Chain Lakes - Nanton Byway | SouthWest Alberta, Canada

Driving Directions

From Highway 2 at the southern end of Nanton (GPS N50 20.343 W113 45.860) turn west onto Highway 533. Continue to the end of the road at a T-intersection with Highway 22 (GPS N50 20.336 W114 13.764). Turn south on Highway 22 towards Crowsnest Pass, or north towards Longview, Black Diamond and ultimately Calgary.

Points of Interest and Highlights along the Drive

This connector road transitions from prairie flatlands to Rockies foothills in just a few beautiful kilometers. It is a favourite shortcut for locals travelling between Calgary and Crowsnest Pass.

At the road's eastern extremity is the town of Nanton, a former grain terminal for regional farmers. The rail tracks are now lifted but the two classic wooden grain elevators have been maintained and brightly re-painted in their original green and orange. The town is now best known for its row of antique retailers along Highway 2 and the town's nicely preserved.

Nanton also hosts an aeronautical museum honouring the Word War II Lancaster bomber. Canada's most extensive outdoor railway and G-Scalemodel train shop is found on 18th Street.

Starting Milemarker or Town

Chain Lakes Provincial Park or Nanton, Alberta