Lethbridge

The massive skeleton of the Lethbridge Viaduct, glinting proudly in the setting sun, spreads its imperious wings over the Oldman River? a perfect representation of Lethbridge's dominance of the southern Alberta region. The city has swollen to become Alberta's fourth-largest & the largest in its southern regions, nestled close to the Oldman River southeast of Calgary. Lying in the Canadian prairies in Western Canada, the province of Alberta is bordered by the provinces of British Columbia (west), Saskatchewan (east) & the Northwest Territories (north), while the US state of Montana borders it to the south. Famed for its water resources that promote waterskiing, fishing, & water sports, Alberta passes on its picturesque natural splendor in abundance to the city of Lethbridge as well.

The Oldman River Valley Parks System is the salient feature of the land's outlay. Sprawling over 4000 acres of lush vegetation that carpets campgrounds & mesmerizing trails, it is one of the largest urban parks in Canada. Lethbridge is naturally divided by Oldman River into western & eastern portions, the latter of which is further bisected by the Crowsnest Highway & the Canadian Pacific Railway to give the old industrial northern part & the city's commercial lifeblood in the southern part. The newer Western Lethbridge is home to the prestigious University of Lethbridge. An altitude of 929 m & proximity to the Rocky Mountains are major factors in blocking off the northwest & southwest winds, giving Lethbridge an annual precipitation of only 15.2 inches, & cool summers (average 12.3oC) with comparatively milder winters (average -1.1oC). Around 85,000 inhabitants enjoy the moderate continental climate, welcoming visitors that reach the city frequently via the Lethbridge county airport, which also provides commercial & charter flights. The CPR rail yards lie just outside the city in Kipp. Provincial highway 3 is suitable if coming from the east, while travelers can use highways 4 & 5(which lies closer to the airport). Greyhound buses provide bus service to reach the city.

Lethbridge's mushroom growth owes a lot to the coal mines with which the land is bleesed, yet it is only a recent occurrence. Its plains, prior to the 19th century, were occupied by various indigenous First Nations. When the US Army stopped alcohol trading with the Blackfeet Nation, Fort Hamilton was set up as an illegal whiskey trading haven, adopting the nickname Fort Whoop-Up, giving Lethbridge its most recognizable landmark. After undergoing reconstruction, this notorious trading post provides guided tours & audio-visual presentations. Lethbridge pays significant attention to its Indian roots, as is evidenced by the well-maintained Indian Battle Park, the site of the 1870 battle between the Blackfeet & Cree Nations. A replica of Fort Whoop-Up is one of the park's main attractions. And the majestic appearance of the High Level Bridge pays tribute to the men who worked tirelessly to construct this architectural marvel. Canada's largest railway structure, it stands 314 ft above the river bed, its 12,400 tons of steel laid out in an enduring dominant frame. Historical artifacts, with a throwback to the old coal mining days, can be found in the Sir Alexander Galt Museum, or alternatively one can visit the Southern Alberta Art Gallery for contemporary & historical exhibitions.

The Oldman Urban Parks System is home to a beautiful & pure lush green environment. Arid coulees & floodplains dominate the Helen Schuler Coulee Center, a fascinating nature reserve, showcasing the best of the prairie environment. Blending ancient Oriental designs & the Canadian prairies in a delightful mix is the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden. The pagoda, traditional tea ceremony room & the bell tower create the perfect harmony. It is situated in the Henderson Lake Park, which offers a baseball stadium, an outdoor swimming pool & a rose garden as well. A trip to Park Lake Provincial Park provides for a brilliant opportunity to go canoeing or relax on the beach concession. Theatrical performances in Lethbridge are provided by the University's Theatre department or the New West Theatre. The 6,500-capacity ENMAX Center is home to the Lethbridge Hurricanes, a Western Hockey League Franchise, while it also has extensions for other major sports, including basketball, skating, squash & tennis courts, & indoor football pitches. Lethbridge has modernized gracefully, keeping a harmonious balance between commercial expansion & the magnificent natural beauty. The multicultural community throws up many a surprise for those with a ticket to Lethbridge. For it verily opens up a whole new delightful avenue of entertainment for the visitor's satisfaction.