MindReachGetaways

Special Area No. 3, AB

Bar Diamond Guest Ranch

34,000-acre working Angus ranch on the Red Deer River -- historic lodge, Uplands rooms, Billy Martin's Cabin, and custom tours.

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Our read

Bar Diamond Guest Ranch offers a unique blend of working ranch experiences and rich cultural history, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families.

Come here for

  • Families, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful retreat in a stunning natural setting thrive here.

Skip it if

  • If you prefer urban environments or luxury hotel amenities, this rustic ranch experience may not be for you.

We’d rather send you somewhere else than send you somewhere that doesn’t suit you.

From the property

Inside Bar Diamond Guest Ranch

Guests and hosts, filmed at the property.

01 - Arrive

The place itself

Bar Diamond Guest Ranch is a working ranch that spans 34,000 acres along the picturesque Red Deer River in Bindloss, Alberta. Located just ninety minutes north of Medicine Hat and 3.5 hours east of Calgary, this ranch is owned and operated by Jim and Carol Hern, who manage around 700 commercial Angus cattle across two ranches. The ranch offers an immersive experience in nature, where guests can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with the land and its history. The accommodations at Bar Diamond are designed to blend Western hospitality with modern comforts. Guests can choose from the historic Bar Diamond Lodge, which features six rooms in a charming log ranch house, or the Uplands Lodge, a more contemporary option with seven rooms and family-style meals served downstairs. For a unique experience, Billy Martin's Cabin offers a pioneer-style retreat by a spring-fed creek, honoring the spirit of the 1896 homesteader. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including horseback riding, exploring Aboriginal sites, and relaxing in the party barns equipped with games like pool and shuffleboard. The ranch is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot eagles, deer, and other native species in their natural habitat. Each evening, visitors can unwind on the verandah, sharing stories under a canopy of stars, with the occasional aurora lighting up the night sky. Bar Diamond Guest Ranch is not just a place to stay; it’s a destination where guests can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the prairie and the rich cultural heritage of the land. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, this ranch offers a memorable escape into the heart of Alberta’s stunning landscapes.

02 - Feel

Why it is different

Horseback Riding Adventures

Enjoy guided horseback riding tours through the breathtaking landscapes, with options for both experienced riders and beginners.

Explore Aboriginal Sites

Take a half-day tour to discover ancient teepee rings, medicine wheels, and vision quest sites that tell the stories of the land's original inhabitants.

Family-Friendly Activities

Engage in fun-filled activities for the whole family, including games in the party barns and pony rides for younger children.

Stargazing and Aurora Viewing

Experience the magic of the night sky, with opportunities to see the aurora borealis and enjoy stargazing in a serene environment.

Farm-Fresh Dining

Savor hearty family-style meals prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from the ranch, offering a true taste of Alberta.

04 - Stay

Ways to stay

Bar Diamond Lodge

Custom package

Six rooms in the 121-year-old log ranch house.

Book this package

Uplands Lodge

Custom package

Seven rooms in the more modern western house.

Book this package

Billy Martin's Cabin

Custom package

Pioneer cabin by the creek, private bath.

Book this package

Ranch tours

Ask when booking

Horseback, wagon, ATV, Aboriginal Sites, Meet the Locals.

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05 - Know

Before you go

Written from what the property publishes. Not yet checked by hand. Confirm on their site before you book.

23064 Range Rd 41, Special Area No. 3, AB T0J 0K0. About 90 minutes north of Medicine Hat, 3.5 hours east of Calgary.

Find it in Maps

Stay for

Confirm with Jim and Carol when you book.

Children

Family discount on accommodation. Horseback: 12+ on trail; younger ponied.

If plans change

Confirm when you book.

What types of accommodations are available?

Guests can choose from the historic Bar Diamond Lodge, Uplands Lodge, or Billy Martin's Cabin, each offering unique experiences.

Are meals included in the stay?

Yes, guests enjoy hearty family-style meals prepared with fresh ingredients during their stay.

What activities are available for children?

Children can enjoy pony rides, games in the party barns, and guided horseback riding tailored for younger guests.

How do I book a stay?

Contact the ranch directly at hernranches86@gmail.com or call 403-504-9743 to discuss custom packages.

Is there a discount for families?

Yes, families receive a special discount on accommodations when booking their stay.

06 · Go

Bar Diamond Guest Ranch

Special Area No. 3, AB

Bar Diamond Guest Ranch offers a unique blend of working ranch experiences and rich cultural history, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families.

Getting there
23064 Range Rd 41, Special Area No.
From where you are
Distance appears once we know where you are.
Included
Custom package -- confirm meals and tours when you book · Family-style ranch cooking as described on the site

Bar Diamond Guest Ranch

Book direct