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Crowsnest Pass Provincial Park adventures

Crowsnest Pass Provincial Park Adventures

Crowsnest Pass Provincial Park is a rugged mountain park in southwestern Alberta, known for its rich mining history, scenic landscapes, and diverse outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

7,500 acres
Acres Protected
20+ miles
Miles of Trails
Approx. 30,000
Annual Visitors
1977
Year Established

About Crowsnest Pass Provincial Park

 

Crowsnest Pass Provincial Park is located in the Rocky Mountains of southern Alberta, near the Alberta-British Columbia border. The park covers a portion of the Crowsnest Pass, a historic mountain passage that has long served as a critical transportation and trade route. The terrain features steep forested slopes, alpine meadows, and rocky ridges with elevations ranging from approximately 1,300 to over 2,200 meters. The park protects diverse ecosystems that support abundant wildlife such as elk, deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Rich in history, the area was once a thriving coal mining district, and remnants of this heritage can be seen in preserved mining sites and interpretive trails within the park. Visitors can explore several hiking trails that range from easy walks along river valleys to challenging climbs offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Crowsnest Pass Provincial Park also offers fishing in its clear mountain streams, as well as opportunities for wildlife viewing, camping, and winter sports like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The park's scenic landscapes and historical significance make it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Its proximity to the towns of Coleman and Blairmore provides convenient access to amenities and serves as gateways for exploration. The park is less crowded than many other mountain parks in Alberta, offering a peaceful experience with diverse natural and cultural attractions.

Highlights

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Frank Slide Interpretive Centre, showcasing Alberta’s greatest rockslide disaster

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Scenic viewpoints overlooking the rugged Turtle Mountain and Crowsnest River valley

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Legacy mining sites offering a glimpse into the region’s coal mining history

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Quiet backcountry trails away from heavy tourist traffic

Notable Natural Features

Frank Slide Interpretive Centre

A museum and educational facility dedicated to the 1903 rockslide that buried part of the mining town of Frank, providing historical context and exhibits.

Crowsnest River

A pristine mountain river known for trout fishing and scenic walking trails along its banks.

Turtle Mountain Overlook

A vantage point offering sweeping views of the iconic Turtle Mountain, a prominent mass implicated in the Frank Slide.