The Alberta government’s proposed 2026 budget includes funding for several tourism improvements, including two projects in the West Country.

If passed, provincial officials say Budget 2026 would provide $275 million over the next three years to support new and upgraded trails.

In 2026-27 alone, the province says $87 million would be invested in more than 70 campground, day-use area and trail enhancement projects.

That includes improvements to the Whitegoat Creek Falls trails and day-use area in David Thompson Country, as well as a new staging area in the same region.

“The Nordegg Rail Trail is a cornerstone of our long-term development strategy for Nordegg, and we’re grateful for the Government of Alberta’s investment in this important link,” said Rick Emmons, chief administrative officer for Clearwater County. “It enhances access, supports recreation and helps us build a more connected community. For locals, it offers a safe and enjoyable way to explore the region, and for visitors it adds another compelling reason to experience everything Nordegg has to offer. This trail is a meaningful step forward in realizing our shared vision in the broader Nordegg Development Plan.”

Officials say a new Thompson Creek trail near Nordegg has already been completed, along with a new seawall in Carson-Pegasus Provincial Park near Whitecourt and a new check-in building at Marten River Campground in Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park.

“Budget 2026 is focused on building what matters to Albertans,” said Todd Loewen, minister of forestry and parks. “Alberta’s government is investing in the places people value today while enhancing them for future generations. Funding for projects in every corner of this province will open corridors for Albertans and support the growing number of visitors enjoying our landscapes each year. We are excited for the opportunities these investments create, ensuring Albertans have access to safe, memorable experiences however they choose to recreate.”

In addition to maintaining and renewing existing infrastructure, officials say the province is working to develop 900 new campsites by 2033, expand trail networks on public land and in the Canmore area, and improve outdoor recreation facilities and amenities in high-use areas across Alberta.

The government says it has already invested millions of dollars in trail and infrastructure upgrades across the province to improve access, visitor experience and safety. With visitation to Alberta’s parks continuing to grow, the province says Budget 2026 includes investments intended to ensure parks and public lands remain safe, accessible and sustainable.

Officials say the investments support Alberta’s Plan for Parks and the Crown Land Recreation and Conservation Strategy, two plans released earlier this year aimed at improving outdoor recreation experiences while protecting landscapes across the province. Project locations are selected based on several factors, including visitor demand, environmental suitability and existing infrastructure needs.

Quick facts

• Forestry and Parks’ capital plan allocates more than $275 million over three years:

  • $87 million in 2026-27

  • $102 million in 2027-28

  • $88 million in 2028-29

Highlights of 2026-27 capital projects include:

• Improving the Whitegoat Creek Falls trails and day-use area in David Thompson Country

• Developing the Crowsnest Lake day-use area in the Livingston Public Land Use Zone

• Constructing a new campground loop in Pigeon Lake Provincial Park

• Replacing the shower building at Kinbrook Island Provincial Park

In 2025-26, $78 million supported upgrades to campgrounds, trails, day-use areas and utilities across Crown land, including 56 completed projects.