(Photo by Alberta Parks)

By Jordan Rein

Part of a $12 million upgrade

Crescent Falls ready to be enjoyed again

Jun 28, 2024 | 9:59 AM

The new staircase structure and viewing platform are among many upgrades that visitors can look forward to at the reopening Crescent Falls Provincial Recreation Area. (Photo by Alberta Parks)

Officials say the project is part of an investment of more than $12 million to upgrade 13 sites along the David Thompson Corridor.

Partners from Clearwater County, Rocky Mountain House and other organizations were critical in helping to move the upgrades forward, say officials, as they worked with Alberta Parks staff to advise on the upgrades needed around the area.

“The Town of Rocky Mountain House is where adventure begins, and we are thrilled that Crescent Falls Provincial Recreation Area has reopened to the public in time for the summer adventure season,” says Rocky Mountain House Town Councillor, Dale Shippelt. “This is a wonderful day trip destination for visitors and residents alike setting out from Rocky Mountain House. The provincial investment has only improved its accessibility and safety, making it a must-see destination if you are in the area.”

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Alberta’s government says it is committed to reconciliation and acknowledges the significance of the land around Crescent Falls Provincial Recreation Area to the Stoney Nakoda First Nation.

“The Alberta Government’s reopening of Crescent Falls is a remarkable achievement for our region. This project not only enhances recreational opportunities, natural beauty and accessibility in our area but also means safer, more enjoyable visits for our citizens and visitors alike,” says Michelle Swanson, Reeve of Clearwater County.

Alberta government quick facts

• The upgrades at Crescent Falls PRA include the following improvements:
• Enlarging the existing parking area
• Developing a new parking area for large RV vehicles
• Upgrading the access roads down to the lower area
• Installing a new pedestrian trail to the lower day use area
• Installing a new vehicle crossing from the day use to the camping site
• Upgrading and expanding the day use areas
• Increasing signage
• Installing additional toilets and bear-proof garbage bins
• Developing a new stair structure to access the lower falls areas with a viewing platform
• Enhancing safety features throughout the PRA. The upgrades were part of a significant capital investment of $12.3 million by Alberta’s government to address safety and experience opportunities in 13 key provincial recreation sites along the David Thompson Corridor. Along with Crescent Falls PRA, other sites that were upgraded include:
• Bighorn Dam Recreation Area

Other public lands and parks sites in the area include Coliseum, Allstone, Abraham Slabs, Hoo Doo Creek, Coral Creek, Pinto Creek, Preachers Point, Cavalcade, Kinglet/Tuff Puff, Wildhorse and Owen Creek.

Crescent Falls PRA is located 22 km west of Nordegg on Highway 11 and 6 km north on a gravel access road.

Crescent Falls PRA has a first-come, first-served campground with 12 tent-only sites and 22 RV sites.

The day use area includes multiple viewing platforms of the upper and lower falls and picnic tables with views of the river.

Access to the lower day use area is available on a 0.8 km trail from the main parking area or, alternatively, from the Bighorn Canyon lookout via a 3 km trail.

The lower day use area also has accessible-only parking stalls adjacent to the viewing platforms with an accessible vault toilet and picnic areas.