Complete Guide to Getting from Calgary to Lethbridge for 2020

Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Last updated on October 7, 2020

Alberta’s third-largest city is bafflingly ignored. It’s such a quick jaunt from Calgary to Lethbridge, but few will actually make the trip (save to see family or friends who may happen to live there). Which, I suppose, is a good thing for the people who do make the rewarding journey. Not only is Lethbridge an excellent base to explore two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and one beautiful National Park, but the drive there can be entertaining as well.

It offers mountain views to the west and prairies to the east, nearly splitting the Rockies from the Canadian Badlands. The journey from Calgary to Lethbridge is very near two hours if taking the fastest route (see below), but we’ve mapped out one interesting side trip for you too. Options via other modes of transportation are slim but also noted below.

About the Route From Calgary to Lethbridge

The distance differs depending on the route you choose. But no matter which way you go, you will experience a relaxing drive through small prairie towns.

The Fastest Route

For the simplest route, on the dual lane roads, take Highway 2 south to Highway 3 east and this will lead you straight into Lethbridge. A quick alternative deviation which could save a few minutes is turning east from Highway 2 onto either the 519 or 520 and after approximately 30 km turning south onto Highway 23 before meeting up with Highway 3 into the city. This will shave off a few minutes, as long as you don’t get stuck behind traffic as it’s only a two-lane road. This route totals 212 km route and from central Calgary will take a little over 2 hours.

An Alternate Route to Mix Things Up

Take Highway 1 east out of Calgary and then turn to Highway 24 south (along the way, it turns into Highway 23). When you eventually reach Highway 3, turn east. At 225 km long, it isn’t that much farther but will likely take a bit longer as it is single lane for most of it. But it is certainly worth taking it at least once to enjoy a couple of fun stops along the way.

Always keep in mind that the driving hours proposed are valid as long as there aren’t any accidents, traffic, or weird weather phenomenons (which are certainly known to happen in southern Alberta). Before you get on the road, be sure to check out Alberta 511 for up-to-date road reports. 

Calgary to Lethbridge by Car

If you are flying into the Calgary International Airport it will be extremely easy for you to get started with this journey. Calgary offers plenty of car rental options at the airport. Book in advance to ensure less hassle:

• We recommend booking via RentalCars.com, to select the cheapest rate or to book with whichever company you prefer.

If you are not interested in a traditional car rental through an agency, you can also rent cars through a website called Turo (think AirBnB for car rentals).

Calgary to Lethbridge by Bus

Taking the bus to Lethbridge is a great idea for those who want to sit back and enjoy the scenery. Red Arrow buses leave Calgary every Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday and pick up passengers in four different spots around the city, including the airport. Their last drop-off site in Lethbridge is their ticket office at 8:45pm. Going from Lethbridge to Calgary, buses depart the small southern city on the same days at 8:15am.

Calgary to Lethbridge by Other Options

• Taxis are always an option, you will be able to find them all over Calgary but it will be expensive considering it’s a 2 hour journey.
• Uber is available in Calgary; however, you need to keep in mind that there are drivers that may not be willing or capable to make the drive and the price is close to what a taxi would cost for just one way.
• Poparide.com is another option for much less money. This is a rideshare app for Canada where you can get a driver based on your luggage and equipment requirements. At the time of writing this guide, there were at least two drivers but there might be more on the dates you want to travel. Currently, no seat appears to cost more than $30 for the ride from Calgary to Lethbridge.
• Ambassador is a luxury sedan service that can get you there in style.

Fun Things to Do Along the Way

If you are powered by your own set of wheels and looking for fun things to do, make it an even better experience and spend more time out of the car than in it!

Along the Fastest Route

What makes this a great route is that it is short and scenic but still makes you feel like you are exploring an entirely new place as the foothills give way to the southern prairie. And nevermind that along the way are some interesting stops and even a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stop first in Nanton, just a half hour south of Calgary, and go relic spotting (and shopping) along the Antique Art Walk. If your sweet tooth needs soothing, there’s also a big candy store on the main street through town that you can’t miss!

A little further along, and just 18kms north and west of Fort MacLeod (where Highway 2 and Highway 3 meet), don’t pass by Head-Smashed-in-Buffalo-Jump without a stop. This is one of the oldest and best-preserved buffalo jumps in the world, used by the Plains Buffalo People starting over 6,000 years ago. This is a historic and cultural marvel that has easily earned its UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. (Note that it is closed for 2020 due to COVID-19, but be sure to plan for a visit when it reopens.)

Along the Alternate Route

If you’re a Star Trek fan – this isn’t an alternate route – this is the route that you need to take.

Almost exactly halfway from Calgary to Lethbridge on Highway 23 sits the small town of Vulcan. Wanting to take full advantage of the town’s name, residents opened the Tourism & Trek Station. This visitor center was built to look like a landed space station, and yes, there is even a replica of the Starship Enterprise. The staff is even dressed to fit the scene!

But before you even get that far when heading south from Calgary, also plan for a stop at Aspen Crossing. This train-themed destination has a multitude of things to keep you busy – from escape rooms to a garden shop, to a tasty restaurant and train excursions. You can make a whole day of it, and even spend the night in a decommissioned caboose if you want to carry on the fun the next day.

Upon Arrival in Lethbridge

You made it!

If you are looking for detailed information about what to do in Alberta’s third largest city, then take a look at our guide of some of the top things to do in Lethbridge.

Where to Stay in Lethbridge

There are some good options for quality accommodations in Lethbridge, and this city makes a fantastic base for exploring so much in the surrounding area. Note that all of these hotels are east of the river (nothing exists yet on the west side).

Sandman Signature Lethbridge Lodge – This hotel has changed hands many times since it was built, but the Sandman Signature Lethbridge Lodge is popular for its gorgeous tropical atrium and a pool at its center. Be sure to get a room with a view of the coulees, and also plan a night at the restaurant on site (Italian Table) for some good eats.

The Coast Hotel & Conference Centre – Right across from the Lethbridge Water Tower, the Coast Hotel and Conference Centre features the Firestone Restaurant, which has the most delicious Sangria and one of the best patios in the city. The location is also good being nearly kiddy-corner to Henderson Park.

Charles Street Suites – A little hidden gem in Lethbridge is the Charles Street Suites. It’s a quaint and cozy little Bed and Breakfast that’s close to Lethbridge’s gorgeous bike boulevard (7th Avenue) which is also a thoroughfare to the coulees, Henderson Lake Park, and the south side.

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