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Highway Network

Map of the Alberta Highway Network and procedures document for creating highway signage.

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Overview

Alberta’s Numbered Highway Network includes roadways under federal, provincial and municipal jurisdiction. Provincial highways under provincial jurisdiction are designated by Ministerial Order and are prescribed a highway number. Numbered highway connectors are municipal roads that are marked and signed with a highway number because they provide continuity by connecting provincial highway segments. Highways in national parks are under federal government control.

Alberta Numbered Highway Network

The Alberta Numbered Highway Network consists of primary and secondary highway travel routes. Primary travel routes are identified by a shield route marker. They typically connect larger communities and serve longer distance trips. Secondary travel routes are identified by an oval route marker. They typically serve short distance trips and connect smaller communities with primary travel routes. Special maple leaf route markers are used on Trans-Canada routes (Highway 1 and 16).

Figure 1. Example of primary travel route marker

White primary travel route highway sign with black text: "Alberta" signature logo above a black outlined shield shape with "5" in the centre

Figure 2. Example of secondary travel route marker

White sign with black text secondary travel route highway sign: "Alberta" signature logo above an oval with "592" in the centre

Figure 3. Example of Trans-Canada route marker

Green and white Trans-Canada travel route highway sign: Text: "Trans Canada" above a maple leaf with "1" in the centre; "Alberta" banner below

Alberta Numbered Highway Network map

Numbered highway connectors

The Numbered Highway Connectors on Municipal Roadways Procedures and Guidelines provides a framework for decisions related to mapping and signing of the Numbered Highway Network.

Alberta Thematic Routes 

Special highway route signs identify Thematic Routes that have historical, cultural, recreational, or tourist significance. 

Freeway Exit Numbering

Exit numbers are derived from kilometre points along a highway. Exit numbers placed on signs at freeway interchange ramps can help motorists determine relative positions along the highway for checking their travel progress. They can also be used to: 

  • quickly identify the location of disaster or emergency incidents
  • aid in highway maintenance and servicing
  • help unfamiliar drivers locate services or routes without needing to know local street names or destinations

Exit numbers have been established for all existing and proposed interchanges. 

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