7 Prettiest Small Towns In The Prairies
The Canadian prairie provinces of Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan showcase some of the Great White North's true beauty. Much of the rugged terrain is backed by incredible mountain views. At the same time, other parts are made up of glacial lakes, lush forests, and waves of amber grain. Each province is filled with towns that look like a postcard in every direction. Just be prepared for a flood of envious comments when you post photos of places like Banff, Alberta, Churchill, Manitoba, and more!
Canmore, AB
The town of Canmore, Alberta, offers breathtaking views no matter where you look. Nestled in the Bow Valley, the town's location provides a stunning view of Canada's Rocky Mountains. Visitors have the chance to get up close and personal with the area's plantlife along some of the province's best hiking trails through guided hikes organized through Three Family Mountain Hikes. The Rotary Friendship Park is a great place for a picnic or just lounging around on the lush green grass. Even a stroll through Canmore's downtown provides an awe-inspiring view of the mountains. While you're in town, keep an eye out for the "Big Head" public art exhibit on 8th Street. Canmore is about an hour away from Calgary, home to the Calgary International Airport. While in Canmore, there are plenty of places to stay, including the Canmore Inn & Suites.
Gimli, MB
Gimli, Manitoba, is a picturesque slice of Iceland in the heart of Canada. This tiny town of just over 2,300 people as of 2021 proudly wears its Nordic roots on its sleeve. Perhaps the best example of this is the town's most famous landmark, the Viking Statue. Standing 15-feet tall, the landmark honors the area’s Nordic roots, a local folklore hero. While in town, make sure to take a relaxing stroll along Gimli Beach, where you can take in the amazing views of Lake Winnipeg. Gimli is about an hour north of Winnipeg, where the Winnipeg Richardson International Airport is located.
Swift Current, SK
About a three-hour drive from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, is the idyllic town of Swift Current. Several self-guided tours are available. Each tour offers a unique and memorable experience. The Pedal, Paddle, Pickle Tour through the Riverside Park area is a favorite among visitors. Just remember to bring your own kayak, bike, and paddle! For a bit of history, you can pay a visit to The Lyric Theatre, one of Saskatchewan's oldest theater that's still in operation. The Chinook Golf Course offers players a chance to take in the area's beauty while playing 18 holes. Swift Current has plenty of places in town to lay your head, including a Holiday Inn Express. The closest major airport is the John G. Diefenbaker International Airport in Saskatoon.
Churchill, MB
For those who can brave the cold, Churchill, Manitoba, is a unique winter wonderland. The friendly town is home to about 870 people who live in this sub-arctic town year-round. Churchill's unique northern location allows people to view the famed northern lights, truly one of nature's great wonders. For those who want to explore their "wild" side a bit, there are several options to get up close and personal with some amazing animals. Between July and August each year, Custom Churchill Tours provides beluga whale watching tours. For those who like their animal adventures with more teeth, make sure to book a Polar Bear Tour! During these trips, guests ride in a very secure giant winter vehicle that allows you to be virtually nose to snout with these incredible animals. Over the years, Churchill has gained the nickname of “Polar Bear City" thanks to the number of bears that have moved in. Here's a fun fact: the town's name comes from John Churchill, the First Duke of Marlborough and not Winston Churchill. Air transport into Churchill is provided by Calm Air, which offers daily flights to and from Winnipeg. The Polar Inn & Suites Churchill is a great place to stay while in town.
Banff, AB
A single look is all it takes to see why Banff, Alberta, is considered one of Canada's crown jewels. Almost no matter where you look while in town, you'll have a breathtaking view of the snow-topped Canadian Rocky Mountains. The town sits in the shadow of Mount Rundle, Mount Norquay, and Cascade Mountain, among others. As if Mother Nature wasn't showing off enough, hikers can find the Bow Falls just ten minutes away from Cascade Mountain. The Bow River offers a slightly more calming experience. Feel your troubles melt away as you look out at the rolling foothills dotted with lush trees. Just be careful not to get so deep in thought that you end up in the river! Banff is, of course, famous for its skiing, but if you need to warm up, pay a visit to the Banff Upper Hot Springs. There are plenty of places to stay in town, but be mindful of peak season pricing. Another option might be to camp out at the Bow River Campground. The nearest airport is the Calgary International Airport, which is about an hour and a half away.
Prince Albert, SK
In the language of the Cree people, the area where Prince Albert sits is sometimes referred to as the "sitting pretty place". Anyone who has been there will agree that the name is an understatement. The Prince Albert National Park is home to over 150 km of walking and biking trails. Each trail showcases the best of Saskatchewan's natural beauty. Just be warned, wild animals roam the woods. And not all of them run from humans. For a slightly different nature experience, pay a visit to the Little Red River Park. The forested area covers 500 hectares (or about 1300 American football fields). Winter, summer, spring, or fall, Prince Albert is a sight to behold. The North Saskatchewan River provides a nice counterbalance to the province's rugged hills and forests. The River offers the perfect chance to go for a swim or relax after a long hike. When you've built up an appetite, head to The Canadian Brew House for a hearty meal. The nearest airport is the John G. Diefenbaker International Airport, located about two hours away in Saskatoon. You'll also find several hotels, such as Ramada, while in town, should you need to stay overnight.
Drumheller, AB
Roughly an hour and a half drive northeast of Calgary is the city of Drumheller. The picturesque town, home to just over 8,000 people, is located in what's known as Dinosaur Valley. To walk in the footsteps of these amazing creatures, you can take a self-guided hike on the Dinosaur Trail. Depending on the season, you can also get in 18 holes at the Dinosaur Trail Golf & Country Club. Built on the Red Deer River, this course features lush greens and a mesmerizing view of the surrounding area. Just 15 minutes away from Drumheller, you can find tall, thin rock formations known as hoodoos. Local favorite Asteroid Cater has been serving hungry customers for years. If you're looking for a place to stay while in town, the Heartwood Inn is a great option. While you're in town, make sure to visit Drumheller's most famous resident, World's Largest Dinosaur. Standing 85 feet tall, the fiberglass Tyrannosaurus features an observation deck in its mouth. Visitors can enjoy an amazing view of the surrounding area. And best of all, Tyra, as she is known by locals, hasn't eaten anyone, yet.
No matter where you go in Alberta, Manitoba, or Saskatchewan, you will be surrounded by beauty. These three provinces were vital in the formation of Canada, and their rugged landscapes carry many scars and hold many secrets. From snow-tipped mountains to shimmering lakes to their lush forests, the Prairies are worth a visit all year round. One of the best parts about a country as big as Canada is that chances are, the most incredible views are yet to be discovered. So put on your hiking boots and get out there.
