Beyond the Gates of Eden Wilds
Southwest Alberta is one of Canada’s best-kept secrets, a region where rugged mountain ranges meet golden ranchlands, rich Indigenous heritage, and small-town character. Within easy reach of Eden Wilds, you’ll find glacier-carved lakes, panoramic hiking trails, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and local gems that embody the resilient, authentic spirit of the West. Designed to help you explore the Southern Canadian Rockies with ease and intention, this guide reflects what we value most: meaningful places, welcoming people, and the freedom to explore on your own terms.
What to See, Taste, and Experience
CULTURE
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village
Offering visitors a unique glimpse into the rich history of southwestern Alberta, this charming heritage village showcases over 20 restored buildings filled with fascinating artifacts from the late 1800s and early 1900s. This immersive experience brings the past to life, making it a perfect outing for history enthusiasts and families.
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Lebel Mansion
A historic gem in Pincher Creek, the Lebel Mansion is a beautifully preserved 1910 heritage building that now serves as a vibrant arts and culture hub. Visitors can explore local art exhibits, attend workshops, or browse the fantastic gift shop, which features unique creations by local artisans. The mansion also hosts concerts from time to time, adding to its lively cultural offerings.
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Pincher Creek Pro Rodeo
Experience a weekend that captures the spirit of Alberta’s proud western tradition in an unforgettable setting. Over the course of three days every August, spectators are treated to action-packed events, including bull riding and team roping, showcasing the very best in rodeo performance.
Within a 45-Minute Drive
Annual Piikani Nation Celebration
The Annual Piikani Nation Celebration is a vibrant gathering honouring Blackfoot culture, featuring traditional drumming, singing, dancing, and community events. This one-of-a-kind celebration invites all visitors to experience the rich heritage of the Piikani Nation.
Within a 45-Minute Drive
Frank Slide
Located in the scenic Crowsnest Pass, Frank Slide is one of Canada’s most dramatic natural landmarks. In 1903, a section of Turtle Mountain gave way, sending 110 million tons of limestone crashing down onto the mining town of Frank. Visit the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre for engaging exhibits and views of the rugged field of boulders and surrounding Rocky Mountains.
Within a 1-Hour Drive
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump was used by the Plains People for over 6,000 years as a place to hunt buffalo, a practice essential to their way of life. The interpretive centre, built into the sandstone cliffs, features immersive exhibits, films, and guided tours that explain the ingenious techniques used in the hunt and the cultural significance of the buffalo—offering a fascinating look into Indigenous history and culture.
Recreation
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Beauvais Lake Provincial Park
Bordering Eden Wilds, Beauvais Lake Provincial Park offers a peaceful escape into nature. With scenic trails, calm waters for paddling, and diverse wildlife, it’s a natural extension of the serenity you’ll find on the property. Whether you’re hiking, canoeing, or enjoying the quiet beauty of the park, Beauvais Lake is a perfect complement to your stay at Eden Wilds.
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Pincher Creek Golf Course
Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Rocky Mountains, Pincher Creek Golf Course is a 9-hole course that’s perfect for players of all levels. Conveniently located, it’s known for its friendly atmosphere, well-maintained fairways and greens, and breathtaking views. The clubhouse offers a warm and inviting space to enjoy a post-game drink or meal, and is open to everyone.
Within a 45-Minute Drive
Waterton Lakes National Park
Known for its striking mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife, Waterton Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the world’s first International Peace Park. Visitors can enjoy a variety of scenic hikes along with boat cruises on Waterton Lake and opportunities to spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep, deer, and occasionally bears.
Within a 1-Hour Drive
Castle Mountain Ski Resort
Spend a day on the slopes at Castle Mountain Ski Resort, which offers nearly 3,000 vertical feet and some of North America’s longest continuous fall lines, and has something for skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels. Castle Mountain is also a great place for hiking and road cycling during the warmer months.
Within a 1-Hour Drive
Crowsnest Pass Golf Club
Surrounded by 360-degree mountain views, the Crowsnest Pass Golf Club offers one of the most picturesque golfing experiences in Western Canada. Play a round on its 18-hole course and enjoy delicious food and drink on the club’s panoramic deck. Advance reservations are highly recommended.
Dining
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Seeds
A charming establishment that combines a flower shop, café, and bakery all under one roof, Seeds offers a drink and lunch menu, along with fresh baking daily. With its warm atmosphere and locally sourced products, it’s a must-visit for a taste of local community life.
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Soo Sushi
If you’re craving fresh and delicious sushi during your stay in the Rockies, Soo Sushi is the perfect choice. This cozy, family-friendly restaurant offers a fantastic selection of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes, along with flavourful Korean cuisine. It’s a great spot for a casual lunch, dinner with family, or even takeout for a quiet night in.
Within a 30-Minute Drive
The Hut Café
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a sit-down meal with the family, this local favourite offers friendly service and a charming nostalgic atmosphere. Don’t miss their signature bubble tea, along with comforting Canadian dishes and occasional offerings with delightful Filipino-inspired flavours.
Within a 45-Minute Drive
The Twin Butte Country General Store and Restaurant
This local favourite offers a Mexican menu year-round and an outdoor smoke shack in summer. The General Store also has a great selection of gifts with its one-of-a-kind locally made items. Check out their website to see if there are any live music events taking place during your stay at Eden Wilds.
Within a 45-Minute Drive
The Grumpy Goat
This small, charming spot is known for its delicious ice cream with a variety of flavours. It offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to stop and enjoy a treat.
Within a 45-Minute Drive
The Old Man River Brewing Company
Known for its wide variety of craft beers, this brewery is a relaxed place with a small family-friendly taproom and dog-friendly patio. It also offers a great menu of locally sourced food.
Within a 1-Hour Drive
The Rum Runner Restaurant and Pub
Conveniently located off Highway 3, the Rum Runner is a popular spot known for its warm atmosphere, extensive menu, and authentic regional charm. On the way from Eden Wilds, you’ll pass by the impressive sight of Frank Slide, a reminder of the historic event in 1903 when part of the mining town of Frank was buried.
Within a 1-Hour Drive
The Pass Beer Co.
This locally loved brewery offers a rotating selection of small-batch beers, each crafted with care and inspired by the rugged beauty of the Crowsnest Pass. Pair a pint with their famous pizza or poutine, and relax with friends or family in their welcoming taproom.
Shopping
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Ranchland Western Wear
For authentic western apparel and accessories, this is the go-to store! Specializing in high-quality boots, hats, jeans, and gear, this locally owned shop offers everything you need to embrace the cowboy lifestyle.
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Brixx Mercantile
A popular local women’s clothing store, Brixx offers a mix of casual wear and unique fashion finds, and is known for its trendy yet comfortable pieces.
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Tamarack Outdoor Outlet
Tamarack Outdoor Outlet is Southern Alberta’s largest retail outlet for all your outdoor gear needs. Offering a wide range of brand-name clothing, footwear, and equipment for adults and children at great prices, the store regularly updates its clearance and off-season inventory.
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Small Town Collectives
This charming shop offers a tasteful selection of locally made goods, vintage items, stylish clothing, and unique gifts. It’s the perfect spot to find something special while supporting local artisans and makers.
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Sugar Studio
Sugar Studio is not just a boutique—it’s a vibrant, all-inclusive wellness space. In addition to offering an array of apparel, unique handmade jewelry, and stylish accessories with a focus on quality and craftsmanship, the studio also offers a variety of yoga and barre classes. To top it off, they offer relaxing massages and spray tanning, making it the perfect destination for self-care, style, and relaxation.
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Lyndon House International
This eco-conscious store specializes in handmade soaps, body lotions, creams, and oils, while emphasizing on sustainability and quality ingredients. In addition to personal care products, Lynden House International features a botanical section filled with a wide range of herbs, spices, and botanicals.
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Co-op FOOD
With a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, dairy and pantry staples, the Co-op is a local favourite. It also offers a variety of organic and specialty products, making it easy to find quality items for every taste and diet.
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Town and Country Liquor Store
Town and Country is locally owned and operated, offering thoughtful selections for those seeking quality wines and spirits, with tailored recommendations from knowledgeable staff. The store also proudly supports local producers, featuring products that reflect the distinctive character of the region.
Within a 30-Minute Drive
Pincher Creek Farmers Market
Enjoy a lively afternoon at Pincher Creek Farmers Market, which runs every Wednesday from mid June to early September. Situated in beautiful Cenotaph Park, it’s the perfect spot to experience the charm of small-town Alberta and find fresh local produce, handmade goods, artisan crafts, and delicious treats.
Within a 45-Minute Drive
Crowsnest Community Market
Held in various locations throughout the year, the Crowsnest Community Market captures the essence of community life in the heart of Southwest Alberta. From fresh, homegrown produce and unique artisanal crafts to family-friendly activities and festive holiday magic, this market brings together the best of Alberta’s seasonal offerings.
Within a 1-Hour Drive
The Pantry
If you want to stock up on groceries while exploring the Crowsnest Pass area, head to The Pantry in Blairmore. This welcoming local store is committed to helping build a healthy community and offers a wide variety of fresh produce, pantry essentials, bulk foods, and specialty items.
