Things To Do
in High River
High River is a picturesque town located in Alberta, Canada. It is known for its small-town charm, friendly community, and stunning views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. High River is rich in history, with several historic buildings and landmarks to explore.
The town offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the High River Museum to learn about local history. Enjoy a morning stroll through the charming downtown streets, filled with boutique shops and cafes.
Head to the Bob Snodgrass Recreation Complex for a variety of activities or enjoy a picnic at George Lane Park. Don't forget to explore the nearby pathways along the Highwood River.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a cozy restaurant downtown. Take a sunset walk by the river to unwind.
Kick off your morning at the stunning Kananaskis Country, just a short drive away. Hike the trails to soak in breathtaking mountain views.
Take a guided nature tour to learn about the local flora and fauna. Pack some snacks for a scenic lunch outdoors.
Return to High River and enjoy a casual dinner at a local pub. Spend your evening stargazing at one of the parks.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including proximity to the Rocky Mountains and the Highwood River.
- A close-knit community with friendly residents and a strong sense of local culture.
- Affordable housing compared to larger urban centers.
- Access to various outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture, retail, and tourism.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields compared to larger cities.
- Potential for harsh weather conditions, particularly cold winters.
- Limited access to larger-scale amenities such as shopping and entertainment.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Risk of flooding due to its proximity to the river, as experienced in past years.
Best Activities in High River
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a peaceful day fishing in the Highwood River, which is known for its trout and other freshwater species. The scenic surroundings make it a perfect spot for anglers of all skill levels.
Explore the stunning trails of Kananaskis Country, located just a short drive from High River. Trails vary in difficulty, catering to both beginner and experienced hikers, with breathtaking views of the mountains.
Take a leisurely bike ride along the High River Pathway, which features picturesque views and well-maintained paths suitable for cyclists of all ages.
Spend a relaxing afternoon at George Lane Park, which offers beautiful picnic areas, playgrounds, and access to walking trails along the river.
Visit Frank Lake Conservation Area for birdwatching and wildlife observation, especially during migration seasons. It's a great spot to see various bird species and other wildlife.
Enjoy a round of golf at the High River Golf Club, which features a well-maintained 18-hole course amidst beautiful landscapes, perfect for golf enthusiasts.
Experience the outdoors by canoeing or kayaking on the rivers or local lakes. Rentals may be available for those without their own equipment.
Explore the local farmers' market for fresh produce, handmade goods, and local crafts. It's a great way to support local vendors and enjoy the community vibe.
Tours
Uncover the best of High River with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in High River
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic park along the Highwood River offering beautiful views, walking trails, and picnic spots. Great for sunset photography.
Located close to downtown, this park features beautiful trees and the river, providing a picturesque backdrop for photos.
An historic building with unique architecture surrounded by lovely gardens, making it a perfect spot for capturing stunning images.
A short drive from High River, offering breathtaking mountain views ideal for landscape photography.
A serene pond surrounded by natural beauty, offering opportunities for tranquil water reflections and bird photography.
A large park with open fields, playgrounds, and paths, perfect for family photos and enjoying the outdoors.
Explore the charming historical buildings and storefronts, perfect for capturing the essence of High River's culture.
Food in High River
High River Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savor the local beef in a succulent High River beef burger, typically prepared with a variety of toppings and served in many diners and pubs across town.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the rich flavors of Bar U Ranch Bison brisket, slow-smoked to perfection, and often featured on the menus of local BBQ joints.
Finish off your meal with a slice of Prairie Berry Pie, made with locally sourced berries and cherished for its sweet and tangy profile.
Unique Experiences
Get to know High River better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant High River Farmers' Market, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and snacks from local vendors, creating a lively street food atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Canadians generally value personal space, so it is important to maintain a comfortable distance while conversing with others and avoid crowding.
Using polite language, such as 'please' and 'thank you', is highly regarded. Canadians are known for their friendly demeanor, so a warm greeting can go a long way.
Participating in local customs and events, such as Canada Day celebrations or community festivals, shows respect for High River's culture and fosters connections within the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of High River with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in High River
Ensure a smooth experience
In High River, Canada, tipping practices are generally consistent with those in other parts of Canada. It is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers. A typical tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. In some cases, tips may be included in the bill for larger parties or special events, so it's advisable to check before adding an additional tip.
Payment practices in High River vary across different establishments but generally include options for cash, debit, and credit card transactions. Many businesses also offer contactless payment methods. In restaurants, patrons typically pay at the table or at the counter after dining. It is becoming increasingly common for businesses to accept digital payment apps, providing consumers with more flexible payment options.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into High River.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) in High River brings mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. Expect temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). This is a great time for outdoor activities and festivals as the community celebrates the end of winter.
Summer (June to August) offers warm weather, with average temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Numerous outdoor events, farmers' markets, and July's High River Rodeo make this an exciting time to visit.
Fall (September to November) showcases beautiful autumn foliage with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F). It’s a peaceful time to explore the outdoors, with opportunities for hiking and enjoying local harvest festivals.
Winter (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures often between -10°C to 0°C (14°F to 32°F). Expect snowfall and a charming winter atmosphere. Winter activities like snowshoeing and visiting holiday markets are popular during this season.
High River at Night
Hiking in High River
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast area with numerous trails, Kananaskis Country offers various hiking options for all skill levels, with stunning mountain views and diverse wildlife.
Located in Calgary, this park has several trails along the creek and through forested areas, ideal for a quick escape into nature.
Offering various trails and beautiful scenery, Bragg Creek is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and enjoying the natural landscape.
This park features a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, all set amidst spectacular mountain scenery.
A beautiful spot located in Kananaskis, Cataract Creek offers trails that meander through lush forests and alongside the creek.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into High River through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach High River by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Alberta, located approximately 60 kilometers north of High River. It serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
Located about 290 kilometers north of High River, it is the second largest airport in Alberta, offering flights to numerous destinations around the world.
Approximately 145 kilometers south of High River, it provides limited domestic flights and serves as a regional airport for southern Alberta.
Located around 215 kilometers southeast of High River, it offers domestic flights and serves the city of Medicine Hat and surrounding areas.
Situated about 570 kilometers east of High River, this airport serves international and domestic flights for the city of Regina, Saskatchewan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in High River, typically consisting of individuals with roots in Europe.
Includes First Nations, Metis, and Inuit communities in the region.
Includes individuals of Asian descent, such as South Asian, East Asian, and Southeast Asian populations.
A smaller demographic group representing individuals of African descent.
Represents individuals with Latin American origins.
Includes individuals from various other backgrounds not listed in the larger groups.
The Soul of High River
Discover the essence of High River through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport played on ice, involving teams skating and using sticks to hit a puck into the opponent's goal.
A widely played sport, especially among youth, where two teams compete to score goals by kicking a ball into the opposing team's net.
A traditional Canadian sport that involves two teams using sticks with nets to catch and throw a small ball, aiming to score in the opponent's goal.
A summer sport enjoyed by many in High River, where two teams take turns batting and fielding, aiming to score runs.
A popular team sport in High River, with a focus on passing and running to score points by reaching the opponent's end zone.
A winter sport where players slide stones on a sheet of ice towards a target area, often played in leagues.
A popular recreational sport in High River, played on various courses with the objective of hitting a golf ball into a series of holes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting High River.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in High River offer diverse vegetarian and vegan options, ranging from plant-based burgers to creatively crafted salads and tofu-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating menus in several establishments, with gluten-free pastas, bread, and desserts available to ensure a delightful dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of High River with these cultural adventures.
