My Alberta

Alicia Strelkov of Olds, Alta., shares her love for this scenic Prairie province

- Alicia Strelkov

Many people just think of Alberta as the oil province of Canada, but it is a lot more than that. It is a Prairie province with an enthralling beauty and friendly people. Once immersed in its land and culture, an unsuspecting heart can be easily stolen. From rolling Prairie fields and jagged Rocky Mountain peaks to the eerie beauty of the badlands, Alberta truly is a vast landscape full of breathtaking beauty. It’s also home to several beautiful national parks. In southern Alberta is Waterton Glacier International Peace Park, a biosphere reserve that borders the United States in the state of Montana. Moving north you will find Banff and Jasper National Parks. On the edge of these parks are any number of provincial parks with much to see and do.

Part of the fascination and attraction of southern Alberta is its biodiversity. Heading west, you come across the lovely rolling landscape of the foothills, where you can see lots of ranch land and cattle. A short drive further west are the Rocky Mountains. With their soaring peaks, numerous glacial lakes and valleys, the Rockies exude a feeling of power in their regal splendour. With many lovely hiking trails, opportunities for wildlife-watching and more, the Rockies also offer a great opportunity for the adventurous soul.

It is such an amazing place that it draws us back every summer to hike as often as possible. My husband Neil and I often hike for hours without meeting another person, while other times we encounter friendly travellers from other parts of Canada and around the world.