Taking its name from the panoramic view of the Rocky Mountains west of the community, it is located 130 miles South West of Edmonton. Perter Pangman searched for a location in 1790 in which to build a trading post. He carved his name in a pine tree near the present townsite, and in 1799 the North West Company established their most westerly post in Rocky Mountain House. Originally the post was called the Acton House, but because of the breathtaking view of the Rocky Mountains they could see from the fortress, the name of the Town site was changed. David Thompson spent his winters in 1801, 1802, and 1806 mapping and exploring the areas that lead him down the Columbia River. Rocky Mountain House became the richest fur producing area in the Northwest. They shipped 3 to 4 thousand pelts of beaver, otter, sable and fox annually. Rocky Mountain House was located between the territories of the Blackfoot and Cree Indians, and was at the center of many violent battles. The fort was actually burned to the ground three times. Eventually it was no longer economically possible to operate, and the trading post was abandoned in 1869.Today, Rocky Mountain House offers some of the most Spectacular Mountain and foothills scenery in North America. Their wildlife, natural resources and outstanding recreation opportunities keep visitors coming back time and again. Opportunities for all ages and lifestyles include camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, sightseeing, trail riding, bird and wildlife watching. Today, Rocky Mountain House has a population of over 6,000 residents and it's land mass covers over 12 square kilometers. |