Invest in Alberta's David Thompson

Trailblaze the untamed

A gateway to Alberta's untouched wilderness, David Thompson Country is where nature inspires new adventures.

Stretching east from the central Canadian Rockies toward Abraham Lake and the towns of Nordegg and Rocky Mountain House, this corridor offers a rare blend of wild beauty and tourism opportunity. Unlike Alberta's legacy mountain destinations, it’s not defined by what’s already built, but by what’s possible.

This Tourism Development Zone is poised to become a cornerstone of Alberta’s tourism economy. Its prime location adjacent to two national parks makes it an unrealized gem, offering Canadian and international visitors sought-after outdoor experiences. Backed by natural assets with year-round potential and strong economic growth, this area is a launchpad for the future of tourism in Alberta.

There are many unique opportunities to shape David Thompson Country into a sustainable, high-quality destination that enhances resident well-being, protects ecological integrity, and creates new services and experiences through collaborative development.

For adventurous entrepreneurs and experience-driven brands, David Thompson is ready to be shaped by bold ideas and immersive experiences.

At a glance

Location: West Central Alberta
Key communities: Rocky Mountain House, Nordegg
Getting here: 188 km (117 mi) drive from Edmonton International Airport
Projected visitor spend: $488M by 2035
Market catchment: Within a two-hour drive, 400k residents have a median disposable household income of $106K
Welcoming to businesses and visitors: Nearly six in 10 Albertans are familiar with David Thompson and 75% of its residents believe tourism is important to their community.

David Thompson Country Tourism

Discover Nordegg

Two people making bannock bread at Rocky Mountain House

A graphic map of west central Alberta with the corridor of David Thompson Country highlighted

Location

Where David Thompson is situated

Around a two-hour drive from either Calgary or Edmonton’s international airports, David Thompson stretches along the scenic Highway 11. This area connects Rocky Mountain House to the stunning Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) and offers a quieter, less commercialized alternative to Alberta’s legacy mountain destinations.

People kayak down rapids near a waterfall on Big Horn River in David Thompson Country

River Adventure Potential Market Size: 3.5M

An ice climber tethered in and using ice picks to climb an ice wall in Nordegg

Winter Escapade Potential Market Size: 3.4M

A brilliant blue heart-shaped lake viewed from above near Nordegg

Guided Nature Tours Potential Market Size: 3.2M

Aerial Shot of ATVs crossing a bridge in David Thompson Country

Group of three friends exploring a frozen canyon at nights with the Northern Lights overhead in David Thompson Country

Couple enjoying a beverage on the deck of a cabin at Expanse Cottages near Nordegg

Main attractions

What’s bringing visitors to David Thompson?

Abraham Lake

This man-made lake is a stunning destination year-round. In the spring and summer, the waters take on the characteristic turquoise colour of alpine lakes, making it a picturesque spot for a picnic.

But it’s in the winter that Abraham Lake becomes really eye-catching. When the conditions are right, methane bubbles get trapped in the ice and produce a striking effect. As you walk or skate over the ice, the bubbles appear to be stacked beneath your feet.

The Crossing Resort

The Crossing Resort is a popular stop for road-trippers enjoying the famous Icefields Parkway route between Banff and Jasper.

The resort includes a general store, gift shop, and fuel station (including electric charging stations) along with 64 motel-style units and three dining options.

Fourteen of the best hiking trails in the Canadian Rockies are located 30 minutes or less away and two of the major attractions along the Icefields Parkway, the Columbia Icefields Centre and the Glacier Skywalk are a 40-minute drive, making The Crossing Resort a central hub for hiking & attractions in David Thompson.

A bird's-eye view of the Crossing Resort along the Icefields Parkway, which is surrounded by boreal forest and the Rocky Mountains

A group of friends sitting outside a trapper's tent in the woods at Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site

Rocky Mountain National Historic Site

This site invites travellers to discover a historic fur trade post along the North Saskatchewan River and become immersed in stories of Indigenous Peoples and legendary explorers. Visitors can discover interpretive experiences, sites of interest, the archaeological locations of four fur trade forts, wild bison viewing, 10 km of hiking and biking trails, friendly heritage presenters, and more.

Visitors can also try heritage camping and experience the life of a fur trader and stay in a tipi, Métis trapper tent, or trapline cabin.

Get inspired

Aurum Lodge

Aurum Lodge is a secluded mountain retreat offering guests an escape into nature’s beauty. Seated near the turquoise shores of Abraham Lake, this eco-lodge provides breathtaking views of mountains and pristine waters, perfect for those seeking peace away from the daily hustle.

Crescent Falls

Crescent Falls is a two-for-one experience. It's a series of two waterfalls located on the Bighorn River in Clearwater Country. That's about 25 km (15.5 mi) from Nordegg off Highway 11 (David Thompson Highway).

Expanse Cottages

The six cozy cabins at Expanse Cottages are in Nordegg on the eastern slopes of the Canadian Rockies. That means guests can be assured of both adventure and total relaxation when booking a stay.

A paddler kayaks across an alpine lake in David Thompson Country

Nordegg Adventures

Sharing adventures in awe-inspiring places since 2010, Nordegg Adventures provides year-round tours the area. Walk on the ice at Abraham Lake in search of the famous methane bubbles or take a scenic float on the North Saskatchewan River.

Two people guide their horses in the trees

Wildhorse Ranch & Outfitters

Ride through time at Wildhorse Ranch with Bear and Diane—your hosts with over 30 years of horse & land connected living. Rest, pause, and unwind in the Woodland Nordic Spa with a wood-fired hot tub and sauna.

A couple takes a selfie in front of a helicopter at the foot of a snowy mountain

Rockies Heli Canada

Rockies Heli Canada offers year-round helicopter tours in the breathtaking Canadian Rocky Mountains. Choose from 20-minute to 55-minute sightseeing tours, as well as heli-hiking, snowshoeing, and wilderness adventures.

Two people paddle over rapids in a canoe

HeLa Ventures

Dedicated to providing individuals, school groups, and all-around adventure seekers with positive outdoor educational experiences, they offer a variety of outdoor activities by well-trained and experienced educators and guides from a holistic perspective.

An overhead view of the Brazeau Collieries Mine National Historic Site

Brazeau Collieries Mine National Heritage Site

Both a provincial and national historic resource, this industrial coal mine site was key in the development of Western Canada. Tours are offered in the 1950s coal briquette plant and auxiliary buildings.

Unlock opportunities

Discover your next great investment with our expert-led team.

Contact us to learn more about Travel Alberta’s efforts to grow tourism in David Thompson Country, and to access third-party opportunity assessments and bespoke insights.