The revitalization of Crescent Falls Provincial Recreation Area (PRA) marks a transformative chapter for one of Alberta’s most scenic destinations. Responding to surging visitor numbers and increasing safety concerns, the newly designed infrastructure—thoughtfully integrated stairs and viewing platforms—allows people of all abilities to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Bighorn River and its dramatic waterfalls safely and comfortably. These improvements not only protect visitors from hazardous areas, but preserve the integrity of the cliffs and surrounding environment, ensuring that natural wonders remain unspoiled for generations. Beyond safety, the upgrades open new opportunities for outdoor adventure, learning, and community connection, helping to distribute tourism more evenly across the region and relieve pressure on heavily trafficked parks like Banff and Jasper.

The project brings lasting economic benefits by attracting more visitors, while honoring the cultural significance of the land to Indigenous communities and fostering reconciliation. Alberta’s government is committed to reconciliation and acknowledges the significance of the land around Crescent Falls PRA to the Stoney Nakoda First Nation. The completed upgrades reflect an ongoing commitment to creating more outdoor recreation opportunities while protecting the land’s natural and cultural values for generations. By blending modern accessibility with respect for the environment and cultural heritage, Crescent Falls now stands as a welcoming, sustainable destination. It invites Albertans and visitors alike to make lasting memories in a place where safety, stewardship, and awe-inspiring landscapes meet. Over the past two decades there has been rising demand for recreation and tourism experiences throughout the David Thompson Corridor; a trend that has only intensified during the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in an all-time high number of visitors to parks and public lands within this region. The increased use of parking lots, trails, and facilities has created significant problems regarding safety, access, and management which has negatively impacted the environment and the enjoyment of users in this region.

The Landscape Architects were the Prime Consultants and lead designers to address these safety issues and provide a realistic plan for the redevelopment of the existing infrastructure. The plan includes upgrades to existing infrastructure, new infrastructure, and proposed design elements to meet present and future user demand in the corridor. The Crescent Falls PRA is a critical part of the investment to upgrade these 13 sites along the David Thompson Corridor. The Bighorn River and the waterfalls are dangerous with fast flowing, cold water and a strong undertow. Drowning and severe injury has occurred here in the past. One of the crucial requirements at Crescent Falls for the Landscape Architect was to provide improved safety measures and visitor access to and from this tourist destination. The resulting design plan responds to this aspect throughout and rehabilitates this site into a safe environment appropriate to this special area. To maintain public safety, the area above and below the waterfalls are managed as a special protective zone with prohibited access. Over the years visitors scrambling down the cliffs and getting too close to the falls became an increasing safety issue with increased visitation.

The Landscape Architect’s solution was to create a set of stairs and viewing platforms that would respond to the site and make it more desirable for the visitor to use safely. Sizing of the stairs and viewing deck areas was to not overwhelm the site while accommodating to expected visitor demands. The siting, design and construction methods for the structure minimized disturbance to the cliffs and slopes, accommodated floodwater requirements and met Parks’ requirements to prevent visitors from accessing the dangerous areas around the falls. This is a remote site and the Landscape Architects’ solutions to design is a much different response to the environment than on an urban site. In many cases the detailed drawings give way to field-fitting the elements into the landscape with the coordination of the client and contractor. “The Town of Rocky Mountain House is where adventure begins, and we are thrilled that Crescent Falls PRA has reopened to the public in time for the summer adventure season. This is a wonderful day trip destination for visitors and residents alike setting out from Rocky Mountain House. The provincial investment has only improved its accessibility and safety, making it a must-see destination if you are in the area.” Dale Shippelt, incoming deputy mayor, Rocky Mountain House.

Prime:Ernie Webster, Brian Baker, Jane MacDonald, Maria DiGiacomo, Megan Ciocchetto;Client:Alberta Forestry & Parks;Contractor:Hilton Brothers;Structural:RJC;Geotech:EnGlobe;Geomatics,Civil,Transportation:Arcadis;Environmental:TRACE

https://maps.app.goo.gl/72CpBk7Xi8u3UtyB7