Coaldale, a charming town nestled in southern Alberta, Canada, is a place where history and modern attractions blend seamlessly. Located just 11 km east of Lethbridge along the Crowsnest Highway, Coaldale has grown from a village in 1919 to a thriving town since its incorporation in 1952.
The 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada revealed that Coaldale, Alberta, had a population of 8,771 living in 3,245 of its 3,343 total private dwellings. This marked a 5.3% increase from its 2016 population of 8,331. With a land area of 13.58 km2, Coaldale had a population density of 645.9/km2 in 2021. The town's population according to its 2019 municipal census was 8,691, a significant 15.5% increase from its 2013 municipal census population of 7,526.
Coaldale, Alberta, is home to several attractions that cater to a variety of interests. The Alberta Birds of Prey Centre, the Land o' Lakes Golf Course, and the Gem of the West Museum are among the town's main attractions.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Chin Lakes, located 20 minutes east of Coaldale, offer recreational services such as waterskiing and campfire pits. The Indian Hills Golf Course, a nine-hole golf course, is approximately 15 minutes south-west of Coaldale. Across the road, visitors can find a small campground and a lake, which is a popular spot for fishing.
Coaldale, Alberta, is also home to a McCain Foods processing plant, which opened in 2000. Stafford Lake, located approximately 10 minutes east of the town, is another notable feature.
Sports fans can enjoy the Coaldale Copperheads, a team in the Heritage Junior Hockey League, which relocated from Lethbridge in 2007. The team's home games, held at the Sportsplex ('The SnakePit'), are well-attended. United Traditional Tae Kwon-Do Canada also operates a popular Traditional Tae Kwon-Do school in Coaldale. The Coaldale Cobras (CMHA) are the town's minor hockey association.
Coaldale, Alberta, is home to six schools: R. I. Baker Middle School, Kate Andrews High School (winners of the Reach for the Top national championship in 1985), John Davidson School, St. Joseph's School, Jennie Emery Elementary School, and Coaldale Christian School. The town is also expecting a new school in the northwestern part of town, further expanding its educational offerings.
