Alberta Prairie Steam Tours Ltd. operating as Alberta Prairie Railway Excursions started in 1990 when they purchased all the steam and passenger equipment from Central Western Railway Corporation and began operating over lines owned by that company. Today Alberta Prairie either owns or leases all of the rail assets at Stettler.
I have had the great joy of riding on the train at least three times. On each journey, not far from Big Valley, Alberta (the terminus) we were stopped by "train robbers" on horseback, who walked through the train taking money from the passengers. Fortunately, another groups on horseback came to our rescue. But, because they didn't know who the money came from, they decided to donate the money to charities that focus on children in either Edmonton or Calgary.
When the train arrives at Big Valley there are several options for activities.
Some of the activities are included in your train ticket. One year we had a huge steak and lobster barbecue under a tent. Another year, it was a play a the local community centre; the actors accompanied us on the train (in character) to Big Valley. Here are a few activities that they have planned this year:
1) Travel back in time and see small town Alberta as it once was. A visit to roundhouse interpretive centre and fully restored railway station a must see during stop at Big Valley. Includes on board entertainment and an Alberta roast beef buffet at Big Valley.
2)You will feel the heat and smell the coal burning as model steam engine enthusiasts come together to display their fascinating creations. Working early gasoline pump engines, antique machinery and vehicles, and one of a kind creations also featured. Includes an Alberta roast beef buffet and all the other extras offered on most Country Dinner excursions and more.
3)Enjoy a little bit of "The Rock" (Newfoundland' nick name) right here in Alberta and feast on steak and lobster. Included are guaranteed train robbery, on board entertainment and Down-East entertainment at supper. And what would a Newfoundlander Special be without complementary "East Coast" beer and blue berry wine with the meal. And as an added bonus, Ever wonder who these people are who call themselves Métis? This is your chance to visit a hivernant, meet the people of the plains in their colourful sashes and Hudson's Bay coats, and see their handicrafts.
Some of the activities are not included in the price of your train ticket. You can visit the Creationist Museum, where they have displays to explain why the world is younger than 7,000 years. You can visit the town itself.
Check out all of the activities and the dates of the Steam Excursions at their website: http://www.absteamtrain.com/ or, if this works, click here:
These are the backs of the cards.
The top card of the depicting a train robbery was printed by The Stettler Independent and the bottom card was supplied by Arlin Photography.
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