Sheila Harvie, owner and operator of Chimney Rock Ranch Wellness Retreat, describes this April as a "crazy" month for her business. Located about 50 kilometres west of Claresholm, Alberta, the retreat recently completed a new building at the end of March, allowing it to host larger groups for overnight stays for the first time.
"Already I'm run off my feet," said Harvie with a laugh. The expansion has enabled the retreat to accommodate up to 20 guests overnight, roughly doubling its previous capacity. The property features a 334-square-metre lodge and offers all-inclusive retreats for leisure travellers, corporate groups, and now weddings, after receiving numerous requests to use the scenic location nestled in a valley in the Porcupine Hills along the Rocky Mountains' eastern slopes.
Federal Investment Fuels Growth
A $250,000 repayable investment from Prairies Economic Development Canada, through the federal Tourism Growth Program, made the expansion possible. This project was one of eight Alberta initiatives receiving a total of approximately $1.9 million in funding. The new building provides extra accommodation space and event hosting capabilities, allowing the business to attract more visitors year-round.
Chimney Rock, which has been operating for 19 years, offers a variety of services, including biohacking health programs, outdoor adventures, therapeutic lifestyle coaching, and ranch-life experiences. Harvie noted that the business has built up a loyal clientele over the years but is always seeking to attract new guests and international travellers.
"This has been the busiest April we've ever experienced, and I would attribute that partially to the new expansion space, that we're able to host some larger groups that we had to turn away previously," said Harvie.
Tourism Sector Support
In announcing the funding, Prairies Economic Development Canada emphasized the importance of strengthening sectors that drive economic activity and provide jobs, especially amid "tariff-related uncertainty" and "shifting global trade conditions." Travel Alberta has also previously invested in Chimney Rock as part of a broader plan to develop and grow tourism experiences across the province. Jon Mamela, responsible for driving destination and tourism product development at Travel Alberta, highlighted that the ranch experience is "one of the top desired expectations" of tourists.
