Explore the Scenic Beauty of Alberta Provincial Highway 40
Canada, north-america
1,021 km
2,217 m
easy
Year-round
# Alberta Highway 40: A Must-Drive Alpine Adventure
If you're looking for one of Canada's most stunning road trips, Highway 40 in Alberta absolutely delivers. This epic 1,021 km (634 miles) stretch winds from the small mountain town of Coleman in the southwest all the way up to Grande Prairie in the northwest—and trust me, every kilometer is worth it.
You'll know this route by a few names: Highway 40, the Bighorn Highway, or the Kananaskis Trail. Fair warning though—some sections are paved while others are gravel, so come prepared for a bit of variety.
The real showstopper? Highwood Pass, where you'll summit at an impressive 2,217m (7,273ft)—the highest elevation of any highway crossing in Canada. You'll be cruising right near the treeline, surrounded by snow patches that stubbornly stick around even during summer months. It's genuinely spectacular, but heads up: this section closes annually from December 1 to June 14, and winter weather can shut things down without warning elsewhere on the route.
What makes this drive truly special is the wildlife and scenery. Throughout your journey, you'll spot bears, elk, moose, mountain goats, and coyotes roaming against a backdrop of jaw-dropping mountain vistas. The Canadian Rockies frame every turn, making this one of those road trips that'll have you stopping constantly for photos.
Whether you're after a day trip or a longer adventure, Highway 40 captures the raw beauty of western Alberta in a way that'll stay with you long after you've returned home.
Where is it?
Explore the Scenic Beauty of Alberta Provincial Highway 40 is located in Canada (north-america). Coordinates: 56.1537, -107.6203
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 1,021 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,217 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Coordinates
- 56.1537, -107.6203
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