark of Where International LP.

Our Alberta makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions.

LAURA PELLERINE, Editor

Publications mail registration number 40033685. ISSN 1710-6052 Mailed and paid in Calgary Printed in Canada for free distribution Member of the BDA Division of CCAB, Inc.

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PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

YOUR ALBERTA GUIDE

Brian French

PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

ESSENTIALALBERTA Indispensable information for travelling through this province PARKS AND WILDLIFE National Parks: Alberta has five National Parks— Banff, Jasper, Waterton Lakes, Elk Island and Wood Buffalo. Park Information Centres at all the National Parks provide information on hiking and mountain-biking trails, mountaineering guides, and backcountry regulations. These centres also sell park entry passes, as well as wilderness passes for anyone staying overnight at backcountry campsites. Some of the more popular campsites may require advance reservations. Front-country campsites such as Johnston Canyon in Banff and Honeymoon Lake in Jasper are available only on a first-come basis. Camping in the parks is only allowed on designated sites, and campfires are only allowed where fireboxes are available. Call 1-888-773-8888 or visit www.pc.gc.ca for more information.

Wildlife: Wildlife is abundant in Alberta, particularly in the mountain parks, but remember: don’t feed any wild animals. Also don’t get out of your car to approach animals, keep pets on a leash, always put garbage in bear-proof bins (or in backcountry, tie food and any scented products in bundles from tree branches well away from your campsite), store food (including food in coolers) in the trunk of your car or in bear-proof containers. Bear warnings and safety procedures are available at all Parks information centres.

FISHING & HUNTING Fishing licenses for outside the National Parks are available at most sporting goods stores and a few convenience stores. Inside National Parks, visit the Park information centres for special permits, along with guides to regulations and seasons. Persons sport fishing in Alberta are required to hold a sport fishing license. Hunting is prohibited in National Parks and in most provincial parks and recreation areas. In wildland 8

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PHOTOGRAPHS: LEFT AND TOP RIGHT COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA; TOP LEFT COURTESY PHOTOS.COM

Provincial Parks: There are dozens of Provincial Parks in Alberta, and most of them contain privately managed campsites that should be booked in advance (pick up a Travel Alberta 2008 Official Campground Guide at Visitors’ Centres throughout the province).

A parks, Lakeland and Cooking Lake-Blackfoot recreation area and occasionally Cypress Hills Provincial Park, hunting is only permitted in season, and hunters must have valid permits for the type of wildlife and area. It’s illegal to bring handguns, automatic firearms and other weapons into Canada. Hunting rifles must be declared on entry. Call (403) 297-6423 or visit www.srd.gov. ab.ca/fishwildlife for more information.

PHOTOGRAPHS: LEFT AND TOP RIGHT COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA; TOP LEFT COURTESY PHOTOS.COM

ON THE HIGHWAYS Alberta law requires that persons in automobiles wear seat belts, and those on motorcycles wear helmets. Speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour (100 km/h = 62 mph). Gasoline is sold by the litre (one litre = .26 US gallons). For roadside assistance and highway conditions, call the Alberta Motor Association at 1-800-642-3810. For memberships and more info, call 1-800-222-6400 or visit www.ama.ab.ca.

TAXATION Alberta is the only Canadian province with no provincial sales tax. There is a non-refundable four per cent hotel tax, and a five per cent federal GST on goods and services. OTHER TIPS & REGULATIONS • Temperatures can fall quickly during the evenings in the mountain parks—always bring a jacket. • Legal minimum age to purchase liquor and tobacco in Alberta is 18. • When making a phone call, note that as of Sept 2008, all phone numbers must include an area code. Communities north of Red Deer, including Edmonton, require the area code (780). Communities located in the Red Deer area and south, including Calgary, use the area code (403). All numbers assigned after Sept 2008 require the area code (587) no matter where they are located. OA

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES Travel Alberta Visitor Information Centres (VICs) are a great way to get up-to-date regional information. VICs open early-May till mid-October, seven days per week (Canmore’s VIC is open year-round). • Canmore: South side of Trans Canada Hwy 1 at west end of Canmore • Crowsnest Pass: Crowsnest Hwy 3, eight km west of Coleman • Field, BC: South side of Hwy 1 at entrance of Field in British Columbia • Grande Prairie: 11330 - 106 St • Hinton: #1, 309 Gregg Ave • Lloydminster: North side of Hwy 16, one km east of Lloydminster • Milk River: East side of Hwy 4, south of

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Milk River • Oyen: Intersection of Hwy 9 and Hwy 41, north of Oyen • Walsh: North side of Hwy 1, three km west of Saskatchewan border • West Glacier, Montana: West Glacier Hwy 2 and Going to the Sun Road in Montana You can also call 1-800-ALBERTA, or visit www.travelalberta.com. Regional information booths can also be found in most towns along major highways, and in Calgary inside the Calgary Tower at 101 - 9 Avenue SW, in Edmonton at the Shaw Conference Centre, among others. Pick up a copy of Where Magazine for local city information while in Calgary, Edmonton, and the Canadian Rockies. 9

ROAD TRIPS

Taking a road trip is one of the best ways to explore a new area—cruising along the highway surrounded by scenic landscapes and stopping at off-road attractions can make a visit truly memorable. Here are seven self-guided road tours developed by Travel Alberta. Each is designed to reveal the unique character of a region of Alberta, with plenty of suggestions regarding attractions, historic sites, towns and natural landmarks that you should stop and see on the way. For detailed maps and descriptions of attractions, visit our comprehensive regional sections: Rockies (page 19), South (page 27), Calgary & Area (page 35), Central (page 53), Edmonton & Area (page 59), North (page 86).

SUNSET, LESSER SLAVE LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK

Icefields Parkway

JASPER

JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Travel through the Canadian Rockies on one of the most scenic mountain routes in North America. 93 COLUMBIA Begin in Lake Louise, located in the Bow ICEFIELDS CENTRE Valley, where you’ll find a rustic village with COLUMBIA ICEFIELDS accommodations, a candy shop, restaurants, shopping, and tourist information. Nearby BANFF NATIONAL is the village’s namesake, as well as PARK 93 emerald-coloured Moraine Lake. This oftenLAKE LOUISE photographed lake sits at the base of the Continental Divide—the geographic point BANFF CANMORE where all waters flow either west to the Pacific Ocean or east to the Atlantic Ocean. Continuing your journey, go north on the Icefields Parkway towards Jasper National Park. Have your camera ready—the route is lined with snow-capped mountains, beautiful lakes and over 100 glaciers. Make a stop at Hector Lake to see a typical lake formed from a glacial basin. The highest point on the parkway, the Peyto Lake viewpoint on Bow Summit, sits 2,068 m above sea level and offers one of the most remarkable mountain panoramas in the world. From here, continue travelling northwest until you reach another display of natural beauty—the Weeping Wall, where water from melting snow on Cirrus Mountain leaks through the cracks in the cliff face and plunges down as a series of waterfalls. You may also enjoy a visit to the Columbia Icefield to take a SnoCoach tour on the Athabasca Glacier. Visit the Interpretive and Information Centre there to see a scale model of the stunning 325 sq km area of glacial ice and snow. End your tour in the mountain retreat of Jasper, with many modern city amenities. Possible activities here include golfing, rafting, fishing, hiking, bathing in hot springs, and a tramway ride to the top of Whistler’s Mountain. EF

NORDEGG

RO MOU HO

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PHOTOGRAPHS AND MAPS: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

FIELD

Northern Lights and Oil Sands Tour

FORT McMURRAY

See everything from the beautiful northern lights to one of the world’s largest oil reserves on this threeday trip through Alberta’s North. Begin your journey east on Highway 16 from 63 Edmonton to Elk Island National Park, where you’ll 754 find great opportunities to see Alberta wildlife. Head a little farther on Highway 16 (the Yellowhead Highway) and you’ll come to the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. It has over 30 restored historic buildings, and the costumed interpreters there can take you back 100 years in 2 55 time with their hands-on demonstrations. 44 55 Experience more Ukrainian culture at the Basilian Father’s Museum at Mundare. Then, continue east 63 2 36 on Highway 16 to the town of Vegreville, taking a moment to appreciate the world’s largest pysanka 18 18 28 (Ukrainian Easter egg). Turn north onto Highway 36 28 2 and follow it to Lac La Biche, which was used as a 28 45 33 36 supply depot for voyageurs who were still using the 37 15 EDMONTON northern trade route. ELK ISLAND Afterwards, head west on Highway 55 until you NATIONAL PARK reach Highway 63. Turn north and drive all the 14 way to the hub of the Athabasca Oil Sands, Fort McMurray. Head to the award-winning Oil Sands Discovery Centre to learn about the modern technology of oil sands mining. A guided tour can take you to outside the city limits for some of the best viewing spots of the mesmerizing northern lights. You’ll be astonished by the swirling greens, whites, yellows and even reds that seem to dance in the sky up to 150 km above you. Be sure to bring your fishing rod and tackle, as this area of the province is famous for its freshwater rivers and lakes. In fact, six of Alberta’s seven top fishing lakes can be found in this region. On your way back to Edmonton, take a drive through Athabasca to see some nearly 100-yearold historical buildings. Learn more about another important natural resource during your tours of the THE AURORA BOREALIS, Alberta Pacific Forest Industries pulp mill as well as OR NORTHERN LIGHTS. the Miller Western saw mill, located nearby. WABASCA

LAC LA BICHE

ATHABASCA

BOYLE

WESTLOCK

SMOKY LAKE

BARRHEAD

LEGAL

BON ACCORD

REDWATER

GIBBONS

MORINVILLE

BRUDERHEIM LAMONT

TWO HILLS

MUNDARE

STONY PLAIN

VEGREVILLE

DEVON

BEAUMONT

TOFIELD

PHOTOGRAPHS AND MAPS: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

CALMAR

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ROAD TRIPS

Canadian Badlands

EXCAVATIONS IN THE CANADIAN BADLANDS.

ROSSFIELD

DRUMHELLER

BEISEKER

9 ROSEBUD

AIRDRIE 21

56 STRATHMORE CHESTERMERE

ALGARY BASSANO

24 OKOTOKS BLACK DIAMOND RNER VALLEY HIGH RIVER LONGVIEW

VULCAN NANTON

2 22

STAVELY

CLARESHOLM

25 PICTURE BUTTE

small town just west of Drumheller off Highway 9, well worth the drive for its entertaining dinner theatre. After leaving Drumheller and environs, don’t drive too fast or you’ll miss the hoodoos, oddly shaped rocks that resemble petrified mushrooms. They make an interesting backdrop for a photo. Dinosaur Provincial Park, 177 km (110 mi) away, is next on the map. To get there, leave Drumheller heading east via Highway 10 and turn south on Highway 36, and follow the signs. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has uncovered more than 300 specimens from its bone beds, which are now displayed in museums around the 9 36 OYEN 41 world. If you have time before heading home, drive east on DINOSAUR PROVINCIAL Highway 1 for about PARK an hour and a half to Medicine Hat, BROOKS home to the world’s 41 tallest teepee, which lays over MEDICINE HAT 36 large gas fields, and REDCLIFF VAUXHALL the Clay Products BOW ISLAND Interpretive Centre.

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PHOTOGRAPH AND MAPS: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

The badlands are one of Alberta’s most unique landscapes; a place where Mother Nature decided to break the mould and be a little more creative. From Calgary, head north on Highway 2 towards Edmonton, turning east at Crossfield onto Highway 72 (which becomes Highway 9). For a scenic pit stop, visit Horseshoe Canyon, a distinctive land formation that is free to explore and perfect for hiking. Just 17 km (11 mi) east of Horseshoe Canyon is Drumheller, the epicentre of Alberta’s prehistoric past. Millions of years ago it was home to the Albertosaurus, a sharp-toothed predator from the Late Cretaceous Period, as well as other species of dinosaurs whose remains are on display at the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology. Drumheller also boasts the world’s largest fibreglass Tyrannosaurus Rex, which reaches a height of 26 m (86 ft). Two local attractions just outside of Drumheller include the Little Church, a 7 by 11-foot building that can seat only six people at a time; and Rosebud, a

The Cowboy Trail

MAYERTHORPE

LEGAL

BON ACCORD MORINVILLE

37 ST. ALBERT

EDMONTON STONY PLAIN SPRUCE GROVE

22 DEVON

DRAYTON VALLEY

CALMAR

39 MILLET

13 20

PONOKA

RIMBEY LACOMBE ROCKY 12 MOUNTAIN 12 20 HOUSE ECKVILLE BLACKFALDS

SYLVAN LAKE

RED DEER

PENHOLD

INNISFAIL BOWDEN

SUNDRE

OLDS

DIDSBURY

CARSTAIRS CROSSFIELD

BEISEKER

72 AIRDRIE

COCHRANE 68

CHESTERMERE

CALGARY 22

KANANASKIS COUNTRY

OKOTOKS HIGH RIVER

LONGVIEW

TURNER VALLEY BLACK DIAMOND

The Cowboy Trail is a true western experience. Leaving Edmonton, head west on Highway 16 and then northwest on Highway 43 to Mayerthorpe, a small prairie town of 1,500. Don’t ride off into the sunset before checking out the Mayerthorpe Elevator Museum, the Ol’ Pembina River Ferry Crossing facility and Rochfort Bridge, the longest wooden trestle bridge in Western Canada. There’s also a Coca-Cola themed restaurant and lakes and rivers perfect for fishing. Leave Mayerthorpe and head south on Highway 22: the main route of the Cowboy Trail. After passing through Evansburg, Entwistle and Drayton Valley, stop at Rocky Mountain House, a town known for its barn dances and opportunities for fly-fishing, kayaking and horseback riding. You can also make a detour 62 km (38 mi) east on Highway 11 to Sylvan Lake, home of the Wild Rapids Waterslide Park. After leaving Rocky Mountain House, continue south to Calgary on Highway 22, a journey that takes two and a half hours. For a sugar fix along the way, stop in Cochrane, a town just north of Calgary, and try the offerings at MacKay’s Ice Cream Shop. If you can, plan to arrive in Calgary for the Stampede, held this year from July 4 - 13. This outdoor show includes a rodeo, midway, exhibitions and live musical performances and entertainment. Back on Highway 22, pass through the heart of ranching country with towns like Black Diamond, Turner Valley and Longview. Check out the Bar U Ranch just south of Longview for some intriguing ranching displays. Continue south onto Highway 22, then east onto Highway 3 and south on Highway 6 to Waterton Lakes National Park, an area known for its wildlife and mountain vistas.

NANTON

O’SHAUGHNESSY CREEK, KANANASKIS COUNTRY

STAVELY

PHOTOGRAPH AND MAPS: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

HEAD-SMASHED-IN BUFFALO JUMP CROWSNEST PASS FRANK SLIDE CENTRE

PINCHER CREEK

WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK

PORT OF CHIEF MOUNTAIN

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ROAD TRIPS

Crowsnest Highway This drive through southern Alberta will take you to some of the most unforgettable attractions in the province, and offers something new to veteran travellers who haven’t toured this unique and varied region. Start in Medicine Hat and head west 169 km (105 mi) on Highway 3 to Lethbridge. As you pass through the town of Taber; pull over and buy some fresh corn, known throughout the province for its sweet flavour. When you get to Lethbridge, take a moment to wander through the Nikka Yuko Japanese Gardens, built in 1967 as a symbol of

Trail of the Buffalo

friendship between Japan and Canada. Leave Lethbridge and head 86 km (53 mi) south on Highway 4 to the town of Milk River. Use it as your base for exploring Writing-OnStone Provincial Park, the site of rare pictographs made by Plains Aboriginal people. From Milk River, take Highway 501 west until it intersects with Highway 2; head north and drive to Fort Macleod. From there head northwest on Highway 785 to Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump. For 5,600 years, First Nations tribes used the site to drive buffalo over the cliffs to their deaths; today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s oldest and largest buffalo jump. VIKING CAMROSE

The buffalo may no longer roam the plains unfettered 13 WAINWRIGHT DAYSLAND and free, but travellers can still catch a glimpse of this SEDGEWICK KILLAM HARDISTY mighty animal at ranches, wildlife areas and attractions 53 on a route in east-central Alberta known as the Trail of FORESTBURG 56 the Buffalo. 36 STETTLER 41 Start your journey in the town of Stettler, 101 km 12 CASTOR (63 mi) east of Red Deer. For a memorable excursion, CORONATION step aboard the Alberta Prairie Steam Train. This fiveto-six hour adventure includes a buffet meal, themed entertainment and an attack by the dreaded Bolton Gang. Leave Stettler and head north on Highway 56, passing through Rochon Sands Provincial Park, and turn east onto Highway 53. Be sure to visit the town of Forestburg, which boasts a local farmers’ market and the Glass Inn and Artists Studio. Head north on Highway 36 to Viking, then go southeast on Highway 14 to Wainwright, home of the Buffalo National Park Interpretive Centre and the largest buffalo statue in Canada. For buffalo lovers who want a more hands-on experience, use Wainwright as a base before taking a day to explore Angus Acres, a modern working ranch, or the excavations at Bodo Archaeological Site. From Wainwright head south on Highway 41 through Gooseberry Lake Provincial Park, turning west onto Highway 12. View the beauty of the Nose Hills and stay over in Coronation, where you can visit the local Railway Museum. To get back to Stettler from Coronation, follow Highway 12 west for CANOLA FIELDS, NORTHERN ALBERTA about 95 km (59 mi). 14

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PHOTOGRAPH AND MAPS: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

or take a moment to watch the Crowsnest River plunge 12 m (39 ft) at Lundbreck Falls. Just before the British Columbia border you’ll hit the town of Frank. In 2 22 MEDICINE HAT 1903, the summit of Turtle 23 Mountain collapsed and 36 25 HEAD-SMASHED-IN BOW ISLAND buried part of this mining BUFFALO JUMP TABER 41 town under 92 million WRITING-ON-STONE CROWSNEST COALDALE PROVINCIAL PARK PASS FORT MACLEOD LETHBRIDGE tonnes of limestone. FRANK 5 52 61 Today you can learn about PINCHER CREEK 4 CYPRESS 2 WATERTON the tragedy at the Frank HILLS 6 LAKES 62 PROVINCIAL Slide Interpretive Centre, NATIONAL PARK CARDSTON MILK RIVER PARK 5 which also affords a good PORT OF PORT OF PORT OF PORT OF PORT OF SWEETGRASS view of the rubble. WHITLASH DEL BONITA CHIEF MOUNTAIN PEIGAN WILD HORSE

Drive back to Fort Macleod, turn west onto Highway 3 and continue 51 km (32 mi) to Pincher Creek. For a short sidetrip, visit the Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village STAVELY

REDCLIFF

VAUXHALL

CLARESHOLM

WALSH

GRANUM PICTURE BUTTE COALHURST

FOREMOST

RAYMOND

MAGRATH

Two City, Two Park Circle Tour This tour can take up to 8 days, but it will take you to Alberta’s most popular attractions: Calgary, Edmonton and the Canadian Rockies. Start your tour in Calgary, the biggest city in Alberta. Climb to the top of the Calgary Tower, stroll along the river in Prince’s Island Park and visit the facilities and museum at Canada Olympic Park, one of the venues of the 1988 Winter Olympics. Leave Calgary by heading south on Macleod Trail. Once you reach Highway 22x turn west to Bragg Creek and continue on Highway 66 till you reach Kananaskis Country, an alpine park nestled into the foothills of the Rockies. This area is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, who come to hike, horseback ride or explore the rapids of the Kananaskis River. Return to Bragg Creek and follow Highway 22 north until it intersects with the Trans Canada (Highway 1); turn west and drive to Banff National Park. In Banff, stay and enjoy many of the amenities or the delights of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Get back on the Trans Canada and follow it 61 km (38 mi) north to picturesque Lake Louise or emerald-coloured Moraine Lake. From Lake Louise, continue 37 your tour of the Alberta EDSON EDMONTON Rockies by driving 224 km (139 HINTON 22 47 mi) north to Jasper National 40 39 Park. For an up-close view of a 40 glacier, head to the Columbia 13 13 JASPER Icefields on a guided bus tour 20 2A 22 JASPER or walk. Or, view the glaciers 53 53 NATIONAL PARK from Bow Summit, a vantage 11 12 12 20 point at 2,068 m (6,785 ft) in 93 COLUMBIA 11 11 ICEFIELDS altitude. 21 CENTRE 22 RED DEER COLUMBIA 42 Then take Highway 16 east 54 ICEFIELDS 375 km (233 mi) to the capital BANFF 27 27 city of Edmonton. Known as NATIONAL PARK Festival City, Edmonton hosts 93 22 acts of all kinds and is home LAKE LOUISE 72 to the famous West Edmonton 40 9 BANFF Mall. Finally, take Highway 2 CANMORE 68 8 south 294 km (183 mi) and CALGARY 22 40 you’re back in Calgary. ST. ALBERT

STONY PLAIN SPRUCE GROVE

DEVON BEAUMONT

CALMAR

DRAYTON VALLEY

MILLET

WETASKIWIN

PONOKA

LACOMBE

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE

ECKVILLE

BLACKFALDS

SYLVAN LAKE

PENHOLD

INNISFAIL

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RIMBEY

NORDEGG

OLDS

DIDSBURY

CARSTAIRS

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CROSSFIELD

COCHRANE

BEISEKER

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CHESTERMERE

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Alberta Beach May 11 - Sept 28, Sun noon – 2 pm. Agriplex, (780) 9248301, (780) 967-2826. Andrew Apr 5 – Oct 18, Sat 1 pm – 3 pm. Andrew Arena, (780) 365-3741. Athabasca May 9 – Dec 19, every second Fri 4 pm – 7 pm. Lwr lvl, Royal Canadian Legion, (780) 675-3928. Barrhead May 3 – Dec 20, Sat 10 am – 1 pm. Barrhead Arena, (780) 675-2106. Bashaw May – Sept, Tue 3:30 pm – 6:30 pm. Ag building, (780) 372-3844. Beaverlodge Jan 16 – Dec 10, Tue 5 pm – 8 pm, Wed noon – 3 pm. Ag-Complex, 1014 - 4th Ave, (780) 354-8462. Bentley May 17 – Aug 30, Sat 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm. Curling Rink, (403) 748-3501. Berwyn Apr 12, 16; May 10, 24; Aug 9, 23; Sept 13, 27; Oct 11, 25. 10 am – noon. Legion Hall, (780) 338-2285. Bezanson June 21 all day, July 3 – Sept 18, Thur 4 pm – 8 pm. Bezanson Memorial Hall, (780) 568-3308. Black Diamond (Foothills Country) June 21 – Sept 27, Sat 9 am – 2 pm. 206 Government Rd, (403) 933-7478. Blackfalds May 19 – Sept 15, Mon 4 pm – 7 pm. Blackfalds Arena, (403) 782-5187. Bonnyville Year-round, Sat 11 am – 2 pm. Centennial Centre, (780) 8156028. Bonnyville Year-round, Tue 3 pm – 6:30 pm. Fish and Game Building, (780) 635-2460. Bow Island July 11 – Sept 19, Fri 2 pm – 4 pm. Golden Age Centre, (403) 545-2746. Brooks May 1 – Oct 9, Thur 3 pm – 6 pm. Kinsmen Rodeo Grounds, (403) 378-3277. Buck Lake May 17 – Sept 6, Sat 10 am – 1 pm. Community Hall, (780) 6822269, (780) 628-3825. Calgary Bearspaw June 1 – Oct 5, Sun 11 am – 3 pm. Lions Clubhouse, (403) 239-0201. Calgary Farmers’ Market Yearround, Fri & Sat 9 am – 5 pm, Sun 9 am

– 4 pm. 4421 Quesnay Wood Drive, (403) 244-4548. Calgary Grassroots Northland June 10 – Sept 23, Tue 3:30 pm – 7 pm. Northland Village, (403) 289-7629. Calgary Hillhurst Sunnyside June 11 – Oct 1, Wed 3:30 pm – 8 pm. Community Centre, (403) 283-0554. Camrose Jan 5 – Dec 20, Sat 9 am – 2 pm. Duggan Mall, (780) 608-1740. Camrose Rose City Year-round, Thur 3 pm – 8:30 pm. Duggan Mall, (780) 608-2100. Cardston June 19 – Sept 11, Thur 10 am – 2 pm. Charlie Cheesman Ice Centre, (403) 653-4806. Caroline May 2 – Sept 12, Fri noon – 3 pm. Kurt Browning Complex, (403) 722-3531. Castor May 8, June 12, July 10, Aug 14, Sept 11, Oct 9, Nov 13, Dec 11 Thur 10 am – 2 pm. Community Hall, (780) 879-2155. Claresholm July 2 – Sept 10, Wed 3 pm – 6 pm. Arena, (403) 625-3392. Cochrane June 7 – Sept 27, Sat 9 am – 1 pm. Cochrane Ranche Historic Site, (403) 851-0562. Cold Lake June 12 – Dec 11, Thur 4 pm – 6 pm. Agriplex, (780) 594-2054. Crossfield May 8 – Sept 18, Thur 7 pm – 9 pm. Pete Knight Arena, (403) 946-0050. Darwell May 4 – Dec 21, Sun noon – 3 pm. Darwell Centennial Hall, (780) 893-5565. Devon June 5 – Oct 9, Thur 2 pm – 6 pm. Community Hall, (780) 987-3617. Didsbury and District July – Sept, Wed 5 pm – 7 pm. Curling Rink (403) 335-4252. Drayton Valley Mar 12 – Dec 17, Wed 10:30 am – 2 pm. Omniplex, (780) 542-5487. Drumheller May 3 – Oct 4, Sat 9:30 am – 1 pm. Greentree Mall, (403) 823-8955. Edmonton Beverly Towne May 13 – Sept 30, Tue 4 pm – 8 pm. 40 St and 118 Ave, (780) 413-6244. Edmonton Callingwood May 4 – Oct 12, Sun 10 am – 3 pm, Wed noon – 5

Get farm-fresh produce at an Alberta Agriculture approved summer market pm. 69 Ave and 178 St, (780) 487-8649. Edmonton Capilano Year-round, Sat 9:30 am – 5:30 pm. 5004-98 Ave, (780) 459-6082. Edmonton City Market May 17 – Oct 11, Sat 9 am – 3 pm. Outdoor street market between Jasper Ave and 103 Ave on 104 St, (780) 429-5713. Edmonton Millwoods June 5 – Oct 2, Thur 5 pm – 8 pm. Rec Centre Parking Lot. (780) 452-1339. Edmonton Old Strathcona Year-round, Sat 8 am – 3 pm. Old Bus Barn, 10310-83 Ave, (780) 439-1844. Edmonton Terra Losa June 13 – Sept 12, Fri 4:30 pm – 8 pm. Toys R Us Parking Lot, (780) 220-0659. Edmonton Westmount Yearround, Thur 10 am – 5 pm. Westmount Shopping Centre, 111 Ave and Groat Rd, (780) 459-6082. Edson Apr 4 – Dec 19, Fri 10:30 am – 2 pm. Friendship Centre, 13, 5023 - 3 Ave, (780) 723-2248. Enilda Feb 2 – Dec 6, first Sat of the month, 10 am – 2 pm. WI Hall, (780) 523-3704. Evansburg May 10 – Oct 11, Sat 10 am – 2 pm. Main St, (780) 727-2197. Fort Assiniboine May 9 – Sept 5, Fri 2 pm – 6:30 pm. Rec Centre, (780) 584-2236. Fort Macleod July 17 – Sept 18, Thur 3 pm – 6 pm. Curling Rink, (403) 553-2610.

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photographs: Courtesy Designpics Inc.; Stock.XCHNG; Designpics Inc.

Markets farmers’

Fort Saskatchewan July 3 – Sept 4, Thur 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm. CN Stn Parking Lot, (780) 998-4355. Gibbons July 17 – Sept 11, Thur 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm. Curling Rink, (780) 998-3050. Grande Prairie Year-round, Fri 4 pm – 8 pm, Sat 10 am – 2 pm. July 2 – Sept 17, Wed 4 pm – 8 pm. Hanson Ford Building, (780) 814-8224. Hanna June 13 – Sept 26, Fri 10:30 am – 2:30 pm. Old Hanna Discount Foods Bldg, (403) 854-4384. Hinton Mar 20 – Dec 18, Thur 11 am – 2 pm. Hinton Centre, (780) 865-4362. Innisfail May 15 – Sept 18, Thur 10 am- 1 pm. Twin Arena, (403) 224-3247. Lac La Biche Apr 4 – Oct 24, Fri 3 pm – 5:30 pm. Agricom, (780) 623-4768. Lacombe May 16 – Oct 10, Fri 9 am – 1 pm. Michener Park, Hwy 12 West, (403) 782-4772 Lakedell May 9 – Aug 29, Fri 4:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Lakedell Ag Centre Parking Lot, (780) 682-3797. Leduc May 15 – Oct 2, Thur 10 am – 1:30 pm, July 5 – Sept 27, Sat 10 am – 1:30 pm. Alexandra Park, 48 Ave and 50 St, (780) 452-1339. Lethbridge May 17 – Aug 30, Sat 8 am – 12 pm. July 2 – Aug 13, Wed noon – 5 pm. Sat West/North Pavillions, 3401 Parkside Dr S, Wed Dtn, corner of 3 Ave and 6 St, (403) 317-3219. Long Lake Provincial Park (Near Boyle) May 17 – June 28, every second Sat 11 am - 2 pm, July 5 - Aug 30, Sat 11 am – 2 pm. Day Use Area II, (780) 689-3354. Manning May 9 – July 25, every second Fri, Aug 8 - Oct 10 every Fri 10 am – 1 pm. Legion Hall, (780) 836-3041. Medicine Hat May 24 – Oct 4, Sat 9 am – 1 pm. Cypress Centre, 2055-21 Ave SE, (403) 527-1234. Millarville June 14 – Oct 4, Sat 8:30

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am – noon. Race Track, (off Hwy 22) , (403) 931-3411. Parking $2. Morinville June 6 – Sept 26, Fri 11 am – 5:30 pm. In front of Public Library, (780) 939-5858. Nanton June 14 – Sept 27, Sat 9 am – 1 pm. United Church, (403) 646-3001. Okotoks July 4 – Sept 26, Fri 4 pm – 7 pm. SW corner of Hwy 7 and Southridge Dr, (403) 938-4094. Olds May 1 – Sept 25, Thur 4 pm 6:30 pm. Cow Palace, (403) 556-3770. Oyen June 13 – Sept 19, Fri 11 am – 2 pm. Town of Oyen Arena, (403) 6643819, (403) 664-3805. Peace River Mar 22, Apr 5, May 10, June 7, July 5, July 26, Aug 2 (at Ag Centre), Aug 23 (Fair Grounds), Sept 6, Sept 20, Oct 11, Oct 25, Nov 22, Dec 6, Dec 13 Sat 10 am – 1 pm. Seniors Centre, (780) 624-8382. Ponoka May 7 – Sept 24, Wed 9 am – 1 pm. Curling Rink, (403) 783-6776. Provost Mar 14 – Oct 10, Fri 10 am – 2 pm. Agro-Plex, (780) 753-6172. Redwater June 10 – Sept 2, Tue 4 pm – 7 pm. Pioneer Club, (780) 942-3023. Rimbey May 3 – Sept 13, Sat 9:30 am – May 3. Pask-a-Poo-Park, (403) 843-6864. Rocky Mountain House May 10 – Dec 20, Sat 9 am – 1:30 pm. Arena Complex, (403) 845-3629. Rycroft May 9 – Dec 6, Fri 11 am – 4 pm. Ag Building, north side of Hwy 49, (780) 765-2292. Seba Beach May 10 – Sept 6, Sat 11 am – 12:30 pm. Pavillion Bingo Hall, (780) 967-2985. Sherwood Park May 14 – Oct 1, Wed 5 pm – 8:30 pm. Festival Place, (780) 464-3354. Sherwood Park County July 5 – Sept 27, Sat 10 am – 3 pm. Chamber of Commerce, 100 Ordze Ave, (780) 298-4159. Smoky Lake Mar 15 – Dec 20, Sat 10 am – noon. Agricultural Complex, (780) 656-2463. Spruce Grove Apr 19 – Dec 20, Sat 9:30 am – 3:30 pm. 100 Railway Ave, (780) 962-0830, (780) 968-6329. St Albert June 14 – Sept 27, Sat 10 am – 3 pm. St Anne & St Thomas St, (780) 458-2833. St. Paul May 2 – Oct 10, Fri 9 am – 1 pm. Rec Centre, (780) 724-4902. Stettler Apr 18 – Dec 5, Tue 9 am – 1 pm. Agriplex, (403) 742-6288. Stony Plain Apr 5 – Dec 20, Sat 9 am – 1 pm. Community Centre, (780) 963-3028. Strathmore June 6 – Sept 26, Fri 3:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Strathmore Ag

Society Grounds, (403) 901-0477. Sundre May 16 – Sept 19, Fri 5:30 pm – 8 pm. Curling Rink, (403) 638-2231. Sylvan Lake May 16 – Sept 12, Fri 4 pm – 7:30 pm. Railway Promenade Parking Lot, (403) 887-3461. Taber July 10 – Sept 25, Thur 6:30 pm – 8 pm. Agriplex, (403) 223-9539. Three Hills Tue, call for dates and times. Curling Club, (403) 443-2492. Tofield Year-round, every second and fourth Fri in each month, 1 pm – 5 pm. Community Hall, (780) 662-2651.

Two Mile Corner Mar 27 – Dec 18, Thur 11 am – 2 pm. Glenreagh Hall, (780) 954-2385. Valleyview May 1 – June 26, Every second Thur 11 am – 4 pm, July 3 - Sept 11, Thur 11 am - 4 pm. Memorial Hall, (780) 524-2807. Vauxhall May 6 – 20 and Aug 12 – Sept 23, Tue 7 pm – 9 pm. Community Complex, (403) 654-2546, (403) 654-2659. Vegreville Mar 7 – Dec 24, Fri 7:30 am – 11:30 am (Elks Lodge), (780) 632-7482. Vermilion Mar 11 – Dec 23, Tue 10 am – 1 pm. Elks Hall, (780) 853-4669. Viking May 8 – Oct 2, Thur 2 pm – 4:30 pm. Community Hall, (780) 592-2431. Wabamun May 17 – Sept 13, Sat 10:30 am – 1 pm. Alberta Steelminers Union, (780) 962-8163. Westlock Feb 8 – Dec 19, Fri noon – 4 pm. Bargain Shop Mall, (780) 954-2437. Wetaskiwin Jan 16 – Dec 17, Wed 11 am – 2 pm. Wetaskiwin Mall, (780) 352-3157. Whitecourt May 6 – Oct 7, Tue 11 am – 2 pm. Legion Hall, (780) 6742106, (780) 778-4366. Wildwood May 2 – Oct 10, Fri 10:30 am – 2 pm. Community Centre, (780) 542-1632. oa

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PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

ROCKY MOUNTAINS

MORE THAN EIGHT MILLION PEOPLE VISIT THE CANADIAN ROCKIES every year. Stretching from Kananaskis Country to Banff National Park and north through Jasper National Park to the Willmore Wilderness Park, this region blends the charm of small resort towns with rugged, untrammeled grandeur and breathtaking mountain views.

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ROCKY MOUNTAINS

A BRIEF HISTORY For hundreds of years the Alberta Rockies was home to tribes such as the Stoney and a popular travel route for Kootenay and Secwepemc peoples, who travelled through on their way to hunting grounds on the prairies. The first European settlers didn’t arrive until the mid 1700s: fur traders and explorers looking for a way west through the wall of peaks. But, it was the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) that pushed large-scale immigration and settlement into the area. Natural hot springs discovered in 1883 inspired CPR general manager William Cornelius Van Horne to build his flagship Banff Springs Hotel, and the town of Banff was born. The Canadian government did its part by creating Banff National Park in 1887 (the first national park in Canada) and Jasper National Park in 1907—ensuring that the area’s natural beauty would be preserved for generations to come.

PEOPLE AND PLACE The Rockies are a haven for those desiring an active lifestyle, with worldclass ski resorts and cross-country and snowshoeing trails in winter, and great summer activities ranging from hiking and camping to mountain biking and rock climbing. Though the towns of Banff and Jasper are primarily resort towns, they

are also vibrant municipalities, home to artists, entrepreneurs and outdoor enthusiasts. The town of Canmore, just outside of Banff National Park, is one of the fastest growing communities in the nation.

ATTRACTIONS Start your tour in the town of Canmore, which lies at the gateway to both Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country. There you’ll find hotels and resorts, as well as opportunities to shop, dine and spa within view of the majestic Three Sisters. The Canmore Nordic Centre offers exceptional cross-country skiing, and nearby Kananaskis is home to the renowned Kananaskis Country Golf Course. Inside Banff National Park, expect to find extensive hiking trails, scenic drives and roadside campgrounds. Highlights include the Sulphur Mountain Gondola Ride, the world-renowned Banff Upper Hot Springs and the castle-like Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. A short drive from the town of Banff takes you to Lake Louise, a pristine, glacier-fed lake. Head north along the Icefields Parkway and experience one of the world’s most spectacular drives. Stop at the Columbia Icefields for a once-ina-lifetime trip out onto the surface of a glacier, go boating on Maligne Lake or cycle up to the base of the soaring

Canmore to Banﬀ and Jasper, Don’t Miss FAIRMONT BANFF SPRINGS HOTEL One of Canada’s historic railway hotels, the Banff Springs offers luxury accommodation, dining and shopping, a signature Sunday brunch and legendary views of the Rockies (Page 23). LAKE LOUISE This pristine lake, emerald green from glacial runoff, is surrounded by a ski hill, luxury hotel and two backcountry tea houses (Page 23). COLUMBIA ICEFIELD The largest ice field in the Canadian Rockies, Columbia was formed more than 400 years ago and is close to

Rock climbing, Lake Louise.

Mount Edith Cavell.

WHAT’S NEW 2008 marks the 75th anniversary of the Banff Centre, a conference facility and educational institution for the arts. To celebrate, the centre has planned a range of ventures and events; for a full list go to www.banffcentre.ca. Brewster Tours will unveil a new, environmentally friendly boat to take visitors out on Lake Minnewanka, and the Jasper Discovery Trail has been expanded and fitted with new signs. For more info on local dining, shopping and attraction options, pick up a copy of Where Magazine available throughout the region.

and all the wilderness in between three-quarters of Jasper National Park’s highest peaks (Page 25).

Did You Know?

The iridescent, rainbow-coloured gemstones found in jewellery stores throughout the Rockies are ammolite—fossilized shells of squidlike creatures that lived during the time of the dinosaurs. Ammolite can only be found in the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains, and is the official gemstone of Alberta.

Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park—adjacent to the town of Canmore—was the site of crosscountry skiing events during the 1988 Winter Olympics. Nakiska, a ski hill in nearby Kananaskis Country, hosted

alpine skiing and freestyle mogul.

Fossils of sea creatures can be found throughout the Rockies—1.8 billion years ago the area was underneath an ancient sea. The landscape we know today is the result of collisions between sections of the earth’s crust, which happened 50 to 100 million years ago.

When the Banff Springs Hotel was completed in 1888, there was one major flaw—it had been built backwards. Architect Bruce Price had intended the lobby to face a ‘million-dollar-view’ of the Rockies, but instead it faced the Spray River. Today, however, the hotel is as Price intended, thanks to substantial renovations.

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GRANDE CACHE

WILLMORE WILDERNESS PARK

oky Sm

er Riv

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COLUMBIA ICEFIELDS

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Abraham Lake

BANFF

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

CANMORE

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Via primary highways, distances in kilometres (1 km = 0.62 mi)

BANFF

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MILEAGE TABLE

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128

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55 180

CALGARY

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108

294

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CANMORE

108

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379

521

309

EDMONTON

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366

452

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214

444

JASPER

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412

309

366

214

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233

LAKE LOUISE

180

452

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233

•

ROCKY MOUNTAINS Canmore’s Sisters

While cruising along the Trans-Canada highway to Banff National Park, “The Three Sisters” are easy to spot. The towering trio of peaks form a photogenic backdrop to the town of Canmore. Varying in height, the peaks are individually known as Big Sister (2,936 m), Middle Sister (2,769 m) and Little Sister (2,694 m). Originally, these mountains were called “The Three Nuns.” In 1883, a heavy storm left a veil of snow on each of the peaks, which to Albert Rogers, a nephew of discoverer Major Rogers, resembled three praying nuns. For unknown reasons, the name was changed, first appearing on a map by Dr. George Dawson in 1886. Although the “Big Sister” is the highest of the siblings, the “Little Sister” is actually the toughest to climb—it is a full multi-pitch climb that was not ascended until 1925 by a party led by legendary Canmore mountain guide Lawrence Grassi. —Chloe Jones

West into the Rockies through Canmore, Banff and Lake Louise.

CANMORE 100 km (60 mi) west of Calgary on Hwy 1, Canmore offers galleries, craft stores and restaurants, and an excellent home base for outdoor recreation. For information about Canmore call (403) 678-1295. CANMORE NORDIC CENTRE The centre is less than 2 km (1.2 mi) from town and was the site of cross-country skiing and biathlon during the 1988 Olympic Winter Games. Enjoy mountain biking on the trails during the summer. (403) 678-2400. CANMORE MUSEUM AND GEOSCIENCE CENTRE A half block off Main St, the Centre reflects local history with displays on mining, the geoscience of the region and more. Admission $3 adult, $2 youth/sen/child, $7 family. Wkdys noon - 5 pm, wknds 11 am - 5 pm. Extended summer hours May 30 - Sept 3 Mon,

Tue noon - 5 pm, Wed to Sun 10 am - 6 pm. (403) 678-2462. STONEY NAKODA RESORT Casino and restaurants located south of Canmore at the junction of Hwy 1 and Hwy 40. 300 slot machines, table games and poker tournaments. Three restaurants including the Ridge Buffet, with fresh seafood, a carving station, Dim Sum Saturdays and a Sunday brunch. Hotel open late 2008. Call for dining and casino hours. Junction of Hwy 1 and Hwy 40, (403) 881-2830. NORTH WEST MOUNTED POLICE BARRACKS The refurbished 1893 barracks on Main St are open June to Aug Wed to Sun 10 am - 6 pm, Mon, Tue noon - 5 pm. Sept to May Sat, Sun 1 pm - 4 pm. 601 Main St, Canmore. (403) 678-2462.

BANFF At 1,372 m (4,530 ft) above sea level, Banff is recognized as Canada’s highest town. For Park Service information, call or visit the Banff Visitor Information Centre, 224 Banff Ave, (403) 762-8421. The Banff/Lake Louise Tourism Bureau,

in the Banff Information Centre, (403) 762-8421, has information on accommodation, attractions, outdoor adventure and facilities. Parks Canada offers special events and theatre programs through the summer, call (403) 762-1550. BANFF ADVENTURES UNLIMITED Offers outdoor adventures of all kinds including white water rafting, rock climbing, scenic flights, horseback riding and dog sledding. Open year-round, call for hours. Prices vary according to type and duration of activity. 211 Bear St, Banff. For more info call 1-800-644-8888 or (403) 762-4554. THE BANFF CENTRE Set on 43 acres overlooking Banff townsite, the Centre houses a world-class conference centre and the Walter Phillips Gallery for contemporary art. Concerts, performances, exhibitions and workshops are featured throughout the year. Highlights include the Banff Summer Arts Festival (May 31 - Sept 5), and the Banff Mountain Film and Book Festivals (Nov 1 - 9). 107 Tunnel Mountain Drive, call (403) 762-6100

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PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

HIGHWAY 1

or 1-800-413-8368 for information. BANFF GONDOLA The eight-minute ride takes you to the 2,285 m (7,500 ft) summit of Sulphur Mountain with its panoramic view, alpine trails and the Summit Restaurant. Open daily yearround; $26 adult, $13 child 6 - 15, 5 and under free. Group rates available. Moun1 tain Ave, (403) 762-2523. BANFF PARK MUSEUM This museum built in 1903 is Western Canada’s oldest natural history museum. $4 adult, $3.50 sen, $2 child age 6 to 18, $10 family (up to 7 people, max of 2 adults), under 6 free, prices subject to change. May 15 - Sep 30 daily 10 am - 6 pm, tours at 3 pm. Oct 1 - May 14 daily 1 pm - 5 pm, tours at 2:30 pm Sat, Sun. 93 Banff Ave, 2 (403) 762-1558. FAIRMONT BANFF SPRINGS HOTEL Built by the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1888. Pick up a free self-guided tour brochure in the lobby. 35,000-sq-ft spa facility open daily 6 am - 10 pm, call (403) 762-1772 or 1-800-404-1772 to reserve. The hotel’s magnificent 18-hole golf course stretches alongside the Bow River, open May 15 - Oct 8 (weather permitting). Call (403) 762-6801 for bookings and additional information. Hotel reservations, (403) 762-2211 or 2 1-800-441-1414.

BOW VALLEY PARKWAY Also known as Hwy 1A, this 51 km (30.6 mi) route is a scenic alternative to the Trans-Canada Hwy between Banff and Lake Louise. CANADA PLACE Interactive exhibits outline Canadian history and heroes: shoot the rapids in a birchbark canoe with the Voyageurs, learn to use a mapmaking sextant like 18th century explorer David Thompson. Free. May 19 - Sept 30 daily 10 am - 6 pm, tours 2 pm; Oct 1 - May 18 closed. In the Park Administration Building at Banff Avenue and Cave Avenue, (403) 760-1338. CAVE & BASIN NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE Discovered a century ago, these curative hot springs became a popular tourist destination. Interactive exhibits, films and boardwalk trails. $3.90 adult, $3.40 sen, $1.90 youth, $9.80 family (2 adult, up to 5 youth). Oct 1 - May 14 wkdys 11 am - 4 pm; wknds 9:30 am - 5 pm; May 15 - Sept 30 daily 9 am - 6 pm. At the end of Cave Ave, (403) 762-1566. LAKE MINNEWANKA BOAT TOURS Take a 1.5 hr interpretive tour of this lake in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Enjoy breath-taking scenery of the Fairholme Range. Charter fishing tours also available. May 10 - Oct 5. $40 adult,

$20 children (5-11), under 4 free, 15 persons minimum for group rates. Take Banff/Minnewanka Loop exit off Trans 2 Canada. (403) 762-3473. SIKSIKA NATION INTERPRETIVE CENTRE Celebrates centuries of Aboriginal culture. Enter a traditional teepee and meet with interpreters. Open daily July - Aug. Traditional drum and dance demonstrations Tuesdays at noon. In Cascade Gardens, Banff Avenue and Cave Avenue. WHYTE MUSEUM OF THE CANADIAN ROCKIES Exhibits the human history of the Canadian Rockies. Archives, works by national and international artists. The grounds include historic log homes. Historical walking tours of Banff available. Open year-round daily 10 am - 5 pm. $6 adults, $3.50 stu/sen, $15 family, 6 and under free, group rates available. Archives open Mon to Fri 1 pm - 5 pm. 111 Bear St, (403) 762-2291. 1 VERMILION LAKES This scenic drive is accessed from Mt. Norquay Road, just south of the overpass over Hwy 1 to Mt. Norquay. The 11 km (6.6 mi) round trip is popular for birdwatchers, photographers and cyclists.

LAKE LOUISE The Lake Louise Visitor Centre near Samson Mall in the village, (403) 5223833, and the Banff/Lake Louise Tourism Bureau in the Banff Visitor Centre, (403) 762-8421, have information on accommodation, attractions and facilities. FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE The stately chateau has the spectacu-

PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

BANFF UPPER HOT SPRINGS Soak in the natural hot springs on Sulphur Mountain. Bathing suit, towel rental and lockers available. Therapeutic massages, aesthetic treatments, hot plunge pool, steam room and aro-

matherapy at the Pleiades Spa. Open year-round. mid May - mid Sept daily 9 am - 11 pm; mid Sept - mid May Sun to Thur 10 am - 10 pm; Fri, Sat 10 am - 11 pm. $7.30 adults, $6.30 sen/ youth, $22.50 fam (2 adults, 2 child). Mountain Ave, (403) 762-1515 or 12 800-767-1611.

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ROCKY MOUNTAINS

Rocky Mountain Events May - Aug Banff Summer Arts Festival More than 180 events from new Canadian opera to Shakespeare and Mozart. Banff Centre, 1-800-413-8368. mid May - mid Sep Jasper...A Walk in the Past A historical tour of the town and park. Jasper, (780) 852-4767. June 13 - 15 ArtsPeak Arts Festival Celebrates the talents of local and visiting visual, literary and performing artists. Theatre, dance, street performers, artisansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fair, artWalks, artTalks, concerts, film screenings and more. Canmore, (403) 678-6902. June 23 - 30 Canadian Rockies Quilt Art Conference Lectures, seminars and a quilt challenge. Canmore, (403) 678-9603. Aug 2 - 4 Canmore Folk Music Festival Featuring Odetta, Peter Yarrow, Blackie & the Rodeo Kings and more. Canmore, (403) 678-2524. Aug 23 - 24 Dragon Boat Festival For the first time ever, long boat canoes race through the water of Lake Minnewanka. Banff National Park, (403) 762-8421. Aug 31 Canmore Highland Games Highland dance, piping, drumming and heavy sports. Highland cattle and

lar Lake Louise and Victoria Glacier as a backdrop. Stroll along the lakeside path or rent a canoe and enjoy the scenery across the water. West of the townsite on Lake Louise Drive. For reservations, call (403) 522-3511 or 1-800-441-1414. LAKE AGNES TEAHOUSE Start from the trailhead at the Lake Louise parking lot and hike 4 km on a wide trail past a small subalpine lake and waterfall to reach this rustic teahouse. Open during the summer, call the Chateau Lake Louise for dates and hours of operation, (403) 522-3511. LAKE LOUISE SIGHTSEEING LIFT AND GONDOLA Go for a 14-minute ride aboard an open or bubble-enclosed quad chair, or fully enclosed gondola car to the 2,034 m (6,700 ft) level of Mt Whitehorn. The Whitehorn Lodge Terrace has a licensed outdoor patio. Nature exhibits and guided hikes available from the lodge. May 15 - June 13 daily 9 am - 4:30 pm; June 14 - Sept

sheep dog demonstrations. Centennial Park, Canmore, (403) 678-9454. Oct 14 - 19 WordFest: Banff-Calgary International Writers Festival An annual celebration of the written and spoken word. Banff, (403) 294-7462. Oct 24 - 26 Rocky Mountain Food and Wine Festival Sample premium wine, beer and spirits, as well as food from the Rockies' top restaurants. Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, (403) 228-0777. Nov 1 - 9 Banff Mountain Festivals Annual celebration of peak-themed film, books and photography. Screenings, readings, seminars. Banff Centre, (403) 762-6301. Dec 5 - 7 2008 Canmore Ice Climbing Festival Mixed master competition, speed competition, outdoor ice wall, slide shows, silent auction, and skills clinics. Canmore, (403) 678-4164. Dec 31 Community Party on the Pond A family event featuring music, entertainment, skating, performers, bonfire and wagon rides. Canmore, (403) 678-1878. Jan 23 - 25, 2009 International Ice Sculpture Competition Watch carvers from around the world turn ice into art. Lake Louise, (403) 762-8421.

8 daily 9 am - 5 pm; Sept 9 - 30 daily 9 am - 4:30 pm. $25 adults, $12.50 youth (6 - 16), child under six free; Ride & Dine packages available. West of the townsite on Whitehorn Rd, call (403) 522-3555. MORAINE LAKE This emerald-green lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks is surrounded by 10 glaciated summits. Parks Canada in Banff or the Lake Louise Visitor Centre have information on hikes near Moraine Lake. 12 km (7.2 mi) south off the Chateau Lake Louise access road.

HIGHWAY 40: KANANASKIS COUNTRY Approximately 90 km (54 mi) west of Calgary on Hwy 1 and south on Hwy 40, Kananaskis Country is more than 4,250 sq km of mountain and foothills south of Banff National Park. This is mostly untouched backcountry, made up of areas including Bow Valley, Bragg Creek and

Peter Lougheed Provincial Parks. With Kananaskis Village as a handy starting point, visitors to the area can ride, cycle, canoe, hike, climb and ski throughout the region. Backcountry camp sites can be reserved by calling (403) 678-3136. NAKISKA This popular ski resort was created as the venue for alpine events during the 1988 Olympic Winter Games. There is a display beside the highway describing the ski hill, and you're welcome to drive to the base of the mountain for a closer view. Mountain biking trails accessible from base, (403) 591-7777. KANANASKIS VILLAGE The village is a departure point for many popular hiking trails maintained in Kananaskis Country. There is an information services desk where maps and trail information are available year-round and a postal outlet, open 8:30 am - 5 pm. Year-round hotel and restaurant facilities. Call (403) 5911 7555 for information. PETER LOUGHEED PROVINCIAL PARK Alberta's largest provincial park, named after former premier Lougheed, is comprised of 500 sq km of beautiful valleys and lakes. The park is rife with recreation possibilities with campgrounds, lodges, the popular Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes and maintained hiking trails. May 1 - 15 daily 9:30 am - 4 pm; May 16 - June 19, Mon to Thur 9:30 am - 4 pm, Fri to Sun 9 am - 5 pm; June 20 - Sept 1 daily 1 9 am - 8 pm. (403) 591-6322.

HIGHWAY 93: THE ICEFIELDS PARKWAY One of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most spectacular drives, the parkway winds past emeraldgreen lakes, massive icefields and alpine forests for 230 km (138 mi) between Lake Louise and Jasper. Distances for the following are measured from Lake Louise.

NORTH TO JASPER BOW SUMMIT The highest point on the Icefields Parkway at 2,069 m (6,787 ft), the pass marks the divide of the North and South Saskatchewan river systems. The road drops into the Mistaya Valley. A short trail from the lower parking lot leads uphill to the Peyto Lake viewpoint. 40 km (24 mi). WEEPING WALL VIEWPOINT Melting snow from atop Cirrus Mountain seeps through cracks in the cliff and plunges in graceful waterfalls from the Weeping Wall. 105 km (63 mi).

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COLUMBIA ICEFIELD This massive field of ancient ice covers 325 sq km (125 sq mi) and reaches depths estimated at 365 m (1,198 ft), composed of the Athabasca, Stutfield and Dome glaciers. Straddling the Continental Divide, the icefield feeds four of the continent’s major river systems: the Columbia, Fraser, Mackenzie and Saskatchewan. Meltwaters from the icefield flow to three different oceans (the Pacific, Arctic and Atlantic). Tours of the glacier are given on custom-designed Ice Explorers from Apr 1 - Oct 31 daily 9 am - 5 pm. Tours depart every 15-30 mins. $38 adults, $19 ages 6 to 15, under 6 free (shared seat with adult), 1-877-423-7433. Ice-walk tours are also available June 1 - Sept 30 (weather permitting). Daily 11 am, call for prices. 1-800-565-7547. 125 km (75 mi). SUNWAPTA FALLS The Sunwapta River abruptly switches direction from northwest to southwest at this point. Its resulting plunge into the deep Sunwapta Canyon creates a spectacular waterfall. 15-min walk to the lower falls. In summer: accommodation, food, gas and picnic site. 175 km (105 mi).

glacial lake in the world. One-and-a-halfhour narrated cruises to Spirit Island are offered, plus rowboats, canoes, kayaks and electric motors for rental. Tackle and fishing guides. Also trail riding, whitewater rafting and guided hiking, plus day lodge with café, sun deck and gift shops on site. Lake cruises (weather permitting): May 12 - June 4 depart 10 am - 3 pm; June 5 - 24 hourly 10 am - 4 pm; June 25 - Sept 5 hourly 10 am - 5 pm; Sept 6 - Oct 6 hourly 10 am - 4 pm. Adults $47, child 6 - 12 $23.50, 5 and under free. 48 km (30 mi) southeast of Jasper via Hwy 16 and Maligne Road, (780) 852-3370. MOUNTAIN GALLERIES AT THE FAIRMONT A variety of works from professional Canadian artists. Founded in 1991, this gallery features over 50 established artists. Many disciplines displayed including clay, stone, bronze, glass and paint. Impressionist and realism tastes. Some emerging artists also on display. May 24 - Oct 9 daily 8 am - 11 pm, Oct 10 - May 23 Mon to Thur 10 am - 6 pm, Fri, Sat 9 am - 10 pm. Located on the Beauvert Promenade, The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. 1-888-310-9726 or (780) 852-5378. Also at Fairmont Banff

Springs Hotel, (403)-760-2382).

BEYOND JASPER WILLMORE WILDERNESS PARK Turn north on Hwy 40 from Hwy 16 to find an unspoiled region of mountains and rivers. This park also has 700 km (420 mi) of hiking trails and is a popular place for bird-watching, horseback riding and mountain biking. GRANDE CACHE 214 km (130 mi) northwest of Jasper National Park via The Bighorn Hwy 40. The area was historically used by trappers to make a large ‘cache’ of furs in preparation for spring trading. Today, it is a coal mining and forestry centre with galleries, shops and restaurants, as well as a starting point for outdoor enthusiasts venturing into Willmore Wilderness Park. The Tourism and Interpretive Centre has a mini-museum in addition to visitor information, 1-888827-3790. For more detailed information on what to see and do in the Rockies, pick up your free copy of Where Canadian Rockies Magazine, available throughout the mountain parks.

JASPER The Jasper Information Centre has Parks information on guided walks, trail reservations and interpretive programs. 500 Connaught Dr. Jasper, (780) 852-6176. Tourism information at (780) 852-3858. JASPER TRAMWAY Canada’s highest and longest tramway tour, this two-car cable lift takes passengers to an altitude of 2,277 m (7,472 ft) atop Whistler’s Mountain and a sweeping view of six major mountain ranges. To May 16 daily 10 am - 5 pm; May 17 - June 27 daily 9:30 am - 6:30 pm; June 28 - Aug 25 daily 9 am - 8 pm; Aug 26 - Oct 13 daily 10 am - 5 pm. Adult $25, child $13, family $63, group $20, under 5 free. 7 km (4.4 mi) south of Jasper, just off the Icefields Parkway, (780) 852-3093. 1 MIETTE HOT SPRINGS Two outdoor bathing pools, an interpretive centre, hiking trails, and picnic sites. May 9 - June 19 daily 10:30 am - 9 pm. June 20 - Sept 1 daily 8:30 am - 10:30 pm. Sept 2 - Oct 13 daily 10:30 am - 9 pm. $6.05 adult, $5.15 sen/child, $18.35 family (2 adults & 2 child). Daily and seasonal passes available. 44 km (27 mi) E of Jasper on Hwy 16, then 17 km (10.6 mi) S on Miette Rd, call (780) 866-3939 or 1-800-767-1611. MALIGNE LAKE The second largest

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PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

ALBERTA SOUTH

ALBERTA’S SOUTH HAS SUCH A VARIED TERRAIN—from the Rocky Mountains covering the western border, to the desert-like badlands surrounding Drumheller, and the never-ending sky on the prairie grasslands. This region is also rich in history, from dinosaur fossils to Aboriginal pictographs, the arrival of the North West Mounted Police to long traditions in mining, farming and ranching.

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ALBERTA SOUTH

From dinosaurs to lush parks, old

forts to smashed-in buﬀalo skulls

A BRIEF HISTORY The earliest residents of southern Alberta were Aboriginal peoples who drew their life blood from that mighty monarch of the plains: bison. These animals provided food, tools, building materials and clothing, as well as notso-essential items such as flyswatters (tails), jewellery (teeth and bone) and hair grease (body fat). Europeans and Americans started trickling into southern Alberta in the 1700s to participate in the rapidly expanding fur trade. Some brought guns, whiskey and a lawless lifestyle that thrived until the arrival of the North West Mounted Police in 1874. Once order was restored, settlers moved into the area, establishing cattle ranches and wheat farms. These industries, along with oil and gas development, continue to fuel southern Alberta’s economic development and cultural identity.

PEOPLE AND PLACE Southern Alberta is predominantly a rural area. Its two largest settlements, Medicine Hat and Lethbridge, both have populations of less than 85,000, making them great places to find all the amenities, and still experience a laid back pace. A drive through the region

HOODOOS NEAR DRUMHELLER.

Don’t Miss

Did You Know?

ROYAL TYRRELL MUSEUM, DRUMHELLER North America’s premiere paleontological stop— discover why Alberta’s badlands are home to some of the best preserved dino bones in the world, including the fearsome Albertosaurus, (Page 31).

HEAD-SMASHED-IN BUFFALO JUMP A UNESO World Heritage Site—discover how Aboriginal peoples once hunted the vast herds of bison that covered the prairies (Page 32). WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK Several ecological regions meet here, from the rugged mountains to the gentle prairie grasses; the wetlands to the aspen forests. Known for beautiful scenery, the large amount of vegetation in this park provides homes for over 200 different species of wildlife, (Page 34). will take you to a plethora of small towns intimately tied to the terrain in which they sit, be it bald grass prairie, desert-like badlands or scenic foothills. Farming, ranching and the oil and gas industry are the big employers, as well as tourism in towns such as Waterton and Drumheller.

ATTRACTIONS AND EVENTS Alberta’s ancient past comes alive in Drumheller, a small town known internationally for its wealth of dinosaurs, many on display at the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology. Dinosaur Provincial Park, located south of Drumheller, is one of the most plentiful dinosaur beds in the world and sits amidst the badlands, a desert-like landscape filled with hoodoos, rock formations that look like petrified mushrooms. For an idyllic landscape the town of Waterton is a great place to stay while taking in the mountain and lake vistas of Waterton Lakes National Park. Fort Whoop-Up Interpretive Centre in Lethbridge offers visitors a glimpse into Alberta’s gun-slinging, whiskeytrading past. Established in 1869, Fort Whoop-Up came to be the largest whiskey trading post in southern Alber-

The world’s largest dinosaur makes its home in Drumheller; visitors can climb up the 86 foot/26 m steel and fibreglass T-Rex and view the surrounding vistas from its mouth.

Conrad Bain, who portrayed Phillip Drummond, the father on the television show Diff’rent Strokes, was born in Lethbridge, Alberta.

Hoodoos, the strange mushroom-shaped rock formations located east of Drumheller, were formed by water and wind erosion. These sandstone pillars are very fragile, and can wear away quickly if the protective capstone falls off.

The Cypress Hills are one of the few areas in Canada untouched by glaciers during the last ice age.

ta until it was shut down with the arrival of the North West Mounted Police. The Alberta International Airshow, held annually in Lethbridge, allows visitors to see a display of both civilian and military aircraft. This year on July 26 and 27, visitors can sit in lawn chairs on a field near the Lethbridge Airport and watch these planes take to the sky. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump reveals Aboriginal history and culture through a unique way of hunting buffalo, while Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park’s sandstone canyons showcase pictographs and carvings made by plains Aboriginal peoples. For a glimpse into the life of a cowboy, Bar U Ranch is a former cattle ranch that now boasts 35 buildings and structures devoted to telling the story of Alberta ranchers.

WHAT’S NEW 2008 marks the re-opening of Frank Slide Interpretive Centre in Crowsnest Pass municipality. The centre was closed in mid November 2007 for renovations which included a complete overhaul of its exhibits. The centre commemorates the town of Frank, which was crushed by the 82-million tonnes of limestone that fell from Turtle Mountain in 1903. —Ally McConnell

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TROCHU

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VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

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Via primary highways, distances in kilometres (1 km = 0.62 mi)

CYPRESS HILLS PROVINCIAL PARK

PORT OF WHITLASH

SWEETGRASS

MILEAGE TABLE

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62 5

MAGRATH

PORT OF CHIEF MOUNTAIN PORT OF PORT OF PEIGAN DEL BONITA

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ALBERTA SOUTH

HIGHWAY 1: THE TRANS-CANADA Heading east and southeast of Calgary to Medicine Hat and Cypress Hills.

EAST TO MEDICINE HAT BLACKFOOT CROSSING HISTORICAL PARK An immersion into the history and culture of the Blackfoot Nation, located on the spot where they signed Treaty No. 7 in 1877. The visitor's centre includes exhibitions, a gift shop, cafeteria, conference facility and theatre with traditional dance performances. Outside there's a teepee village, historical monuments and archaeological excavations. For an truly authentic experience, ask about the teepee sleepover packages. $10 adult, $8 sen/youth. Summer: daily 9 am - 6 pm; Winter Mon to Fri 9 am - 5 pm, Sat 10 am - 4 pm. 1 hr southeast of Calgary off Hwy 842, near the 1 town of Cluny, 1-888-654-6274.

MEDICINE HAT Located 63 km (37.8 mi) north of Cypress Hills and 293 km (176 mi) southeast of Calgary on Hwy 1, this is one of Canada’s sunniest cities, with more than 1,440 hours of sunshine each year. The city’s fortunes rose at the start of the century when an abundance of natural gas was discovered. There's a self-guided Historical Walking Tour to several turn-of-the-century buildings. Pick up a guidebook from the Tourist Centre at the corner of the Trans Canada Highway and Southridge Dr, (403) 527-6422. MEDICINE HAT MUSEUM & ART GALLERY Houses artifacts of the Plains peoples and first European settlers, with local art work and natural science exhibitions. Year-round wkdys 10 am - 5 pm; wknds and hols noon - 5 pm; closed Boxing Day, Good Friday, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day. Admission by donation. Call (403) 502-8580. SAAMIS TEPEE The world's tallest teepee overlooks an archaeological dig where Indian artifacts have been discovered. It is made entirely of steel and stands 20 storeys high. Ten large, circular storyboards ring the tepee, bearing paintings by noted Aboriginal artists. Open May to Oct daily 9 am - 9 pm, admission by donation. Call (403) 527-6422 or (403) 527-6773. Along the Trans Canada Hwy. RIVERSIDE AMUSEMENT PARK Water slides for adults and kids, mini golf, gocarts, lazy river tube ride, a picnic area and a whirlpool. Go-carts and mini golf

open third week in June - Sept 1 daily 10 am - 6 pm. Call (403) 529-6218. Corner of Hwy 1 and Powerhouse Rd.

CYPRESS HILLS PROVINCIAL PARK Formed by ancient sea sediment, the top 100 metres of these hills constitute one of the few spots in western North America untouched by the last glacial period. Elkwater Lake is great for swimming and boating and the park has 13 campgrounds, hiking trails and guided interpretive walks.

HIGHWAY 9: Detour north from Hwy 1 just east of Calgary to head towards Drumheller and the badlands.

NORTHEAST TOWARDS DRUMHELLER ROSEBUD A short detour south of Hwy 9 on Hwy 840 is the tiny town of Rose-

bud, with its Rosebud Dinner Theatre, run by the local School of the Arts. Prices range from $44 - $54 per person from Mar 16 - Dec 22. Call 1-800-267-7553. HORSESHOE CANYON Off Hwy 9, the canyon offers your first vista of the Badlands. It covers 200 hectares and is more than 1.5 km (.9 mi) at its widest.

DRUMHELLER 138 km (83 mi) from Calgary, this town was named after Sam Drumheller, an American entrepreneur who began the area’s first coal-mining operation in 1911. With a population of nearly 8,000 people, Drumheller offers motels, campsites, restaurants and attractions. Call the Visitor Information Centre, (403) 823-1331, or 1-866-823-8100. WORLD’S LARGEST DINOSAUR Visible from everywhere in town, this huge T-Rex opened in 2000 and is 86 feet tall.

Alberta South Events May 30 - Aug 30 Fiddler on the Roof Rosebud Theatre. Rosebud, 1-800267-7553.

July 4 - 6, 11 - 13 The Canadian Badlands Passion Play The story of Jesus set against the backdrop of the Badlands. Drumheller, 1-888-823-2001.

June 7 Beethoven in the Badlands 2008 The CPO presents its 3rd annual outdoor concert in the Badlands. Drumheller, (403) 571-0849.

July 18 - 19 Rum Runner Days Parade, midway, clowns and a pancake breakfast. Crowsnest Pass, (403) 563-2209.

June 12 - 15 The Gathering Cowboy poetry & music, demonstrations, exhibits, silent auction, BBQ, dance, rodeo. Pincher Creek, 1-888-2985855.

July 23 - 26 Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede One of the province’s biggest rodeos, plus midway and grandstand shows. Medicine Hat, (403) 527-1234.

June 13 - 15 Vulcan Spock Days/ Galaxyfest Star Trek Convention Parade, pancake breakfast, chataqua, beer gardens and ball tournament for Star Trek fans. Vulcan, (403) 485-2994.

July 25 - 29 Badlands Dinosaur Derby Chuckwagon racing, beer gardens and a dance. Drumheller, (403) 823-9339.

May 30 - June 1 Millarville Rodeo Millarville, (403) 931-3411.

June 14 - 22 Waterton Wildflower Festival Guided flower walks, hikes, workshops, art exhibits. Waterton Lakes National Park, 1-800-215-2395. June 23 - 29 Medicine Hat Jazz Festival Medicine Hat, (403) 529-4807. July 1 Millarville Races Millarville, (403) 931-3411. July 2 - 5 Southern Alberta Summer Games Participants from 14 regions of Alberta competing in 20 different sports, along with fun cultural and social events. Taber, (403) 223-5500

Aug 16 Priddis & Millarville Fair 101st annual. Millarville, (403) 931-3411. Aug 19 - 23 Whoop-Up Days Midway, professional rodeo, parade, trade shows and more. Lethbridge, (403) 328-4491. Aug 22 - 23 Taber Cornfest Taber is known for their corn throughout the province. Taber, (403) 223-2265. Sept 19 - 21 Silver Sage Twirl & Whirl Includes barrel racing and team roping. Brooks, (403) 362-2262. Nov 28 - 29 Country Christmas Craft Show Lethbridge, (403) 328-4491.

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Visitors can climb up inside for a view through the Rex’s mouth. Open from 10 am to 5:30 pm. $3 per person, $10 per family. Visitor Centre and waterpark at the base. On the bank of the Red Deer river off 1 Ave W, call (403) 823-8100. ROYAL TYRRELL MUSEUM OF PALAEONTOLOGY Named after Joseph Tyrrell who discovered the bones of carnivorous Albertosaurus in 1884, this superb museum contains a wealth of information about our 4.6-billion-year-old planet. The highlight is the display of some of the world’s best fossils, plus a prehistoric garden, interactive exhibits and computer simulations. Six km (3.6 mi) from downtown Drumheller along the North Dinosaur Trail. Open year-round. May 11 - Sept 3 daily 9 am - 9 pm; Sept 4 - Oct 9 daily 10 am - 5 pm; Oct 10 - May 10 Tue to Sun 10 am - 5 pm. $10 adult, $8 sen, $6 child (ages 7 to 17), kids 6 and under free, $30 fam. Prices subject to change. Construction on museum travel route April - Oct 2008: Hwy 9 from Bieseker to west of Hwy 21. Use alternate route. Call 310-0000 toll1 free, then enter (403) 823-7707.

HOODOO TRAIL The Hoodoo Trail leads 25 km (15 mi) southeast of Drumheller on Hwy 10 past Badlands terrain to the communities that blossomed during Alberta’s mining days. Along the way you’ll pass the natural rock formations called hoodoos: hard rock caps on top of the pillars act as umbrellas, sheltering the softer sandstone beneath. EAST COULEE 21 km (12.6 mi) southeast on Hwy 10 from Drumheller is East Coulee, once a booming coal mining town. The School Museum & Cultural Centre, built in 1930, houses a restored school room with books, maps, desks, photos plus an exhibit of antique mining equipment, old photographs, and a complete miner’s house with artifacts. Craft store and tea room. May 19 - Sept 1, Mon to Fri 10 am - 5 pm; Sat, Sun 10 am - 6 pm. $5 adult, $4 sen/stud/child, 2 $10 fam, (403) 822-3970. ATLAS COAL MINE NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE East of East Coulee 2 km (1.2 miles) along Hwy 10 is one of the last mines in North America with a surface-standing tipple. The visitor centre features theatre programs, storytelling, drama, machinery demonstrations, gift shop, interpretive pathways to the old mine buildings plus a picnic area. Spring: May 1 - June 27 9:30 am - 5:30 pm;

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Summer: June 28 - Aug 31 9:30 am - 8:30 pm; Fall: Sept 1 - Oct 13 10 am - 5 pm (by appointment) Closed for winter. Guided or self guided tours $6 adult, $18 family. Call (403) 822-2220. WAYNE A worthwhile detour from the Hoodoo Trail is the 9 km (5.4 mi) trip on Hwy 10X from Rosedale into the ghost town of Wayne. You’ll cross no less than

11 one-way bridges on the road in. One of the last remaining landmarks in this coal boom town is the Last Chance Saloon in the Rosedeer Hotel. This end-of-the-road (possibly haunted) establishment has changed little since 1913.

PAST DRUMHELLER DINOSAUR PROVINCIAL PARK From Hanna, follow Hwy 36 south. A side

trip east on Hwy 544 leads to Dinosaur Provincial Park. Declared a World Heritage Site in 1979, the park covers 7,332 hectares (18,116 acres) and is one of the most significant palaeontological sites in the world, containing the remains of 35 species of dinosaur. Skeletons are on display in the Royal Tyrrell Museum Field Station as well as in an in-site exhibit building. There are five self-guided trails. Interpretive programs May 19 to Oct 8, $3 adults, $2.50 sen, $2 youth. Bus tours, hikes and evening campfire and amphitheatre presentations. Some programs are ticketed. Access to the Natural Preserve is available only through guided tours. Call the park office at (403) 378-4342, the reservation line at (403) 378-4344, or the Dinosaur Provincial campground at (403) 378-3700.

HIGHWAY 2: TO FORT MACLEOD Heading south of Calgary towards Fort Macleod and Cardston.

Walk through the serene Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden in Lethbridge to see Alberta’s diverse landscape meet with traditional Japanese philosophy and symbols. Japanese garden designer and landscape architect Tadashi Kubo, of Osaka Prefecture University, created the 3.75-acre outdoor meditation garden during Canada’s Centennial in 1967, to recognize contributions made by Japanese citizens of Lethbridge and to symbolize international friendship. The many large rocks found in the garden represent the Rocky Mountains, while an island shaped like a turtle is a Japanese symbol for long life. Find hundreds of trees and shrubs like miniature crab apples, Juniper, lilac and various types of pines. However, don’t expect to see any flowers—it is a mediation garden and flowers are not used because vibrant colours are thought to excite the mind and heart. The garden is located on Mayor Magrath Drive at 9 Ave South, Lethbridge. —Chloe Jones 32

SOUTH TO FORT MACLEOD NANTON Lies 70 km (42 miles) south of Calgary on Hwy 2. The Nanton Lancaster Air Museum boasts one of the few remaining Lancaster Bombers and exhibits commemorating the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan active in the area during World War II. Donations. May 1 - Oct 31 daily 9 am - 5 pm; Nov 1 - Apr 30 wknds 10 am - 4 pm. Call (403) 646-2270. Nanton is also home to a cluster of preserved heritage buildings housing antiques stores. Contact the Nanton Antique & Art Walk of Alberta at (403) 646-2439. Town office (403) 1in museum 646-2029. VULCAN Turn east onto Hwy 23 and follow it first east then south. Vulcan has fully embraced its shared namesake in Star Trek lore. At the town entrance, there’s a replica of the Starship Enterprise, plus a space-inspired Tourism and ‘Trek’ Station and a space-themed water park. They also have an annual Galaxyfest Star Trek Convention and Spock Days in mid June. 2008 marks the 15th anniversary of the Vulcan Star Trek Convention. (403) 485-2994. HEAD-SMASHED-IN BUFFALO JUMP On Hwy 785, off Hwy 2 north of Fort Macleod, Head-Smashed-In is the largest and best preserved buffalo kill site in North America, and the superb

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Tranquil Gardens

Interpretive Centre portrays life on the prairies over thousands of years. Camp in a Blackfoot teepee overlooking the Old Man River Valley. Drumming and dancing demonstrations every Wed July 4 - Aug 31. Open daily May 15 - Sept 14 9 am - 6 pm. Admission: $9 adults, $8 sen, $5 youth, $22 fam, under 7 free. Sept 15 - May 14 daily 10 am - 5 pm. Call 1 (403) 553-2731.

FORT MACLEOD Founded in 1874 with the arrival of the North West Mounted Police, today this town’s core is a Provincial Historic Area, with more than 30 vintage buildings, mostly dating from 1897 to 1914. Call the Main Street office, (403) 553-2500.

CARDSTON Travel south 61 km (38 mi) on Hwy 2 from Fort Macleod to Cardston. The town is named after Charles Ora Card who led 11 Mormon families from Utah in 1887 in one of the 19th Century's last great covered wagon migrations. For more information about Cardston call the town office, (403) 653-3366, or the tourist hut, (403) 653-3787. MUSEUM OF MINIATURES Frontier towns, covered wagons, Indian villages, animals and western scenes are depicted in miniature to a scale of 1:12 at this new museum. More than 150 scale model cars and trucks. May 15 - Sept 30 Mon to Sat 9 am - 9 pm, Sun noon - 9 pm, or by appt. $6 adults, $5 sen, $3 youth, children six and under free, $15 fam. 574 Ave W, (403) 653-1142. REMINGTON-ALBERTA CARRIAGE CENTRE The centre contains over 250 carriages, wagons, and sleighs, a restoration workshop, a theatre, cafeteria, gift shop, tack room and stables. Horse-drawn carriage rides, $4 adults, $2 child, $9 fam.

The centre is open year-round. May 15 - Sept 14 daily 9 am - 6 pm. $9 adults, $8 sen, $5 youth, $22 family. Sept 15 - May 14 daily 10 am - 5 pm. $8 adults, $7 sen, $4 youth, $20 family. 623 Main Street, 1 Cardston, (403) 653-5139.

HIGHWAY 3: THE CROWSNEST Alberta’s oldest highway stretches from the Crowsnest Pass in the west to Writing on Stone Provincial Park in the east.

LETHBRIDGE HIGH LEVEL BRIDGE Built in 1909, this landmark is one of the longest and highest bridges of its kind in the world, spanning 1.6 km (1 mi) and reaching a height of 96 metres (315 ft). Oldman River. FORT WHOOP-UP INTERPRETIVE CENTRE Fort Whoop-up was the first and largest whisky trading post in the region. Established in 1869 by American merchants, the Fort’s illicit trade in liquor for buffalo robes, furs and other articles spurred the arrival of the North West Mounted Police in 1874. The site includes an interpretive centre, display gallery, gift

PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

FORT MUSEUM The first North West Mounted Police (NWMP) outpost in the west was built on an island in the Oldman River. Built in 1874, it displays early NWMP, Aboriginal, pioneer and present-day Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) artifacts. Musical Rides, a show performed by Mounties on their majestic black horses, adds pomp and pageantry four times Wed to Mon, weather permitting. Open June 1, call for hours and

admission prices, (403) 553-4703.

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shop and wagon rides. April 1 - May 31 Wed to Sun 1 pm - 4 pm; June 1 - Sept 30 Tue to Sun 10 am - 5 pm; Oct 1 - 31 Wed to Sat 1 pm - 4 pm; Nov 1 - Mar 31 Sat 1 pm - 4 pm. $7 adults, $6 sen, $5 stu (13-18), $3 child ( 5- 12) $18.69 family day pass. Scenic Dr at 3 Ave S, (403) 1 329-0444. NIKKA YUKO JAPANESE GARDENS Created in 1967 as a symbol of Japanese-Canadian friendship, with four tranquil acres of paths, streams, ponds, trees and a pavilion handcrafted in Japan of cypress wood. $7 adults, $5 sen, $4 youth (6 - 17), children five and under free. May 10 - June 30 daily 9 am - 5 pm; July 1 - Sept 1 daily 9 am - 8 pm; Sept 2 - Oct 13 daily 9 am - 5 pm. Take Mayor Magrath Dr to the east side of Henderson Lake Park, (403) 328-3511.1 SIR ALEXANDER GALT MUSEUM The museum is named after the Canadian High Commissioner in London who, in 1882, financed a mining operation that led to the founding of Lethbridge. May 15 - Sept 15 daily 10 am - 6 pm; Sept 16 - May 14 daily 10 am - 4:30 pm; closed Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and

Easter Sunday. Archives closed wknds. $5 adults, $4 sen and stud, $3 youth, $12 family. Scenic Dr at 5 Ave S. (403) 1 320-3898.

WEST OF LETHBRIDGE PINCHER CREEK Travel north from Waterton on Hwy 6 to the cowboy town of Pincher Creek. The Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village contains displays of more than 12,000 pioneer artifacts. May 18 Sept 4 daily 10 am - 6 pm; Sept 4 - May 14 wkdys 10 am - 4:30 pm. $6 adults, $5 sen, $4 stu, child under 10 free. Call (403) 627-3684. An unusual attraction is the Crystal Village, a collection of 13 buildings made from 200,000 glass telephone insulators and 900 telephone line crossarms. It’s located at the Oldman River Antique Equipment & Threshing Club, which features historic farm equipment and pioneer antiques. Located at Heritage Acres. 10 km (6.25 mi) north on Hwy 785 off Hwy 3. 1 Call the Chamber tourism office at (403) 627-5199. WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK From Hwy 3, turn south onto Hwy 6 by Pincher Creek. This park was established in 1895 and joined with

Montana’s Glacier National Park in 1931 to form the first International Peace Park. Enjoy hiking, fishing, horseback riding, golf and interpretive programs. Waterton Shoreline Cruises is a shuttle to Crypt Landing for the Crypt Lake hike and offers boat tours of Upper Waterton Lake. Boat tours May 5 - Oct 7, weather permitting: Adult $30, youth $15, child $10. Shuttle: $15 Adults, $7.50 child. (403) 859-2362. Contact the park at (403) 859-2224. Note: Accommodation in the Park is limited. Reservations are crucial for peak summer season. BELLEVUE MINE Don a hard hat and enter an underground coal mine through 100 metres (330 ft) of rock tunnel. Arches, timbers and chutes are explained. Tours every 30 mins beginning at 10 am with the last tour at 5:30 pm. $7 adults, $6 sen/youth, $20 fam, children 5 and under free. May 12 - Sept 1 daily 9:30 am - 5:30 pm, call (403) 564-4700. FRANK You’ll notice evidence of the slide of 1903, a disaster in which 90 million tons of rock crashed down Turtle Mountain, obliterating part of this coal mining town in less than 100 seconds. The Frank Slide Interpretive Centre has displays about the disaster and community life and settlement during the early coal mining days. May 15 - Sept 14 daily 9 am - 6 pm; Sept 15 - May 14 daily 10 am - 5 pm. $9 adult, $8 sen, $5 youth (7 - 17), kids six and under free, $22 family. 2 Call (403) 562-7388.

SOUTHEAST OF LETHBRIDGE VIA HIGHWAY 4 WRITING-ON-STONE PROVINCIAL PARK 43 km (26 mi) east of Hwy 4 on Hwy 501 this park includes sandstone hoodoos and the most extensive collection of Plains pictographs in North America, carved on the sandstone walls along the Milk River. From May 20 - Sept 3 there are tours of the rock art sites, programs with tours into restricted areas and special events. Call (403) 647-2364 for winter hours.

EAST OF LETHBRIDGE TABER Home of sweet Taber corn, which Southern Albertans await every summer. MD of Taber Provincial Park is a picnic and camping area located on the Oldman River, 5 km (3 mi) from town. $18 per night, including shower facilities, firewood and power. Open year-round (403) 223-0091.

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CALGARY & AREA

KNOWN FOR ITS WESTERN HOSPITALITY, Calgary combines big town attractions with small town warmth. Bike paths, urban parks, surrounding mountains and inner-city rivers make the city an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts, while a bustling downtown and shopping scene offer a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere.

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There’s more to Calgary

than the Stampede

CALAWAY PARK The largest outdoor amusement park in Western Canada with 33 rides including “The Storm,” a water log ride, and a twisty roller coaster. New this year is the “Samba Spin”—a family ride where seats are shaped like balloons that spin, rise and drop (Page 38). LOUGHEED HOUSE A meticulously restored turn-of-the-century Victorian mansion that was built by Senator James Lougheed in 1891. Now a national historic site and restaurant, visitors can tour through the rooms and enjoy Victorian high tea (Page 42). CALGARY TOWER Standing at 190.8 metres high (626 feet) above ground, the tower offers a one-of-a-kind view of the city and surrounding mountains. Conquer your fear of heights by standing on the glass observation terrace—no need to worry, it can hold up to eight hippos in weight (Page 38).

Did You Know?

Calgary is one of the sunniest cities in Canada, averaging close to 2,400 hours of sunshine a year.

In 1910 the Grain Exchange Building at 815 - 1 St SW was Calgary’s first “skyscraper” at six storeys tall.

3 4

Nose Hill Park is the largest municipal park in Canada.

Calgary’s population went from 403,000 in 1971 to 1,019,942 in 2007.

Calgary is also known as the “Nashville of the North,” “Cowtown” and “Stampede City.”

A BRIEF HISTORY

In 1875, the North West Mounted Police arrived and set up a small outpost fort at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers. Fort Calgary soon grew into a commercial and agricultural centre as settlers and ranchers arrived to the area. It officially became a city in 1894. After the 1947 Leduc oil discovery that revealed the province’s vast oil reserves, Calgary began to transform into a major oil and gas business centre. Today, the city’s downtown skyline of skyscrapers is testament to the fact that Calgary has the most corporate head offices west of Toronto.

PEOPLE AND PLACE Nestled between the prairies to the south and east, and the foothills of the Rocky Mountains to the west and north, Calgary is known for its picturesque horizons and beautiful sky. With a population exceeding one million people, the Calgary Metropolitan Area is one of the country’s fastest growing cities. Between 2001 and 2006, the population grew 13.4 per cent—faster than any other major Canadian urban centre. The city’s climate is unpredictable and famous for its varying extremes. Although summer high temperatures average 23°C, the combination of high altitude and dry air means that summer evenings can be cool, with average lows under 10°C. Winters can be long and cold, but Calgary is known for chinook winds which blow in from the Pacific and raise temperatures by as much as 20 degrees.

CULTURE AND EVENTS Calgary holds a number of major annual festivals, including the Folk Music Festival, Lilac Festival and GlobalFest (see the Events Guide, page 38). The largest and best known is the Calgary Stampede—a ten-day event in early July that celebrates Western culture. Premier attractions include the Calgary Zoo, Glenbow Museum and the Calgary Tower. The city also has a vibrant theatre

TO BA KA

and arts community, led by organizations like Theatre Calgary, the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, the Glenbow Museum and Alberta Ballet. But there is also a burgeoning array of independent theatre groups, art galleries and live music performers to be discovered. Calgary also has a dynamic dining, nightlife and shopping scene. Find several major shopping malls as well as eclectic boutique districts in Inglewood and Kensington, and along 17 Ave and 11 Ave SW. Nightlife ranges from classic saloon bars like Cowboys and Ranchman’s to energetic night clubs like Tangerine Supper Club and The Whiskey, as well as a large number of pubs and lounges. The city has a number of fine restaurants featuring Canadian regional or regionally inspired cuisine, including River Café, Teatro and Rouge, and a wide array of ethnic restaurants featuring cuisines from around the world.

WHAT’S NEW New attractions for 2008 include three all-weather exhibits to Heritage Park, allowing it to be open year-round and a baby elephant at the Calgary Zoo. Bar U Ranch has restored an early 1900s cowboy cookhouse, and blackjack sharks will love the newly opened Grey Eagle Casino and the Stampede Casino. To find out more about the city’s many attractions, events, dining and shopping options, pick up a copy of Where Magazine at local shopping mall information desks, AMAs and tourism and visitor information centres.

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Don’t Miss

AIRDRIE

TO: EDMONTON FORT MCMURRAY

COCHRANE

DEE RFO OT TR

N CH

TO: BANFF, CANMORE and KANANASKIS VILLAGE

ILD

CROWCHILD TR SW

SARCEE TR SW

16 AVE NW

CALGARY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

16 AVE NE

TO: DRUMHELLER MEDICINE HAT

CITY CENTRE

GLEN

MOR

BRAGG CREEK

E TR

CHESTERMERE

DEERFOOT TR

MACLEOD TR SE

GLENMORE TR SE

22X

MARQUIS OF LORNE TR SW

TO: LETHBRIDGE

2 7

TURNER VALLEY

SEE PAGE 46 FOR A MORE DETAILED MAP, PLUS ACCOMMODATIONS.

OKOTOKS

BLACK DIAMOND

By The Numbers

MAP & PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

LAND AREA: 5,107 km2 (includes surrounding area) POPULATION: 1,019,942 CITY INCORPORATION: 1894 ALTITUDE: 1,048 metres above sea level

Nearby Towns and Places of Interest (DISTANCE FROM CALGARY IN KM)

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AIRDRIE ................................................36

EDMONTON ...................................294

BANFF .................................................128

FORT MCMURRAY........................ 733

BRAGG CREEK .................................. 43

KANANASKIS VILLAGE .............. 140

CANMORE ....................................... 106

LETHBRIDGE.....................................216

COCHRANE ....................................... 45

MEDICINE HAT .............................. 293

DRUMHELLER ..................................138

OKOTOKS ............................................23

CALGARY & AREA

ATTRACTIONS BUTTERFIELD ACRES A favourite spot for kids of all ages. Hands-on visits with farm animals, milking, wagon rides, pony rides, picnic facilities and snacks. No dogs. $12.99 adult, $10.99 sen, $9.99 child, no charge for infants. Open weekdays 10 am - 2 pm and weekends to 4 pm. Closed for regular visits after September. 10 minutes north of Canada Olympic Park via Stoney Tr, west on Crowchild Tr, 3 km (1.8 miles) north on Rocky Ridge Rd (101 2 St NW), (403) 547-3595. CALAWAY PARK Celebrating 27 years, Calaway Park is Western Canada’s largest outdoor family amusement park. Featuring 33 rides including the thrill ride “Chaos,” interactive bumper boats, daily live stage entertainment, food locations, games, shopping and mini-golf. Calaway RV Park and Campground is located next to the park. From May 17 Fri 5 pm - 9 pm, Sat, Sun 10 am - 7 pm. From June 27 daily 10 am - 7 pm. Closed following

Oct 13. Admission: $29 regular (7-49 years), $23 junior (3-6 years), $21 sen (50-plus), $70 family of four. 10 km west of Calgary on the corner of Springbank Rd and the TransCanada Highway, (403) 2 240-3822. CALGARY CHINESE CULTURAL CENTRE This is the largest stand-alone cultural centre in Canada at 70,000 sq ft. Its great central dome is patterned after the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, with 561 handcrafted dragons on the ceiling. Five blocks north of the C-Train line downtown. 197 - 1 St SW, (403) 262-5071. 1 CALGARY FARMERS’ MARKET Local offerings like cupcakes, pies and fresh vegetables, artwork, handmade glass jewellery and more. A great source for seasonal produce and organic meat, dairy and vegetables. Open year-round, Fri to Sun. Currie Barracks, H6, 4421 Quesnay Wood Drive SW, (403) 2444548. 1

CALGARY TOWER Opened in 1968, the tower is 190.8 metres high (626 feet; 802 steps). Visit the Observation Terrace for a breathtaking view of Calgary and the Rocky Mountains. The top of the Tower features a souvenir shop and glass floor, providing a truly stimulating experience. New visitor information centre at the Tower’s base. First ride up 9 am, last ride 9:30 pm, hours subject to change (please call to confirm). Admission: $12.95 adult, $10.95 sen, $9.95 youth, $5 child, $37 combo pass (2 adults/sen and 2 youth). Two blocks south from the C-Train line downtown. 101 - 9 Ave SW, (403) 266-7171. 1 CALGARY ZOO, BOTANICAL GARDEN & PREHISTORIC PARK More than 900 animals from around the world including endangered species such as Siberian tigers and Western Lowland gorillas. North American animals are showcased in The Canadian Wilds, Aspen Woodlands, Rocky Mountains and Northern Forests

Calgary & Area Events June - Sept Calgary Historical Walking Tour Two-hour free guided walking tours each Thur. Meet at entrance to the Glenbow Museum at 10 am. 130 - 9 Ave SE, Calgary, (403) 282-5714. June 7 Carifest Celebrating the arts and culture of the Caribbean with entertainment, food, arts and crafts. Shaw Millenium Park, Calgary, (403) 292-0310. June 24 - 29 Calgary Jazz Festival The best of live jazz in the city, featuring Dave Brubeck, Wynton Marsalis and Maceo Parker. Calgary, (403) 8024822. July - Aug Shakespeare in the Park Presented by the students of Mount Royal College Prince’s Island Park, Calgary, (403) 440-6908. July 1 Canada Day Celebrations Held at Prince’s Island Park, (403) 268-2489, Heritage Park (403) 268-8500, and Fort Calgary Historic Park, (403) 2901875, Calgary. July 2 - 6 North American Tournament World-class show jumping at Spruce Meadows. Calgary, (403) 974-4200. July 4 - 13 Calgary Exhibition and Stampede Calgary’s biggest summer event with a parade, rodeo, midway rides and shows. Stampede Park, Calgary, 1-800661-1260. July 18 - 20 Carstairs Beef and Barley

Days, Rodeo and Demolition Derby Carstairs, (403) 337-3708. July 24 - 27 Calgary Folk Music Festival World-renowned folk artists including Sam Roberts and Josh Ritter. Prince’s Island Park, Calgary, (403) 233-0904.

rodeo, Didsbury, (403) 335-4494. Aug 15 - 23 GlobalFest 2008 International fireworks competition and multicultural expo. Elliston Park, Calgary, 1-866-666-8308.

July 31 - Aug 4 Strathmore Heritage Days Stampede Fairs, midway rides and rodeo. Strathmore, (403) 934-5811.

Aug 22 - 24 Expo Latino Entertainment, arts and crafts, food fair and beer garden. Prince's Island Park, Calgary, (403) 271-2744.

Aug 2 Doors Open Alberta Celebrating the people, places and architecture of the province. Visit www.doorsopenalberta.ca.

Aug 24 Cochrane & District Old Tyme Country Fair Homemade crafts, food and entertainment. Cochrane, (403) 932-4088.

Aug 4 - 9 Afrikadey! Live concerts and family entertainment celebrating African culture. Various locations, Calgary, (403) 234-9110.

Aug 30 - 31 BBQ on the Bow Family entertainment and great barbecue at Eau Claire Festival Market, Calgary, (403) 225-1913.

Aug 7 - 10 A Taste of Calgary Sample dishes from the city’s top restaurants. Eau Claire Market, Calgary, (403) 293-2888.

Sept 3 - 7 Masters Tournament The world's best show jumpers vye for over $2 million in prize money. Spruce Meadows, Calgary, 1-800-667-0619.

Aug 8 - 10 Alberta Dragon Boat Festival Over 100 teams celebrate the culture and heritage of China. North Glenmore Park, Calgary, (403) 216-0145.

Oct 16 - 18 Rocky Mountain Wine & Food Festival Roundup Centre, Stampede Park, Calgary, 1-866-228-3555.

Aug 8 - 10 Mountain View Music Festival Music acts, a parade, cabaret and pancake breakfast. Carstairs, (403) 998-8182. Aug 17 - 19 Didsbury Fair & Rodeo Foothills Cowboy Association amateur

Nov 21 - Dec 21 Once upon a Christmas Shopping, skating, wagon rides, storytelling and outdoor games. Heritage Park, Calgary, (403) 268-8500. Dec Zoolights A festive light display inspired by some of the zoo’s creatures. Calgary Zoo, Calgary, (403) 232-9300.

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habitat. Destination Africa features modern enclosures for rainforest and savannah animals. Stroll through the conservatory’s exotic Tropical, Arid and Butterfly Gardens. Open daily 9 am - 5 pm. $18 adult, $16 sen, $12 youth/stu (13 - 17), $10 child, children under 3 free. At the Calgary Zoo C-Train stop. Access via Memorial Drive with north and west parking lots. 1300 1 Zoo Rd NE, (403) 232-9300. CANADA OLYMPIC PARK This pre-

mier site of the ’88 Olympic Winter Games continues to function as a recreation and training facility, featuring downhill skiing and snowboarding and 25 km of mountain bike trails as well as luge rides, mini golf, Eurobungee trampoline and a climbing wall. The Skyline is a thrilling ride where you are sent down a cable from the 90-metre ski jump tower to the base of the hill. Catch the magic of the Olympics with the multi-language audio tour, which

includes the Ice House, jump tower, Olympic Museum and chairlift. There is also a retail shop, food court and a lounge with patio on site. Located 15 mins from downtown on Hwy #1 heading west to Banff, (403) 247-5452. THE CREATIVE KIDS MUSEUM AT THE TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE Featuring interactive exhibits focused on learning and discovery in the arts. Mon to Thur 9:45 am - 4 pm, Fri 9:45 am - 5 pm, Sat, Sun, hols 10 am - 5 pm. $13.50 adult, $9.50 youth/sen/child, under 2 free, $49 family. Add Discovery Dome show to ticket for $3. One block west of the 10 St SW C-Train station, 701 - 11 St 1 SW, (403) 268-8300. FISH CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK Stretching over 10 km from 37 St SW to the Bow River, this is the largest urban park in Canada. At the east end of the park is the restored historic Bow Valley Ranch House. Built in 1896 by William Roper Hull, an aristocratic rancher, it was purchased in 1902 by Patrick Burns, one of the “Big Four” who financed the first Calgary Stampede. You’ll find period antiques throughout and a restaurant serving western Canadian cuisine. Next to the Ranch House, the park’s Visitor Centre—with its Archeological Interpretive Centre—covers 8,000 years of human history in the area and is open weekdays 8:15 am - noon and 1 pm - 4:30 pm. Park is open year-round during daylight hours. Access to the park from Fish Creek-Lacombe C-Train station. South on Bow Bottom Trail, (403) 2971 5293. HERITAGE PARK HISTORICAL VILLAGE More than 150 buildings and over 45,000 exhibits recreate a complete village from pre-1914 Western Canada. Ride a steam train, board a paddle wheeler for a trip on the Glenmore Reservoir, try the antique midway for rides and games, visit the baker, dine at the Wainwright Hotel and browse through the gift shops. Free breakfast with admission daily from 9 am - 10 am at the barn. From May 17: daily 9 am - 5 pm. Admission $15 adult, $13 sen, $10 child (3-17), $49 family, $10 ride bracelet. 1900 Heritage 1 Dr SW, (403) 268-8500. HISTORIC WALKING TOUR Free twohour guided tour down Stephen Avenue, one of Calgary’s oldest streets and home to turn-of-the-century heritage buildings. Learn about the Mounties, cowboys, cattle barons and oil czars who forged a

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city, and the native tribes that frequented the area long before Europeans crossed the Atlantic. June to Sept, Thur 10 am. Entrance to the Glenbow Museum, 130 - 9 Ave SE, (403) 282-5714. OLYMPIC PLAZA This downtown park was created for medal presentation ceremonies during the 1988 Olympic Winter Games. The plaza is the scene of concerts and special events throughout the year, with live performances every Wednesday at noon in the summer, and daily ice skating in the winter. The Plaza includes the Legacy Wall with plaques commemorating medal winners from the Calgary Olympic Winter Games. At the City Hall C-Train stop. Downtown at the corner of Macleod Tr and 7 Ave, (403) 268-2489 1 (or 311 in Calgary area).

sumer shows, banquets, special events, concerts and more. Pick up a self-guided tour booklet at Stampede Headquarters, 1410 Olympic Way SE, and stroll along the newly constructed Elbow River Pathway promenade or visit the many facilities located on-site including the Grain Academy Museum, the Calgary Stampede Store, the Stampede Casino and Stampede Park Racing. At the Victoria Park or Erlton C-Train stop. 17 Ave 1 and 2 St SE, (403) 261-0101.

TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE CALGARY Interactive science displays and exhibits including regularly scheduled feature exhibits like Sesame Street Presents the Body. The Discovery Dome features giant screen films and multimedia productions enhanced by a superb surround sound system. $13.50 adult, $9.50 youth/senior/child, under 3 free. Add Discovery Dome to ticket for $3. Open daily 9:30 am - 5:30 pm. One block west of the 10 St SW C-Train

PENGROWTH SADDLEDOME Home of the Calgary Flames and Calgary Hitmen hockey teams and the Calgary Roughnecks lacrosse team. This 17,104-seat arena hosts concerts, circuses, ice shows, rodeos, and motor sport events annually, in addition to hockey and lacrosse. For ticket information call 777-0000. Facility includes meeting space and restaurants. Group tours available. At the Victoria Park or Erlton C-Train stop. 555 Saddledome Rise SE at Stampede Park, 1 (403) 777-2177. SPACEPORT Located in the Calgary Airport, the 5,800 sq-ft interactive attraction includes a quarter-scale model space shuttle on loan from NASA, an air traffic control tower, a full-size single engine Beaver Bush plane, a moon rock exhibit, five flight and motion simulators, including an F-18 jet and a shuttle to Space Canyon, and a play area. Free admission. Calgary International Airport, 1 (403) 717-PORT (7678). SPRUCE MEADOWS This world-class show jumping venue offers a unique sports and entertainment package. Not only is one treated to some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best horses and riders at six international show jumping competitions, but Spruce Meadows offers many special feature attractions that complement the sport. Visitors may look around on non-event days. Open 365 days a year. Reg hours: daily 8:30 am- 5 pm. Hours may vary during tournaments. South on Macleod Tr, 3 km west on Spruce Meadows Tr 2 (Hwy 22X), (403) 974-4200. STAMPEDE PARK This 137-acre (55hectare) park features trade and con-

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CALGARY & AREA

station. 701 - 11 St SW, (403) 2681 8300. THE UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY A vibrant university offering a dynamic learning experience for over 20,000 students. The Nickle Arts Museum, University Theatre, and the Rozsa Centre house various exhibits and arts activities. The Physical Education Complex and Olympic Oval are open to the public. Free 90-minute guided tours can be pre-arranged, call 220-3147. At the University C-Train stop. 2500 University Dr 1 NW, (403) 220-3199.

HISTORIC SITES FORT CALGARY & DEANE HOUSE In 1875 the North West Mounted Police crossed the Bow River to build Fort Calgary. Today, in its original strategic position where the Bow and Elbow Rivers meet, it brings history to life through exhibits and interpretation. Set on 40 acres of riverside park, the site includes the 1906 Deane House Historic Site & Restaurant and the 1875 palisade and 1888 Barracks recreations. $10.75 adult, $9.75 sen/stu, $6.75 youth (7-17), $4.75 child (3-6), children under 3 free. Open year-round, daily 9 am - 5 pm. Bus #1 or #411 from downtown. 750 - 9 Ave SE, 2 (403) 290-1875.

STEPHEN AVENUE A mix of wood, sandstone and smooth white terracotta buildings line both sides of this historic street. Home to the six-storey column-fronted Hudson’s Bay Company and the sandstone-façade Alberta Hotel with its whimsical gargoyles transplanted from the old Calgary Herald Building, Stephen Avenue is the most intact turn-of-the-century commercial streetscape west of Montréal. Stephen Avenue is the portion of

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PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

LOUGHEED HOUSE This former home of Senator James Lougheed is now a public heritage centre featuring an 1891 mansion with historic exhibits and collections. A designated National Historic site, the house has been carefully restored to its late 19th Century style of High Victorian eclecticism. The 2.8 acre estate also features the lovely Beaulieu Gardens and The Restaurant at Lougheed House. Admission: $8.50 adult, $6.50 stu/sen, $5 ages 12 to 7, children 6 and under free, $25 family (2 adults, 3 children). Reduced admission $4 if you dine in the restaurant. Wed to Fri 11 am - 4 pm, Sat, Sun 10 am - 4 pm. 707 - 13 Ave SW, (403) 244-6333. 1

The Greens of Calgary Calgary and surrounding area have many public and semi-private golf courses to work on your handicap. Here is a sampling of a few to check out: The Calgary Elks Lodge & Golf Club This semi-private golf course is one of the oldest in the city, dating from 1923. The course runs through clusters of mature trees, water hazards and sand and grass bunkers. 2502 - 6 St NE, 276-7981. The Links of GlenEagles Located north of the city near the town of Cochrane, GlenEagles offers panoramic views of the distant Rockies and a bold layout with plenty of sand and huge rolling greens. 100 GlenEagles Drive, Cochrane, 932-1100.

PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

Eaglequest Golf Dome at Fox Hollow Golf Course A fully enclosed driving range with a short game practice facility (110 yards) and putting greens. The 50 stalls are spread over two tiers and connected to Fox Hollow Golf Course’s dining room, bar and pro shop. One block west of Deerfoot Trail at 32 Ave NE, 216-5949. D’Arcy Ranch Golf Club Designed by architect Ken Dye, D’Arcy is an unpredictable course, thanks to its bunkered holes, escarpments and natural coulees. The clubhouse is an inviting place to finish your day, especially if you want a glimpse of the local ranching culture. Highway 2A and Milligan Drive, Okotoks, 938-4455. —Sally MacKinnon

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CALGARY & AREA

8 Ave between Macleod Tr SE and 3 1 St SW.

MUSEUMS AERO SPACE MUSEUM OF CALGARY Aircraft, aeronautical engines and artifacts trace the history of the aviation industry from one of Calgary’s first airplanes, the “Silver Dart,” to today’s jets. Planes and exhibits cover different eras, from the first pioneers to the current space age. On-going restoration work is on view in the hangar. Daily 10 am - 5 pm. $7 adult, $4.50 stu/sen, $3.50 child, 5 and under free, $18 family. 4629 McCall Way NE, (403) 2 250-3752. FIREFIGHTERS MUSEUM An extensive collection of hand-drawn, horse-drawn and motorized fire trucks, including a 1908 waterous horse-drawn pumper. See the gear they wore and the tools they used in exhibits illustrating the history of fire fighting dating back to 1885. Handson and interactive displays, as well as pictures of Calgary’s famous fires. Adult $3, sen $2, children under 12 free. Group tours by appt. Open May 1 to Oct 15, Thur to Mon 10:30 am - 4 pm. 4124 - 11 St SE, (403) 246-3322.

Calgary Historical Walking Tour

130 - 9 Ave SE, 282.5714 Private bookings available 44

Glenbow Archives

This two-hour free guided walking tour meets each Thursday at 10 am, rain or shine, June through September at the entrance to the Glenbow Museum.

GLENBOW MUSEUM Western Canada’s largest museum with 93,000 square feet of exhibition space and 20 galleries. Permanent exhibitions on western and Indigenous culture, military history and Asian artifacts. Exhibition galleries: Mon to Sun 9 am - 5 pm, Thur to 9 pm. Library & Archives: Tue to Fri 10 am - 5 pm. Museum shop: Mon to Sun 10 am - 5:30 pm, Thur to 9 pm. $14 adult, $10 sen, $9 stu, $9 youth (7-17), under 6 free, $28 family (max 2 adults, 4 children). Glenbow members free. Two blocks south of the C-Train line downtown. 130 - 9 Ave 1 SE, (403) 268-4100. GRAIN ACADEMY MUSEUM Features a model train display depicting the movement of grain from the prairies through the Rockies to Vancouver, a working model grain elevator, films and artifacts describing the history of grain farming to present day. Mon to Fri 10 am - 4 pm, Sat grp bookings. Parking on Stampede Grounds for a fee. At the Victoria Park CTrain stop. Plus-15 Level, Roundup Centre, 2 Stampede Park, (403) 263-4594. THE MILITARY MUSEUMS The largest military museum in Western Canada, with indoor exhibitions depicting the history of the Lord Strathcona’s Horse

(Royal Canadians), the Calgary Highlanders, the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry and the King’s Own Calgary Regiment. The Alberta Gallery features exhibits of Alberta’s military history since 1874 and the Imperial Oil Gallery with revolving military historical exhibits. Outside, view vintage tanks and carriers. $6 adult, $4 sen, $3 youth, children 7 and under free. Bus #20 to Flanders Ave, walk one block south. 4520 Crowchild 1 Trail SW, (403) 974-2850. YOUTHLINK CALGARY: THE CALGARY POLICE INTERPRETIVE CENTRE This hands-on educational centre puts crime under the microscope. Junior detectives match wits with interactive computer/video displays and more. Evening group bookings available. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. $5 adults, free sen/youth. Across from the City Hall C-Train stop. School groups by appt. call 206-2009. 2nd lvl, 316 - 7 5 Ave SE, (403) 206-4566.

NEARBY CALGARY BAR U RANCH South of Calgary off Hwy 22, this national historic site commemorates the local ranching industry with tours, demonstrations and special events. Activities and attractions include a hiking trail, historic buildings, an interactive display in the Saddlehorse Barn and a blacksmith shop. Tours run daily. Open May to Oct. $7.80 adult, $6.55 sen, $3.90 youth (6-16), kids under six free, $19.50 family, wagon rides included with admission. Open daily 9 am - 5 pm. South of Calgary, 45 min off Hwy 22 near the town of Longview, (403) 2 395-2212. BRAGG CREEK With antique dealers, craft stores and restaurants, Bragg Creek is a favourite weekend drive for city dwellers. Nearby ranches provide ample opportunity for horseback riding. Take Hwy 8 west of the city to Hwy 22 South. MILLARVILLE Travel north on Hwy 22 to the quiet country community of Millarville. Christ Church is a century-old Anglican church uniquely constructed of upright spruce logs and set amid the serenity of the rolling hills. Millarville Race Track, 931-3411, has been holding horse races since 1905. The track is also the site of a summer-long Farmers’ Market held Sats June to Oct 4, 8:30 am - noon. (403) 931-2404.

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SIGHTSEEING IN

C A L G A RY Once there were 5,746 prairie sentinel grain elevators in Western Canada. Less than 300 wooden structures remain. The Grain Academy salutes over 100 years of Agriculture in Alberta with working models, historic photos, artifacts, films and interpretation by retired grain industry workers.

GRAIN ACADEMY & MUSEUM Plus 15 (2nd) Level, Roundup Centre Stampede Park, Calgary, Alberta T2P 2K8 403-263-4594 Vehicle parking charge applicable at Stampede Park

Monday to Friday 10 am - 4 pm, Saturday group bookings only. Free of Charge. website: www.grainacademymuseum.com email: grainacademy@nucleus.com

trailblazers

The planes and their stories:

pioneers

heroes

A living history of the men and women who conquered the skies.

adventurers

4629 McCall Way NE (403) 250-3752 â&#x20AC;˘ info@asmac.ab.ca

www.asmac.ab.ca

C A L G A R Y HN

BL VD

NOSE HILL PARK

CALGARY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

BOW RIVER

TRAIL

CENTRE ST N

8 7 0 16 AVE NE

16 AVE NW 10 ST NW

McKNIGHT BLVD NE

32 AVE NE

EDMONTON

CHARLESWOOD DRIVE

14 ST NW

L APPI TRAI SHAGAN

AIL

9 AVE SW

8 GLENMORE TRAIL

14 ST NW

D OA

CROWCHILD TRAIL SW

To BRAGG CREEK 44 km

SARCEE TRAIL SW

17 AVE SW

RIC

MEMORIAL DR

543 21

To DRUMHELLER 138 km and MEDICINE HAT 284 km

17 AVE SE 36 ST SE

ELBOW RIVER

BLACKFOOT TRAIL

52 ST NE

36 ST NE

AIL

EE TR A

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ILD

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To RED DEER 145 km and EDMONTON 294 km

50 AVE SE

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IVE

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ANDERSON ROAD

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TRA IL

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FISH CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK

BARLOW TRAIL SE

GLENMORE PARK

R OD T

TR OM TT BO

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To FORT MACLEOD 165 km and LETHBRIDGE 217 km

AIL

RNE TR

IS OF LO

MARQU

1 Calgary Marriott Hotel

6 Best Western Airport Inn

1 Four Points by Sheraton

2 Fairmont Palliser Hotel

7 Executive Royal Inn

2 Quality Inn Suites & Spa University

3 Hyatt Regency Calgary

8 Greenwood Inn & Suites

3 Carriage House Inn

4 International Hotel Suites

9 Hilton Garden Inn Airport

4 Glenmore Inn

5 The Westin Calgary

0 Travelodge Hotel Calgary Airport

For more detailed accommodation information, please see the accommodation grids on page 90 for Calgary and 92 for Edmonton. 46

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C A L G A R Y Downtown

Calgary Marriott Hotel World class accommodations across the street from the Calgary Tower! 384 renovated Guest Rooms and Suites, including our exclusive Concierge Level Floors Canada Select ★★★★1/2 AAA • Pool, Jacuzzi and sun deck • Complimentary health club • Daily breakfast buffet • Complimentary in-room coffee • High speed internet in all guest rooms • Starbucks® store in lobby • Airline Miles • Only blocks to Stampede Park and the Saddledome Tel (403) 266-7331 Fax (403) 269-1961 Toll free 1-800-896-6878 www.calgarymarriott.com

110 - 9 Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta T2G 5A6

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C A L G A R Y Downtown

The Fairmont Palliser For more than 94 years, The Fairmont Palliser has welcomed families and friends to Calgary, the Heart of the New West. Come experience and celebrate the historic charm that has drawn guests from near and far! • Located adjacent to the Calgary Tower • The Calgary Zoo is a short 10-minute ride by C-Train • 4-Diamond and 4.5 Star Rating • Stephen Avenue shopping district, museums, galleries and a variety of restaurants within one-block distance • Children 17 years of age and under stay complimentary • Weekend Getaway Rate: Starting from $99* per night in a Fairmont guestroom (Valid Friday, Saturday and Sunday) * Based on single/double occupancy. Subject to availability; blackout dates apply.

Tel (403) 262-1234 Fax (403) 260-1260 Toll free 1-800-231-0644 www.fairmont.com/palliser

133 9th Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2P 2M3

Bring an extra suitcase. Rejuvenate your mind, body and wardrobe. Book the Shopping Package at the Westin Calgary and discover a new look, both inside and out. • • • •

$25 gift certiﬁcate to the Core Shopping Center Complimentary self parking Heavenly® room rates starting at $159 Package valid July 13 2008 thru September 7, 2008 This is how it should feel. ®

For more information or to make a reservation, please visit westin.com/calgary or call 1-800-WESTIN1 48

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C A L G A R Y Downtown

Hyatt Regency Calgary • Calgary’s newest luxury hotel offering upscale accommodations for the business traveler and leisure guest. • Located on Historic Stephen Avenue Walk in the heart of the vibrant dining and entertainment district. • Award winning Culinary team of Thomsons Restaurant offer an exceptional daily breakfast buffet and upscale dining of Regional Canadian Cuisine. • Connected to the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre. • Calgary’s largest Hotel Ballroom, 13,500 sq ft. • Stillwater Spa, Calgary’s only Hotel Spa redefines the urban spa experience. • Indoor pool, hot tub, steam room and fitness centre. Phone (403) 717-1234 Fax (403) 537-4444 Toll free 1-800-233-1234 www.hyattregencycalgary.com

700 Centre Street SE, Calgary, Alberta T2G 5P6

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C A L G A R Y Northeast

Best Western Airport Inn Home away from home Best Western Airport Inn is only 10 minutes from the airport and 7 minutes from downtown. • 76 spacious guestrooms & suites • Indoor pool, whirlpool & fitness centre • Complimentary continental breakfast • Complimentary Airport Shuttle • Complimentary High Speed Internet Access • Featuring: Thai Place Restaurant • Recipient of the 2005/ 2006 Housekeeping Award Tel (403) 250-5015 Fax (403) 250-5019 Toll free 1-877-499-5015 www.bestwesternairportinncalgary.com

1947 - 18 Avenue NE, Calgary, Alberta T2E 7T8

The Greenwood Inn & Suites, Calgary has built a reputation for providing a unique brand of hospitality to guests visiting our vibrant city. We invite you to experience all that the Greenwood Inn & Suites, Calgary has to offer. • Convenient Location in Calgary's NE • Close to Calgary International Airport • Easy Access to All Major Routes & Downtown • 210 Guestrooms & Suites • Indoor Saltwater Pool • Jacuzzi, Steam & Exercise Room • Daltons Restaurant & Lounge • Conference Facitilies for 2-600 people • Free Parking

C A L G A RY 50

•

EDMONTON

3515-26th Street NE Toll Free/ Reservations: 888-233-6730 Tel: 403-250-8855 • Fax: 403-250-8050

w w w. gre e nw oodinn.c a

•

WINNIPEG

•

CORNER BROOK

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C A L G A R Y Northeast

Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Airport • 135 guest rooms (4 suites) • 1/2 mile from Airport; 10 min to downtown • Complimentary airport shuttle • Indoor pool, whirlpool & fitness centre • Restaurant & lounge, room service • 24 hour Pavilion Pantry • Refrigerator & microwave in each room • 2 phones & 2 lines, voice mail, dataports, with high speed internet access, included in rate • Complimentary business centre with wireless internet • Children's programs & amenities • Completely soundproof Tel (403) 717-1999 Fax (403) 717-1901 Toll free 1-877-410-2020 www.calgaryairport.gardeninn.com

2335 Pegasus Road NE, Calgary, Alberta T2E 8C3

Northeast

Travelodge Hotel Calgary International Airport Fresh, clean, family environment. Indoor pool, whirlpool, exercise room, full service restaurant and lounge. Complimentary High Speed internet access. Free shuttle bus to and from the Calgary airport. Rooms available with microwaves and fridges. Stay and Park rates are available. Located next to Sunridge Shopping Centre. We look forward to serving you.

Tel (403) 291-1260 Fax (403) 291-9170 Toll free 1-800-578-7878 whg7102f@whg.com www.the.travelodge.com/calgary09752

2750 Sunridge Blvd. NE, Calgary, Alberta T1Y 3C2

Northwest

Four Points by Sheraton Calgary West NORTHWEST CALGARY’S PREMIER HOTEL Located opposite Canada Olympic Park & only 12 minutes away from downtown—enjoy the best of both worlds! • 150 Guestrooms & Suites Featuring the Sheraton Four Comfort Bed® with Duvet • Private Balconies, Fridge, Microwave, Coffee-maker, Free High Speed Internet • Full Service Spa, Hair Salon, Laser Studio, Pool, Waterslide, Whirlpool, Steam Room, Fitness Centre • Avis Rental Counter, Complimentary Parking • Restaurant, Lounge, Gift Shop • Meeting Rooms, Weddings, Banquets Tel (403) 288-4441 Fax (403) 288-4442 Toll free 1-877-288-4441 www.fourpointscalgarywest.com

8220 Bowridge Cres. NW, Calgary, Alberta T3B 2V1 2008 /

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C A L G A R Y Northwest

Quality Inn

Suites & Spa University • Le Soleil Spa • Thai Place Restaurant • Q Lounge • The Terrace - Roof Top Patio • Meeting & Banquet Facilities • Indoor Pool, Whirlpool & Fitness Centre • Complimentary High Speed Internet • Complimentary Breakfast Bar • Complimentary 24-hour Coffee Bar Tel (403) 289-1973 Fax (403) 282-1241 Toll free 1-800-661-4667 marketing@qualityinnuofc.com www.qualityinnuofc.com

2359 Banff Trail NW, Calgary, Alberta T2M 4L2

South

Carriage House Inn Experience the hospitality at the Carriage House Inn, located in the heart of South Calgary’s shopping and entertainment district, minutes from downtown and the Calgary Stampede. • 160 well-appointed guestrooms including jacuzzi suites • Outdoor seasonal pool, fitness facilities and sauna • Conference / banquet facilities for up to 600 people • Restaurants, sports pub, gaming lounge • RNR Wellness in room spa • In-house specialty bakery • Complimentary parking • Pet Luv-Inn program Tel (403) 253-1101 Toll free 1-800-661-9566 sales@carriagehouse.net www.carriagehouse.net

9030 Macleod Tr. South, Calgary, Alberta T2H 0M4

South

Glenmore Inn & Convention Centre EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE 169 Guest Rooms - 12 minutes to Downtown. • Complimentary Wireless Internet • Two Restaurants & the Elbow Room Lounge • Business Centre • Beautiful ballroom and functional meeting space • Excellent access to major arteries • Complimentary Parking • Indoor Pool & waterslide • In-Room Spa Services Tel (403) 279-8611 Fax (403) 236-8035 Toll free 1-800-661-3163 www.glenmoreinn.com

2720 Glenmore Trail SE, Calgary, Alberta T2C 2E6 52

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PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

ALBERTA CENTRAL

2008 /

CENTRAL ALBERTA, a land of prairie elegance with big skies and emerald and gold grasslands, is also a place of tremendous cultural and historic diversity personified and proudly on display in the many small towns and villages established by different waves of immigrants over the last two centuries.

our alberta

ALBERTA CENTRAL as the Markerville Creamery, where you can taste the culinary traditions brought to Alberta by Icelandic settlers. For history that’s a bit more modern, visit the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame in Red Deer. Or, for some fun outdoors, check out the Wild Rapids Waterslide Park in Sylvan Lake. There’s more than a dozen waterslides, including the Sidewinder, the park’s tallest ride at 12 m (40 ft).

WHAT’S NEW

Alberta’s First Nations have inhabited central Alberta for thousands of years, living off the mighty bison herds that once roamed the open plains. The first Europeans to move into the area in significant numbers were French explorers and traders. In 1807, the great Canadian explorer David Thompson came here, establishing Rocky Mountain House as a base for his journeys north and west. With the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1885, wouldbe farmers and ranchers poured into the area, as well as prospectors on their way to the Yukon to take part in the Klondike Gold Rush. New immigrants from a variety of lands established farms and ranches. In 1947 an oil strike near the town of Leduc spurred Alberta’s oil and gas boom and central Alberta continues to be the epicenter of oil and gas exploration in the province.

PEOPLE AND PLACE Central Alberta is one of the most densely populated areas in Alberta. The terrain is predominantly flat, a fact that makes central Alberta an ideal place to experience the majesty of a big prairie sky, especially at sunset or before a rainstorm. The population of central Alberta is culturally diverse, with many small towns proudly displaying their immigrant heritage through historic and heritage sites. The area east of Edmonton boasts a significant Ukrainian population, exemplified by towns like Vegreville and Mundare; you can learn more at

the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village half an hour east of Edmonton. The town of Markerville near Red Deer was started by Icelandic settlers, whose culture remains on display at the Stephansson House Provincial Historic Site. The town of Lloydminster was originally settled by Reverend Isaac Barr and 2,000 colonists fleeing religious persecution in England; visit the Barr Colony Heritage Cultural Centre. Nowadays, central Alberta enjoys tremendous growth as a result of the province’s economic boom. Ranching remains an important industry, but the big employer in the area is oil and gas.

ATTRACTIONS AND EVENTS Alberta Prairie Railway Excursion Tours harkens back to a time when travelling wasn’t done at breakneck speed. These steam train tours go from Stettler to Big Valley and back again, in a little over five hours; there’s plenty of time to take in the views, savour some good food and enjoy on-board entertainment that includes a train robbery by the notorious Bolton Gang. Lacombe and Lloydminster, with their heritage buildings and small town charm, are great places to experience the culture of rural Alberta. Lacombe is also worth a visit for the Lacombe Corn Maze, made of 3 m (10 ft)-tall corn stalks. To experience Central Alberta’s gun slinging, whiskey trading past, visit Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site, which encompasses the archeological remains of four fur trading forts built between 1799 and 1875. The life of the pioneers are on display at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, as well

Don’t Miss REYNOLDS-ALBERTA MUSEUM If you love vintage machinery, this place has over 350 vehicles, 70 aircraft and 1,000 pieces of agricultural equipment from as far back as 1890, (Page 57). ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE Check out the National Historic Site with the archaeological remains of four fur-trading forts, (Page 57). ALBERTA SPORTS HALL OF FAME Gretzky is just one of the many prominent Alberta sports heroes featured in this Red Deer attraction, (Page 56).

Did You Know?

World champion figure skater Kurt Browning was raised in Caroline, Alberta.

The city of Lloydminster is cut in two by a provincial border. Residents to the east of Meridian Avenue live in Saskatchewan, while residents to the west live in Alberta.

The world’s largest Easter egg, at 9.63 metres (31.6 feet), is in Vegreville, a small town just east of Edmonton.

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PHOTOGRAPH: MIKE TRELOAR

A place of cultural diversity and prairie elegance

A BRIEF HISTORY

Happy birthday to The Reynolds-Alberta Museum, celebrating its 10th anniversary this year! A new kiosk featuring panels of information about Icelandic poet Stephan G. Stephanson was added to Stephanson House Provincial Historic Site in midMay 2008. After a lengthy planning and construction phase, the Chester Mjolsness World of Wildlife Museum, featuring over 150 animals including rhinos, giraffes and polar bears, has opened in Sundre.

ALBERTA NORTH (PAGE 86) 55 LAC LA BICHE

55 36 WHITECOURT

BARRHEAD

MAYERTHORPE TO HINTON & JASPER

WESTLOCK

SMOKY LAKE ST. PAUL

EDMONTON & AREA (PAGE 59)

VEGREVILLE

ELK POINT

36 TWO HILLS

MUNDARE

EDSON

COLD LAKE

BONNYVILLE 28A

45 41 VERMILION

TOFIELD

DRAYTON VALLEY

LLOYDMINSTER

VIKING

26 14 WAINWRIGHT DAYSLAND 20 22 KILLAM SEDGEWICK 2A 17 50 HARDISTY PONOKA 53 53 BASHAW 53 RIMBEY 36 56 11 LACOMBE NORDEGG 12 ROCKY PROVOST 13 20 BLACKFALDS 11 MOUNTAIN 41 12 11 HOUSE ECKVILLE STETTLER CASTOR SYLVAN LAKE RED DEER21 CORONATION PENHOLD 42 22 54 12 INNISFAIL ROCKY MOUNTAINS BOWDEN WETASKIWIN

(PAGE 19)

SUNDRE

DIDSBURY 22

CAMROSE

OLDS CARSTAIRS

ALBERTA SOUTH (PAGE 27)

CALGARY & AREA (PAGE 35)

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Via primary highways, distances in kilometres (1 km = 0.62 mi)

PHOTOGRAPH: MIKE TRELOAR

CALGARY

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CA LG A ED RY M O NT CO O N LD LA LL OY KE D M RE IN D ST D ER EE RK R Y M TN H O US E

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588

519

145

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LLOYDMINSTER

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RED DEER

145

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ALBERTA CENTRAL

HIGHWAY 2: THE QE II Connecting Calgary and Edmonton with Red Deer and small towns in between.

CALGARY NORTH TO RED DEER SUNDRE 40 km (25mi) west of Olds on Hwy 27. The Sundre Pioneer Village Museum depicts turn-of-the-century rural life with a log cabin, school, blacksmithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shop, wildlife display and farm machinery. May - Oct daily 10 am - 5 pm. Winter hours Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Sun 1 pm - 5 pm. $5 adults, $3 sen/youth, children under 6 free, $12 family. 211-1st Ave. SW, (403) 638-3233. INNISFAIL See 17 restored pioneer buildings including a bandstand circa 1905, the Bowden train station and a mobile bunk-house at the Innisfail Historical Village Museum located 2 1/2 blocks west of the water tower at 5139 - 42 St. May 19 - Sept 1 Mon to Sat 11 am - 5 pm; Sun and hols noon - 5 pm. Friday afternoon tea June - Sept, (403) 227-2906. Discovery Wild Life Park has more than 50 species of animals and birds including Siberian tigers and African lions. Open May 1 - Oct

8 daily 10 am - 7 pm. $12 adults, $10 youth/sen, $6.50 children, free for children 2 and under, (403) 227-3211. MARKERVILLE Turn west on Hwy 592 and going to Hwy 781, this Icelandic settlement is home to the Markerville Creamery, a museum and gift shop serving Icelandic foods. May 15 - Sept 1 Mon to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm. Sun noon - 5:30 pm, off-season by appt. $2 adults, $1.50 youth/sen, under 6 free, $5 fam, (403) 728-3006. 1 Stephansson House Provincial Historic Site is the former home of renowned Icelandic poet Stephan G. Stephansson. May 15 - Sept 1 daily 10 am - 6 pm. $3 adults, $2 sen/youth (7 to 17 yrs), under six free, $8 family (2 adults and children under 18), (403) 728-3929.

RED DEER On Hwy 2, 148 km (89 mi) south of Edmonton and 145 km (87 mi) north of Calgary, Albertaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fourth-largest city has information services at the Red Deer Visitor Information Centre inside the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame, open Mon to Fri 9 am - 5 pm, wknds 10 am - 5 pm (with extended summer hours). Call (403) 346-0180 or 1-800-215-8946.

ALBERTA SPORTS HALL OF FAME Founded in 1957, the hall pays tribute to 600 provincial sports figures and events through photographs, artifacts and interactive exhibits. The hall houses the first permanent exhibit featuring paralympics and disability sports. May 19 - Oct 8 daily 9 am - 6 pm; Oct 9 - May 17 daily 10 am - 5 pm. Adult $3, child $2, family $9, child under 4 free. 30 Riverview Park, off Hwy #2, north of the 32 Street overpass. Call (403) 341-8614 for more information. WASKASOO PARK Stretches through Red Deer from Heritage Ranch to River Bend Recreation Area in the northeast. The park has 50 km (30 mi) of river valley bike paths, picnic sites, an 18-hole golf course and Kerry Wood Nature Centre. May 19 - Sept 1 daily 10 am - 8 pm, hols 1 pm - 5 pm; Sept 2 - May 18 daily 10 am - 5 pm, hols 1 pm - 5 pm, by donation. 6300 - 45 Ave, (403) 346-2010. 1

NORTH OF RED DEER TO EDMONTON LACOMBE This prairie town has one of the best-preserved main streets from

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PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

Alberta’s early years. At The Lacombe Corn Maze visitors search for clues that help lead them out of the maze. July 25 - Sept 1 Mon to Sat 11 am - 9 pm; Sept 2 - Oct 11 Wed and Thur 4 pm - 8 pm, Fri to 9 pm, Sat 11 am - 9 pm. Weather permitting. Groups by appt. $9 adults, $7 children (4-12), free under 4. Drive 5 km (3 mi) west of Lacombe. Go 1.6 km (1 mi) west of Hwy 2 overpass on Hwy 12, then 0.8 km (half mi) south on Range Rd 27-3, call (403) 782-4653. STETTLER Take Hwy 590 east to Big Valley and travel north on Hwy 56 to Stettler. The Town & Country Museum is a 10-acre historic pioneer village of 24 heritage buildings. May 1 - Sept 1 daily 10 am - 5:30 pm, or by appt. Three-hour tour: $3 adults, $2 sen/youth, group rates vary, (403) 742-4534. ALBERTA PRAIRIE STEAM TOURS Explore the scenic countryside via round-trip day excursions on a vintage train powered by a steam or diesel locomotive. All trips depart from Stettler to Big Valley. Tours are five to six hours, and include on-board entertainment and roast beef buffet served at the destination. Year-round, call (403) 742-2811 for times and reservations.

PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

WETASKIWIN 39 km (23.5 mi) west of Camrose on Hwy 13. The ReynoldsAlberta Museum celebrates the “Spirit of the Machine” with a collection of more than 350 vehicles, 1,000 pieces of farm equipment and 60 vintage aircraft. The Museum includes Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame, a tribute to the people who pioneered and advanced aviation in Canada. Open year-round. May 21 - Sept 1 daily 10 am - 5 pm; July 1 - Sept 1 daily 10 am - 6 pm; Sept 2 - May 20 Tue to Sun 10 am - 5 pm. $9 adult, $7 sen, $5 youth, under seven free, $25 family. 1 km west of town on Hwy 13, (780) 361-1351 or 1-800-661-4726. 17 km southeast of Wetaskiwin. CAMROSE Head east of Wetaskiwin, west on Hwy 26, visit the Camrose and District Centennial Museum, reconstructed buildings from the town’s early days. May 17 - Sept 1 Tue to Sun 10 am - 5 pm, or by appt. Admission by donation. At the corner of 53 St and 46 Ave, (780) 672-3298.

HIGHWAY 11: THE DAVID THOMPSON Hwy 11 extends west from Red Deer to

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The 2008 David Thompson Brigade Paddles Back in History y On May 10, over 160 participants will take part in a rugged bicentennial commemoration of renowned ned Canadian explorer David Thompson. The David Thompson Brigade will launch a brigade of canoess from Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site and paddle through over 30 host communities throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and northwestern Ontario. This epic 63-day journey will cover 3,600 km and end at Old Fort William on July 12, on Lake Superior, just in time for their annual Great Rendezvous. For over 200 years the use of the canoe, from the beginning of the fur trade era until its end, was a vital part of the transportation network of goods and also provided a mode of transportation for David Thompson in many of his explorations. Following his crossing of Howse Pass in June of 1807, Thompson began his return trip in the spring of 1808 to report his findings to the partners of the North West Company. This 2008 bicentennial commemoration event is an opportunity to bring to the forefront a way of life that no longer exists and re-ignite interest in our rich history and the importance of the rivers that link Canadians all across the country. For more information visit www.2008thompsonbrigade.com —Susan Phelan the Icefields Parkway in Banff and Jasper National Parks, and is named after the famous explorer, fur trader, surveyor and map maker who travelled in this area for the North West Company from 1799 to 1813.

Jarvis Bay Provincial Park, (403) 8875522, plus the Wild Rapids Waterslide Park, open June 15 wknd only 11 am - 7 pm; June 22 - Sept 1 daily 11 am - 7 pm. (403) 887-2888.

SYLVAN LAKE Nineteen km (11.4 mi) west of Red Deer on Hwy 11, this spot has been a beach resort since 1901. There are camping and picnic areas in

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE Sixtyfive km (39 mi) west of Sylvan Lake. The North West Company and the rival Hudson’s Bay Company both

ALBERTA CENTRAL

Alberta Central Events Ponoka, (403) 783-0100. July 9 - 12 Colonial Days Fair Breakfast, midway, and beer gardens. Lloydminster, (306) 825-5571. July 16 - 20 Westerner Days Parade, midway, chuckwagon races and entertainment. Red Deer, (403) 343-7800. July 26 - 27 CentreFest Street artists, comics, and magicians from all over the world. Red Deer, (403) 340-8696. July 31 - Aug 3 Big Valley Jamboree Includes songwriters’ workshops and nightly fireworks. Camrose, 1-888404-1234. June 4 - 8 Rocky Pro Rodeo Calf roping, bull riding and other rodeo events. Rocky Mountain House, 1800-565-3793.

Aug 7 - 9 Vegreville Ag Soc Country Fair & Exhibition Chuckwagon and chariot races, midway and grandstand entertainment. Vegreville, 1-888-611-0161.

June 6 - 7 Annual Jaywalkers Jamboree Rides and festivities down Camrose’s main drag. Camrose, (780) 672-4217.

Aug 13 28th Annual Fair Pancake breakfast, games, local entertainment. Innisfree, (780) 592-2083.

June 14 - 15 History Road Four hundred cars, trucks and motorcycles from the early 1900s to present day. Reynolds-Alberta Museum, Wetaskiwin, 1-800-661-4726. June 14 Icelandic Picnic Family games, visiting, and the crowning of the Fjallkona (“maid of the mountain) followed by a potluck supper on the Creamery lawn. Markerville, (403) 728-3006. June 25 - July 1 Ponoka Stampede Parade, rodeo, chuckwagon races, pancake breakfasts, fireworks, and stage shows including Shane Yellowbird and George Canyon. built fur trading posts in this area as early as 1799. Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site encompasses the archaeological remains of four forts built between 1799 and 1875. May 17 - Sept 1 daily 10 am - 5 pm. 7 km (4.2 mi) southwest of town on Hwy 11A, (403) 845-2412.

HIGHWAY 16: THE YELLOWHEAD Crossing the province east to west from Lloydminster on the Saskatchewan border, through Edmonton to Edson and Jasper.

EAST OF EDMONTON VEGREVILLE The town’s Ukrainian

Aug 14 - 17 Canadian Professional Chuckwagon Association Finals Lloydminster, (306) 248-3704. Aug 16 - 17 David Thompson Days Celebrating the area’s fur trade past and the journeys of explorer David Thompson. Rocky Mountain House, (403) 845-2866. Aug 15 - 16 Annual Fair: Boomtown Days Parade, beer gardens, fireworks. Vilna, (780) 623-1975. Aug 30 - 31 Reynolds Alberta Museum Harvest Festival Plowing and threshing demonstrations, vintage farm machinery. Reynolds-Alberta Museum, Wetaskiwin, 1-800-661-4726. heritage is represented by the 7 m (23 ft) pysanka (Easter egg) in Elks Kinsmen Community Park in the east end of town. 105 km (63 mi) east of Edmonton via Hwy 16. Vegreville Regional Museum houses three collections including the general history of Vegreville and area circa 1890. June - Aug Tue to Fri 10 am - 5 pm, Sat, Sun 1 pm - 5 pm; Sept - May phone for hours. Admission by donation. 1 km (half mile) east of town at Hwy 16A, (780) 632-7650. LLOYDMINSTER A detour 59 km (35.5 mi) east on Hwy 16 from Vermilion takes you to Lloydminster, the city

whose main street forms the Alberta/ Saskatchewan border. Barr Colony Heritage Cultural Centre commemorates the mass settlement in 1903 of 2,000 colonists from England. May 19 - Sept 1 daily 9 am - 8 pm; winter Wed to Fri 9 am - 5 pm, wknds 1 pm - 5 pm. Hwy 16 east at 45 Ave, (306) 825-5655.

WEST OF EDMONTON EDSON Continue west from Entwistle on the Yellowhead Hwy. Along the way is the Red Brick Arts Centre and Museum, a renovated 1913 school building and registered Historic Resource, and featuring an art gallery, theatre, museum and gift shop. Mon to Fri 9 am - 4:30 pm, wknds by appt only. (780) 723-3582. Travel Information Centre, (780) 723-4918. HINTON 288 km (179 mi) west of Edmonton on Hwy 16 is the town of Hinton. Here, find outfitters and adventure tour companies offering everything from heli-tours to ATV rides, plus wildlife viewing, fishing and hunting trips to explore nearby Willmore Wilderness Provincial Park. Visit the Alberta Forest Service Museum to learn more about the local logging industry. Town office, (780) 865-6000. JASPER 80 km (50 mi) west of Hinton, Hwy 16 reaches Jasper, a full-service mountain resort town with great attractions, dining and shopping and nearby hiking, trail riding and whitewater rafting opportunities. See our extended listing in the Rocky Mountains section, page 25.

NORTHEAST VIA HIGHWAY 41 ST. PAUL A short detour 28 km (16.8 mi) west of Hwy 41 on Hwy 28 leads to the town of St. Paul, home to the world’s only known official UFO Landing Pad. The 12 m (39 ft) platform is a 1967 Canadian Centennial project that conceals a time capsule to be opened in 2067. COLD LAKE Follow Hwy 41 north and turn east on Hwy 55, to Cold Lake, which boasts the largest inland marina in western Canada. The 250 floating berths at the Cold Lake Marina are the launching point for one of the largest lakes in Alberta. To book a weekly, daily or monthly berth call (780) 639-3316.

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PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY EDMONTON TOURISM

PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY DESIGNPICS INC. – COREY HOCHACHKA

EDMONTON & AREA

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A LIVELY METROPOLIS thriving in areas of business, art, entertainment, retail and dining, Edmonton is also peppered with pockets of charming neighbourhoods comprised of quaint shops and eateries, and bisected by its beauteous river valley—making a trip here a delightfully diverse experience.

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EDMONTON & AREA

A BRIEF HISTORY

Edmonton is Canada’s festival city

In 1795, the Hudson’s Bay Company established a trading post in what later would become central Alberta. Fort Edmonton was situated amid fertile prairie grasslands near the lush North Saskatchewan River valley, and over the next thirty years it became the major distribution centre for the western prairies as well as the primary gateway to Canada’s north and the Pacific coast. In 1871, land was selected on the site of the current Alberta Legislature grounds and settlement began, with the official incorporation of the City of Edmonton taking place in 1904. One year later, Edmonton was chosen as the provincial capital. In 1947, when the discovery of oil in nearby Leduc rendered Edmonton “the Oil Capital of Canada,” the already booming metropolis took off and has never looked back.

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology and MacEwan College. Bisecting the city is the North Saskatchewan River; the river valley that flanks it provides a unique urban escape area with fully serviced urban parks and public access to campsite-like facilities. With a pronounced change of four separate seasons, Edmonton generally enjoys mild, snowy winters, temperate to hot summers, long warm falls and tepid rainy springs. One of the northernmost metropolitan areas in North America, Edmonton has often served as a staging area for ventures up north—in particular for the Klondike gold rush of the late 19th century, and these days, for the largescale oilsands projects in northern Alberta and diamond-mining operations in the Northwest Territories. Edmonton attracts people from around the world, and boasts a young, energetic and ethnically diverse population.

PEOPLE AND PLACE

ATTRACTIONS AND EVENTS

As Canada’s second most populous provincial capital, Edmonton is known for its cultural diversity and warm hospitality. Edmonton is also a hub for education and learning, home to Canada’s third largest university, the University of Alberta, as well as the

Deemed “Festival City,” Edmonton has 35-plus festivals that run over the course of the year, with events ranging from Shakespeare to beer, rodeo to opera, and street performance to Rexall Edmonton Indy racing (see our events listings, page 64). The city’s top-of-the-

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WHAT’S NEW The newsworthy unification of The Indy Racing League and Champ Car World Series means that the Rexall Edmonton Indy in Edmonton this July will be not only one heck of a terrific race event with more cars than ever, but the only race event in Canada this year. One of Canada’s largest electric and electronic waste recycling facilities opened in Edmonton in March. Considered to be cutting edge in the area of e-waste recycling, the depot is expected to process 30,000 tonnes per year of old computers, televisions, and numerous other electronic and electrical waste materials. Located at the City of Edmonton’s Waste Management Centre, the facility is owned and operated by Global Electric and Electronic Processing (GEEP) Alberta. The Muttart Conservatory closed in March for an extensive expansion and renovation project. It is scheduled to reopen in January 2009.

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Edmonton’s official designation, The City of Champions, is a salute to its pro hockey team The Edmonton Oilers (5 Stanley Cups) and its pro football team The Edmonton Eskimos (13 Grey Cups).

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Edmonton’s streets and parklands are home to one of the largest remaining concentrations of healthy American Elm trees in the world—Dutch Elm disease has wiped out most of these trees around the globe.

SEE PAGE 74 FOR A MORE DETAILED MAP, PLUS ACCOMMODATIONS.

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FORT EDMONTON PARK Trace the growth and development of Edmonton, from its early days as a fur trade post through its evolvement into a booming metropolitan centre after World War I, with a

Twenty-two times larger than New York City’s Central Park, Edmonton’s river valley constitutes the longest stretch of connected urban parkland in North America.

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ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM Home to the history of Alberta’s wilderness and wildlife, as well as the province’s natural and human history as experienced through oneof-a-kind dioramas and interpretive exhibitions, (Page 68).

Did You Know?

line concert hall, the $45-million Francis Winspear Centre, features a shoebox-style performance chamber reminiscent of the 19th century European concert halls, as well as the celebrated Davis Concert Pipe Organ—the largest in Canada. Like the recently renovated Jubilee Auditorium, the Winspear Centre is an acoustically superior venue that regularly draws top performers in a wide assortment of mediums. With a literal buffet of dining options, Edmonton has nearly 2,000 restaurants offering everything from regional specialties such as Alberta beef and bison to diverse ethnic cuisines ranging from French to Italian, Indian, German and Asian. Edmonton is also well known for its unique and varied shopping opportunities. Eclectic and unique characterizes the bohemian Old Strathcona area, charming and elite is the 124th Street District and anything and everything can be found at West Edmonton Mall. Edmonton’s downtown core is another don’t-miss browser’s paradise with an interconnecting pedway leading to no less than three top-of-the-line shopping complexes in the heart of the city. For more comprehensive information on where to stay, eat, dine and shop while in The City of Champions, pick up a copy of Where Edmonton Magazine, available at restaurants, hotels and visitors centres around the city.

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WEST EDMONTON MALL With over 900 stores, services and attractions such as an indoor amusement park that houses the world’s biggest indoor triple-loop roller coaster, this is one of the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the world, (Page 67).

virtual walk through Canada’s largest living history park, (Page 67).

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Don’t Miss

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TO: EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL TO: EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AIRPORT&&CALGARY CALGARY

By The Numbers LAND AREA: 9,418 km2 (includes surrounding area) POPULATION: 1,034,945 (metro), 730,372 (city proper), (2006 census) CITY INCORPORATION: 1904 ALTITUDE: 668m above sea level

Nearby Towns and Places of Interest (DISTANCE FROM EDMONTON IN KM)

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ATHABASCA ........................................ 147

LEDUC ...................................................... 33

BEAUMONT ...........................................25

RED DEER ..............................................148

CALGARY .............................................294

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE .........220

FORT MCMURRAY............................ 439

SPRUCE GROVE ....................................35

GRAND PRAIRIE.................................456

ST. ALBERT ...............................................16

JASPER................................................... 366

WETASKIWIN ........................................68

MORINVILLE

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SEE PAGE XX FOR A MORE DETAILED MAP, PLUS ACCOMMODATIONS.

TO: EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL TO: EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AIRPORT&&CALGARY CALGARY

By The Numbers LAND AREA: 9,418 km2 (includes surrounding area) POPULATION: 1,034,945 (metro), 730,372 (city proper), (2006 census) CITY INCORPORATION: 1904 ALTITUDE: 668m above sea level

Nearby Towns and Places of Interest (DISTANCE FROM EDMONTON IN KM)

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ATHABASCA ........................................ 147

LEDUC ...................................................... 33

BEAUMONT ...........................................25

RED DEER ..............................................148

CALGARY .............................................294

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE .........220

FORT MCMURRAY............................ 439

SPRUCE GROVE ....................................35

GRAND PRAIRIE.................................456

ST. ALBERT ...............................................16

JASPER................................................... 366

WETASKIWIN ........................................68

EDMONTON

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EDMONTON & AREA

Edmonton & Area Events MAY 23 - JUNE 30 Opera Nuova Vocal Arts Festival Showcasing Canada’s future opera stars with various performances. Edmonton, (780) 487-4844. MAY 23 - 25 Rainmaker’s Rodeo Features chuckwagon and chariot racing, bull-riding, steer wrestling, bareback riding, ladies barrel racing and more. Kinsmen Club, St. Albert, 1-888-459-1725. MAY 27 - 31 Northern Alberta International Children’s Festival Theatre, music, dance and storytelling acts from around the world. The Arden Theatre, St Albert, (780) 459-1542. JUNE 3 - 7 Dreamspeakers 13th Annual Aboriginal International Film Festival International gathering of Dreamtalkers: filmmakers, performers and artists. Various venues, Edmonton, (780) 378-9609. JUNE 5 - 15 Syncrude Next Generation Arts Festival (NeXtfest) Multi-disciplinary arts festival, with new works from emerging artists. Roxy Theatre and various venues, Edmonton, (780) 453-2440. JUNE 13 - 14 Edmonton’s 2nd Annual Festival of Beer A celebration of summer drinks and food, with over 200 varieties of beer as well as other favorite summer drinks, (780) 951-4653. JUNE 18 - 28 Improvaganza The world’s best improv troupes battle it out for the famed Masters of the Obvious title. Varscona Theatre, Edmonton, (780) 448 - 0695. JUNE 20 - 29 The Edmonton International Jazz Festival Concerts, workshops, club dates and free outdoor events. Edmonton, (780) 990-0222. JUNE 20 - JULY 2 The Works Art & Design Festival Over 50 free exhibits and 250 special events transform downtown Edmonton into the largest gallery in North America. Edmonton, (780) 426-2122. JUNE 27 - JULY 23 River City Shakespeare Festival Free Will Players put on two productions on alternating evenings. Edmonton, (780) 425-8086.

JULY 1 Canada Day Celebrations Pancake breakfast, road race, fun run and citizenship court at the Alberta Legislature grounds. In the evening, a multicultural extravaganza and the Great Divide Waterfall—High Level Bridge becomes a waterfall and massive fireworks display. Edmonton, 1-888-562-2777. JULY 4 - 13 Edmonton International Street Performers Festival Sixty internationally known street acts including magicians, clowns, mimes, musicians and comics. At Sir Winston Churchill Square, Edmonton, (780) 425-5162. JULY 17 - 26 Edmonton’s Capital Ex Edmonton’s newly renamed and renovated exhibition will feature new shows like Ed Fest, Global Connections and Northwest Originals. Northlands Agricom, Edmonton, (780) 423-2822 or (780) 471-7210. JULY 18 - 27 Visualeyez Festival Showcases the work of individual artists as well as the performance art community. Various venues, Edmonton, (780) 423-5353. JULY 18 - 27 A Taste of Edmonton Food samples from over forty of Edmonton’s finest restaurants, with entertainment on two stages. (780) 423-2822. JULY 24 - 26 Rexall Edmonton Indy World-renowned racing event, part of the IndyCar World Series. Edmonton, (780) 488-8882. JULY 26 - AUG 3 Edmonton and Athabaska District Historic Festival Events includes horse-drawn carriage and walking tours of historical buildings, historic food tasting, live music, old fashioned family-oriented activities and more. (780) 4392797. AUG 1 - 3 Blueberry Bluegrass & Country Music Festival Featuring a main stage, jam sessions, lessons and demos. Stony Plain, 1-888-5266464. AUG 2 - 4 Edmonton Heritage Festival Celebrate cultural diversity with fifty-plus outdoor pavilions, music, dancing, arts and exotic cuisine in Edmonton’s beautiful Hawrelak Park. (780) 488-3378.

ATTRACTIONS ALBERTA LEGISLATURE Surrounded by 57 acres of parkland, this beautiful building is a must-see for those interested in architecture, politics and history. Completed in 1912 on the site of the original Fort Edmonton, the building features an interpretive centre and gift shop. May 1 - Oct 15, 8:30 am to 5 pm wkdays; 9 am - 5 pm on wknds & hols. Tours on the hour from 9 am - noon and every half hour from 12:30 pm - 4 pm. Free admission and guided tours. 107 St & 97 Ave, (780) 427-7362. 1 ART GALLERY OF ALBERTA One of Alberta’s oldest cultural institutions houses over 5,000 historical and contemporary paintings, sculptures, prints, installation works and photographs from Canadian and international artists with a strong focus on Alberta art. With an exciting new building being constructed that will be unveiled in 2009, the AGA has secured an interim location at Enterprise Square. $10 adult, $7 stu/sen, $5 child (6 - 12), child under 5 free. “Pay what you may” Thur from 4 - 8 pm. Admission rates are subject to change. Gallery hours: Tue, Wed, Fri 10:30 am - 5 pm; Thur 10:30 am - 8 pm; Sat, Sun 11 am - 5 pm; Mon, stat hols closed. 100 Enterprise Square (10230 Jasper Avenue), 1 (780) 422-6223. DEVONIAN BOTANIC GARDEN This picturesque attraction features over 10,000 species of plants showcased over 80 acres, including an authentic Japanese garden, herb garden, large collections of peony, iris, and lily, and 110 acres of nature trails and ecological and wetland reserves. Open Apr 26 - Sept 1 $12.50 adult, $6 youth/student, University of Alberta students free, $8 sen, $3 child (7-12), child under 6 free. Located on Hwy 60, 20 minutes from West Edmonton Mall, (780) 987-3054. 1 EDMONTON QUEEN RIVERBOAT Daily cruises give an opportunity to take In the awesome River Valley, boasting one of the most picturesque views of Edmonton. For sport fans or business clients, there is an exclusive VIP room, equipped with a full-service bar and seating with a 42 inch plasma satellite TV. Open May 11 - Sept 13. Cruises run Thur to Sun. Prices range from $11.95 to $40, dependant on day and cruise type chosen. 9734-98 Ave, (780) 424-2628. JUBILEE AUDITORIUM Commissioned by the Alberta government in 1955 to

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EDMONTON & AREA MUTTART CONSERVATORY The dramatic glass pyramids in Edmonton’s river valley house a spectacular display of flowers and vegetation. The Tropical Pyramid features one of North America’s largest collections of orchid species, while the Show Pyramid features seasonal floral exhibits. There are also Temperate and Arid Climate Pyramids. Activity books are available and enhance the visit providing fun activities for children and adults. The Muttart houses a gift shop, art gallery and café. $8.75 adult, $6.75 youth/sen, $4.50 child (2-12), child under 2 free, $26.50 fam. Mon to Fri 9 am - 5:30 pm; wknds & hols 11 am - 5:30 pm. Closed Christmas Day. Note: closed for renovations until 2009. 9626 - 96 1 A St, (780) 496-8787.

We often hear that the inner workings of the human body are nothing short of a miracle. Now you can confirm that fact up close and personal with a visit to Gunther von Hagens' BODY WORLDS: The Original Exhibition of Real Human Bodies at TELUS World of Science Edmonton. This world-touring display features authentic human specimens, who were willed by donors for the express purpose of serving BODY WORLDS mission to educate the public about health and anatomy. To date, more than 8,000 people have agreed to donate their bodies to BODY WORLDS. These anatomical samples, preserved through a revolutionary process called plastination, take visitors on an amazing journey below the skin's surface to view more than 200 authentic organs, systems and whole-body displays. Body Worlds: The Original Exhibition of Real Human Bodies is on display at TELUS World of Science Edmonton from June 13 through October 18, 2008. Due to the show’s popularity, advance ticket purchases are strongly recommended. For further information call (780) 451-3344. — Susan Phelan celebrate the province’s 50th anniversary, this 2,538-seat auditorium, home to the Edmonton Opera and Alberta Ballet and located on the University of Alberta campus, underwent major renovations in

2005 as part of the Alberta Centennial celebrations. Year-round touring musical theatre companies pass through as well as other entertainment acts. 114 St & 87 1 Ave, (780) 427-2760.

OLD STRATHCONA FARMERS’ MARKET This popular indoor market offers a multitude of booths with fresh fruits and vegetables, baking, preserves, free-range meats and cheeses as well as crafts, including wood work, wreaths, flower arrangements and handcrafted jewellery. Open year-round, Sat 8 am - 3 pm. 10310 - 83 Ave, (780) 439-1844.1 TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE EDMONTON Edmonton’s space and science centre features five interactive mind-boggling galleries. Take a walk through the human body in the Body Fantastic, solve a mystery in Mystery Avenue, gain a deeper understanding of Mother Nature in The Greens’ House, explore space in every dimension in Space Place and find everything for curious kids age 12 and under in Discoveryland. The Explorer Gallery features travelling exhibits. Two major attractions are the Margaret Zeidler Star Theatre, which houses the largest planetarium dome in Canada and Western Canada’s first IMAX Theatre. $12.95 adult, $10.95 youth/stu/sen, $9.50 child (3-12), $47.95 fam. Open Sun to Thur, stat hols 10 am - 5 pm; Fri, Sat 10 am - 9 pm. 11211 - 142 St, (780) 451-3344.

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PHOTOGRAPH: GUNTHER VON HAGENS, INSTITUTE FOR PLASTINATION, HEIDELBERG, GERMANY, WWW.BODYWORLDS.COM

The Beautiful Body

NORTHLANDS PARK Facilities include The Spectrum (horse racing and gaming), AgriCom, Sportex, and Silver Slipper. Northlands Park produces many annual special events including Farmfair International and the Canadian Finals Rodeo, in addition to year-round thoroughbred and harness horse racing (live and simulcast). 73 St & 116 Ave, (780) 471-7210. 1

PHOTOGRAPH: GUNTHER VON HAGENS, INSTITUTE FOR PLASTINATION, HEIDELBERG, GERMANY, WWW.BODYWORLDS.COM

UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA One of Canada’s premier research and teaching universities, the University of Alberta is located on the south banks of the North Saskatchewan River. Founded in 1908, the U of A serves over 33,000 students and has an international reputation in many fields including research in diabetes, nanotechnology, chemistry, English literature and cosmology. 112 St & 89 1 Ave, (780) 492-2325. VALLEY ZOO Located on the west side of the city next to Laurier Park, the Valley Zoo is home to more than 400 exotic and endangered animals. The facility is an accredited Species Survival Plan breeding centre for the cotton-topped tamarin, Siberian tiger and snow leopard. Daily interpretive programs allow visitors to get nose-to-nose with some of the Valley Zoo animals. Summer admission: $9 adult, $6.75 youth/sen, $4.50 child under 13, child under 2 free, $27 fam. Winter admission: $6.75 adult, $5 youth/sen, $3.50 child under 13, child under 2 free, $20.25 fam. Jan 1 - May 9 daily 9:30 am - 4 pm. May 10 - June 27 daily 9:30 am 6 pm. June 28 - Sept 1 daily 9:30 am - 8 pm. Sept 2 - Oct 13 daily 9:30 am - 4 pm, wknds, hols to 6 pm. Oct 9 - Dec 31 daily 9:30 am - 4 pm, 13315 St & Buena Vista 1 Rd, (780) 496-8787. WEST EDMONTON MALL The largest shopping and entertainment centre in the world, West Edmonton Mall features over 800 stores and services and more than 110 restaurants and eateries. Attractions include Galaxyland, the world’s largest indoor amusement park; World Waterpark with slides, a wave pool and a bungee jump; Deep Sea Derby, bumper cars on an indoor lake; a sea lion show at Sea Lions’ Rock, 2 pm and 4 pm daily; and an NHL-sized Ice Palace. The mall’s nightlife includes the Las Vegasstyle Palace Casino, Jubilations Live Dinner Theatre and more. Open 365 days a year; hours vary for retail and attractions. 8882 - 170 St, (780) 444-5200 1 or 1-800-661-8890.

HISTORIC SIGHTS ALBERTA GOVERNMENT HOUSE This gracious sandstone building was opened in 1913 as the residence of Alberta’s Lieutenant Governors. The mansion was closed in 1938 and used as a veterans’ hospital from 1944 to 1951. In 1976, after extensive restoration, it was re-opened as the province’s official government conference centre. Free tours every half hour. Sat, Sun 11 am - 4:30 pm. 12845 -

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102 Ave (adjacent to the Royal Alberta 1 Museum), (780) 452-7980. CANADIAN PETROLEUM DISCOVERY CENTRE The site of Leduc’s #1 Discovery Well is recognized as one of Canada’s most important economic discoveries. Features indoor and outdoor displays, guided daily tours, exhibits, fossils and drilling rigs. Open year-round 9 am - 5 pm daily. Located ten minutes west of the Edmonton International Airport, 1-866-987-4323. FORT EDMONTON PARK Canada’s largest living history park, featuring costumed interpreters, a replica 1846 fort, and three recreated historical streets from 1885, 1905 and 1920. Steam train and street car rides included in admission. Join the costumed historical interpreters and try your hand at living life as an early pioneer. Visitors can stay overnight in the historically replicated Selkirk Hotel. For information, call 1-800-717-1277. School and group programs available. $13.25 adult, $10 youth/sen, $6.75 child, $40 fam. May 18 - June 27 daily 10 am - 4 pm, wknds and hols 10 am - 6 pm, June 25 - Sept 1 daily 10 am - 6 pm, Sep 7, 14, 21, 28 10 am - 6 pm. Fox Drive & Whitemud Drive, (780) 496-8787. Some buildings are not accessible. 2 RUTHERFORD HOUSE Built in 1911 for Alexander Cameron Rutherford, Alberta’s first premier, his wife Mattie and their children. Today, this restored and furnished post-Edwardian style home maintains the Rutherford tradition of hospitality and offers visitors a glimpse into the past with costumed historical interpreters, guided tours and special events. Boasts a cozy lunch and afternoon tea haven called the Arbour Restaurant as well as the Whatnot Gift shop. $4 adult, $3 youth/sen, children free, $12 fam. Open year-round. Winter: Tue to Sun noon - 5 pm, closed Mon. May - Sept daily 9 am - 5 pm. 11153 Saskatchewan Dr, on the University of Alberta campus, (780) 427-3995. 2

MUSEUMS ALBERTA AVIATION MUSEUM Relive Edmonton’s rich aviation history in the museum hangar at the city centre airport. The museum holds a collection of vintage planes dating back to the 1920s, including aircraft from early commercial and bush flying eras. The Aviation Gift Shop is also on-site. $9

EDMONTON & AREA

Edmonton & Area Events AUG 7 - 10 Edmonton Folk Music Festival Blues, Celtic, gospel and world music, plus family activities, arts and crafts, and a food fair. At the outdoor acoustic amphitheatre of Gallagher Park. (780) 429-1899. AUG 8 - 10 CariWest—Edmonton Caribbean Arts Festival Colourful costume extravaganza, calypso competition, a gala parade through the city centre, and dance. (780) 421-7800. AUG 9 - 10 Doors Open Alberta Celebrating the people, places and architecture of the province. Visit www.doorsopenalberta.ca. AUG 14 - 24 Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival Uncensored, non-juried theatrical excitement held in the heart of Edmonton’s Old Strathcona neighbourhood. (780) 448-9000. AUG 22 - 24 Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival Dragon Boat racing on the North Saskatchewan River. Edmonton, (780) 493-8158. AUG 22 - 24 Edmonton Labatt Blues Festival Top local, national and international blues acts—acoustic, electric, from funk to zydeco—at the adult, $7 sen, $6 youth (13-17), $5 child (6-12), $24 fam, children under 5 free. Mon to Fri 10 am – 6 pm; Sat, Sun & hols 10 am – 4 pm. 11410 Kingsway 1 Ave, (780) 451-1175. C&E (1891) RAILWAY MUSEUM Visitors to the museum can relive those first exciting days when the steam engines first arrived in Strathcona, bringing thousands of settlers to the area. The museum is a replica of the original station which served the community from 1891-1907 and features numerous train and station artifacts as well as an extensive historic photograph collection. June 1 - Aug 31 Tue to Sat 10 am - 4 pm. Sept 1 - May 31 by appt only. Admission by donation with a suggestion of $2 per person. 10447 - 86 Ave, (780) 433-9739. THE LOYAL EDMONTON REGIMENT MUSEUM Two galleries dedicated to the history of Edmonton’s own infantry regiment, as well as other units and military service from central and northern Alberta. Featuring pictures, documents and artifacts depicting all aspects of

Heritage Amphitheatre in Hawrelak Park. (780) 708-7230. AUG 29 - SEPT 1 Symphony Under the Sky Festival Outdoor classical music in the Hawrelak Park Heritage Amphitheatre with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. (780) 4281414 or 1-800-563-5081. OCT 31 - NOV 8 Farmfair International Livestock show and sale at the Northlands AgriCom, (780) 471-7210. NOV 6 - 10 Global Visions Film Festival A documentary festival with screenings of films on human rights, social and environmental issues, and the human spirit. In the Edmonton Arts District, (780) 414-1052. NOV 5 - 9 Canadian Finals Rodeo Events in bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling and more at the Northlands AgriCom, (780) 471-7210. DEC 31 New Year’s Eve Downtown A New Year’s Eve celebration of music, dance, theatre, comedy and the visual arts downtown. Special activities include ice sculptures, maskmaking and fireworks in Sir Winston Churchill Square. recruiting, training and overseas service. Admission by donation. Mon to Fri 10 am - 4 pm. Prince of Wales Armouries, 10440 - 108 Ave, (780) 421-9943. 1 ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM Examine eons-old minerals, gems and rocks, and discover the forces that forged our planet in the Natural History Gallery. Take a look at giant walking sticks, stinging scorpions, and tarantulas the size of dinner plates “live and up close” in the Bug Room. Go on an unforgettable journey through our province’s breathtaking natural habitat in Wild Alberta or check out one of this year’s exhibits, such as Lost Ship Recovery Voyages from May 22, 50 artifacts will be showcased that were recovered from the wreck of the Empress of Ireland Ship. Open daily 9 am - 5 pm. $10 adult, $8 sen, child under 6 free, $7 student, $5 youth (3-17), $28 fam. Half-price admission on Sat, Sun from 9 am - 11 am. 12845 - 102 Ave (780) 453-9100. UKRAINIAN CULTURAL HERITAGE VILLAGE This unique outdoor living

museum tells the story of Ukrainian settlement in central Alberta from 1892 to the 1930s. Costumed role players re-create the lives of authentic pioneers and over 30 restored buildings bring history to life. May 17 - Sept 1 daily 10 am - 6 pm. Sept 2 - Oct 13 wknds only. $8 adult, $7 sen, $4 youth (7-17), children under 6 free, $20 fam. Located 25 minutes east of Edmonton along Hwy 2 16, (780) 662-3640.

NEAR EDMONTON COOKING LAKE / BLACKFOOT RECREATIONAL AREA This 97 sq km day use recreation area offers more than 170 km of trails for hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, cross-country skiing, dogsledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and horseback riding. Located 24 km east of Sherwood Park on Hwy 16 to Range Road 210, south of Elk Island National Park, (780) 922-4676. ELK ISLAND NATIONAL PARK Canada’s first federal wildlife sanctuary, established in 1906. Bison, elk, moose and deer roam together in this national park boasting more than 250 species of birds. Wildlife viewing, hiking, picnicking and camping are among the abundant recreational activities. Open year-round. $6.90 adult, $5.90 sen, $3.45 child (7-16), children under 6 free, $17.30 group. (Prices are subject to change). 50 km (30 miles) east of Edmonton on Hwy 16, (780) 992-2950. 1 LEDUC This city just south of Edmonton is home to the Canadian Petroleum Discovery Centre, a world class curling facility, Leduc Woods House Museum and an extensive network of parks and nature areas. Leduc also has a thriving arts and cultural community. Five minutes from the International Airport, south of Edmonton on Hwy 2, (780) 986-5454. MORINVILLE 30 km (18 mi) north of Edmonton via Hwy 2. Morinville Historical and Cultural Centre, built in 1909, is a 100-room building containing period rooms, artifacts, The Boardroom Tea House and an art gallery. Cultural centre open Sun 10 am - 2 pm or by appointment. Free admission, (780) 939-4545. St Jean Baptist Church houses murals depicting the life of St. John the Baptist and a 1925 Casavant pipe organ. The original chapel was built in 1891 by Father Jean Baptist Morin, who brought the first French and German settlers to the area

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PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY EDMONTON TOURISM

(780) 939-4361. SHERWOOD PARK / STRATHCONA COUNTY In the heart of Strathcona County you will find Sherwood Park, one of the world’s largest hamlets. Strathcona Wilderness Centre is a popular spot for hiking, cross-country skiing, canoeing, snow-shoeing, wildlife watching, orienteering and nature interpretation. The area features 550 acres and 12 km of trails. Campsites, bunkhouses and a pine lodge are on-site, (780) 922-3939. Step into the past at the Strathcona County Museum and Archives located at 913 Ash St, off Wye Rd, (780) 467-8189. Another popular attraction, Katie’s Crossing offers a unique dining experience. Tucked away just off Baseline Road, guests can dine in re-modeled train cars, (780) 922-7008. ST. ALBERT One of Alberta’s oldest communities, St. Albert was established in 1861 and named after Father Albert Lacombe, one of the earliest and most influential missionaries in the west. St. Albert Place, located on the banks of the Sturgeon River, houses the Arden Theatre, City Hall, and the Musée Heritage Museum (780) 459-1528, highly regarded for its exhibits on the city’s rich history.

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Exhibits change every two months. Free admission. Father Lacombe Chapel, a provincial historic site that dates back to 1861 making it the oldest log structure in Alberta. It has been restored to its original appearance and can be viewed May 15 - Sept 1, daily 10 am - 6 pm, (780) 4597663. Western Canada’s largest outdoor Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday July - Sept. St. Albert Visitor Information, (780) 459-1724. STONY PLAIN Just west of Edmonton on Hwy 16, Stony Plain is a community of over 10,000 people. It boasts more than 20 life-size murals painted by

Alberta artists and a charming main street. Other highlights include the Multicultural Heritage Centre, an old brick school built in 1925 which now contains a public art gallery. Also on the grounds is Oppertshauser House, a living museum and antique store; Stony Plain Pioneer Museum with historical artifacts depicting the region’s heritage; Shikaoi Park, a tranquil garden setting with ponds and flowers designed as a tribute to Stony Plain’s sister town of Shikaoi, Japan; and Crooked Pot Gallery featuring clay and raku pottery by regional potters. Located west of Edmonton on Hwy 16 or 16A. Visitor Information, (780)

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Draws that Delight

IN W

Centre, located at the site of the Leduc #1, the first drill site that made Alberta into the rich province it is today. Take a tour of the famous Imperial Oil drill rig and learn all about its rich history. Take a trip through Edmonton’s history with a visit to Fort Edmonton Park. As Canada’s largest living museum, this unique site represents four distinct time periods in Edmonton’s development from a fur trade post to a booming metropolitan centre after the First World War. Take a step even further back into the past with a visit to the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. This turn-of-the-century, award-winning outdoor living museum tells the story of the settlement of Ukrainian immigrants in east Central Alberta from 1892 to 1930. And last but not least, the Telus World of Science™ – Edmonton is a world-class science centre that offers permanent interactive exhibits; feature exhibits, such as Body Worlds1; an IMAX theatre; the Margaret Ziedler Star Theatre and an Observatory.

Summer just wouldn’t be summer without the city’s annual exhibition Capital EX. Condensed into 10 thrilling days, celebrating the city’s cultural and pop culture scene in an explosion of choice entertainment, midway fun and games, shopping and culture for the entire family. While in the vicinity, take in some thoroughbred action at the adjacent Northlands Spectrum; this horse racing facility and casino has evolved into a dynamic host in the areas of sports, gambling and entertainment. Edmonton’s favourite interactive museum of automobiles, The Reynolds-Alberta Museum is a must see attraction. New this summer is the exciting arrival of the Model T exhibition, learn how “Tin Lizzie Changed the World”. While you’re there make sure to check out the resource centre where you can learn about the history of the four highlights of the museum – transportation, aviation, agriculture and industry. If you are in the mood for some impressive history, stop in at the Canadian Petroleum Discovery

Edmonton & Area Attractions Heat Up Summer

D ELIGHTFUL D RAWS!

Visit www.traveltowin.ca for a chance to win one of many prize packages courtesy of participating Edmonton attractions. For more information, rules and regulations visit www.traveltowin.ca

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Alberta Place Suite Hotel Best Western City Centre Chateau Louis Chateau Nova Hotel & Suites Comfort Inn & Suites Crowne Plaza Chateau Lacombe Delta Edm. Centre Suite Hotel Ramada Hotel & Conference The Sutton Place Hotel Union Bank Inn Argyll Plaza Hotel

L M N O P Q R S T U V

Delta Edmonton South Derrick Motel Econolodge South Four Points By Sheraton Greenwood Inn Holiday Inn The Palace Radisson Hotel Edm. South Best Western Westwood Inn Continental Inn Days Inn & Suites Edmonton Marriott Hotel

W X Y Z a b c d e f

Executive Royal Inn Fantasyland Hotel Holiday Inn Express Mayfield Inn & Suites West Harvest Inn Wingate Inn Sands Hotel St. Albert Inn Executive Royal Inn Leduc Franklin's Inn

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E D M O N T O N Downtown

Alberta Place Suite Hotel • All-suite hotel • Complimentary continental breakfast and parking • High-speed wireless Internet • Health and Fitness area including indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi • Pet floors available • Business Services • Monthly rates available

Tel (780) 423-1565 Fax (780) 426-6260 Toll Free 1-800-661-3982 hotel@albertaplace.com www.albertaplace.com

10049 – 103 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2W7

Downtown

Best Western City Centre Inn Whether you travel for business or for pleasure, you will appreciate our contemporary guest rooms, designed with your comfort in mind. Just 5 minutes away from any downtown location and a mere 15 minutes from West Edmonton Mall. Features include: ironing boards, complimentary coffee, dataports & voice mail, high-speed internet, fitness room, in-room movies and a 24 hour Tim Horton's in the hotel.

Tel (780) 479-2042 Fax (780) 474-2204 Toll Free 1-800-666-5026

11310 – 109 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5G 2T7

Downtown

Chateau Louis

Hotel & Conference Centre Across from City Centre Airport, 140 room European style boutique hotel with a French Provincial theme. Many specialty rooms, including: King Business Rooms, Family Rooms, Main Floor Fully Accessible Rooms and Jacuzzi Rooms and Suites. King Louis Suites feature Jacuzzi tub, flat screen LCD TVs and HYPNOS beds - the most comfortable beds in the world. Complimentary Full Hot Breakfast Buffet • No charge wireless internet access • Fitness Room • Free Parking, local calls & in-room coffee Edmonton Oilers Hockey & Eskimos Football Packages! Tel (780) 452-7770 Fax (780) 454-3436 Toll Free 1-800-661-9843 info@chateaulouis.com chateaulouis.com

11727 Kingsway, Edmonton, Alberta T5G 3A1 2008 /

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E D M O N T O N Downtown

Chateau Nova Hotel & Suites

The Chateau Nova Hotel presents to you 115 executive guest rooms and suites with kitchenettes. We provide superior modern facilities, including: • Restaurant, lounge & room service • Business center • Banquet & meeting facilities • Complimentary local calls & in-room high speed internet access • Executive suites offer fully equipped kitchenettes • Luxury Jacuzzi suites available • Refrigerators in every room • Right next to the City Center airport • Minutes away from the Kingsway Garden Mall • Pets welcome • Coin laundry facilities Tel (780) 424-6682 Fax (780) 424-6683 Toll Free 1-888-919-NOVA www.novahotels.ca

159 Airport Road & Kingsway Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5G 0W6

Downtown

Comfort Inn & Suites Our newly renovated Hotel offers exceptional value in the heart of Downtown Edmonton. With a wide variety of rooms and suites to choose from, and all the comforts and amenities you expect from a Choice Hotel. • Free Continental Breakfast • Free Parking • Free Daily Newspaper • Free Local Calls • Free In-room Coffee, Tea & Hot Chocolate • Free Wireless High-Speed Internet Access • Indoor Swimming Pool, Whirlpool & Sauna • On-site Dining Room, Lounge & Neighbourhood Pub • Business Services & Meeting Rooms Available • Centrally Located in the Heart of Alberta's Capital Tel (780) 423-5611 Fax (780) 425-9791 Toll Free 1-888-384-6835 www.comfortinnedmonton.com

10425 – 100 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5J 0A3

Downtown

Crowne Plaza Chateau Lacombe “A tradition in warm hospitality and fine service” A 307-room convention hotel located in the heart of downtown Edmonton, overlooking the river valley. The Crowne Plaza® Chateau Lacombe is also home to La Ronde, Edmonton’s only revolving rooftop restaurant. Call for details on our Corporate Room Rates, Value Added Packages and Special Holiday Rates and Packages.

Tel (780) 428-6611 Toll Free 1-800-661-8801 reservations@chateaulacombe.com www.chateaulacombe.com

10111 Bellamy Hill, Edmonton, Alberta T5J 1N7 76

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E D M O N T O N Downtown

Delta Edmonton Centre Suite Hotel “Your Comfort Is Our Business” • 169 oversized guest rooms; majority one-bedroom suites • Situated within Edmonton City Centre Mall in the heart of downtown Edmonton • Empire Theatres next door; walking distance to Winspear Centre and Citadel Theatre • Exercise room with whirlpool, steam room, free weights and cardio equipment • Cocoa’s Restaurant and Lounge

Tel. (780) 429-3900 Fax. (780) 428-1566 Toll Free 1-800-268-1133 www.deltahotels.com

10222–102 Street Edmonton, Alberta T5J 4C5

Downtown

Ramada Hotel & Conference Centre Conveniently located at the crossroads of comfort & value • Five minutes from Kingsway Garden Mall • 15 minutes from West Edmonton Mall, Rexall Place and Northlands Agricom • Complimentary Parking for cars, trucks and buses • Full Service Restaurant, Sports Bar and Night Club • Full service business centre • Complimentary wireless Internet • Fitness and Games room Tel (780) 454-5454 Fax (780) 453-7324 Toll Free 1-800-272-6232 www.ramadaedmonton.com

11834 Kingsway, Edmonton, Alberta T5G 3J5

Downtown

The Sutton Place Hotel AWARD WINNING service and a team of professionals who pay careful attention to the details you appreciate in a luxury downtown hotel. • 313 elegant rooms and suites • Penthouse indoor pool and whirlpool • Attached to all shopping and entertainment by an indoor pedway system • Home of The Chocoholic Buffet and the city’s best Sunday Brunch The Sutton Place Hotel, Edmonton – where service, comfort and convenience are a way of life. Tel (780) 428-7111 Fax (780) 441-3098 Toll Free 1-866-378-8866 res_edmonton@suttonplace.com www.suttonplace.com

10235-101 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5J 3E9 2008 /

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E D M O N T O N Downtown

Union Bank Inn 4 1/2 Star Boutique Hotel • 34 designer rooms with goose down bedding and fireplaces • Voice mail, cd players and high-speed internet • Full ballroom and conference facilities • Award winning Madison's Grill • Business Centre & Fitness Room • Complimentary services: - Full breakfast - Overnight parking - Daily wine & cheese delivery Tel (780) 423-3600 Toll Free 1-888-423-3601 info@unionbankinn.com www.unionbankinn.com

10053 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, Alberta T5J 1S5

South

Argyll Plaza Hotel • • • • • • • •

Convenient south side location 48 comfortable oversized rooms Free wireless Internet • Free Parking Free daily express breakfast • Pet friendly hotel Kitchenette suites available • Fridges in every room Fitness facility • Coin operated laundry facilities Multiple on site dining restaurants Call for details on our Corporate Room and Group Room Rates, and West Edmonton Mall packages • Official NHL rink – please contact Dave Bergeron for Ice times and booking information dave@argyllplazahotel.com Tel (780) 438-5876 Fax (780) 436-5813 Toll Free 1-866-203-2930 www.argyllplazahotel.com

9933 – 63 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T6E 6C9

South

Delta Edmonton South Hotel & Conference

• Conveniently located close to Int’l Airport, great shopping & attractions • 237 upscale guest rooms with luxurious Delta Sanctuary bed • Complimentary guest parking • Free High-Speed Internet • Remote controlled color cable TV and in-room movies • Indoor pool, 24 hour fitness centre and whirlpool • "Kids eat free" (some restrictions apply) • BotaniCa all day restaurant and Starbucks barista Tel (780) 434-6415 Fax (780) 436-9247 Toll Free 1-800-661-1122 www.deltaedmonton.com

4404 Gateway Boulevard, Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5C2

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E D M O N T O N Derrick Motel

South • • • •

Renovated, clean and affordable rooms Friendly service in English and German Superchannel movies Located next to licensed restaurants, CAA offices, plus fabulous shopping at nearby megastores...

Tel (780) 438-6060 Fax (780) 461-5170 Toll Free 1-866-303-6060

3925 Gateway Boulevard, Edmonton, Alberta T6J 5H2

Econolodge South

South

Conveniently located on Edmonton’s southside and featuring newly renovated rooms with micro-kitchens and coffee makers. • Restaurant • Superchannel

• Affordable Rates • Meeting Rooms

Tel (780) 438-7979 Fax (780) 438-4949 Toll Free 1-888-430-6363 elodge@direct.ca www.choicehotels.ca/cn617

4009 Gateway Boulevard, Edmonton, Alberta T6J 5H2

South

Four Points by Sheraton Comfort isn’t complicated… •Four Point Comfort Bed •Free High Speed Internet •Free Bottled Water •Full Service Restaurant, Pub, and Conference Facilities •Heated Pool & Fitness Centre •Free Parking •Starwood Preferred Guest Program

Tel (780) 465-7931 Fax (780) 469-3680 Toll Free 1-800-368-7764 www.fourpoints.com/edmonton

7230 Argyll Road, Edmonton, Alberta T6C 4A6 2008 /

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E D M O N T O N South

Greenwood Inn & Suites Edmonton

• 224 Luxurious rooms & suites • Underground parking • Convenient southside location • Free newspaper • Meeting and banquet facilities • Gift shop • Free high-speed internet • Dalton’s Restaurant • Indoor swimming pool with whirlpool, steam and fitness room • Free accommodation for children under 18 when sharing same room • ABC Country Restaurant & Lounge Tel (780) 431-1100 Fax (780) 437-3455 Toll Free 1-800-233-6730 www.greenwoodinn.ca

4485 Gateway Boulevard, Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5C3

South

Holiday Inn

The Palace Edmonton Located in South Edmonton, with access to all major attractions, Holiday Inn - The Palace, provides it's travellers with complimentary shuttle service to and from West Edmonton Mall, South Edmonton Common and the International Airport. • 137 spacious and newly renovated guest rooms • Complimentary wireless high-speed internet access • Complimentary local phone calls • Lodgenet in-room movies • Queen's Court Atrium Restaurant • Fitness centre Tel (780) 438-1222 Fax (780) 438-0906 Toll Free 1-800-565-1222 www.hipalace.com

THE PALACE EDMONTON

4235 Gateway Boulevard, Edmonton, Alberta T6J 5H2

South

Radisson Hotel Edmonton South • Centrally located on Edmonton’s south side, a short drive from the International Airport, Ikea, Downtown and West Edmonton Mall • Free heated underground parking • Kids eat free! Kids stay free! • Saltwater swimming pool, whirlpool, sauna and free access to 23,000 square foot fitness centre • On command movies and Nintendo • 24 hour room service, all day dining in Atrium Cafe, nightly entertainment in Lion's Head Pub • Pets are welcome Tel (780) 437-6010 Fax (780) 431-5804 Toll Free 1-888-837-7223 www.radisson.com/edmontonca

4440 Gateway Boulevard, Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5C2

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E D M O N T O N Best Western Westwood Inn

West

By the Mall Welcome to the Best Western Westwood Inn where gracious hospitality and modern comforts await you. • 171 Guest Rooms • Large Banquet & Meeting Facilities • Indoor Swimming Pool • Exercise and Games area • 24 hour complimentary Business Centre • Seasons2 Restaurant and Lounge on-site • Minutes to West Edmonton Mall Tel (780) 483-7770 Fax (780) 486-1769 Toll Free 1-800-557-4767 www.bestwesternwestwood.com

18035 Stony Plain Road, Edmonton, Alberta T5S 1B2

Continental Inn

West • • • • • • • •

100 New & Newly Renovated Rooms Meeting & Catering Facilities Daily Buffet One of the Closest Hotels to West Edmonton Mall Restaurants & Lounge Free Local Calls Seniors Discount Available Wireless internet

Tel (780) 484-7751 Reservations only 1-888-484-9660 www.continentalinn.ca continentalinn@continentalinn.ca

16625 Stony Plain Road, Edmonton, Alberta T5P 4A8

West

Days Inn & Suites • 108 guest rooms & suites • Jacuzzi suites with fireplaces • Kids suites with bunkbeds and separate bedroom for mom and dad • Extended stay suites & wheelchair accessible rooms • 3,675 sq. ft. of pillar free meeting space • 24 hour access to business centre and exercise room • Indoor saltwater pool & hot tub • Free parking, complimentary Internet access and local phone calls • Wireless Internet • Chairman's Award for Quality 2006 • Airport shuttle service available • 3 minutes from West Edmonton Mall Tel (780) 444-4440 Toll Free 1-866-441-1441

10010–179A Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5S 2T1 2008 /

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E D M O N T O N West

Edmonton Marriott at River Cree Resort Ideal for both business and leisure, this four-star west Edmonton hotel is located five minutes from West Edmonton Mall. • 249 elegant rooms and suites with plush bedding, large windows, and breathtaking views of downtown and the surrounding countryside • Complimentary parking • Shuttle to West Edmonton Mall • Two NHL-sized hockey rinks, a lively casino, 700 slot machines and 40 table games • Three restaurants, a centre bar, nightclub, and a Starbucks café • Over 20,000 sq. ft. of meeting space with world class service • Fitness facilities and an indoor pool. Tel (780) 484-2121 Fax (780) 930-2736 Toll Free 1-877-377-7774 yegmc-sales@marriott.com www.edmontonmarriott.com

300 East Lapotac Boulevard, Enoch, Alberta, T7X 3Y3

West

Executive Royal Inn

Hotel & Conference Centre We are a 3 1/2 star full service hotel, offering the comfort you deserve and the location you demand. Our convenient west end address is ideal for the leisure and business traveller. Minutes from West Edmonton Mall and 15 minutes from downtown. Our 238 executive rooms and suites are designed with added extras for the convenience and comfort of our guests. Families can choose from a variety of room types to accommodate their needs. To enhance a delightful weekend, our specialty suites feature full size jacuzzi tubs. Explore the Exceptional...Enjoy the Experience. Tel (780) 484-6000 Fax (780) 489-2900 Toll Free 1-800-661-4879 www.executivehotels.net

10010–178 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5S 1T3

West

Fantasyland Hotel at West Edmonton Mall Discover the joy of Fantasyland Hotel at West Edmonton Mall. Stay right inside the Mall and experience this world famous, 355-room Hotel. With 12 theme room styles, you can relax in classical Rome, escape to the Polynesian Islands, take an African Safari, hit the sack in the back of a truck or explore an Arctic Igloo. Until you experience it yourself, you just can't imagine.

Tel (780) 444-3000 Fax (780) 444-5238 Toll Free 1-800-737-3783 E-mail rooms@fantasylandhotel.com www.fantasylandhotel.com

17700 - 87 Avenue, Edmonton, AB T5T 4V4 82

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E D M O N T O N West

Holiday Inn Express • 102 deluxe guest rooms • Banquet & Meeting facilities • Free deluxe continental breakfast • Indoor swimming pool • Whirlpool/steam room • Exercise and games rooms • Kids suites with bunk beds • Wireless Internet • Jacuzzi suites • Located 10 blocks from West Edmonton Mall • Winner of the AHLA Housekeeping Award 2006 • Earn Air Miles or Aeroplan Points Tel (780) 483-4000 Fax (780) 481-6227 Toll Free 1-877-483-4001 www.hiewestedmonton.com

10017–179A Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5S 2L4

West

Mayfield Inn & Suites The Mayfield Inn & Suites is Edmonton's destination hotel, located in the west end, just 5 minutes from West Edmonton Mall. Guests of our hotel enjoy: • Complimentary Parking • Athletic Club featuring indoor pool, whirlpool, Racquetball and Squashball Courts • Full Service Business Centre, Free High-Speed Internet in all rooms • Variety of Room Types including Kitchenette suites, Jacuzzi & Fireplace Suites, Bi-level Suites, Kids themed and more! • Several Dining Options to choose from including Live Dinner Theatre • Complimentary breakfast buffet with all suites Tel (780) 484-0821 Fax (780) 486-1634 Toll Free 1-800-661-9804 info.mayfield@chipreit.com www.mayfieldinnedmonton.com

16615–109 Avenue Edmonton, Alberta T5P 4K8

West

West Harvest Inn 159 newly renovated guest rooms & suites with free high-speed wireless internet. Restaurant, lounge, meeting facilities, fitness room, free parking and Business Centre. Discounted Mall Attraction Passes & Special Occasion Packages are available on request. Conveniently located, only 3 minutes from West Edmonton Mall, 15 minutes from downtown Edmonton and 30 minutes from the International Airport. Proud Recipient of 2008 Housekeeping Award of Excellence Tel (780) 484-8000 Fax (780) 486-6060 Toll Free 1-888-882-WEST E-mail whe@westharvest.ca www.westharvest.ca

West Harvest Inn

17803 Stony Plain Road, Edmonton, Alberta T5S 1B4 2008 /

our alberta

E D M O N T O N West

Wingate Inn • 106 guest rooms/suites • Shuttle within 10 km • Indoor pool, waterpark whirlpool, fitness centre • Free in-room Internet access • 24-hour complimentary business centre • Free local calls • Complimentary Deluxe Continental Breakfast • Fridge/microwave & safe in rooms • Restaurant/lounge on-site • Minutes to West Edmonton Mall Tel (780) 443-1000 Toll Free 1-800-228-1000 Toll Free 1-877-483-4001 www.wingateinn.com

18220–100 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5S 2V2

Northeast

Sands Hotel & Conference Centre Come and Stay at the Greatest Little Hotel in the West! • 54 Rooms • Jacuzzi Suite • Banquet Facilities - New Space Available • Family-Style Restaurant • Video Gaming Room

Tel (780) 474-5476 Fax (780) 477-2714 Toll Free 1-888-444-3402 www.sandshoteledm.com

12340 Fort Road, Edmonton, Alberta T5B 4H5

St. Albert

St. Albert Inn & Suites St. Albert's Community Hotel • Standard & Suite Rooms • Extended Stay Rooms • Salt Water Pool & Hot Tub • Water Slide • Exercise Room • Guest Laundry • Family Restaurant • Liquor Store • Banquet & Meeting Facilities • Wireless Internet

Tel (780) 459-5551 Toll Free 1-800-450-8612 www.stalbertinn.com reserv@stalbertinn.com

156 St. Albert Road, St. Albert, Alberta T8N 0P5 84

our alberta

/ 2008

E D M O N T O N Sherwood Park

Franklin's Inn • 40 rooms in the heart of Sherwood Park • Hot Breakfast Buffet included with rooms • Free High Speed Internet included • All rooms equipped with fridge and microwave • Walking distance to Festival Place and SP Mall • Franklin's Pub and Gaming Lounge Featuring 23 vlts and OTB horse racing • Full Service Liquor Store • Banquets for up to 400

Tel (780) 467-1234 Fax (780) 467-3907 Toll Free 1-800-738-0886 E-mail info@franklinsinn.com

2016 Sherwood Drive, Sherwood Park, Alberta T8A 3X3

Leduc

Executive Royal Inn

Edmonton International Airport Touch down into the premier hotel experience of Executive Royal Inn only 3 minutes from Edmonton International Airport. The ultimate in comfort and elegance, we offer an aviator inspired sports bar, tantalizing menus and all the amenities you deserve.

Tel: (780) 986-1840 Fax: (780) 986-1864 Toll Free 1-888-202-3770 www.executivehotels.net

8450 Sparrow Drive, Leduc, Alberta T9E 7G4

Edmonton Canada's Cultural Capital for 2008

2008 /

our alberta

ENVISION THIS...the sky above you is a sea of baby blue dotted with puffs of white. Clear water splashes up to your knees but your hip waders keep you feeling warm. The fish are biting and the sun is splitting the trees. You are in the midst of the epitome of Alberta Northâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;an unending stretch of sky, forest and crystal clear lakes.

our alberta

/ 2008

PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

ALBERTA NORTH

Y Journey through natural Canadian beauty A BRIEF HISTORY Without exception, every village, town and city in Alberta North has its own story to tell—a story that has made each place what it is today. They are stories steeped in the history of Canadian and European explorers, Aboriginal peoples, and the fur trade. Athabasca Landing, once known as the “Gateway to the North” during the early 1900s, acted as a crossroads for explorers and fur traders travelling north to the Arctic and south to Fort Edmonton. It was near here that Scottish explorer Alexander MacKenzie, on behalf of the Northwest Trading Company, founded Fort Chipewyan in 1788, making it arguably Alberta’s oldest settled community (the honour is also claimed by northern neighbour Fort Vermilion). And taking its name from a treaty reached between two feuding aboriginal tribes, the mighty Peace River acted as a divide between Beaver and Cree people.

PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

PEOPLE AND PLACE The sprawling region known as Alberta North is made up of five distinct regions, with each region offering a unique sense of place and character. Athabasca Country, once a fur-trading hub for the Hudson’s Bay Company, is now the postcard of a charming Albertan summertime lake-town. Big Lake Country, which contains the towns of Slave Lake and High Prairie, is a vast expanse of clear waters and flourishing green forest. Winagami, Hilliard’s Bay, and Lesser Slave Lake (Alberta’s largest automobile-accessible lake) are all popular provincial parks in the area. Stretching further west and north are the Grande Prairie and Mighty Peace regions. Drive through two provinces and the southern Northwest Territories on the Deh Cho Travel Connection, a legendary 1,800 km journey winding through history and natural Canadian beauty. Northeast Alberta is home to the Fort McMurray region, the epicentre of Alberta’s oil industry. Oil sands that were once used to waterproof the canoes of Cree people in the area are now the source of billions of barrels of oil, and billions of dollars. The region is also home to Canada’s largest national park, Wood Buffalo National Park. Created in 1922, Wood Buffalo was used as a safe haven for

2008 /

our alberta

diminishing herds of wood bison, and today is inhabited by the world’s only wild migratory flock of whooping cranes—a species whose world population at one time dwindled down to only 21.

ATTRACTIONS AND EVENTS Scenic trails and campgrounds give tourists a taste of Alberta North’s pioneer spirit, while quaint museums and interpretive centres help explain the history behind many of the region’s small villages and towns. Celebrate the folk music life, surrounded by forest and river, at Slave Lake’s North Country Fair. Learn the history and future of the oil sands in Fort McMurray by taking the Experience the Energy tour. Lay on the beach while jet skis fly by you at 190 km/h at the World Jet Boat Races in Whitecourt. Or if it’s history you dig, learn about Alberta’s oldest European settlement at the Fort Vermilion Heritage Centre.

WHAT’S NEW The Envision Wood Buffalo: Towards 250k website was launched at the beginning of April. The progress of the initiative’s goal to grow the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo over the next 30 years to a population of 250,000 will be posted on the site through regular updates, project timelines and a calendar of events. Other features include a kids section, involvement section and news section. Check it out at www.envisionwoodbuffalo.ca.

ALBERTA NORTH

Don’t Miss OIL SANDS DISCOVERY CENTRE, FORT MCMURRAY The development and technology of the Alberta Oil Sands—the world’s largest single deposit of oil—is front and centre at this educational facility combining history, science and technology (Page 89). HISTORIC DUNVEGAN AND PROVINCIAL PARK The restored remains of the 1805 Fort Dunvegan, a fur-trading post and mission, are the oldest buildings in Northern Alberta and provide the perfect combination of history and scenery (Page 89). LESSER SLAVE LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK Seven kilometres of white sandy beaches on the largest lake entirely within Alberta make a trip to this quiet spot a must-do (Page 89).

Did You Know?

The town of Athabasca is famous for a farmer who trained two moose to pull plows nearly 100 years ago.

Grande Prairie is sometimes nicknamed “Swan City” because the city has adopted the endangered trumpeter swan as an official symbol.

Wood Buffalo National Park is the largest protected area in Canada.

EDMONTON ALBERTA NORTH & AREA

NORTHWEST

TERRITORIES

35 WOOD BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK

FORT CHIPEWYAN

HIGH LEVEL

FORT VERMILION

EWAN SASKATCH

COLUMB IA

RAINBOW LAKE

LE CRETE

BRITISH

697

MANNING

FORT McMURRAY

35 RED EARTH CREEK

CLEARDALE

HINES CREEK

GRIMSHAW

FAIRVIEW

49 SPIRIT RIVER

43 BEAVERLODGE

DUNVEGAN RYCROFT

2 59

SEXSMITH

PEACE RIVER

WABASCA

FALHER

McLENNAN

HIGH PRAIRIE

WEMBLEY

GRANDE PRAIRIE 40

2 2A

754

SLAVE LAKE

VALLEYVIEW

33 SWAN HILLS

TO LAC LA BICHE

44 2 ATHABASCA

55 BOYLE

FOX CREEK

2 63

ALBERTA CENTRAL (PAGE 53)

Via primary highways, distances in kilometres (1 km = 0.62 mi)

ATHABASCA

AT HA B ED ASC M A O NT FO O N RT M CM GR AN UR RA D E H Y PR IG AI H RI LE E V PE AC EL E RI VE R

MILEAGE TABLE

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

•

147

305

447

615

373

EDMONTON

147

•

439

456

735

484

FORT MCMURRAY

305

439

•

752

920

678

GRANDE PRAIRIE

447

456

752

•

453

197

HIGH LEVEL

615

735

920

453

•

294

PEACE RIVER

373

484

678

197

294

•

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/ 2008

HIGHWAY 2

HIGHWAY 63

North from Edmonton to Athabasca and onto Peace River and Grande Prairie.

North to Alberta’s economic boomtown, Fort McMurray.

NORTH TO PEACE COUNTRY

LAC LA BICHE From Edmonton, take Hwy 2 north to Athabasca and turn east on Hwy 55. Lakeland Provincial Park offers Alberta’s only backcountry canoe circuit. Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area, bordering the park to the east, has six pristine lakes, which all have campgrounds. 24 km (14.5 mi) east of town, (780) 623-5235. Lac La Biche Mission is a National Historic Site with Alberta’s first recorded sawmill, printing press and commercial wheat farming. May 17 Sept 1, call (780) 623-3274 km. Tourism info, call 1-877-623-9696.

ATHABASCA Located at the junction of Hwy 2 and Hwy 55, 147 km (91 mi). Many lakes in the area provide fishing and boating. Athabasca United Church dates back to 1912; the Brick School built in 1913, housed Grades 1 through 12 and now serves as the town archives, (780) 6752735. Town office, (780) 675-2063. SLAVE LAKE Continue along Hwy 2 for 43 km (26 mi) to Slave Lake. Slave Lake Native Friendship Centre offers displays of Aboriginal handcrafts and artifacts, and regular interpretive programs. Mon to Thur 8:30 am - 4:30 pm; Fri 8:30 am - 3:30 pm. (780) 849-3039. 1Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park encompasses old growth forest and spectacular mountain views. The “Walk Through Time” trail is a self-guided forest hike. North of Slave Lake on Hwy 88, call (780) 849-7100 for information.

PEACE COUNTRY REGION PEACE RIVER Located 373 km (232 mi) northwest of Athabasca on Hwy 2. Peace River Centennial Museum & Archives features displays on Aboriginal culture, the history of the fur trade, exploration and settlement in the area, and northern transportation. Open year-round, (780) 624-4261. DUNVEGAN Dunvegan Provincial Park & Historic Site, located on the north bank of Peace River, offers a glimpse into missionary life and the fur trade dating back to 1805. Tour the St. Charles Mission and Hudson Bay Factor’s House or drop by the Visitor’s Centre. May 15 - Sept 1. 90 km north of Grande Prairie on Hwy 2. Call (780) 1 835-2490 for more information. GRANDE PRAIRIE Accessible via Hwy 2 via Peace River, or more directly via Hwy 43 if travelling from Edmonton. This is a modern city with excellent fishing, hiking and wildlife watching. Crystal Lake is a waterfowl refuge, call (780) 538-0451, visitors welcome. Muskoseepi Park offers camping, golf, hiking and biking trails, canoeing, kayaking, concerts and festivals at the Park Pavilion. Grande Prairie Museum, located in Muskoseepi Park, shows fossils, dinosaurs, rocks, a pioneer village and wildlife. Open year-round Mon to Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm, Sat 10 am - 4:30 pm, Sun noon - 4:30 pm.

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our alberta

FORT MCMURRAY Head 291 km (175 mi) north from Lac La Biche via Hwy 55 and 63 to Fort McMurray, The Athabasca Oil Sands Deposit contains more oil than all known reserves in the Middle East. Oil Sands Discovery Centre tells the whole story of the development and technology of the oil sands. Open year-round Tue to Sun 10 am - 4 pm; May 17 - Sept 1 daily 9 am - 5 pm. $6 adult, $5 sen, $4 youth/ child, children under 6 free, $20 fam. Call

(780) 743-7167. 1Bus trips leave the Interpretive Centre for tours of the oil sands sites. Reserve through the tourism centre at 1-800-565-3947 or (780) 791-4336. FORT CHIPEWYAN Originally a fur trading post formed in 1788, this northern town claims to be Alberta’s oldest continuously inhabited settlement. Fort Chipewyan is accessed mainly by air (one hour from Fort McMurray) or boat. Visit the Bicentennial Museum, a replica Hudson’s Bay Store with displays and exhibits depicting the region’s frontier past, call (780) 697-3844. Regional town office (780) 697-3600. WOOD BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK The largest National Park in Canada, this designated UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to one of the world’s largest free-roaming herds of bison and the last nesting ground of the endangered whooping crane in the world. Backcountry adventure opportunities include hiking, canoeing, camping, picnicking and wildlife viewing. Access the park via Hwy 35 north of High Level then east on Hwy 5 at Hay River, Northwest Territories to Fort Smith. Call the Fort Smith Park office at (867) 872-7960.

Alberta North Events May 31 - June 1 Songbird Festival Hundreds of species of birds, guided hikes. Slave Lake, (780) 849-8240.

July 11 - 12 Peace Fest Town fair with midway, fun events and main stage acts. Peace River, (780) 624-2489.

June 6 - 8 Silver Buckle Stampede Rodeo queen contest, beer gardens and dance. Cold Lake, (780) 594-0667.

July 19 Alberta Open Sand Sculpture Championships Lesser Slave Lake, (780) 849-8004.

June 11 - 13 Hawg Flatts Pig Roast and Bike Rally Bike drop, live entertainment, beer gardens, bike rodeo, and pig roast. Athabasca, (780) 689-7444.

July 25 - 27 Athabasca Country Fringe Festival More than 20 performers in 60 theatrical shows. Athabasca, (780) 675-7909.

June 26 - 29 Telus Country Fever Music Festival Four days of country entertainment. Grande Prairie, (780) 513-2839.

Aug 1 - 3 Lac La Biche Pow-Wow and Fish Derby Fishing competition, midway, parade, sailboat racing and more. Lac La Biche, 1-877-623-9696.

June 30 - July 1 Magnificent River Rats Festival Music from Doc Walker, Amanda Wilkinson, Streetheart and a host of Provincial talent. Athabasca, (780) 675-2230.

Aug 8 - 10 interPLAY Festival Street performers, music, food, comedy and more. Fort McMurray, (780) 791-1600.

June 30 - July 1 Rio Grande Rodeo Part of the professional rodeo circuit including chuckwagons, dances. Beaverlodge, (780) 354-2760.

Aug 15 - 16 Fort Assiniboine Hamlet Hoedown and Rodeo Pancake breakfast, beer gardens, supper and dance. Main Street and Sports Grounds, Fort Assiniboine, (780) 584 - 2562.

July 10 - 12 SummerSlam A rock music festival with top-name headliner acts. Grande Prairie, (780) 538-1667.

Aug 16 DeBolt District Festival & Fair Parade, midway, dance. DeBolt, (780) 957-2923.

up to $99 $100 - $149

$$$ $$$$

$150 - $199 over $200 03)

262-1234 405 266-4611 185 269-8262 717-1234 355 $$$$

HOTEL ARTS, 119 - 12 Ave SW

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS CALGARY DNTN, 1020 - 8 Ave SW

HYATT REGENCY CALGARY, 700 Centre St SE

231-1000 120 237-8626 301 266-7200 323 $$$$

REGENCY SUITES, 610 - 4 Ave SW

SANDMAN HOTEL CALGARY CITY CENTRE, 888 - 7 Ave SW

SHERATON STES CALGARY EAU CLAIRE, 255 Barclay Parade SW

our alberta 253-1101 157 243-5531 134

278-5050 252

CARRIAGE HOUSE INN, 9030 Macleod Tr S

DAYS INN CALGARY SOUTH, 3828 Macleod Tr S

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DELTA CALGARY SOUTH, 135 Southland Dr SE

$$$

252-2253 200 $$$

$$$

287-3900

BEST WESTERN CALGARY CENTRE INN, 3630 Macleod Tr S

266-1611 525 $$$$

$$$

BLACKFOOT INN, 5940 Blackfoot Tr SE

SOUTH

WESTIN CALGARY, 320 - 4 Ave SW

263-7600 201

RAMADA HOTEL CALGARY DOWNTOWN, 708 - 8 Ave SW

$$$$

228-4442

KENSINGTON RIVERSIDE INN, 1126 Memorial Dr NW

265-9600 249 $$$$

$$$$

$$$

INTERNATIONAL HOTEL SUITES CALGARY, 220 - 4 Ave SW

294-5800 175

EXECSUITE DOWNTOWN, 702 - 3 Ave SW

FAIRMONT PALLISER, 133 - 9 Ave SW

$$$

266-7331 384 $$$$ 266-1980 394

CALGARY MARRIOTT HOTEL, 110 - 9 Ave SE

$$$

DELTA BOW VALLEY, 209 - 4 Ave SE

228-6900 123

451-5551 302

PHO NE ( 4

BEST WESTERN SUITES DOWNTOWN, 1330 - 8 St SW

5 CALGARY DOWNTOWN Suites, 618 - 5 Ave SW

DOWNTOWN

HOTELS & MOTELS

$ $$

Rates and information subject to change. Price symbol based on regular double room rates. S ES RAT

NOTE: The Child Friendly designation refers to a program that assesses the child friendliness of Calgary businesses. Calgary hotels are now in the accreditation process. Call (403) 266-5448 for details.

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INT ER

800-981-2555

I/WI

877-278-5050

800-361-3422

800-661-9566

800-661-1151

877-287-3900

800-WESTIN-1

888-784-8370

800-266-4684

800-468-4044

800-661-8684

877-313-3733

800-661-8627

800-233-1234

800-661-6017

800-661-9378

800-231-0644

800-667-4980

800-268-1133

I/WI 800-896-6878

I/WI

877-451-5551

AIRP OR T S HUT TLE (PA SAT ID / ELL CO I T M E PLIM / C A ENT BLE ARY /M S W ) OVI IM MIN ES G PO OL ( IN S D A O U OR / NA /W OUT HIR DOO LPO CHI R) O L L D / EXE COM FRIEND RCIS L P Y E RO L IME NTA OM COF RY C FEE ONT SH LICE / O F P ULL N S BRE ED D AKF CO IN AST C I N K GR TA I OO L KI LOU M T C NGE HEN ETT MEE ES TIN NON G ROO M S S MO KIN ROO GR OO MS MS E R V ICE /M B INI U S INE BAR SS S S E RVI PET CES S AL LOW ED NET /W IREL ESS

www.where.ca/calgary

E 1-

Calgary Accommodation Guide

OM GUE ST R O #

FRE TOL L

90 03)

225-5834

243-6962

259-2414

252-3574

287-3906

233-7471

266-1300

290-1238

231-1012

237-6127

228-9608

265-6949

537-4444

269-4868

237-0978

260-1260

294-5959

205-5460

269-1961

228-5535

262-9991

FAX (4

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our alberta

$$ $$$

253-8880 279-8611 169

EXECSUITE SOUTH, 530 57 Ave SW

GLENMORE INN & CONVENTION CENTRE, 2720 Glenmore Tr SE

253-7070 254 514-0099 103

TRAVELODGE HOTEL MACLEOD TRAIL, 9206 Macleod Tr S

WINGATE BY WYNDHAM CALGARY, 400 Midpark Way SE

289-1921 289-2561

ECONOLODGE MOTEL VILLAGE, 2440 - 16 Ave NW

289-1973 105 289-6651

ROYAL WAYNE MOTOR INN, 2416 - 16 Ave NW

248-8888 248 250-1800 106 250-3297

COAST PLAZA HOTEL & CONF. CENTRE, 1316 - 33 St NE

COUNTRY INN & SUITES, 2481 - 39 Ave NE

DAYS INN CALGARY AIRPORT, 2799 Sunridge Way NE

291-4681 148

SHERATON CAVALIER, 2620 - 32 Ave NE

TRAVELODGE HOTEL CALGARY AIRPORT, 2750 Sunridge Blvd NE

291-1260 203

219-2475 177 291-0107 306

SANDMAN HOTEL CALGARY AIRPORT, 25 Hopewell Way NE

STAYBRIDGE SUITES CALGARY AIRPORT, 2825 Sunridge Way NE 204-7829

291-4666 185

RADISSON HOTEL CALGARY AIRPORT, 2120 - 16 Ave NE

117

735-3230 120

LAKEVIEW SIGNATURE INN, 2622 39 Ave NE

POINTE INN, 1808 19 St NE

QUALITY HOTEL AIRPORT & CONF. CNTR, 4804 Edmonton Tr NE 276-3391

717-1999 135 230-1999 168

HOLIDAY INN, CALGARY AIRPORT, 1250 McKinnon Dr NE

250-8855 210

GREENWOOD INN & SUITES CALGARY, 3515 26 ST NE

HILTON GARDEN INN CALGARY AIRPORT, 2335 Pegasus Rd NE

291-2003 201

$$$

291-2600 296 $$$$

DELTA CALGARY AIRPORT, 2001 Airport Rd NE

$$$

EXECUTIVE ROYAL INN NORTH CALGARY, 2828 23 ST NE

276-2271 250-5015

BEST WESTERN AIRPORT INN, 1947 - 18 Ave NE

AMBASSADOR MOTOR INN, 802 - 16 Ave NE

NORTHEAST

$$$

289-9800

HAMPTON INN & STES CGY UNIVERSITY, 2231 Banff Tr NW

QUALITY INN UNIVERSITY, 2359 Banff Tr NW

$$$

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON CALGARY WEST, 8220 Bowridge Cr NW 288-4441 150

$$$

289-0241 159

BEST WESTERN VILLAGE PARK INN, 1804 Crowchild Tr NW

ECONOLODGE INN & SUITES UNIVERSITY, 2231 Banff Tr NW

NORTHWEST

$$ $$$

254-8878

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL & STES SOUTH, 12025 Lake Fraser Dr SE 225-3000 106

SUPER 8 MOTEL SHAWNESSY, 60 Shawville Rd SW

$$$

252-4401

278-5050 252

DELTA CALGARY SOUTH, 135 Southland Dr SE

ECONOLODGE SOUTH, 7505 Macleod Tr S

243-5531 134

DAYS INN CALGARY SOUTH, 3828 Macleod Tr S

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877-429-4377

800-661-3163

800-667-4980

888-559-0559

877-278-5050

800-361-3422

877-530-9206

800-661-4667

888-432-6777

877-288-4441

866-501-0542

800-917-7779

888-774-7716

800-228-1000

800-661-1447 800-661-1464

877-499-5015

800-325-3535

866-285-7263

800-333-3333

800-661-6858

800-661-8164

877-355-3500

877-519-7113

877-410-2020

888-233-6730

877-769-2562

800-268-1133

800-DAYSINN

I/WI

291-9170

204-7828

291-2834

219-2476

291-6498

230-7267

291-4576

735-1121

277-2623

717-1901

250-8050

291-2019

250-8722

291-2533

250-2121

248-0749

250-5019

277-2499

289-6709

282-1241

289-9200

288-4442

282-9713

282-2149

289-4645

514-0090

255-6740

256-0885

252-0994

236-8035

259-2169

252-2780

225-5834

243-6962

800-578-7878

I/WI 866-895-7829

I/WI

I/WI 800-456-4000

I/WI

I/WI 800-834-8423

I/WI

I/WI 800-800-8000

I/WI

up to $75 $76-$124

$$$ $$$$

423-5611

COMFORT INN & SUITES, 10425–100 Avenue

115 $$-$$$$ P 108

426-3636

WESTIN EDMONTON HOTEL, 10135–100 Street

our alberta

/ 2008

438-6060 438-7979 465-7931 431-1100

DERRICK MOTEL, 3925 Gateway Blvd

ECONOLODGE INN & SUITES SOUTH, 4009 Gateway Blvd

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON EDMONTON SOUTH, 7230 Argyll Road

GREENWOOD INN & SUITES EDMONTON, 4485 Gateway Blvd

468-5400

434-6415

HOLIDAY INN CONVENTION CENTRE, 4520–76 Avenue

438-5876

ARGYLL PLAZA HOTEL, 9933–63 Avenue

DELTA EDMONTON SOUTH HOTEL, 4404 Gateway Blvd

SOUTH SIDE

423-3600

UNION BANK INN, 10053 Jasper Avenue

428-7111

428-6442

RIVERVIEW INN, 10209 100 Avenue

SUTTON PLACE HOTEL, EDMONTON, 10235–101 Street

423-2450

FAIRMONT HOTEL MACDONALD (THE), 10065–100 Street 454-5454

424-5181

DELTA EDMONTON CENTRE SUITE HOTEL, 10222–102 Street

RAMADA HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE, 11834 Kingsway

429-3900

DAYS INN DOWNTOWN EDMONTON, 10041–106 Street

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS, 10010–104 Street

428-6611 423-1925

CROWNE PLAZA CHATEAU LACOMBE, 10111 Bellamy Hill $$

C/M

$$$

$$$$

$-$$

C/M

$-$$ $-$$

C/M S/C/M I

C/M

93 $$-$$$$ C

C/M

224 $$$-$$$$ P S/C/M I

139 -$$-$$$

237 $$-$$$$ P S/C/M I

416 $$$-$$$$ P

34 $$$-$$$$ P

313 $$$-$$$$ P

431- $$-$$$ P

140

199

169 $$$-$$$$ P S/C/M

307 $$-$$$$ P

424-6682

CHATEAU NOVA HOTEL & SUITES, 159 Airport Road

$$$$

140 $$-$$$$ P

109 $$-$$$ P

177 $$-$$$$ P

452-7770

CHATEAU LOUIS HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE, 11727 Kingsway

85 $$-$$$ P

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT, One Thornton Court, 99 Street –Jasper Avenue 423-9999

421-1212

CANTERRA SUITES, 11010 Jasper Avenue

423-1565 479-2042

ALBERTA PLACE SUITE HOTEL, 10049–103 Street

$125-$174 over $175

BEST WESTERN CITY CENTRE INN, 11310–109 Street

DOWNTOWN

HOTELS & MOTELS

$ $$

UES TR OO RAT ES

Rates and information subject to change. Price symbol based on regular double room rates.

S/W/E

W/E

S/E

S/W/E

S/W

S/W/E

W/E

S/W/E

• • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

•

• • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

AIRP O R T SHU TTL SAT E: PA ELL ID / IT C E O / M C PLIM A SW B LE / ENT IMM ARY MO ING * VIE POO S L: I N SAU D OOR NA / OU /W HIR TDO LPO OR C O H L I LDR / EX EN ERC STA ISE R Y C OO O F M R EE W M PLIM ENT /PA ARY REN COF CON T F T E IN E SH ENT OP AL B REA LIC KFA ENS ST E D DIN ING CO C ROO KTA M IL L OU KIT NG CHE E NET TES ME ET

• • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

ING

MS N-S M

B/I

R/M

B/I

800-661-5193

888-233-6730

800-368-7764

888-430-6363

866-303-6060

800-661-1122

866-203-2930

800-WESTIN-1

888-423-3601

866-378-8866

800-613-7043

888-747-4114

877-423-4656

800-441-1414

800-661-6655

800-267-2191

800-661-8801

800-321-2211

888-384-6835

888-919-6682

800-661-9843

877-421-1212

B/I

800-661-3982 800-666-5026

B/I

ROO NO

ROO NG OKI RO O

BAR INI/M

SER VIC E

NET

www.where.ca/edmonton

TER / IN

SER VIC ES NES S BUS I

(78 NE PHO

E 1FRE TOL L

Edmonton Accommodation Guide

(78 0)

466-0451

437-3455

469-3680

438-4949

461-5170

436-9247

436-5813

428-1454

423-4623

441-3099

428-6467

453-7324

426-6090

429-6481

428-1566

424-5302

425-6564

423-9998

425-9791

424-6683

454-3436

421-1211

474-2204

426-6260

FAX

2008 /

our alberta

484-0821 483-1385 483-6031 444-9378 484-1136

MAYFIELD INN & SUITES, 16615–109 Avenue

SANDMAN HOTEL WEST, 17635 Stony Plain Road

TRAVELODGE EDMONTON WEST, 18320 Stony Plain Road

WEST EDMONTON MALL INN, 17504–90 Avenue

WEST EDMONTON MOTOR INN, 18245 Stony Plain Road

474-5476 474-0456

SANDS HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE, 12340 Fort Road

TRAVELODGE EDMONTON EAST, 3414–118 Avenue

467-1234 962-9234 467-6727 464-1000 459-5551 963-1161

FRANKLIN’S INN, 2016 Sherwood Drive, Sherwood Park

NOVA INN, #1 26302 TWP Rd. 531A, Kalwin Business Park, Acheson

RAMADA LIMITED EDMONTON EAST, 30 Broadway Blvd, Sherwood Park

ROADKING INNS, 26 Strathmoor Drive, Sherwood Park

ST. ALBERT INN & SUITES, 156 St. Albert Trail, St. Albert

TRAVELODGE STONY PLAIN, 74 Boulder Boulevard, Stony Plain

986-2241 986-1840

BEST WESTERN DENHAM INN & SUITES, 5207–50 Avenue, Leduc

EXECUTIVE ROYAL INN LEDUC, 8450 Sparrow Drive, Leduc

BEYOND EDMONTON

471-2610 476-9898

EASTGLEN INN, 6918–118 Avenue

NORTH EDMONTON INN & SUITES, 13742–50 Street

NORTH EAST

443-1000

484-3333

HOWARD JOHNSON HOTEL WEST EDMONTON, 15540 Stony Plain Road

484-8000

483-4000

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL AND SUITES, 10017–179A Street

WINGATE INN, 18220–100 Avenue

444-3000

FANTASYLAND HOTEL AT WEST EDMONTON MALL, 17700–87 Avenue

HARVEST INN, 17803 Stony Plain Road

484-6000

EXECUTIVE ROYAL INN WEST EDMONTON, 10010–178 Street

484-7751 444-4440

CONTINENTAL INN, 16625 Stony Plain Road

DAYS INN & SUITES WEST EDMONTON, 10010–179A Street

483-7770 484-4415

BEST WESTERN WESTWOOD INN BY THE MALL, 18035 Stony Plain Road

COMFORT INN (WEST), 17610–100 Avenue

WEST END

436-9770 436-6000

SUPER 8 HOTEL EDMONTON SOUTH, 3610 Gateway Blvd

WHITEMUD INN EDMONTON SOUTH, 4805 Gateway Blvd

437-6010 433-8688

RADISSON HOTEL EDMONTON SOUTH, 4440 Gateway Blvd

TRAVELODGE EDMONTON SOUTH, 10320–45 Avenue

438-1222

468-5400

431-1100

HOLIDAY INN THE PALACE, 4235 Gateway Blvd

HOLIDAY INN CONVENTION CENTRE, 4520–76 Avenue

GREENWOOD INN & SUITES EDMONTON, 4485 Gateway Blvd

C/M

$-$$

C/M C/M

$$$$

C/M

$$$

$-$$

$$$

$-$$

$$$

$-$$

C/M

S/C

C/M

W/E

S/W/E

W/E

S/W/E

W/E

S/W/E

W/E

S/W/E

• • •

• •

• • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

•

* Indicates service available. Charges may apply.

148 $$-$$$

186 $$-$$$ C

105

159 $$-$$$ P

88 $$-$$$ P

220 $$-$$$ P

C/M

327 $$$-$$$$ P 149 $$-$$$$ P

C/M

60 $$-$$$ P

102 $$-$$$$ P

355

238 $$-$$$$ P S/C/M

C/M

P S/C/M

108 $$-$$$$ P

100 $$-$$$ P 100

C/M

P S/C/M

170 $$-$$$$ P

219 $$-$$$ P

104

235 -$$-$$$$ P S/C/M I

137 $$-$$$$ C

93 $$-$$$$ C

224 $$$-$$$$ P S/C/M I

B/I

B/I R

B/I

963-1233

460-7687

464-1043

467-5685

962-2123

467-3907

986-1864

986-1511

479-3542

477-2714

476-9899

479-3849

443-0500

486-6060

487-5 WEST

489-7899

484-2358

489-0611

486-1634

489-3774

481-6227

444-3294

489-6000

930-8777

484-9827

481-4034

486-1769

430-0680

436-3529

433-8823

431-5804

438-0906

466-0451

437-3455

800-578-7878

800-450-8612

877-218-8811

800-942-2433

866-449-6682

800-738-0886

888-202-3770

800-661-3327

800-665-0456

888-444-3402

888-411-2610 800-476-9898

800-228-1000

800-661-6993

800-RESERVE

800-578-7878

877-483-1383

800-661-9804

800-556-4156

877-483-4001

800-RESERVE

800-661-4879

866-441-1441

888-484-9660

B/I

R/M

B/I

B/I R

800-557-4767 800-228-5150

B/I

888-992-2100

800-578-7878

B/I

B/I B/I

888-837-7223 866-468-8839

B/I

800-565-1222

800-661-5193

888-233-6730

B/I

ALBERTA index Use this locator guide to find towns, cities, lakes and parks across the province Fort McMurray. . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Fort Chipewyan. . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Frank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Grand Prairie. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Grande Cache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Hinton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 Hoodoo Trail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Horseshoe Canyon . . . . . . . . . .30 Icefields Parkway . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Innisfail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Jasper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Kananaskis Country. . . . . . . . . .24 Kananaskis Village . . . . . . . . . . .24 Lac La Biche . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Lacombe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Lake Louise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Lethbridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Lloydminster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 Maligne Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Markerville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Medicine Hat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Miette Hot Springs . . . . . . . . . .25 Millarville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Moraine Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Nanton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Peace River. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Pincher Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Red Deer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Rocky Mountain House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Rosebud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Slave Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 St. Paul. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 Stettler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Stony Plain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69 Sundre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Sunwapta Falls . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Sylvan Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Taber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Vegreville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 Vulcan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Waterton Lakes National Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Wayne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Wetaskiwin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Willmore Wilderness Park. . . .25 Wood Buffalo National Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA

Athabasca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Banff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Bragg Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Calgary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Attractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Historic Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Museums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Camrose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Canmore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Cardston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Cold Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 Columbia Icefield . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Cooking Lake/Blackfoot Recreational Area . . . . . . . . . . . .68 Cypress Hills Provincial Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Dinosaur Provincial Park. . . . . .32 Drumheller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Dunvegan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 East Coulee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 Attractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Historic Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Museums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Edson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 Elk Island National Park . . . . . .68 Fort Macleod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

our alberta

/ 2008

PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY TRAVEL ALBERTA