The Area

    The south western corner of Alberta has a very diverse nature.  The beautiful Rocky Mountains are on our western and southern edge, while the lay of the land stretches out to the porcupine hills, and farm lands.  In the midst are mountain valleys, streams, forest reserves, the Old Man River Reservoir, ski resorts, golf courses, and much much more.  

    Historically, what originally had a major impact on the development of the Crowsnest Pass area was the coal mining industry.  Although there is no current activity in the coal industry right in the Crowsnest Pass, many residents work just across the border in B.C. and choose to commute to their work.  The Frank Slide Interpretive Centre, and other historic sites in the area preserve the history, and tell the story.  The different districts in the Municipality of the Crowsnest Pass have become popular as a haven for people to retire - or simply find their quiet place to escape the city for a special fishing trip, hunting expedition, camping trip - or a winter wonderland.   Two ski resorts are within an hours drive from the Crowsnest Pass - being Castle Mountain west of Pincher Creek, and Fernie, B.C. which is west of the Crowsnest Pass.  There is also the Pass Powderkeg Ski Hill right in Blairmore!  The Crowsnest Pass also boasts an exceptional 18 hole golf course, and there are endless walking trails and off-road trails for snowmobiles and ATVs as the Crowsnest Pass is bordered by Forestry to the south, west and north.  Much is changing in the Crowsnest Pass as it is being discovered by many as the last mountain 'frontier' on the eastern slopes of the Rockies.  As it is attracting so many with the multitude of recreational outdoor activities and close proximity to Calgary, Lethbridge and other major centres - property values increase, and new developments are on-going.  The Crowsnest Pass has a hospital, emergency services, an Alberta Health Unit, York Creek seniors lodge, and much more.

    The Municipality of Pincher Creek borders the east side of the Crowsnest Pass.  This municipality brings you closer to the famous Waterton National Park, and into an area which was developed more around the farming and ranching industries.  Much of this history is displayed in the Pincher Creek Museum.  Ranching areas here are known to be amongst the best for raising prime beef.  More recently, Pincher Creek has been taking strides in developing tourism while improving and expanding  the Castle Mountain Ski  Resort.  Several Bed and Breakfasts have been developed to serve area visitors.  Pincher Creek also offers a 9 hole golf course.  The economy of Pincher Creek has taken an upturn over the past few years and there is much activity and excitement here as well.  Part of this is because of the development of clean energy with wind power.   The activity in the area has brought Wal-Mart and other commercial development to Pincher Creek.  Here you also have one stop shopping for Health Care as Pincher Creek has developed an exceptional health care system with the clinic, hospital, emergency services, AHC, and other health care facilities all located in one building.  We are fortunate in that both Pincher Creek and the Crowsnest Pass  attract doctors and medical personnel because of what the area has to offer.  Vista Villa and a new seniors residence to open in the spring of 2011 are also in Pincher Creek.

    Between these two 'larger' centres, are the town of Cowley, and the hamlets of Beaver Mines, Pincher Station and Lundbreck.  Each of these has their own unique qualities, and Lundbreck (which is more or less in the centre) offers a K to 12 school noted for both academic and athletic achievements.  Lundbreck also has a newly developed Seniors centre that offers activities for Seniors.

    The life in this area is peaceful, with camping and fishing areas being plentiful.  Skiing opportunities (both downhill and cross country) are ample here, as are trails for snowmobiling, biking, ATVs and hiking. There is far too much to tell you about in this area to fit on one small page.   Please feel free to contact me for more information.