Lethbridge Train Bridge – A Historic Landmark in Southern Alberta
The Lethbridge Train Bridge, also known as the CPR High Level Bridge. It has stood proudly over the Oldman River Valley since 1909. When it was completed, it became the longest and tallest steel trestle bridge in the world. A title that makes it one of southern Alberta’s most iconic landmarks.
In August 2009, Lethbridge celebrated the bridge’s 100th anniversary in spectacular fashion. For the first time in its history, the bridge was lit up at night. Glowing from the river bottom to the top of its steel frame. It was a once-in-a-lifetime event that brought thousands of people from Lethbridge, Alberta, and beyond to witness the celebration.
Photographing the Lethbridge Train Bridge at 100 Years
That night, my oldest son and I set out with our cameras to capture the magic. We spent hours walking through the valley, carrying gear, scouting locations, and chasing the best angles. As the evening turned from warm to cool, the bridge came alive with lights, and the surrounding sky glowed with energy from the celebration.
While many people tried to capture their own photos, I dedicated the entire night to shooting the bridge from every perspective I could. Among the images I created, one photograph quickly became iconic. The Lethbridge Train Bridge lit against the night sky with the moon rising above.
Taken from the Highway 3 pedestrian walkway. The shot includes the glowing lights of Ridgewood Heights and the University of Lethbridge casting a red hue over the sky. A passing rainstorm added extra atmosphere, with the moisture enhancing the dramatic effect of the scene.
Bring Home a Piece of Lethbridge History
If you’re looking for a unique piece of Lethbridge wall art, my Lethbridge Train Bridge 100th Anniversary print is available through my online store. This collector’s image captures not only the beauty of the bridge but also the history and community spirit of Lethbridge.
Perfect as a retirement gift, office artwork, or a centerpiece in your home, this fine art print is a lasting reminder of one of Alberta’s greatest engineering achievements. Prints are available in multiple sizes, and depending on workload, can often be ready in as little as one day.
Lethbridge Train Bridge Order on-line
Visit my online store for more Lethbridge High level train bridge images
About the Photographer – Mike Paterson
I’m Mike Paterson, and I’ve been photographing Lethbridge and southern Alberta since 1985. Over the years, I’ve captured everything from prairie landscapes to mountain views, but the Lethbridge Train Bridge remains one of my most requested subjects. Each image is professionally crafted to bring out the detail, history, and spirit of this remarkable landmark.
If you’d like to add a piece of Lethbridge history to your collection, explore my CPR High Level Bridge gallery and discover more images of this incredible structure.
Visit my online store for more Lethbridge High level train bridge images
