The James River is a medium-sized river in central Alberta. It is a tributary of the Red Deer River. The river forms in the Rocky Mountains and flows eastward before joining the Red Deer River. The Forestry Trunk Road follows the river for much of its course. The James River is also bridged by Alberta Highway 22 near the unincorporated community of James Ri…The James River is a medium-sized river in central Alberta. It is a tributary of the Red Deer River. The river forms in the Rocky Mountains and flows eastward before joining the Red Deer River. The Forestry Trunk Road follows the river for much of its course. The James River is also bridged by Alberta Highway 22 near the unincorporated community of James River Bridge.