Travel Information Page – South Canadian Rockies

Getting Here

Reaching the South Canadian Rockies is simple year-round.

By Air

Calgary International Airport (YYC): Approx. 2.25 hours (220 km) drive to Pincher Creek
Lethbridge Airport (YQL): Approx. 1.5 hr (140 km) to Crowsnest Pass
Edmonton International Airport (YEG): Approx. 5.50 hours (540 km) drive via Hwy 2 south and Hwy 3 west

By Car

From Calgary: Approx. 2.5 hours drive via Highway 2 south, then west on Highway 3
From Lethbridge: Approx. 1.5 hours drive via Highway 3 west
From Edmonton: Approx. 5.5 hours drive via Highway 2 south
From Fernie, BC: Approx. 1 hour drive via Highway 3 east
From Waterton Lakes National Park: Approx. 1 hour drive via Highway 6

Know Before You Go

Time Zone: Mountain Daylight Time (GMT -6)
Climate: Alberta is Canada’s sunniest province with over 300 sunny days per year
Summer Temps: 20–25°C (68–77°F), occasionally reaching mid-30s°C (90s°F)
Winter Temps: -5 to -15°C (23 to 5°F), occasionally dropping to -30 to -40°C (-22 to -40°F)
Precipitation: Annual averages between 30–60 cm (12–24 in); ski resorts may receive up to 9 m (30 ft) of snow

An adventurer’s paradise tucked into the southwestern corner of Alberta, the South Canadian Rockies offers untamed wilderness, rich history, and adrenaline-pumping recreation — all just a scenic drive away.

Whether you’re here for the first time or returning for another round of unforgettable memories, the South Canadian Rockies invites you to explore its rugged peaks, pristine trails, and legendary stories. From hiking and biking to cat skiing, fishing, horseback riding, and exploring historic sites like Frank Slide and the Hillcrest Mine, this four-season destination blends outdoor thrills with a welcoming small-community vibe.

After your adventures, unwind in one of our cozy mountain towns. From hearty local meals to authentic accommodations and a vibrant arts scene, the region offers more than just a place to rest — it’s part of the experience.

Explore three distinct areas — Crowsnest Pass, Castle Region, and Pincher Creek — all connected by historic Highway 3. Each offers its own unique culture, history, and activities, and serves as a gateway to nearby regions like Waterton Lakes National Park, the Alberta Foothills, and British Columbia’s Kootenays.

Tucked into the southwest corner of Alberta, the Crowsnest Pass is a place where history runs deep and community spirit shines. Once a hub for coal mining and bootlegging, the region is known for its dramatic past, natural disasters, and legendary tales—none more famous than the Frank Slide, one of Canada’s deadliest rockslides.

Made up of five connected communities—Bellevue, Blairmore, Coleman, Frank, and Hillcrest—Crowsnest Pass offers a blend of heritage, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm. The region is linked by a scenic community trail system, perfect for walking or biking between towns and into nature. Whether you’re exploring museums, riding the pathways, or taking in mountain views, you’ll find stories around every corner.

The Castle Region offers a rugged, wild escape packed with year-round adventure. From snow-covered slopes to scenic summer trails, this corner of Alberta is a playground for outdoor lovers.

Tucked between Pincher Creek and Crowsnest Pass, the Castle Region spans Castle Provincial Park—an area known for its stunning alpine landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich ecological diversity. Whether you’re skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, mountain biking, or simply breathing in the fresh mountain air, the Castle Region is the perfect place to connect with nature and create unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Nestled at the foot of the Rockies, Pincher Creek is where Alberta’s past and present come together. Just east of the Castle Region, this historic area is steeped in pioneer roots and surrounded by wide-open prairies, rolling foothills, and towering peaks.

Positioned along both Highway 3 and the Cowboy Trail, the Pincher Creek Region is the ideal basecamp for exploring Southern Alberta. From here, tour operators and travellers can easily access Castle Provincial Park, Waterton Lakes National Park, and heritage destinations like the Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village. With its mix of cultural landmarks, natural attractions, and welcoming community, it’s the perfect place to begin or end any journey through the South Canadian Rockies.

Explore South Canadian Rockies

Travel Information

Getting Here

By Air

By Car

Know Before You Go

About South Canadian Rockies

Crowsnest Pass Region

Castle Region

Pincher Creek Region

Explore South Canadian Rockies

Things to do

Itineraries

Stories