High River, a community just 37 kilometres south of Calgary, is a city known for its colourful past and colourful residents.

The downtown core is perfect for retail therapy, with many unique boutiques and charming restaurants and cafes. Sixteen murals throughout the downtown show the rich history and people that have given this small town so much character – from buffalo jumps to chuckwagon races.

High River’s nearly 12,000 residents live in one of the most beautiful riverside communities in southern Alberta. There are plenty of open spaces, as well as a diverse arts and culture scene.

History

High River’s roots were established on the banks of the Highwood River in 1862 when Fort Spitzee – an illegal trading post – was established. Unsurprisingly, nine years later the law arrived (in the form of the Northwest Mounted Police).

Things started to settle down (relatively speaking) with the arrival of Katie Quirk in 1882, one of the area’s first settlers. Legend has it that she saw the peaceful river bank and refused to go one step further.

Three years later, High River had a store and post office, and by 1902, had been incorporated as a village.

Arts and Culture

Musicians can be found performing regularly in High River – local artists as well as international acts – while there are also many visual arts shows held throughout the year. 

High River’s Culture Centre has a large studio that is used for a range of activities and classes including visual arts, dance and music. It also has a studio in the basement with pottery wheels and an electric kiln.

As for major annual events, High River has loads, including:

• River City Classic Car Show
• High River Highland Games
• Little Britches Parade and Rodeo (starring tomorrow’s rodeo pros)
• Guy Weadick Chuckwagon Races

Recreation

High River is home to two golf courses: the championship 27-hole Highwood Golf and Country Club as well as the Rio Vista, a nine-hole course nestled along the banks of the Highwood River.

There are over 17 kilometres of walking paths linking all of the town’s neighbourhoods, while historic Sheppard Family Park and downtown’s George Lane Park provide the community with plenty of room to play.

The Bob Snodgrass Recreation Complex is home to two arenas, a curling rink and a six-lane swimming pool.

Schools

The community has a number of schools at all levels, in both the public and Catholic school systems. High River’s public school district is the Foothills School Division, while the Catholic system is under Christ the Redeemer.

Transportation

High River sits on the junction of Highway 2 and Highway 3. To get there from Calgary, you can head south on either Deerfoot or Macleod Trail to reach Highway 2.