My latest roadtrip locations were the six ferries of Alberta, Canada. Alberta is a province known for its vast prairies, rolling foothills, and the rugged Rocky Mountains. It is also home to a unique piece of transportation history: six operating ferries.
,These ferries provide essential crossings over some of Alberta’s major rivers. They connect remote communities, facilitating commerce, and serving as historic reminders of early transportation methods.
Bridges now span most major water crossings in the province, these ferries remain vital for the communities they serve, preserving a slower, more scenic way of travel across Alberta’s rivers.
1. The Bleriot Ferry
One of Alberta’s most scenic and well-known ferries, the Bleriot Ferry crosses the Red Deer River near Drumheller, a region famous for its badlands and dinosaur fossils. It was established in 1913 by André Bleriot, a homesteader, and has since been operated by Alberta Transportation.
The ferry operates seasonally from mid-April to November, weather permitting. It provides a beautiful crossing point for tourists exploring the Canadian Badlands and Dinosaur Provincial Park. It’s a free service, carrying vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians across the river. The crossing of the ferry is approximately 105 meters (344 feet), the same as the length of the ferry itself. The actual time to cross the river is just a few minutes.
2. The Crowfoot Ferry
The Crowfoot Ferry crosses the Bow River, near the community of Cluny, and plays an essential role in the transportation network in Southern Alberta. The ferry is named after Chief Crowfoot, a notable leader of the Blackfoot Confederacy.
While not as well-known as some other ferries, the Crowfoot Ferry provides an important link. It is accessable by a gravel road, operates seasonally and is still a vital crossing for local farmers, ranchers, and tourists alike. The crossing distance is approximately 160 meters (525 feet). It was windy on the day I crossed and it took an extra few minutes to land due to the wind.
3. The Klondyke Ferry
Operating near Fort Assiniboine, the Klondike Ferry has been operating since 1951. It crosses the Athabasca River and offers a slower, peaceful journey compared to the busy highways. It is also only accessable by gravel road. The crossing is approximately 118 meters (387 feet) and takes only a few minutes to cross the river.
This ferry is often used by locals and provides a necessary link for those commuting between the north-central parts of the province and the surrounding rural areas. Its operation has strong historical roots, as the Athabasca River was a vital transportation route during Alberta’s settlement and fur trading era.
4. The Finnegan Ferry
The Finnegan Ferry crosses the Red Deer River in Alberta, near the hamlet of Finnegan. This ferry began operationg in 1913. It is a free, cable operated ferry service managed by Alberta Transporation. It serves as an essential agricultural route for farmers transporting crops and livestock between regions.
The Finnegan ferry covers a distance of approximately 105 meters (344 feet) and only takes a few minutes to cross depending on the river conditions. Like other cable-operated ferries in Alberta it only takes a few minutes to cross depending on the river conditions.
5. The Shaftesbury Ferry
The Shaftesbury Ferry crosses the Peace River near the town of Peace River in northern Alberta. This ferry began operationg in 1963 and is particularly crucial in connecting rural communities and agricultural operations in the region. This ferry covers a distance of 386 meters (1266 feet) and takes about 5 minutes to cross depending on the river conditions.
Operating seasonally, it provides a unique way to cross one of the province’s major rivers while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Peace River valley, one of Alberta’s most pristine landscapes. With a history dating back over a century, the Shaftesbury Ferry is a vital link in the regional transportation network.
6. The Tompkins Landing Ferry (also called the Fox Lake Ferry)
Further north along the Peace River, the Tompkins Landing Ferry started running in 1959 and serves a remote region. This ferry is critical for both residents and industries, especially agriculture and oil, operating along the river. This is the longest ferry in Alberta with a distance of approximately 650 meters (2132 feet). Again the time of the crossing varies depending on the weather and river conditions.
Its seasonal operation provides the only crossing for many kilometers, offering an essential service for transportation and commerce. In winter months, an ice bridge is constructed to allow passage, showcasing the ferry’s year-round importance to the community.
The Importance of My Roadtrip Locations
These six ferries may seem like relics of the past and most only take a few minutes to cross but still serve a vital function in modern Alberta, especially in more remote or rural regions. Each ferry is free to use, a benefit provided by Alberta Transportation.
Their seasonal operations, generally from April to November, weather permitting allow communities to stay connected without the need for large infrastructure projects like bridges, which can be expensive and challenging to build in remote areas.
For travelers and locals alike, these ferries are perfect roadtrip locations offering more than just transportation. They provide an opportunity to experience Alberta’s waterways at a slower pace, surrounded by the natural beauty of the province.
Whether you’re a local farmer crossing the river to tend to your fields or a tourist looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, Alberta’s ferries offer a unique glimpse into a time when river crossings were a daily challenge and an adventure.
Conclusion
Alberta’s six ferries are a blend of practicality and nostalgia, serving vital transportation needs while offering a picturesque experience for travelers. From the scenic badlands of Drumheller to the peaceful flow of the Peace River, these ferries provide a connection to Alberta’s history and the simple beauty of crossing a river.
I drove several gravel roads to reach some of these ferries but so worth it to experience these 6 roadtrip locations. I recommend taking a trip on one of Alberta’s ferries for a charming way to experience the province’s quieter, less-traveled side.
Hi I remember crossing at the Bleriot Ferry many years ago. Getting to the ferry was a peaceful drive. I remember near there a tiny Chapel, memoery says there was only 1 or 2 seats for only 4 people. It was 29 years ago so not sure of the facts. It was very charming.
Hi,
Yes I stopped off at the little church. It is very tiny and a really peaceful spot. I would say maybe 8 people could squeeze in :). I will be writing another blog on my journey in Drumheller so stay tuned.