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    Heart Lake Ranch - A Testament to the Wild West in the Foothills of Alberta - Diamond Valley, AB

    Alberta Listing No. 25133

    Heart Lake Ranch is an 80-acre legacy property nestled in Alberta’s foothills. Renovated 4-bedroom home overlooks a spring-fed, heart-shaped lake. Fenced pasture & abundant wildlife, 1908 homesteader cabin. This ranch blends history, natural beauty, and Western tradition.


    Price
    $2,700,000

    Size
    80 acres

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    Thumb heart lake ranch 07 +77 photos

    Description

    Every ranch has a story—Heart Lake Ranch’s began in 1908, when the original homesteader cabin was constructed. Still standing today, this charming structure is a proud reminder of Alberta’s early settlement era and a testament to the enduring spirit of Western heritage.

    Nestled in the heart of Alberta’s rolling foothills, this exceptional 80-acre property blends historical legacy with timeless rural beauty. Located just minutes from the prestigious Anchor D Guiding Service and only a short distance from the gateway to Kananaskis Country and Sheep Creek Provincial Park, Heart Lake Ranch is ideally positioned for both serene living and outdoor adventure. The town of Diamond Valley lies just 12 minutes away, and Calgary’s city boundary is a convenient 40-minute drive, making this property a rare combination of peaceful seclusion and urban accessibility.

    The recently renovated 1,656-square-foot main residence features four bedrooms, one bathroom, and a spacious kitchen and dining area perfect for hosting friends and family. Expansive front and back porches overlook the property’s nearly two-acre spring-fed, heart-shaped lake, offering tranquil views of the surrounding landscape and dramatic foothills. Fenced and well-pastured, the land is ideal for livestock, with moose, elk, and deer frequently spotted on the property—further enhancing its wild, unspoiled charm.

    At the core of the ranch is the original 1908 log cabin, preserved with care and full of character. It stands as both a historic artifact and a potential guest house, artist’s studio, or quiet retreat. This connection to Alberta’s past is especially resonant in a region like Diamond Valley, where ranching is more than an industry—it’s a way of life. The area has long been celebrated for its strong agricultural roots, close-knit community, and proximity to some of the province’s most spectacular wilderness.

    Heart Lake Ranch offers more than just land and buildings—it offers a lifestyle rooted in history, nature, and tradition. Whether as a family home, recreational escape, or legacy investment, this is a rare opportunity to steward a piece of Alberta’s living heritage.

    Location

    288180 450 Ave - Diamond Valley, AB

    Access

    Contact listing agent.

    Area Data

    Diamond Valley, formed by the 2023 amalgamation of the towns of Black Diamond and Turner Valley, is a vibrant and growing rural community nestled in the scenic foothills of southwestern Alberta. Located approximately 45 minutes southwest of Calgary, Diamond Valley offers the rare combination of small-town charm, rich Western heritage, and convenient access to world-class outdoor recreation.

    The area is renowned for its strong ranching and agricultural roots, with expansive grazing lands, equestrian facilities, and family-owned farms shaping the local economy and culture. It is also a gateway to the Kananaskis Country recreation area, offering immediate proximity to Sheep River Provincial Park, Anchor D Guiding Services, and countless opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, fly-fishing, camping, and cross-country skiing.

    Over the past decade, Diamond Valley has attracted a growing number of professionals, families, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a lifestyle grounded in natural beauty, community connection, and affordable rural living. Local amenities include schools, a hospital, boutique shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants, with additional services easily accessible in nearby Okotoks or Calgary.

    The region is particularly appealing to those looking for acreages, ranches, or recreational land, due to its stunning landscape, access to wilderness, and proximity to the city. The real estate market reflects strong interest in both residential and agricultural properties, with continued investment in infrastructure and tourism contributing to the area's long-term growth and desirability.

    Diamond Valley and its surrounding countryside represent one of Alberta’s most authentic and sought-after rural lifestyles—a place where Western heritage meets modern opportunity, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountain foothills.

    History

    The Diamond Valley region, encompassing the communities formerly known as Black Diamond and Turner Valley, has a rich and layered history that reflects both Alberta’s frontier spirit and its economic evolution. The area was officially unified under the name Diamond Valley in 2023, but its roots stretch back well over a century.

    Turner Valley: Birthplace of Alberta’s Oil Industry

    Turner Valley holds a prominent place in Canadian history as the birthplace of Alberta’s oil and gas industry. In 1914, the legendary Dingman No. 1 well struck wet natural gas, igniting Alberta’s first major energy boom and laying the foundation for the province’s modern petroleum sector. The Turner Valley Gas Plant, now a National Historic Site, stands as a preserved symbol of this pioneering era.

    For decades, Turner Valley was a bustling centre of innovation and industrial activity, drawing workers, investors, and families from across the country. Though oil activity waned in the latter half of the 20th century, the legacy of this period remains deeply woven into the area’s identity.

    Black Diamond: Coal, Ranching, and Western Heritage

    Just a few kilometres west, Black Diamond emerged as a coal-mining hub in the early 1900s. The town took its name from the high-quality coal—nicknamed “black diamonds”—that was extracted from local seams. Mining, along with ranching and agriculture, sustained the area for decades and shaped the community’s rugged, self-reliant character.

    As mining declined, Black Diamond transitioned into a vibrant rural town known for its strong arts scene, historic buildings, and tight-knit community. Its location in the rolling foothills also made it a natural gateway for travelers heading into the Rocky Mountains and Kananaskis Country.

    Map Reference

    50°38'54.50"N and 114°25'53.54"W

    Services

    • Natural gas
    • Drilled well
    • Electricity - believed to be 125 amp to house
    • Septic tank and field

    Improvements

    Main Residence
    • 1,656 sq. ft.
    • Recently renovated
    • 4 bedrooms
    • 1 bathroom
    • Spacious kitchen and dining area
    • Expansive front and back porches overlooking the lake
    Original 1908 Log Homesteader Cabin
    • Preserved with historical character
    • Potential use as a guest house, artist’s studio, or private retreat
    Fencing

    Property is fenced and well-pastured, suitable for livestock.

    Barns

    There are two older barns on the property offering utility for storage.

    Double Detached Garage

    Needs some work on roof and ceiling but still serves purpose.

    Additional Structures
    • Dock structure on the lake
    • Tree house on hillside

    Tax Details

    $3,137 (2025)

    Zoning

    Agriculture

    Legal

    THE EAST HALF OF THE SOUTH WEST QUARTER OF SECTION 36 TOWNSHIP 19 RANGE 4 WEST OF THE 5TH MERIDIAN
    LINC 0013 243 118

    Maps & Plans

    Map01 +8 maps

    Maps & Plans

    Our property descriptions and geographical information are taken from the BC Assessment Authority, Land Titles Office, government maps and other sources. While LandQuest® does not guarantee the information, we believe it to be accurate, but should not be relied upon without verification. This communication is not intended to cause or induce breach of an existing agency agreement.

    Location

    Location