Discover Alberta’s Prairie Past & Powerful Stories
Athabasca to Two Hills Circle Tour | NE Alberta Road Trip
This scenic circle tour between Athabasca and Two Hills takes you deep into the heart of northeast Alberta—where fields stretch for miles, grain elevators stand tall, and history is hidden in plain sight.
What makes this tour special? You’re not just passing through—you’re stepping into powerful stories, rural traditions, and roadside gems you’ll want to tell your friends about.
🖤 Amber Valley: A Legacy of Courage
Just off the beaten path lies Amber Valley, one of the most important—and often overlooked—settlements in Alberta’s history. Founded in the early 1900s by Black homesteaders fleeing racial persecution in the U.S., this community became a beacon of strength and self-sufficiency. Look for the commemorative plaques, and take a moment to walk the land where history was made.
Above: Amber Valley Cultural Centre (Photo From Wikipedia: awmcphee )
🏛️ Museums & Culture in Athabasca & Two Hills
In Athabasca, wander the historic riverfront and dive into the Athabasca Archives, where tales of trappers, traders, and settlers are preserved. Small shops and cafés line the downtown—perfect for a coffee break with a view.
Over in Two Hills, explore the area’s Ukrainian-Canadian heritage. Check out the Two Hills Historical Society Museum or stop by local churches that showcase the town’s multicultural roots.
We have some great videos - the first 6 in fact of season 11 of Ride Like a Local on YouTube.
Meet Bob Ross: Tourism Ambassador and Economic Development Officer for Two Hills:
🌾 Prairie Vistas & Quiet Beauty
This drive is classic Alberta: golden fields, huge skies, and the occasional deer grazing near the treeline.
Towns like Egremont, Waskatenau, and Willingdon offer quiet charm, friendly locals, and more photo ops than you'd expect.
Watch for old train stations, vintage signage, and grain elevators that tell their own stories.
☕ Hidden Gems Along the Way
Keep your eyes open—some of the best stops aren’t on big signs. Grab homemade pie in a Waskatenau café, explore a quirky antique shop in Andrew, or chat with locals at the gas station that doubles as the town hub.
These are the stops that turn a road trip into a story!
📸 Pro Tip:
Bring a camera and leave room in your day for spontaneous stops—you will find something unexpected.