Thanksgiving Ranch maintains over 3,000 acres of prime grassland in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, where guests are welcomed and cattle graze every summer.
The Ranch is becoming renowned for its western hospitality and some of the most magnificent mountain views in Western Canada.
Against this spectacular backdrop, lodge guests enjoy the quiet comforts of a traditional family ranch, modern amenities, and a dazzling range of outdoor experiences, from horse riding, hiking, star gazing, wildlife viewing, cattle experiences, wellness, fine dining and photography.
The Lodge at Thanksgiving Ranch has something for everyone to discover.
2023
International guests become common. Welcoming people from six continents during the summer, Seventeen countries and 19 provinces and states, guests unanimously fell in love with the beautiful setting, the serenity, the privacy and the Lodge itself. Frequently praising the delicious food served. They often remark on what a unique and special place Thanksgiving Ranch truly is.
2022
The Lodge at Thanksgiving Ranch begins to welcome international guests following the pandemic.
Australia, Germany and the U.S. are the first countries to enjoy a luxury ranch experience, unlike any other.
2021
Thanksgiving Ranch is recognized as a “Hidden Gem of Canada” in Canada’s National Newspaper, The Globe and Mail.
Interprovincial travel is allowed.
2020
Social Distancing. Pandemic. Covid. Travel becomes awkward.
Borders closed.
No international flights.
No travel to/from other provinces.
Market becomes Alberta based!
2019
Social Media and Website for The Lodge at Thanksgiving Ranch become active.
Actually get bookings from Europe for following Summer.
2018
Thanksgiving Ranch began welcoming guests.
2017
Castle Provincial Park was founded, and shortly thereafter, the Kenow Fire burned from southeastern British Columbia into Waterton Lakes National Park. This devastating fire caused widespread evacuations and significant damage throughout the local area. Thanksgiving Ranch remained unscathed.
Perhaps it was the sudden appearance of a Leucistic Redtail Hawk that provided protection. Indigenous people believe that the hawk represents a protector and peace. This majestic bird appeared at the start of the evacuations and remained for several days. Even writing this message brings a wave of emotion.
2014
The Crypt Lake Trail in Waterton National Park was rated by National Geographic as one of the World’s Most Thrilling Trails.
1998
Brad and Christi move to the ranch full time to take over the ranching operation.
1991
The Oldman River Dam opened.
1981
Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump was named a World Heritage Site for its testimony of prehistoric life and the customs of the aboriginal people.
1979
Waterton became Canada's second biosphere reserve and the first Canadian national park to take part in this UNESCO program.
1975
Christi’s parents arrive in Canada and fall in love with Southern Alberta.
1927
The Prince of Wales Hotel opened in Glacier National Park.
1880s
The first official land surveys occurred in the Pincher Creek area.