What is the Boomtown Trail?

Boomtown Trail refers to the tourism region in Alberta, east of Queen Elizabeth II Highway. The region encompasses Highways 21, 56 & 9 and spans from the town of New Sarepta in the north to the town of Bassano in the south.

What is the Boomtown Trail history?

Boomtown Trail communities sprang to life almost overnight around a century ago, spurred on by the expansion of the railways. The rapid development led to a distinctive style of architecture, characterized by a grandly designed front covering a more humble building behind it. Known as “boomtown” architecture, it was typical of many buildings in the North American west at the turn of the 20th century. Today, it is becoming more and more of a rarity to see in anywhere other than the movies.

Not so along the Boomtown Trail! Almost every community on the drive from New Sarepta to Bassano features original buildings from the boomtown era, taking you back to the origins of small town Alberta. There have been many efforts to preserve the local history, including restored sites, many museums, and brought-to-life characters.

Boomtown Trail’s Natural Places, Events, and Activities

Those who prefer the outdoors will also love all that the Boomtown Trail has to offer. Dozens of great campgrounds dot the area, not to mention numerous natural places. From beautiful lakes and rolling hills to the Badlands, you’ll want to take in all the remarkable scenery of the region. There is also great opportunities to get active! There are hiking, birdwatching, biking, paddling, skating, skiing, and tobogganing opportunities throughout the trail.

And there is always something happening on the Boomtown Trail. Every taste can be satisfied at some point from events such as the Big Valley Jamboree and the many local rodeos, live theatre, community garage sales, and centennial celebrations. Golfers, meanwhile, will have not trouble finding a tee time: there are 18 courses in the area with reasonable rates. Others will enjoy the charm of main streets with boomtown architecture, shopping, and murals depicting the past.

With so much to see and do on the Boomtown Trail, isn’t it time you came and explored the trail for yourself?

Trail Map

Travel Tips

Touring Routes

Want to know more? Contact our organization…

Phone: 1.780.672.2710
Email: info@boomtowntrail.com

*Alberta is on Mountain Time. We are one hour later than Pacific Time, and two hours earlier than eastern time.*

Thank you to our members: