Oct 22, 2014

Fort Museum in Fort Macleod, Alberta: Part 1

Rediscovering history close to home, especially in the Canadian prairies, is always an eye-opening experience. The modern conveniences we enjoy today seem like a miracle when contrasted against the isolation and rustic living that existed here a little over a century ago.

The original fort in Fort Macleod, Alberta was constructed in 1874 as a barracks for the North-West Mounted Police, named after Colonel James Macleod. The current fort is a recreation that was constructed in the 1950s, and now operates as a museum with various artifacts that illustrate the history of the area. These are some of the images I captured. 




































Oct 21, 2014

Athabasca Falls in Jasper National Park

The scenery along the Icefields Parkway in Jasper National Park seemed never-ending, and Athabasca Falls was certainly further proof of that. Much like I did at Sunwapta Falls, I took every opportunity to stop and explore every scenic turn off along the way.
 

















Oct 20, 2014

Abandoned Train Car on Highway 541

My fascination for abandoned places was peaked on my way to Kananaskis, driving the scenic route along Highway 541 (which becomes Highway 40). I spotted this old train caboose next to the Highwood River and decided to go and check it out. 

Out of curiosity I tried to find some information about it, but came up short. The view on Google Maps from June 2009 shows the train car in a much different state - completely intact with no graffiti (although it is from quite a distance). It makes me think this must have been a cabin. Someone clearly had something in mind when the train tracks were removed from the area. 

The interior is now completely burnt out, and various styles of graffiti cover most of the exterior. It was actually a bit eerie, because the area was completely quiet. No other cars on the highway, and no direct path for even getting to the train car - I just walked across a field. That could be a good reason why it's abandoned.