Bernadette Logozar, Friends of the Battle River Rail, says, “We have a main passenger car, an open air boxcar, and a rustic caboose. The train goes at a moderate pace, so you not only ride at your leisure, you have time to see all the sights along the way. There is no better way to experience rural Alberta and enjoy the scenic views than by rail. Our train travels off the beaten path on a diagonal between Canmore and Alliance. You won’t see the same sights as you would from the highway.”
The full-day excursions take about six hours for the round trip. Refreshments, a meal, and activities are included. Depending on the theme, those activities could involve farm to fork is a unique Open Farm Days event, Oktoberfest fun, or even a mysterious “murder” to solve! We have also added a new train experience this year called The Prairie Town Excursion on July 20!
If a shorter train ride is what you are after, Battle River Excursions has your ticket.
“On large event days like Canada Day, we offer 45-60 minute rides,” says Logozar. The first ride is guaranteed; we will add a second one if we book solid or interest grows on the day of the event. Those rides are by donation – whatever amount you feel comfortable giving. The proceeds from community rides go to the Flagstaff Food Bank. Battle River Cooperative donates the train and engineer for free on those days and matches donations.”
Excursions are not the only way to enjoy the ride.
"You can also charter the train for special milestones," says Logozar. "For example, one group booked it for a 50-year class reunion, and a local municipality even included a private charter ride as part of their staff Christmas activities."
Ideal for a variety of events, such as customer appreciation, team-building retreats, weddings, reunions, showers, and celebrations, the charter includes a hostess and conductor, light refreshments, a medic, and seating for up to 76 people. Services include pick-up and drop-off at towns along the shortline railway, assistance with arranging chartered bus transportation and catering at different locations. The total time frame for charters is around six hours.
Need a little more? No problem! The Station in Forestburg is available for rent as an event space. It has capacity for 100 seated guests and can be rented for half day, full day, or over weekends. The amenities include a kitchen meant for serving and making coffee and tea, hall area with piano, bar area, stereo system, and outdoor green space. Additionally, the location is conveniently close to village amenities and provides street parking with easy access. Seasonal decorations can also be included for the event.
Battle River Train Excursions is operated by a non-profit which is Friends of the Battle River Railway, and is operated by volunteers.
The short line railway that our train travels on, is owned by a new gen cooperative - Battle River Railway. This is the for-profit cooperative business, that moves freight (grain) and markets grain from our area. The experience is unforgettable and one you will want to enjoy with family and friends over and over again. Learn more and book your ticket online, and be in the know about upcoming events and excursions by staying tuned to their Facebook page. Consider becoming a member or a volunteer.
