Calgary is a vibrant city with a rich history, but hidden within its surroundings are several abandoned places that offer a fascinating look into the past. From ghost towns and industrial ruins to historic schools and old bridges, these forgotten locations are perfect for those with a passion for urban exploration. Here are 10 of the most captivating abandoned places near Calgary, where time has stood still.
1. Bankhead Ghost Town (Banff National Park, Alberta)
Located about 1.5 hours from Calgary in Banff National Park, Bankhead was once a thriving coal-mining town established in the early 1900s. The town was abandoned in the 1920s after the mine closed, leaving behind remnants of buildings, mining equipment, and a cemetery. Today, visitors can walk through the ghost town and see the decaying structures that tell the story of Bankhead's brief but intense history.
2. Coleman Collieries (Crowsnest Pass, Alberta)
Around two hours from Calgary, the Coleman Collieries are a series of abandoned coal mines and industrial structures in the Crowsnest Pass. Once a major coal-producing region, these mines were abandoned after coal demand declined. The decaying buildings, rusting machinery, and crumbling infrastructure make this a fascinating site for history enthusiasts and urban explorers.
3. Orman Midway Grain Elevator (Orman, Alberta)
About an hour east of Calgary, the Orman Midway Grain Elevator is one of the few remaining examples of the grain elevators that once dotted the Alberta landscape. Abandoned for decades, this tall wooden structure has been left to decay in the open prairies. It's a striking monument to Alberta's agricultural history and is a popular location for photographers and explorers.
4. Rowley Ghost Town (Rowley, Alberta)
Located about two hours from Calgary, Rowley is a well-preserved ghost town that was once a thriving rural community in the early 1900s. After the railway ceased operations, the town was gradually abandoned. Today, many of its old buildings, including a general store, grain elevators, and a saloon, have been restored to their original appearance, making it an eerie but captivating destination for visitors.
5. Wayne Ghost Town (Wayne, Alberta)
Situated in the Badlands near Drumheller, about 1.5 hours from Calgary, Wayne was once a bustling coal mining town. At its peak, Wayne had a population of over 2,000, but as the coal industry declined, so did the town. Today, only a handful of residents remain, and visitors can explore the remnants of the old town, including the iconic Last Chance Saloon and crumbling buildings.
6. Nacmine Coal Mine Ruins (Drumheller, Alberta)
Just outside Drumheller, the Nacmine Coal Mine Ruins are what remains of a once-thriving coal mine that operated in the early 1900s. Abandoned for decades, the site is now overgrown, with remnants of old equipment, mining tunnels, and buildings scattered throughout the area. It's a great place for those who enjoy exploring Alberta's industrial history.
7. Caboose Café (Bassano, Alberta)
Located about 1.5 hours southeast of Calgary, the Caboose Café in Bassano is an abandoned diner that once served travelers along the Trans-Canada Highway. The building, shaped like a train caboose, has been left to decay, with graffiti-covered walls and broken windows. While the café no longer serves food, it remains an interesting roadside attraction for those interested in forgotten places.
8. Monarch Mine (Monarch, Alberta)
The Monarch Mine, located near Lethbridge, about two hours from Calgary, is a long-abandoned coal mine that played an important role in the region's economy. The crumbling remains of the mine buildings, including the headframe and processing facilities, stand as stark reminders of Alberta’s coal-mining past. The decaying structures and surrounding area provide an intriguing place for exploration.
9. RCAF Station Vulcan (Vulcan, Alberta)
Located just over an hour from Calgary, RCAF Station Vulcan was once an active airbase during World War II. After the war, it was abandoned, and most of the buildings have since been demolished. However, a few remnants remain, such as concrete foundations and parts of the runway, offering a glimpse into its military history. The site is largely overgrown but still holds appeal for history buffs and aviation enthusiasts.
10. Crossing Bridge (Bighorn County, Alberta)
About 1.5 hours west of Calgary, near the town of Seebe, lies the Crossing Bridge, an old railway bridge that has been abandoned for decades. Spanning the Bow River, the bridge is slowly deteriorating but still stands as a monument to the area's early railway history. Surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, the bridge is a popular spot for photographers and adventurers alike.
Conclusion
The areas surrounding Calgary are rich with abandoned places that offer a unique glimpse into Alberta’s history, from old mining towns to forgotten military installations. These sites are perfect for those looking to explore the quieter, decaying remnants of the past. However, it’s important to be mindful of safety and legality when visiting these locations, as many may be dangerous or off-limits. By exploring responsibly, you can uncover a hidden side of Alberta's history while preserving it for future generations.
