Forestry Trunk Road — Hwy 940 Livingstone Range to Plateau Mountain Ecological Reserve (Alberta)

Plateau Mountain sits at roughly 2,500 metres above sea level and holds the distinction of being one of the most accessible high-altitude subalpine ecosystems in Alberta — and one of the least visited outside of local overlanders who know what’s up here. The access road branches off Highway 940 through the Livingstone Range and climbs through stunted fir and open scree to a plateau that feels like tundra dropped into southern Alberta. The ecological reserve protects ancient krummholz formations and rare alpine plants; you stay in your vehicle or on designated tracks. On a clear day you’re looking at the Highwood Range, the Rockies foothills, and — if you time it right — a horizon stacked with thunderheads rolling in from the west.

The road is steep and loose in sections, with exposed ridgeline driving that demands attention in wind. High-clearance 4WD is mandatory; a locking differential is strongly recommended. Snow can fall any month at this elevation — check conditions before leaving. The Hwy 940 corridor runs through the Pekisko and Livingstone grazing leases, so you’ll share the road with cattle. No services anywhere along this stretch; fuel and water come from Longview or Chain Lakes. This is the kind of drive you do once and reference for the rest of your life.