Big Valley

Sharon Taylor
The Weekender

The romance of the train never dies, that’s why the historic Village of Big Valley will once again see the steam trains rolling in from Stettler all summer long.
Don’t miss the Alberta Prairie Railway Excursions steam tour. Take a ride on the train that brings in tourists from across Alberta and world-wide enjoying a day’s excursion on the train.
Offering different themes throughout the season, you can enjoy a murder mystery, dinner theatre, or one of the seniors or teddy bear specials geared for the kids.
Be prepared because at some point in your adventure, the train can come to a thunderous halt when the ‘Bolton Gang’, a notorious group of outlaws, come aboard and are noted to frequently hold up the train.
Don’t be alarmed though, Canada’s Metis hero Gabriel Dumont will save the day.
Tourists begin their trip in Stettler riding the train into Big Valley where they will have the chance to have their lunch and do a bit of shopping. Passengers on the train will have an opportunity for a photo featuring the 1920 Baldwin-built locomotive number 41.
Alberta Prairie Railway Excursions general manager Bob Willis said, “We enjoy hosting people from all over the world, people who come from every corner to check out the trains and participate in our dinner theatres. We are always delighted to share our knowledge with everyone who joins us.”
Railway enthusiasts can also enjoy tours of railway equipment like the 1957 General Motors diesel road-switcher locomotive. Also on site is the world famous “Lady of the Mountains” steam locomotive ex-CN6060.
Come out and enjoy Heritage Rail Fans slated July 31-August 1.
Exhibitors will be on hand to show visitors the rail history of days gone by, located at the railway station.
While in the area take in Steam Days August 13 and 14. People from all over Canada will be setting up by the train station. Demonstrations of log cutting, miniature steam driven locomotives, and trains will be on display for two of the days.
Join in the third annual Hivernant Metis Rendezvous, from July 29-August 1.
The Hivernant Culture Society communication manager Richard Larson said, “We are a Metis non-political group who puts on the event. It is open to all cultures and we have had great success the past two years.”
The event will host Metis dancers, indian pow-wow style dancing as well as the jig and reelers.
Take some time to check out the interpretive centre, prairie grain elevator and the local museum. Go to Granny’s and try the 20 different flavours of fudge, or visit the Tipple Gallery featuring local art for sale. All located at the western themed Jimmy Jock Boardwalk.
Located between Drumheller and Stettler just off Highway 56, you will know you’re in the right place when you smell the aroma of Big Valley’s famous cinnamon buns.