Our History:
The Crowsnest Pass is a valley that cuts through the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Situated on the Continental Divide of North America, the highest point in the valley has an elevation of 4,457 feet above sea level. The mountains on both sides rise to more than 7,000 feet, and, the most well know mountain the Crowsnest, has an elevation of 9,138 feet.
The Municipality of Crowsnest Pass is an amalgamation of 5 small communities (Bellevue, Hillcrest, Frank, Blairmore and Coleman) all within a 10 mile radius. Located in the southern tip of Alberta, about 10 miles from the British Columbia border and only a 2 1/2 hour drive from Calgary, the Crowsnest Pass offers tourists a wealth of attractions.
The beauty of the Crowsnest Pass area is a result of three stages of rock formation that began 600 million years ago. About 70 million years ago, the Rocky Mountains were formed when hot, molten rock forced its way upward.
At the turn of the century, Coal was the main draw for people to settle in the area. Until about 1945, underground mining was the main industry. After that, strip mining became more economical and the underground mines were closed. Coal continues to be an important industry for the Crowsnest Pass.
Tragedy Remembered:
The Crowsnest Pass is famous for two events: the Frank Slide and the Hillcrest Mine Explosion.
Frank Slide was one of the largest rock slides in the world. At 4:10 a.m., April 29, 1903, more than 90-million tons of limestone rock broke away from Turtle Mountain and rumbled down the Crowsnest Valley. In less than 2 minutes, the town of Frank, the entrance to the Frank Mine, the highway and railway were all covered by 100 feet of rock.
The second tragedy happened a few year later as 237 miners made their way to work on June 19, 1914. It was a bright and sparkling day but little did the miners know the day would be remember in history books. Two hours after they began work, a thunderous explosion ripped through the mine killing all but 48 men.
Although the mine closed for a brief time it was opened again and 12 years later history repeated itself. The September 19, 1926 explosion was even more destructive than the first but only two men died.
Community Attractions:
Many tourists visit the Crowsnest Pass to feel part of history and awe at its beauty. The area offers fresh air, marvelous scenery and friendly folk. Whether your stay is long or short, the area has attractions for everyone's interests.
Frank Slide Interpretive Centre: Through displays, pictures and narrative video presentations, visitors relive the world famous slide. From the Interpretive Centre, one can look over the 1-1/2 square miles of rock that buried the little town of Frank.
Leitch Collieries: Established in 1907, this completely Canadian owned mine was one of the largest in the history of the Crowsnest Pass. A tour of the mine ruins takes the visitor through remnants of the coke ovens and washery.
Bellevue Mine Tour: This mine opened in 1903 and also experienced a deadly explosion. Part of the mine has been re-opened for tours.
Outdoor Activities: The area is a paradise for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. The area offers many world class rivers & lakes that are home to rainbow, cutthroat and bull trout. Other outdoor activities waiting for you are:
| Wind Surfing | Hiking | Snowmobiling |
| Hunting | Mountain Climbing | Mountain Biking |
| Spelunking | Rafting | Horseback Riding |
| Golfing | Swimming | Downhill Skiing |
| Cross Country Skiing | Gold Panning | (Lots & Lots more) |
We told you we had Adventure!
