Bar U Ranch National Historic Site opens to visitors May 15

Dreaming of exploring the stories of the past? 450 000 km² of stories await you at Parks Canada administered places from coast to coast to coast!

May 15, 2023                            Longview,  Alberta                            Parks Canada

The vast network of protected areas administered by Parks Canada is a gateway to nature, history, and 450 000 km² of stories from coast to coast to coast.

Bar U Ranch National Historic Site is open for the 2023 visitor season! You’re invited to the Alberta foothills for an immersive experience at the only national historic site commemorating ranching in Canada. The site will be open 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, May 15 to September 30.

National historic sites reflect the rich and varied heritage of Canada and provide an opportunity for Canadians to learn more about its diverse history. At Bar U Ranch National Historic Site, visitors can learn more about the history of cattle ranching in Canada. Plan your visit today and hear stories of the events that have shaped Canada’s past, present, and future!

What’s happening at Bar U Ranch

Restoration

Restoring historic buildings while maintaining their original essence is an ongoing project for Parks Canada’s Built Heritage staff. Visitors are encouraged to talk with the Bar U Ranch restoration crew while they work on the Alwood Cabin, Chophouse and Blacksmith Shop and other historic buildings this season.

Wagon Rides

Always a visitor favourite! Bar U Ranch guests learn the story of the ranch while being pulled by majestic Percheron draft horses. Complimentary wagon rides are hosted by Parks Canada staff and offer an authentic way to see the site. The rides are accessible to all and run multiple times a day. Information is available at the Visitor Centre.

Nature Walks

Bar U Ranch offers a variety of scenic viewpoints and trails. Pekisko Creek meanders its way through the site providing tranquil creek sounds, excellent songbird spotting and exceptional picnic spots.

Note: The east portion of Pekisko Creek trail will be closed this season. Please obey all posted signage.
 

Stoney Nakoda Tipi

Bar U Ranch welcomes back members of the Bearspaw First Nation. Guests are encouraged to visit the tipi encampment in the Pekisko Creek meadow to learn more about Indigenous culture and perspectives. Discover the historic relationship between foothills ranches and local Indigenous peoples.

Visitor Centre

Parks Canada is reimagining the Bar U Ranch Visitor Centre. Staff are working with historians and Indigenous groups to create new interpretive material and displays. The updated visitor centre includes never-before displayed artifacts, new seating areas, a kids play area and complimentary coffee.

Note: Bar U Ranch’s café has been discontinued. However, the Bar U Gift Shop has snacks and beverages available for purchase. Visitors are also welcomed to bring their own food and find a picnic spot.

Calendar 

§  National Indigenous Peoples Day                 June 21

§  Canada Day                                                      July 1

§  Historic Places Days                                        July 8-31

§  Alberta Open Farm Days                                August 19

§  Old Time Ranch Rodeo                                   August 20

§  Chore Horse Competition                               September 17

Historic Places Days are an opportunity to discover Canada’s many diverse historic destinations and the vital role these places have in their communities. This year, Historic Places Days begins on July 8. Travel back in time and discover the great stories of the past. Hundreds of fascinating historic places like Bar U Ranch are waiting to be discovered!

Visit the Bar U Ranch website for more information on special events. 

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