• » Canada
• » Alberta
• » Harvie Heights

Overview

Right beside Alberta’s prized Banff National Park is the true spirit of the Rockies. The pride of the Alberta Heartland, Harvie Heights, follows the tradition of western living. The small hamlet in Canada is located within Bighorn No. 8’s Municipal District. Though it remains a separate settlement, Harvie Heights appears to be part of the ridges and pines of the National Park. Brave souls who live by discovering every edge and ridge of the scenic Rockies easily consider Harvie Heights a paradise - Alberta’s own gate to the mountainous outdoors.

Things to Do

Harvie Heights is home to a seemingly infinite number of trails. Around 150 trails are dedicated for hiking alone, most of which are near the hamlet’s center. Adventure-seekers may hike through the deciduous forests of Yamnuska Ridge & CMC Valley, Plain of the Six Glaciers, Johnston Canyon to Ink Pots, Chinaman’s Peak, and the Great Divide Trail: Mount Assiniboine to Sunshine. Mountain biking is a faster and more popular activity, with almost 80 trails dedicated for extreme bikers. The slopes and bends of Goat Creek Trail, Powderface Creek Trail, Jumpingpound Ridge Trail, Elbow Loop, and Sibbald Flats provide excellent challenges. Walking is another notable activity, given that the pristine skies and lush, verdant forests are best savored through a slow, luxurious pace. Nihahi Ridge Loop, Grassi Lake, Troll Falls, Lake Agnes, and Tunnel Mountain are best among the 66 trails. But if you’re not in for breaking a sweat, visit Kootenay Parkway. Scenic driving from Bow Valley to Radium Hot Springs will surely satisfy the sightseeing wishes of the whole family.

Tourist Attractions

The Cabin Art Studio is one of Harvie Height’s historic buildings. The 40-year-old building is reminiscent of classic Alberta. The cabin studio contains handcrafts, original paintings, and other Canadian collectibles. Guests are invited to spend the afternoon over Victorian tea, or explore the area at this quaint establishment. Other attractions include the Smokehouse Culture on the Coast Gallery and Studio and Hot Springs.

Restaurants and Dining

The top spot for Harvie Heights’ most notable restaurant belongs to Chez Francois Restaurant, located at 11604 Second Avenue. Guests can avail of French cuisine without dressing up for the event. The casual dining place also has private rooms available for meetings and bigger parties. O Bistro on the city’s Main Street offers gourmet meals along with wine, beer, or cappuccino options. Instead of dining indoors, take a seat at their sunny patio. For quick eats, choose from Lotus Lotus Chinese Cuisine, Bumper’s Beef House Restaurant, or Keg Steakhouse & Bar.

Best Hotel Accommodations

Banff Boundary Lodge is the ideal location for a Canadian Rockies mountain getaway. The lodge is literally only meters away from the gates of Banff National Park gate, and a 5 minute drive from nearby Canmore. The lodge is just an hour west of Calgary. The lodge provides guests with condominium-style accommodations, which can meet anyone’s expectations. The lodge is central to skiing, biking and hiking trails. Five alpine areas can be found within its vicinity. Other similar chalets and inns include The Gateway Inn at Harvie Heights, Parkgate Chalets Harvie Heights, and Banff Gate Mountain Lodge. The Rundle Ridge Chalets Harvie Heights offers full kitchenettes, complimentary wood and charming fireplaces.