Villages
Arrowwood:
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Things to do in and around the Village of Arrowwood:- Arrowwood Museum |
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Located
On Highway #547, 17 km (10.56 miles) south of Highway #1 (at Gleichen AB); or, about 60 km (37.3 miles) north of Vulcan on Highways #24 to #547 east; or 100 km (62.1 miles) east of Calgary on Highways 22X & 901, south on #547; or 113 km (70.2 miles) south of Drumheller. Arrowwood Is on the shortest route for travelers who visit the Royal Tyrell Museum in Drumheller & Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump at Fort Macleod. The general topography of the area is that of flat farm land, with the Buffalo Hills to the south and the Bow River Valley to the north. The village of Arrowwood is situated on land that was once part of the Siksika Nation Indian Reserve (part of the Blackfoot Confederacy), now located 4 km. north of the village. Local history states that Arrowwood’s name was taken from the Blackfoot Indian words, “Mista Katpiskoo” which means “WoodVillage”. The arrowwood shrub’s branches are strong and straight and were very popular with Natives peoples for making arrows. The arrowwood shrub has been cultivated since 1736. It blooms for 2 weeks in late spring. Two arrowwood shrubs have been planted behind the “Welcome to Arrowwood” entrance sign to the village on Highway #547 & Railway Avenue. To say arrowwood in Blackfoot it sounds like ‘Hents-ziks-kway’. The Village of Arrowwood had no idea how far they would go when they started their commitment to Communities in Bloom. This village of 224 people knew their own community was worth investing in and through their efforts they have received 5 out of 5 blooms numerous times and the top spot for their population category in the province – three times! Protected by the Gleichen RCMP, Vulcan and District EMS and Northwest Fire Department, this tight knit village has much to offer through its sense of community and access to amenities. With tourist attractions such as the Arrowwood Siphon and many parks and beautiful green spaces, you will find plenty to choose from in this community. There are also stores featuring arts and crafts, western wear and accessories not to mention a hardware store, a gas bar, a major bank and much more around each corner in this most northerly village in the Vulcan County. Like many residents choose to do, you can complete your day with a lovely meal at one of Arrowwood’s two restaurants. Arrowwood also boasts an RV park with four full service lots and six water and power only lots, a car wash and cardlock gas station, a school offering ECS to Grade 9, two churches, a Chinook Arch Regional Library and an incredibly interesting local history museum. Surrounded by the rolling landscape of the Buffalo Hills, Arrowwood’s primary industry is land centered with both agriculture and oil and gas being prominent. This type of economic base provides a constant market to the commercially based sector of the community. This creates a prime opportunity for those looking to expand or begin their businesses only minutes away from Calgary, Okotoks and Strathmore. This committed and forward thinking Village Council in Arrowwood is working diligently to ensure their small town feel can accommodate almost any opportunity and they continue to look forward to what the future has in store for their award winning village. For more information about the Village of Arrowwood, Visit their official website: http://www.villageofarrowwood.ca/ Campgrounds in Arrowwood, Alberta: Arrowwood Centennial RV Park, 403-534-3821 10 sites with sewage, power and water. Washrooms and large sheltered camp kitchen. No reservations Dining in Arrowwood, Alberta: Center Street Eatery, 403-534-3747 Click here to hide information about Arrowwood |
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Carmangay:
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Things to do in and around the Village of Carmangay:- Tipi Rings Recreational Area |
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Located
On Highway #23, 35.16 km (28.85 miles) south of the Town of Vulcan; or 61.78 km (38.39 miles) north of Lethbridge; or 163.9 km (101.4 miles) southeast of Calgary. Carmangay Is the oldest municipality in VulcanCounty, having celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2000. Located in southern-most part of the county, it is the only community that is adjacent to a natural body of water – the Little Bow River. A small prairie village situated on the banks of the Little Bow River, had its beginnings in the early 1900s. In 1904, C.W. Carman started one of the largest wheat farms in Alberta at that time – 1,500 acres. The name of the village commemorates the name C.W. Carman and his wife Gertrude Gay. Carmangay, set on top of a valley, features scenery second to none and is rich in history and beauty. Once bitten by the history bug, most are hooked and need more places to explore, more stories to learn. Why not try Carmangay for your next investigation? In the pursuit of history it is the richest that Vulcan County has to offer, being the oldest community in the county, dating back to the 1890s. Featuring many historical buildings such as the Carmangay Fire Hall, the Grange Hotel and the Carmangay Historic United Church the backdrop gets perfectly set up for a day or lifetime exploring. There are the Carmangay Tipi Rings for those who really want to delve deeply into the heritage of the area not to mention the old Canadian Pacific Railway trestle. The trestle is circa 1911 and lends itself beautifully to the rolling landscape of the deep coulee which borders the Village to the north. Close your eyes and you can almost hear the steam train charging across the divide. For the best view of the trestle, take a hike on the Glen G. McFarland Nature Trail which will lead you on a tour of the outlying area of the Village. There is a freshness to this community as well with state-of-the-art medical care provided at the Little Bow Continuing Care Centre. While taking in all Carmangay has to offer, you will also be witness to rebirth at Camp Carmangay, an Alberta’s Promise member, located in the area providing hope and opportunity to kids from all over the province. Rich in community spirit as well, the Village of Carmangay knows how to have fun! From camping at their busy 18 lot campground to the active seniors centre and annual Sports Day and Fair they know how to enjoy the good life Carmangay has to offer. As a particular point of interest the community is also exceptionally proud to host the shortest St. Patrick’s Day parade in Canada. This annual event has even been recognized by the Irish Embassy for its commitment to Irish heritage! A mere 40 minute drive to Lethbridge, this community is a prime location to either relocate with a relaxed commute in mind or set up shop for your own business. Whether it is history or technology, small town life or a bedroom to the big city; versatility is the name of the game in Carmangay. Campgrounds in Carmangay, Alberta: Tee Pee RV Park, 403-643-3595 Located in the village of Carmangay. 18 sites total with 8 of those having full hook ups. Dump station and shower/bathroom facilities with camp kitchen. No reservations. Motel Accommodations in Carmangay, Alberta: Grange Hotel/Restaurant/Tavern, 403-643-3673 Click here to hide information about Carmangay |
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Champion:
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Things to do in and around the Village of Champion:- Historic Walking Tour of Champion (DOWNLOAD) |
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Located
On Highway #23, approximately 20.6 km (12.81 miles) south of the Town of Vulcan, or 80 km (49.7 miles) north of Lethbridge, or 144 km (89.5 miles) south of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Champion was once known as the “Million Bushel Town”. It’s a surfire win if you plan to pursue building your business or home in Champion. The largest of all the villages in Vulcan County, you will certainly find each and every amenity you could need nestled in the village of 384 people. As a community on the ‘grow’, the Village has created a new subdivision with 18 lots that were available in spring/summer 2009. This addition is due to the loud and clear demand for more lots in the Village. Looking around the community you can see why. Service Clubs in the area such as Lions, the Royal Canadian Legion and Communities in Bloom have committed themselves to the continued investment in the village. The events hosted by these groups and the parks and facilities funded in part by them are enjoyed by all in the community. The local school, under Palliser Regional School Division, is proud to offer the community all ranges of educational opportunities from preschool to Grade 9. There is also a parent-run Kindergarten, functioning in the school itself which works in concert with the school division. Kick back and relax in the busy campground which features 12 serviced lots. Boasting a pavilion to eat and find shelter, horse shoe pits for the adults to play in and a playground to keep the kids occupied; it is a vacation destination for many people. Add even a little more activity into your day by enjoying the outdoor pool, natural ice rink, and baseball diamond; all a hub of activity year round. The community residents happily use the proximity of Little Bow Provincial Park to their business and recreational advantage. The Oasis in the Prairies, as it has come to be known, is situation a quick 19 kilometers east of the Village of Champion making it a perfect place to enjoy the day or a whole vacation. Boasting beach frontage, wooded areas, and plenty of trails to explore Little Bow Provincial Park is a great place to take your whole family. Being the nearest community to the park, Champion also enjoys the many tourists looking for staples while on vacation. Centrally located between the cities of Calgary and Lethbridge, the Village of Champion is a great place to set up your family, business or next meeting. Residents and visitors alike take advantage of the community hall which boasts full audio/video equipment, a variety of meeting or event facilities and a gorgeous garden with a mountain view. When planning your next movie, consider Champion a winner! A Brief History of Champion, Alberta Originally known as Cleverville, and located about 2 KM (1.24 miles) east of it’s current location, 1905 - Cleverville, AB was founded by Martin Clever, a local homesteader. 1910 - The Canadian Pacific Railway laid their steel through the area, bypassing Cleverville. The town moved to a new location along the railway and named itself Champion. The Cleverville Cairn still stands just east of the village. Take Hwy 529 3km east of Hwy 23 and you’ll see it on the south side of the road. 1911 - The first grain elevator was built by the Alberta Grain Co. 1913 - Champion Board of Trade sent out brochures on the Gigantic Coal Fields to lure settlers to the area. 1918/1919 - Flu Epidemic struck Champion. 25 people dead. 1918/1919 - The Champion Chronicle, a weekly newspaper was started. The Champion Library has many of the publications. 1927 - Street lights installed in the village. 1939 - Farmers receive $.41 per bushel of wheat. 1940 - Men answer the call to the colors and join Canada’s Active Service Forces. By 1942 there were 53 enlisted from Champion and Carmangay. Movie in the Making: In April of 1991, Champion and District residents had a “Silver Screen” opportunity to watch and participate in the making of the movie “Leaving Normal”. The film starred Meg Tilly and Christine Lahti. Champion’s main street became “Normal”, a fictitious small town in Wyoming. Most of the buildings on the Main Street were given a new look or false fronts. The old general store was made into the “Last Call” saloon. Several folks became extras in the shooting and many of the old cars and trucks were used. The movie making was a great experience and gave the whole community an insight into the many tricks of the trade. Campgrounds in and Around Champion, Alberta: Champion Community Park, 403-897-3833 Handicap accessible showers, washrooms, fire pits for each site, horseshoe pits, playground, dumping station, hook ups, enclosed—great for group camping or re-unions. Across the street from an outdoor pool.Little Bow Provincial Park, 403-897-3933 Sani-dump, showers and washrooms, beach with swimming area, paddle boat rentals, sheltered picnic areas, fire pits, dock and boat launch. Concession open daily. Max 16 day stay. Reservations allowed. Travers Dam, 403-897-3933 Waterfront Campsites, open fires, camp kitchen, dock, washrooms, water pump, self-registration. Fishing & skiing, 2.4 km to dam. Click here to hide information about Champion |
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Lomond
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Things to do in and around the Village of Lomond:- Historic Walking Tour of Lomond (Coming soon to DOWNLOAD) |
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Located
48 km (29.8 miles) west of Vulcan on Highway 531; or 74.7 km (46.43 miles) southwest of Brooks on Hwy 539; or 176.21 km (109.49 miles) southeast of Calgary. Lomond Was named after the famous Loch Lomond in Dumbartonshire, Scotland by an early settler of the area. When the Canadian Pacific Rail extended the line from Travers to Lomond and the first grain elevator was built in 1914, the village was established as an agricultural trading centre. It serves a district population of approximately 600 residents. Large tracts of agricultural land surround Lomond, with farmland being used for irrigation, dryland and grazing. Beautiful, well-maintained lakes abound in this area providing a paradise for boating, fishing, hiking and camping. For the fishing enthusiast, the annual Bader Lake Ice Fishing Derby is the greatest of entertainment. ‘We Serve’, the well known slogal of the international service club the ‘Lions’ can be felt all over the Village of Lomond, the most easterly community in Vulcan County. Aside from the Lions themselves, the community pitches in to help run exciting sports program, a rich 4-H program and much more. Featuring the only school in the county to be part of the Horizon School District, the Lomond Community School starts with a vibrant Kindergarten and takes students all the way to Grade 12. Insistent that their community deserved only the best, the residents have worked diligently together to fundraise for a new multi-use facility attached to the school. The community is dotted with parks and filled with committed local residents; the Village of Lomond has everything needed to raise a family in a small town atmosphere. All the amenities you need are snuggled right into this village of approximately 170 people. With a bank, restaurant, variety of stores, a bustling seniors centre and a community recreation facility housing all the needs for the community gatherings and sporting events in both summer and winter, you can’t go wrong. You will also find some of the best fishing in the area ‘served’ up to you at Badger Lake. This manmade lake built in 1984 is home to an annual fishing derby in February which attracts upwards of 500 people. You might be one of the lucky ones to reel in a Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch or Whitefish; the most common of the species found in the lake. Keeping recreation on the forefront of their lifestyle, Lomond residents are very active in hockey, figure skating, and curling in the winter; baseball and volleyball keep them busy in the summer. With agriculture as well as oil and gas being the primary industries in the area there is a solid foundation for residents to build a home or business on. Centrally located between Calgary and Lethbridge, Lomond is both a smart and affordable location to bring your business and your family home to. Camping in and Around Lomond, Alberta: Lomond Campground, 403-792-6311 Located in the town of Lomond next to the ball diamonds and Community Centre. No reservations.Badger Lake Campground, 403-792-6311 Located 13km northwest of Lomond, this waterfront campground fills to capacity for the Badger Lake Ice Fishing Derby. No services.Little Bow Reservoir, 403-897-3933 Located south of Lomond on Highway 845. Waterfront sites, open fires, dock, beach, washrooms. No services, self registration. Dining in Lomond, Alberta: Lomond Restaurant, 403-792-2218 Copper Kettle, 403-792-3661 (closed May – August) Click here to hide information about Lomond |
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Milo
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Things to do in and around the Village of Milo:- Walking / Bike Path |
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Located
On Hwy 542, 46.6 km (28.9 miles) north east of Vulcan; or 134.9 km (83.8 miles) southeast Calgary; or 126 km (78.3 miles) south of Drumheller. Milo Is on the shortest route for travelers who visit the Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park in Cluny & Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump at FortMacleod.Milo is a clean, close-knit, thriving community that has grown and prospered over the years. There are several businesses serving the community and two churches: United and Lutheran. A beautiful new Community Hall was opened in 1985 and in 1998 the curling rink was expanded. The local Lions Club operates and maintains a grassed and well-treed playground, the Milo Walking Path takes bikers and hikers down to the lake, and a state-of the art playground adorns the school grounds.Milo has many native sights around, including buffalo jumps, tipi rings, medicine wheels, and the Legend of Coffin Handle Butte. With its proximity to the TransCanada highway and to Calgary, Milo is a developer’s paradise and a beautiful spot to take up quite, quality of life residence, for family or for retirement. It is truly incredible what might be lying around the next corner. One moment your driving across the rolling Prairies taking in all the breathtaking sights and the next you are arriving in the small village responsible for raising the most money per capita in the Alberta/Northwest Territories region of the Terry Fox Run. The Village of Milo, the smallest in the county at 122 people as of 2007 official provincial census, is located in the northwest portion of Vulcan County. There is no question after spending just a few minutes with residents though, what they may lake in population they make up for in heart. While maintaining the ‘joie de vivre’ found in the community, the municipality is excited about a new subdivision of 22 lots in progress with a few of the lots already sold. There is even discussion of a new residential development down the road which would capitalize on one of the absolute goldmines of the area; Lake McGregor. Lake McGregor and the Lake McGregor Provincial Recreation Area provide the birder, hiker, fisherperson and boater heaven in their own backyard. Picturesque and within 5 minutes of the Village, it is an obvious drawing card for residents and tourists alike. If you are looking for fun, you can take in plenty of annual events which happen throughout the Village. Try taking a peaceful walk on a community walking path and enjoy the beautiful recreation properties available for community use inside town boundaries. An active group of service clubs drive the community members; all investing continuously in their hometown help set the tone of success for the Village. Offering a safe, community centered lifestyle perfect for those with young families is something Milo is exceptionally proud of. This is completed with a vibrant community school featuring Kindergarten to Grade 9. Active in the community and highly supported by the community this school creates a prime beginning to any young life. With all this growth and development on its way, now is the time to get your roots down in Milo. Boasting all the amenities found in much larger centers while still maintaining the truest sense of small town Alberta you can find; the Village of Milo offers everything you need including endless opportunities for business at an affordable price. You will find a library, a grocery store, a major bank, a hairdresser/barber, and much, much more. Put Milo on the top of your list of places to consider for your next opportunity. Campgrounds in and Around Milo, Alberta: Lake McGregor Recreation Area, 403-897-3933 Fishing all year-round, lakeshore campsites with fire pits, a swimming area and dock. Also features a playground and washrooms. Site of annual Fisherama in August. Milo RV Park, 403-599-3883 10 sites with full hook ups. Hotel Accommodation in Milo, Alberta: Milo Hotel, 403-599-3853 Dining in Milo, Alberta: Milo Café, 403-599-3832 Click here to hide information about Milo |
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Hamlet of Mossleigh
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Things to do in and around the Village of Mossleigh:- Wyndham Carseland Provincial Park |
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Located
You’ll find the Hamlet of Mossleigh at the very North end of Vulcan County. You’ll also find all the necessary amenities and loads of fun! Hamlet of Mossleigh Check out the Malmberg Farmstead Museum and learn all about the community’s farming history. Grab a quick bite afterward and then take a look at the local nursery, tree farms and historical trains! After spending some time in Mossleigh, you’ll immediately start looking forward to your next visit!Mossleigh truly is a great example of life on the prairies, and something everyone should experience. You don’t want to miss out on Mossleigh. Dining in Mossleigh, Alberta: Aspen Crossing – Conveniently located just a short 35 minute drive SE from the Calgary city limits in Mossleigh, Alberta. Call 1-866-440-3500 or 403-534-2126 www.aspencrossing.com Click here to hide information about Mossleigh |
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