If you’ve done everything there is to do in Calgary, it’s time to get out and explore the other towns and locations nearby. Whether you’re in the mood for small-town charm or looking to escape into nature, there’s something for everyone in Alberta.
Day Tripping to the West
It’s no secret that the most famous place to visit around Calgary is the Rocky Mountains. Banff National Park is just over an hour away and is one of the most beautiful places in the world. You may want to visit Kananaskis, which is even closer and typically quieter than its big brother next door.
Kananaskis
Drive Time: Kananaskis is about an hour from Calgary, but it depends on how far you go.
Also known as K-country, this is one of the best places to spot wildlife such as bears and bighorn sheep as well as indulge in the pristine mountain wilderness. It’s home to some incredible hiking opportunities in the summer but is also popular in the winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. In fact, you can even go downhill skiing at Nakiska Ski Area, which was home to the 1988 Winter Olympics.
Starting June 1, 2021, visitors will have to pay $15 per day to access the area or will have the option of purchasing an annual vehicle pass for $90 which would cover up to two licence plates.
Day Tripping to the North
Sundre
Distance from Calgary: 1.5 hours or less.
Located right along Alberta’s Cowboy Trail, Sundre is a small town nestled near the Rocky Mountains, prairies, and foothills. You’ll find small town charm at its museum and restaurants, as well as nearby adventure such as horseback riding and whitewater rafting. In fact, there’s a high chance you’ll even spot some wild horses!
Popular things to do:
- Visit the Sundre Museum
- Visit the Wild Horses of Alberta Society
- Go golfing
- Go whitewater rafting with Mukwah Rafting
- Go horseback riding with Sunset Guiding and Outfitting
Day Tripping to the South
Calgary is only three hours north of the U.S. border with Montana, but in-between there are so many places to visit and cool things to do, some of which make great day trips from Calgary.
Head-Smashed-in Buffalo Jump
Distance from Calgary: 2 hours.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the province’s great indigenous treasures and one of the world’s biggest, oldest, and best-preserved buffalo jumps. What makes Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump extra special is the wonderful interpretive centre where you can learn all about this site, watch a re-enactment video, and learn about the indigenous tribes that call this place home. The exhibition site details how the Blackfoot Bands used the area for buffalo hunting and they offer a number of tours, including the chance to re-enact the buffalo hunt yourself!
Day Tripping to the East
East of Calgary is what makes Alberta even more unique. Not only will you find mountains to the west and prairies to the north and south, but you’ll also find badlands to the east.
Aspen Crossing and Vulcan
Distance from Calgary: 1 hr 30 minute drive or less.
Located in the ultra-small town of Mossleigh is one of the most popular attractions near Calgary. Aspen Crossing offers a train-themed experience, complete with an RV park, camping, and a truly unique opportunity to spend the night in a Caboose cabin. The most popular activity here is taking a scenic train ride through the prairies with options to experience things like a Cowboy Shootout, a Wine and Cheese event, Brunch, or even the Polar Express during the Christmas season. In addition, you’ll find one of the few remaining places in Alberta where there’s a trio of grain elevators still standing.
Now, if you’ve made it this far, you should continue on to the town of Vulcan, especially if you’re a fan of the TV series Star Trek. In fact, if you’re a fan of the show, the town of Vulcan is likely #1 on your bucket list. Located just 25-minutes from Mossleigh is a statue of the Star Trek Enterprise, murals of the Star Trek doctors, and even a ‘transporter’ to get you back to the Star Fleet. Even Leonard Nimoy visited in 2010!
Want to make it even more special? Consider visiting during the annual Spock Days, a fun family festival featuring a Star Trek-themed parade, soapbox derby, beer gardens and fireworks.
