Black Diamond and Turner Valley didn’t Vanish, They’re still here!
Black Diamond and Turner Valley were two alluring towns located in Alberta, Canada, known for their rich history, natural beauty, and close-knit communities.
As of January 1st, 2023, they no longer exist…or do they?
Nestled at the foot of Canada’s Rocky Mountains, this enchanting region is a haven for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Welcome to a breathtaking land where the untamed spirit of Black Diamond intertwines with the vivacious essence of Turner Valley - the remarkable amalgamation is known as Diamond Valley.
Brace yourself for a thrilling journey as we delve into the heart of this extraordinary region, where rural culture meets limitless beauty and possibilities.
A Brief Overview of Diamond Valley, Alberta
Traveling to Diamond Valley for a vacation or day trip offers a distinctive experience compared to many other destinations.
The proximity to Calgary makes Diamond Valley easily accessible for semi-local residents and long-distance visitors.
The culture is characterized by its small-town charm and friendly atmosphere with warm hospitality from the locals.
The town’s historic downtown areas have a magnetic appeal with
Unique shops
Cozy cafes
Art galleries
Locally owned restaurants
The area’s dining establishments serve up delicious cuisine, often incorporating locally sourced ingredients and flavors that provide a more personalized and intimate experience, making travelers feel like part of the community.
Nearby, the Sheep River Valley and surrounding countryside offer stunning views and opportunities for outdoor activities like
Hiking
Biking
Camping
Fishing
Wildlife viewing
Kayaking
Experience the tranquil serenity of the countryside. The region’s unspoiled beauty provides a refreshing and rejuvenating experience for travelers seeking a more peaceful and nature-oriented journey.
Diamond Valley also offers beautiful parks, a gorgeous golf course, and trails for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy right in town!
If you’re looking for an enjoyable road trip or vacation destination, venture beyond the well-known destinations, and discover the hidden treasures of Diamond Valley, creating lasting memories and fostering a deeper appreciation for its beauty and culture.
Side note: I moved to Turner Valley in 2011 from my hometown of High River (30 mins. away), …and haven’t left.
Culinary Delights Await: Indulge in the Flavors of Diamond Valley, Alberta
Diamond Valley, located in Alberta, Canada, is known not only for its stunning scenery but also for its rich and flavorful local cuisine.
One of the standout dishes is Alberta beef, renowned for its exceptional taste and tenderness. Visitors can savor mouth-watering steaks, burgers, and roasts, prepared with locally sourced, high-quality beef.
Additionally, the area is known for its farm-to-table approach. Which is sure to delight food enthusiasts and provide a true taste of the region's culinary heritage.
A must-visit spot is Marv's Classic Soda Shop, a charming retro-style diner that offers classic burgers, milkshakes, and malts, evoking a sense of nostalgia for diners of all ages.
Although you might want to start with breakfast at the world-famous Chuckwagon Café first, with ample portions marvelous flavor, and a distinct freshness.
The Black Diamond Hotel and bar have delicious meals set in a luxurious rustic atmosphere.
For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, travel to the Turner Valley Golf and Country Club is a popular choice, known for its elegant atmosphere, and diverse menu.
(A local favorite dish is the famous Alberta wild game, including bison, elk, and venison.)
With its array of culinary options, Diamond Valley has something to satisfy every palate and provide memorable dining experiences.
Unleash Your Adventurous Spirit: Explore Breathtaking Hiking Trails in Diamond Valley, Alberta
Diamond Valley is the trailhead to a network of scenic hiking trails that cater to outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels.
The winding Sheep River flows through the region, adding to the scenic charm with its crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings.
Visitors can marvel at the expansive views of the Valley and the majestic Rocky Mountains are so close that you can actually touch them!
One popular path is the Sheep River Trail, which follows the picturesque Sheep River, offering stunning views of the water and the surrounding country. This trail provides opportunities for leisurely walks or longer hikes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature and spot local wildlife along the way.
For a more challenging adventure, travel the Windy Point Ridge Trail offers panoramic vistas of the Foothills region and the Rocky Mountains.
Experience Comfort and Nature: Discover the Perfect Accommodations in Diamond Valley, Alberta
Diamond Valley offers a range of hotels and accommodations that provide comfortable vacation beds, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
One notable establishment is the Black Diamond Hotel, a historic landmark that combines old-world charm with modern amenities. This hotel offers cozy rooms for your vacation stay, a lively pub, and a restaurant featuring locally inspired cuisine.
Campground and RV parks
Diamond Valley is encircled by picturesque landscapes that make it the ideal destination for camping enthusiasts. Several campgrounds and RV parks in the area offer a range of amenities and natural settings for outdoor enthusiasts.
A notable choice is the Sandy McNabb Campground, situated in the Kananaskis Country. This campground offers a peaceful setting amidst tall trees, with well-maintained campsites and opportunities for wildlife viewing and hiking.
Bluerock Campground has awe-inspiring scenery that can leave travelers mesmerized.
Additionally, the Chain Lakes Provincial Park offers a campground with stunning views of the neighboring lake and mountains, along with facilities for boating, fishing, and water sports.
With their proximity to natural beauty and a range of amenities, the campgrounds and RV parks in and around the Diamond Valley area provide an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the great outdoors and enjoy a memorable camping vacation.
Discover Nature's Playground: Sheep River Provincial Park
Something to note about the Sheep River Valley is that you travel through Bluerock Wildlands Provincial Park before entering Sheep River Provincial Park. Both Sandy McNabb and Bluerock Campgrounds are in Sheep River Provincial Park with Sandy being closest to town.
Another thing to note about the park is that the distinguished Sheep River cuts through the valley’s terrain, providing opportunities for scenic
Hikes
Pedal biking
Fishing
Wildlife viewing
Horseback riding
Escape to Nature's Haven: Sandy McNabb Campground in the Enchanting Kananaskis Country
Sandy McNabb campground is a picturesque haven nestled in the beautiful Kananaskis Country of Alberta near Diamond Valley. It offers a tranquil and immersive camping experience for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers’ vacations.
The campground is encircled by breathtaking scenery, featuring lush forests, and sublime mountains.
With its well-maintained facility, including spacious campsites, clean washrooms with running water, and electrical hook-ups, Sandy McNabb provides a comfortable and enjoyable place to travel to for visitors.
So, if you're seeking solitude in the serenity of nature or seeking thrilling outdoor pursuits, Sandy McNabb campground offers a place to reconnect with the natural world.
Discover Tranquility in Nature's Embrace: Bluerock Campground
Bluerock Campground is a hidden gem nestled in the scenic wilderness of Kananaskis Country in Alberta, near Diamond Valley.
Situated along the banks of the tranquil Sheep River and circled by towering trees and stunning mountain countryside, this campground offers a serene and idyllic setting for nature lovers and camping enthusiasts.
The spacious campsites provide ample room for tents and RVs. Bluerock Campground offers a peaceful retreat where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and create lasting vacation memories.
Embark on a Wild Adventure: Bluerock Wildland Provincial Park
With rugged beauty and an unspoiled environment, the park's diverse terrain features towering mountains, deep canyons, and pristine alpine meadows.
Bluerock Wildland Provincial Park’s extensive network of trails offers endless opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and wildlife observation.
Visitors can immerse themselves on their vacation in the tranquility of the wilderness, marvel at cascading waterfalls, and soak in panoramic views from high ridges.
Dive into Adventure: Explore Fishing, Horseback Riding, and Swimming in the Scenic Diamond Valley
Diamond Valley offers fantastic opportunities for recreational activities such as fishing and swimming, allowing residents and visitors to make the most of the beautiful natural surroundings.
The nearby Sheep River flows through the region and provides a picturesque setting for fishing enthusiasts to catch trout and whitefish.
Horseback riding is hugely popular west of Diamond Valley. Whether you bring your own horse or rent one from local outfitters like Anchor D Ranch, you will be transported to a simpler time when people were more dependent on their mount for travel.
The outdoor pool in Turner Valley is a destination that brings visitors from many places in southern Alberta because of its open-air atmosphere. The facility is well-maintained, and seeing the surrounding countryside adds to the splashy fun!
The Sheep River is also an enjoyable float from bridge to bridge on a river tube. (If you’re planning on riding the river on your vacation, come in the first half of summer because the water level is a bit too low in August, and you may have to walk some sections.)
Experience the Vibrant Spirit of Diamond Valley: Annual Parade and Spectacular New Year's Eve Celebration Await
One high-profile tradition is the annual Diamond Valley Parade, a beloved event that showcases the town's community spirit. Residents and visitors gather to enjoy the colorful floats, live music, and lively atmosphere, with markets for adults, and bounce houses for the kids afterward.
New Year’s Eve is another outstanding event-filled night of festivity with hay wagon rides, skating, hotdogs, hot chocolate, and FIREWORKS!
Every year the town outdoes itself with the explosive fire flowers that light up the night sky!
Black Diamond and Turner Valley’s History
Black Diamond, named after the nearby coal deposits, was once a bustling coal mining town but has transformed into a picturesque community with a thriving arts scene and a deep appreciation for its heritage.
Turner Valley gained fame in the early 20th century when significant oil and gas reserves were discovered in the area which was Alberta's first commercial oilfield.
As a current resident of Turner Valley (the west side of Diamond Valley), I have to say I love the new name and amalgamation.
We all knew it was overdue, but I still run into Black Diamond to grab some groceries at AG Foods!
The Best Time to Visit Diamond Valley
The best time to travel to Diamond Valley for a vacation is during the summer months, from the beginning of May to the middle of October making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring scenic landscapes on foot or horseback.
The summer season also brings vibrant wildflowers, lush greenery, and longer daylight hours, enhancing the overall beauty of the area. Additionally, this time of year provides opportunities for fishing in the rivers surrounding the town.
Wildlife Wonderland: Encounter Nature's Unbroken
The town’s proximity to the scenic Foothills region and the Rocky Mountains provides a diverse habitat that attracts a wide range of wildlife species. Visitors can spot animals such as
Deer
Elk
Moose
Coyotes
as they explore the neighborhood’s natural areas and trails.
Diamond Valley is blessed with abundant wildlife and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts as well.
Diamond Valley: Unveiling Treasures of Nature, Heritage, and Hospitality in Alberta's Hidden Gem
Diamond Valley offers a wide range of attractions and activities that make it an appealing destination for road travelers or a vacation spot.
This hidden gem holds a wealth of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and thrilling adventures just waiting to be discovered.
Indulge your taste buds with the delectable flavors of Alberta beef and game.
Or stroll through charming shops, boutiques, art galleries, and cafes that offer rare treasures.
Diamond Valley is a picturesque Alberta town with a rich history, stunning natural surroundings, and warm hospitality. Visitors to the town are sure to be captivated by the special allure and beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
Whether it's immersing oneself in nature, discovering the local heritage, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings, the area offers a delightful array of adventure and interests for all to enjoy.
If you seek outdoor escapades or serene moments of reflection, there’s a uniqueness that can only be found in Diamond Valley.
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