**Discovering Dorothy, Alberta: A Ghost Town Just Off Highway 570 Near Drumheller**

Tucked away just off Highway 570, near the striking Drumheller Badlands, lies the intriguing ghost town of Dorothy, Alberta. Once a bustling coal mining community, today it stands as a hauntingly beautiful relic of Alberta’s early frontier days, offering a unique glimpse into the past for explorers and history enthusiasts.

### A Brief History of Dorothy

Founded during Alberta’s coal boom in the early 1900s, Dorothy was named after Dorothy McDonald, the wife of a local prospector. The town grew rapidly, supporting miners and their families with a school, general store, and various community buildings. The coal industry fueled its growth, making it a vital part of the region’s economy.

But like many resource-based towns, Dorothy’s prosperity was short-lived. As coal deposits were exhausted and industry declined, residents moved away, leaving behind a ghost town that time forgot.

### What Still Stands Today

Visiting Dorothy offers a fascinating glimpse into Alberta’s past. Several structures still stand, including:

- **Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church:** One of the most iconic remaining buildings, this old church remains a poignant symbol of the community’s history.

- **An old Gas Station:** Evidence of the once-bustling road and transportation hub that served miners and travelers alike.

- **A Grain Elevator:** A relic of the agricultural and resource-driven economy that once thrived here.

These structures, weathered by decades of sun, wind, and rain, evoke a sense of nostalgia and curiosity about the lives once lived here.

### How to Get There

Located just off Highway 570, Dorothy is accessible for those venturing through the Drumheller region. The gravel roads leading to the site are manageable, but visitors should come prepared—bring water, sturdy footwear, and a camera to capture the haunting beauty of this historic site.

### Tips for Exploring

- Respect the preservation of the site and avoid disturbing the structures.

- Bring essentials like water, snacks, and appropriate footwear.

- Be cautious around old buildings—they can be fragile.

### A Glimpse into Alberta’s Past

While the town’s buildings stand silent, they tell stories of resilience, community, and change. Visiting Dorothy allows us to connect with Alberta’s early days and appreciate the land’s rugged history.

### Conclusion

Just off Highway 570 near Drumheller, Dorothy’s remaining structures—Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, an old gas station, and a grain elevator—serve as tangible reminders of a bygone era. Whether you're a history buff, photographer, or adventurous traveler, exploring this ghost town offers a meaningful journey into Alberta’s frontier past.

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