Forestry Trunk Road — Hwy 940 Oldman River to Sheep River Headwaters

Pull out of the Oldman River valley heading north on Hwy 940 and you’re immediately in the thick of southern Alberta’s most underrated overland corridor. The road rolls through dense lodgepole pine before climbing into open ridgelines with jaw-dropping views east across the foothills to the prairie. Key waypoints include the Turner Valley Gas Plant historical area, the Sheep River Wildlife Sanctuary winter closure zones, and the raw ford at Gorge Creek where the road dips down hard before climbing again. This stretch of the Trunk Road sees enough logging traffic to keep it graded but not enough tourists to ruin the solitude.

The road is generally moderate — high clearance is mandatory and 4WD helps when wet since the clay-heavy sections turn to grease in rain. Mud tires are strongly recommended spring through early summer. Fuel up in Longview or Coleman before heading out — there’s nothing out here. Best run July through September before the October hunting crowds and before snow closes the higher sections. Cell service dies fast once you leave pavement. Dispersed camping is available throughout; watch posted seasonal restrictions inside the Sheep River Wildlife Sanctuary. This is a full-day drive minimum, done properly.