Turner Valley: Gas Plant and Friendship Trail

Two distinct themes are at the forefront of a stay in Turner Valley: the Turner Valley Gas Plant as a site of oil and technology history, and the Friendship Trail as a walking and cycling path between Turner Valley and Black Diamond. In the wider region, Diamond Valley is also a point of interest for fishing on the Sheep River. These themes can be considered separately: they range from the history of an industrial complex to a clearly identified route and a family activity in the region.

Turner Valley and oil history

The 12.8-hectare Turner Valley Gas Plant is located on the north bank of the Sheep River. This oil-industry site is central to the history of oil extraction technology and is the most significant resource from the Turner Valley oil field preserved on site. It is Canada's earliest gas processing plant and the only surviving example of its kind. The facility thus connects the history of the local oil field with gas processing in Canada.

The industrial complex comprises 22 metal buildings and associated infrastructure. It developed over several decades; construction spanned from the 1920s to the 1970s. The facility was therefore not built in a single year. Together with the Gas Plant's role in oil extraction technology, this shows how its technological significance and built structures shape the site's historic character.

Tours at the Gas Plant

Some historic buildings are visited on guided tours, which are offered during the summer months. Group tour bookings include access to the Light Plant Exhibit Gallery and a tour of the historic site. If you are planning a tour for a specific date, check in advance which offering is available for that period.

The Friendship Trail

The Friendship Trail is 3 km long and runs alongside Highway 22. This walking and cycling path connects the historic communities of Turner Valley and Black Diamond. While the Gas Plant represents industrial history, the trail focuses on a route connecting two places. The trailhead is in Millennium Park, south of the Diamond Valley Municipal Campground.

The details answer different questions for orientation: 3 km is the route's length, Turner Valley and Black Diamond are the communities it connects, and Millennium Park identifies the trailhead's location. This lets you understand the route and its starting point separately.

Fishing in the surrounding region

In the wider region, the Sheep River flows through Diamond Valley and is suitable for family fishing there. If you plan to fish, be aware that rules and conditions change; check Alberta's current advisories before fishing.

Discover more destinations: Olds, Crossfield, Chestermere, De Winton, Millarville, Redwood Meadows, Black Diamond, Beiseker

For the broader travel overview: Division No. 6.