Castor is a charming town nestled in the heart of Alberta, Canada. Situated at the crossroads of Highway 12 and Highway 861, it lies approximately 143 km (89 mi) east of the bustling City of Red Deer. The town, perched at an elevation of 816 m (2,677 ft), is named after the French and Latin word for beaver, reflecting its rich natural heritage. Castor is particularly renowned for its annual duck and geese migration in the fall, as its territory encompasses numerous popular stopover points for these migrating waterfowl.
The town of Castor has a rich history, having been incorporated on July 13, 1910. Over the years, it has grown and evolved, while maintaining its unique charm and character.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Castor had a population of 803 living in 383 of its 426 total private dwellings. This represented a change of -13.6% from its 2016 population of 929. The town, with a land area of 2.61 km2 (1.01 sq mi), had a population density of 307.7/km2 (796.8/sq mi) in 2021. In the 2016 Census, Castor recorded a population of 929 living in 419 of its 448 total private dwellings, a slight -0.3% change from its 2011 population of 932.
Tourism in Castor peaks during the summer months, with the town's lake-like creek being a major attraction. This unique creek, which wraps around the north-east end of the town, is framed by stunning sandstone cliffs and is often teeming with wildlife. It is one of the best places on the Alberta prairies for kayaking and paddle-boarding, with other popular activities including motor-boating and swimming. During dry years, natural beaches form at the base of some of the cliffs, providing perfect spots for visitors to dock their kayaks. In addition to its natural beauty, Castor boasts several museums, including the town's original hospital dating back to 1911, the Machine Shed Museum, the Pharmacy Museum, the Beaver School Museum, the historic All Saints Anglican Church, the Grain Elevator Historical Site, and the Train Station Museum.
Castor is home to the Our Lady of the Rosary Hospital, providing essential healthcare services to the local community.
The town of Castor has also made its mark in the world of literature. Notably, W. O. Mitchell was a teacher in Castor when he penned his famous work, "Who Has Seen the Wind".
