calgary badlands tour

Drumheller & Badlands Tour

Prices from: $270.19 cdn$.

Book a Drumheller & Badlands Tour and travel with us to one of the most unusual and breathtaking landscapes in Alberta. From the ‘bones & stones’ of the Royal Tyrrell Museum to the ‘cowboys & coal miners’ of the Atlas Coal Mine, you can experience all of this and more.

Call us at 1-855-595-1855 or register online to book today!

Stop and enjoy Horseshoe Canyon, walk among the Hoodoos, and enjoy an Underground Tunnel Tour or explore on your own at the Atlas Coal Mine* . Stop for lunch at the old East Coulee School Museum for some great home made food ( lunch is included ). Next, walk on the old Suspension Bridge that many a miner has crossed! And of course there are the dinosaurs! Enjoy the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Canada’s only museum dedicated exclusively to the science of paleontology. Travel on one of our climate controlled vehicles and take in some of the history of this area as our driver/guide takes you on a journey through time.

*Tour availability based on schedule provided by the Atlas Coal Mine. Due to time/staff constraints, some options may become unavailable.

Please note: Be aware that this tour requires you to bring comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for the amount of walking you will be doing on the tour. Closed-toed shoes are advised, specifically for your time at the Atlas Coal Mine. Check on the weather in advance and dress appropriately to guard yourself from the sun or in case of bad weather.

Key stops at

• The Atlas Coal Mine
• East Coulee School Museum
• Royal Tyrrell Museum

Enlightening stops at:

• Horseshoe Canyon
• The Hoodoos
• Rosedale Suspension Bridge
• Horsethief Canyon
• Bleriot Ferry (If open)
• Orkney View Point

General Tours:

• All General Tours depart from the base of the  Calgary Tower,  located at 101 9 Ave SW @7:30 AM
• Seating is limited. Reserve your seats by booking directly online
• This tour requires a minimum of 3 passengers to operate.

You will receive an email notifying you when we have met the minimum requirement and the tour is running.

Family Tours:

• Depart from a location of your choice in Calgary
• Seating is up to 10 passengers
• Includes Admission to Royal Tyrrell Museum
• Includes Admission to the Atlas Coal Mine
• Includes lunch at the East Coulee School Museum
• Includes complementary bottled water (2 bottles per person)
• Driver/Guide gratuity is NOT included.

Operating Season & Hours

Operating Season: 2024 May 18 to Oct 11 Days of Operation: Click the Book Now button to view available dates

Departure Time: 7:30 AM sharp Departure Location: Base of the Calgary Tower by the blue City Centre Information sign

When booking directly through us, credit cards are charged once the minimum number of passengers has been met. Should the minimum number not be met, tour may be cancelled 48 hours prior at operator’s discretion.

Refund policy for all public tours (when booked through us directly) are as follows:

• Full refund up to 5 days prior to travelling
• 50% refund with less than 5 days and more than 72 hours prior
• No refunds with less than 72 hours prior to travelling (exchanges for different tour date only)*

* Based on availability

Contact us at 1-855-595-1855 for additional information or email us at [email protected]

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

• This tour is NOT appropriate for children under the age of 6 years
• Comfortable and sturdy shoes are required for this tour due to the amount of walking and walking surfaces.
• Closed toed shoes are required at the Atlas Coal Mine. No exceptions.

Are you a family or a small group that would like to travel together and make this a special private day tour shared with only your family or group on board! Then we can help!

We all know that the designated driver always misses out on some of the fascinating scenery or events on a road trip! They are focused on keeping everyone safe and sound. No more hearing, “Are we there yet?” If this happens to you, then a Private Family Tour is just what is needed!

Sit back, relax, onboard one of our vehicles and leave the driving to our professional and courteous drivers who will also share some fascinating commentary on this glorious part of our province. Listen to their stories and about some of the famous people who made this province very vibrant!

Prices start as low as  $1,535.56  for a group of 6. That’s a savings of $115.00  if booked individually! And the savings increase as you add more family or friends to your total! All admissions and lunch are included!!

To book your family/group tour, call us at 1-855-595-1855 or email [email protected]

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Alberta Badlands Road Trip from Calgary

Start your road trip adventure and discover the dinosaur experiences awaiting you within a 3-hour drive of the city. The  Canadian Badlands  are a series of canyons, hoodoos, and plains that cover a large geographical area, from east of Drumheller to Saskatchewan and south to the United States border. Most of all, it’s an extraordinary and unexpected landscape you will never forget. From the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology and the World’s Largest Dinosaur to hikes in the Drumheller Valley and history of the Atlas Coal Mine, it’s easy to include these incredible Canadian Badlands experiences on your Alberta Badlands road trip.

Where is the Drumheller Valley?

World’s Largest Dinosaur in Drumheller (Photo credit: Neil Zeller)

Drumheller Valley

Road tripping to the  Drumheller Valley  is a must for everyone in the family who loves  Dinosaur Experiences . There are so many things to do in Drumheller, just an hour and a half from Calgary. Look way up to the  World’s Largest Dinosaur , standing 86 feet tall, 151 feet long, and take all 106 stairs to the top. This impressive dinosaur is four and a half times bigger than a real tyrannosaurs rex and can be seen from just about anywhere in Drumheller. Or take a self-guided  Drumheller Dino Walk  and explore over 20 dinosaurs discovered in the Drumheller Valley, marked with wayfinding signs throughout the town. Make a stop at the  Fossil World Dinosaur Discover Zone  for interactive exhibits perfect for kids aged 2 to 12, animatronic dinosaurs, a belay climbing wall, and over 1,000 authentic fossil specimens,

Location:  224 Centre St, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y4

Discover the dinosaur museums, cretaceous creatures, dinosaur bones, prehistoric paleontology waiting for you in and around Calgary. Check out the  top places to see dinosaur near Calgary and Drumheller .

Things to Do in the Drumheller Valley

Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology (Photo credit:   Travel Alberta/Davey Lieske)

Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology

Ready to continue your bucket list dinosaur road trip? The  Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology  proudly hosts the largest collection of dinosaur skeletons in the world. That’s right, the world! This renowned museum and research facility is located just an hour and a half drive from Calgary. Marvel at the majestic Black Beauty or behold the  Rosetta Stone of Armoured Dinosaurs  in the museum halls. Search for fossils, dig in the quarry, cast your own fossil, and explore on a self-guided tour through the Canadian Badlands surrounding the museum. Next up, more great experiences to include in your road trip.

Location:  1500 N Dinosaur Trail, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0

Horsethief Canyon

Horsethief Canyon  is a must-see destination along the Dinosaur Trail and just a short drive from Drumheller and the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology. Named after outlaws that hid stolen livestock in the area more than 100 years ago, Horsethief Canyon has epic views of the valley below with easy to access hiking trails. The  Orkney Viewpoint  is a popular spot for photographers, hikers, and day trippers, and was featured prominently in the film  Ghostbusters: Afterlife .

Rosebud Theatre

Add a visit to the  Rosebud Theatre  to your road trip, a hidden gem that combines delicious food and live theatre with the Canadian Badlands as its backdrop. Located 35 kilometres southwest of Drumheller, Rosebud Theatre produces live theatre shows throughout the year with a buffet meal in the Rosebud Mercantile dining room before the curtain goes up. Plan your road trip ahead of time with  travel times and directions  from Calgary and Drumheller to Rosebud Theatre. Performances take place in the evenings with dinner service so plan to make this your last road trip stop of the day.

Location:  106 Martin Avenue, Rosebud, AB

Hoodoos and Hoodoo Trail

Hoodoos are sandstone formations that take millions of years to form and can stand anywhere from five to seven metres tall. Look for hoodoos throughout the Canadian Badlands but take a walk along the protected  Hoodoo Trail  and you are guaranteed to see these otherworldly formations along the  easy to access hiking trails . The Hoodoo Trail is an easy experience to add to any road trip, from five minutes taking in the views to a full morning of hiking, and a great stop along the way to the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site.

Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site (Photo credit: Travel Alberta/Roth & Ramberg)

Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site

Add a different kind of digging to your dinosaur adventure with the  Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site . This industrial age heritage site preserves the last of 139 mines that operated in the Drumheller Valley in the 20th century. Take an underground tunnel tour of the Atlas Coal Mine and climb your way to the top of the historic Tipple. Wear comfortable walking shoes, pack your hat and sunscreen, and bring your camera. The photo opportunities are endless. The Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site is just an hour and a half from Calgary and 20 minutes southeast of Drumheller, making it the perfect addition to your dinosaur road trip.

Location:  110 Century Dr W, East Coulee, AB T0J 1B0

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From Calgary: Drumheller and Badlands Tour

• Admissions to the Royal Tyrell Museum
• Admissions to Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site
• Bottled water
• Calgary, AB, Canada
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll start at Calgary Calgary, AB, Canada See address & details
• Pass by Calgary Tower
• You'll return to the starting point

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From Calgary: Drumheller and Badlands Tour - with unbiased reviews

Drumheller and the Badlands Tour

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• A tour guide/driver
• Bottled water
• Royal Tyrrell Museum admission
• Hyatt Regency Calgary, 700 Centre St S, Calgary, AB T2G 5P6, Canada We Pick-ups at Hotels in Calgary Downtown & Calgary Airport hotels. NOTE: If your hotel or Airbnb is in a different area, NOT in downtown or airport hotels, then please meet us at Hyatt Regency Calgary Downtown at 8:00 AM. Please leave your phone number and email for contact.
• Pickups only apply to Hotels in Calgary Downtown & Calgary Airport hotels. NOTE: If your hotel or Airbnb is in a different area, NOT in downtown or airport hotels, then please meet us at Hyatt Regency Downtown at 8:00 AM. Leave your hotel complete address.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Pushchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travellers can participate
• This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 22 travellers
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.

• chrisbJ5210RJ 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Calgary Tour We had a tour of Calgary and our guide Marli was very knowledgeable and an excellent guide. We don't feel like we miss the thing. Would definitely recommend. Read more Written 20 May 2024
• JMFrye 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Calgary City Tour We took the Calgary city tour today. Our guide Marli was knowledgeable of the history of Calgary and surrounding areas and showed us both the old and new areas of the city. I would highly recommend this tour. Read more Written 18 August 2022
• L4239TQjohnt 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Calvary City Tour We were taking a Canadian Rockies Mountain tour that left from the suburbs of Calvary. We did not have much time or transportation into Calvary but wanted to see the city and our Travel Agent suggested Klein Tours. The Calvary City Tour with Klein tours was excellent. Marli Klein is very knowledgeable about the area. The tour lasted over the 3 hours, she stopped at may sites and gave us enough time to check things out. Marli also stopped at a Convenience Store so we could pick up some supplies. Read more Written 2 August 2022
• chrismF2170ZB 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Small private group tour - great sites and company Marli was a very knowledgeable and friendly host. Trip was basically catered to our small group’s request. Fantastic!! Read more Written 18 July 2022
• rodrigogS44 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best tour experience I had a very good time with Marli. The tour was amazing! The views, the attention, the facts that we got, the lenguaje, all was fabulous! I truly recommend this for everyone who wants to know good places with a kind tour guide, good landscapes and a really good experience. I loved it!✨ Read more Written 1 June 2022
• Sharon G 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Drumheller & the Badlands We had a great day out and Marli was brilliant! The dinosaur museum and Hoodoos were amazing. We enjoyed the whole experience, which was topped off with a trip to the Last Chance Saloon in Wayne. Read more Written 29 May 2022
• K6957KPmariel 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Exceptional tour Marli is very informative about the calgary area and natural Albertan history. We will recommend this tour. Thank you for making our day memorable. Read more Written 31 October 2021
• 506harmans 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Klein Tours (Best Trip Ever) We enjoyed a lot since Marli picked us up from hotel. She was so cool and kind…we started our trip from Calgary with great excitement and it’s level remained same to Banff.. Marli is a great person. She let us listen to our music on our own speaker and enjoyed with us as well. She even made a lot of stops in order to let us take pictures even when some stops were not in trip itinerary. Thank you Marli and Klein tours for making our trip memorable….:) Read more Written 16 September 2021
• EloiseJacques 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Calgary city Tour We did the Calgary City Tour on September 21st. It was a really nice tour. Marli gave us plenty of time to take pictures and to look around. Se also gave us a ton of infos about the city. I recommend it to everyone who wants a complete tour of Calgary. Read more Written 4 October 2020
• ingridl153 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing My novio y yo tuvimos un fabuloso tiempo con klein's tour, muy amable. tuvimos muchas conversationes y nos muestran muchas cosas y nos explican las historias de Alberta, hicimos muchas actividades.Estamos encantados y cuando regresemos con nuestras familias vamos hacer el tour con Klein's tour. Se los recomiendo les va a encantar. My boyfriend and I had a fabulous time with klein's tour, very friendly. We had many conversations and they show us many things and they explain the stories of Alberta, we did many activities, we are delighted and when we return with our families we will do the tour with Klein's tour. I recommend you, you will love it. Mon petit ami et moi avons passé un moment fabuleux avec la tournée de Klein, très sympathique. Nous avons eu beaucoup de conversations et ils nous montrent beaucoup de choses et ils nous expliquent les histoires de l'Alberta, nous avons fait beaucoup d'activités, nous sommes ravis et quand nous reviendrons avec nos familles nous ferons la tournée avec la tournée de Klein. Je vous recommande, vous allez l'adorer. Read more Written 7 September 2020
• adrianK6014AR 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Drumheller and Badlands Tour Great day out from moment Marli picked us up from the hotel and enabled us to visit attractions we could not have otherwise done. Dinosaur museum was certainly a highlight and thoroughly recommended, as was the journey there via the Horseshoe Canyon and on the way back to the Hoodoos, Atlas Mine and Suspension Bridge. A very well considered itinery, nicely paced with plenty of time to look around and for photos; we were never rushed. Marli is a lovely person, excellent tour guide and driver and is highly recommended. (She also took the trouble to track us down afterwards to return a minor item of clothing we left behind). Read more Written 29 December 2019
• petaswan 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles What a Day! I cannot recommend this tour highly enough! Marli is an excellent tour guide and driver, very good to talk to and willing to share her experiences of living in Calgary. The tour content was comprehensive and the Royal Tyrrell Museum was superb - I could easily have spent the day there. Read more Written 23 September 2019
• WhippyRoo 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic Drumheller and badlands tour What a great day out. We started our trip travelling through the farm lands which was very interesting. First stop was Horse shoe canyon which was just beautiful. The Atlas mines was a short stop, quick photo opportunity. Then on to the Hoodoos, what a spectacular place. Plenty of time to look around, just loved the scenery. The suspension bridge was horrible. Not the place, I was just terrified. Others seemed to enjoy it. The dinosaur museum was certainly the highlight. Good two and a half hours to look around and have lunch. What an absolutely fascinating place. Marli was a fantastic guide. Really helpful and friendly. This is a great trip and I would highly recommend it. Read more Written 16 September 2019
• Amanda S 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Couldn’t recommend this company and Marli enough😊 We where collect at our hotel and the day was a perfect blend of everything. Our tour was the Badlands and Drumheller, these places are amazing and so different from the other tours we have done on this holiday. Marli made sure we had plenty of time at each place and took lots of photos and even video footage of my husband and daughter climbing the Hoodoos. I couldn’t recommend this company enough and I only found them by doing an internet search. Thank you Marli for make our last trip so memorable. Mandy, Darryl and Tylerjane xx Read more Written 22 August 2019
• shuilk 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles perfect tour Our tour to Drumheller and Badlands with Marli was beyond my expectations and couldn’t be better! I took two kids to the tour and Marli made it quite kids-friendly! We had plenty of time to spend at Royal Tyrell Museum and enough washroom breaks. She made the best efforts to save time to line up for the tickets. She is very kind, informative and considerate. Best tour guide ever. Highly recommended! Read more Written 20 August 2019

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The Best Travel Guide to the Alberta Badlands

November 24, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey 4 Comments

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Looking for things to do in the Alberta Badlands? You’ve come to the right place!

One of the things that makes travelling in Alberta such a special experience is that the landscapes are so varied. Home to the Canadian Rockies, the Boreal Forest, the Foothills, the Prairies, and the Alberta Badlands, there is so much beauty in this province and so many things to do in Alberta. 

Things have certainly changed though. 75 million years ago, for example, southern Alberta was a subtropical region with towering redwoods and giant ferns, not to mention a landscape teeming with dinosaurs. It is this very history along with the stunning landscapes that makes this area one of Alberta’s tourism gems today.

If you’re after dramatic landscapes, gorgeous hikes, cool towns, and an incredible prehistoric history with dinosaurs, the Alberta Badlands is a great place to go. Collectively referred to as the Canadian Badlands, it stretches more than 35,000 square miles through a significant portion of central and southern Alberta, with two of the most famous places being the town of Drumheller and Dinosaur Provincial Park. 

In this guide, we’ll show you what to do, where to go, how to get there, and more!

Table of Contents

Alberta Badlands History

Before we get into the fun tourism part of the Alberta Badlands, we thought we’d give some quick insight into the history of the area. 

75 million years ago, southern Alberta was a subtropical region with towering redwoods and giant ferns, a fertile ground for dinosaurs. Today, those fertile plains have become a world of multi-hued canyons and wind-sculpted hoodoos. Spanning east from Drumheller to the Saskatchewan border and south to the United States, this region is known as the Canadian Badlands and is home to the largest deposits of dinosaur bones in the world. Some also call it the Alberta Badlands, as this is the only province they’re found in. 

In more recent history, The Alberta Badlands owes part of its transformation to both the coal industry and the vast amount of dinosaur bones buried underneath it. There is literally nowhere else on Earth that has both the quantity and quality of prehistoric remains than the arid badlands of Dinosaur Provincial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where digs are still on-going.

Nowadays, Drumheller and the Canadian Badlands are a hotbed for anyone interested in Dinosaurs, incredible sunsets, and majestic-looking landscapes that are perfect for hiking and sightseeing. 

Reading Tip: Want something to read before you go? Check out Dinosaur Provincial Park: A Spectacular Ancient Ecosystem Revealed by Phillip J. Currie and Eva B. Kopelhus (Indiana University Press, 2005). This book gives a scientific overview of the park’s major fossil excavations, flora and fauna, and history while also including illustrations of the park’s animals by some of the world’s finest paleoartists.

Best Time to Visit the Alberta Badlands

As with most of Canada, the best time to visit the Alberta Badlands is during the warmer months between June and September. The fall can also be a good time and the winter certainly offers dramatic white landscapes, but for maximum activities and attractions, mid-June to late September is best. 

How to Get Around the Badlands

Unless you’re just visiting the area around Drumheller (see below), tours and bus trips are unlikely. You will need your own vehicle. You can rent a car from any major centre, including Calgary, Lethbridge, Edmonton, Red Deer, and Medicine Hat. The roads are very well maintained and are easy to drive. In fact, most of the driving is fairly flat and straight. While gas stations can be found all over the place, this area is not very populated, so it’s wise to fill up whenever you can. For the safest trip, we recommend spring, summer, or fall. The winter is also a beautiful time to visit, but we only recommend that if you have winter-driving experience, as this area is prone to winter storms and snowfalls.

What to Do in the Alberta Badlands

In a land where the dinosaurs used to roam, the Alberta Badlands is nothing short of spectacular. Get ready to explore incredible rock formations and fossil beds. Snap a photo next to a hoodoo, take a hike inside Horseshoe Canyon, and marvel at the massive prehistoric specimens at the Royal Tyrell Museum.

Explore the Royal Tyrell Museum

The most famous site of them all, located in the Alberta Badlands top city of Drumheller, is the world-famous Royal Tyrell Museum . From Calgary to Drumheller, the drive is less than two hours, which makes it an excellent day trip from Calgary but also a place you could easily spend a few days. Many iconic badlands attractions are located within Drumheller and the surrounding region, but no visit would be complete without a stop at this museum. 

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is a paleontology museum that houses one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs. Young or old, this place is an incredible place to learn about the massive creatures that used to roam this planet. You can even dig for a fossil in the real-life quarry or take a guided tour of the Badlands. The museum offers a tour where you can get to know all the scientists who have helped to build up the collection. However, even without the tours or activities, a half-day looking at all the specimens makes for an incredible day of learning. 

(Want to explore even more? Then check out our guide to the best things to do in Drumheller which includes where to eat, stay, and more.)

Midland Provincial Park

This is the area where you’ll find the Royal Tyrell Museum, so if you’re looking for some beautiful badlands scenery and hiking trails, look no further than right outside the museum itself, which offers great spots for hiking and wildlife viewing. It is also the site of the former Midland Coal mine and is known for the horrible tragedy of the mid-1920s. Be sure to visit the fossil beds and the old mine site while you’re there!

Get into the Mouth of the World’s Largest Dinosaur

Another fun and famous attraction in Drumheller, especially for kids, is the world’s largest dinosaur. This massive dino-attraction stands 86 feet (25 metres) tall, is reached by a 106-stair climb, is 4.5 times bigger than an actual T-Rex, weighs 145,000 pounds, and can fit 12 people in its mouth, which despite the bad breath (just kidding), offers good views of the surrounding area. 

Explore Horseshoe Canyon and Horsethief Canyon

The most dramatic views in the area, if not the entire Alberta Badlands, are the views over Horseshoe Canyon and Horsethief Canyon. Whether you stop to just look out over the incredible landscapes or strap on your boots for a few hours of hiking, this is a must-visit when exploring Drumheller. 

Visit the Little Church

As a kid, one of my favourite memories about Drumheller was visiting the cute Little Church, a miniature church in the desert that’s big enough for maybe 6 people at best. The little church was actually built back in 1968 and then rebuilt by prisoners from the Drumheller Institution in 1991. There’s not much to it but it is a functional chapel that holds regular services and can fit in most people’s backyards. 

Visit the Ghost Town of Wayne

After Drumheller, you really shouldn’t pass up the opportunity for a short little road trip to the ghost town of Wayne, Alberta. Driving along Highway 56, you’ll pass over 11 bridges before reaching the town, where you can stop at the Last Chance Saloon for a delicious meal, beer, and a chance to learn about its “haunted” history along with the”Wild West” bullet holes still in the walls. On the way to the town, you’ll also cross over 11 wooden bridges, all of which cross over the snaking Rosebud Creek, making for a scenic road trip in and of itself. 

Rosedale Suspension Bridge

Looking for a simple, fun, and scenic thing to do in the Alberta Badlands? The Rosedale Suspension Bridge is a 117-metre-long bridge that crosses the Red Deer River in Rosedale. It was originally built to allow the miners on the north side of the river to get across to the Rosedale community. Until that bridge was built in 1931, the miners had to cross in rowboats, which is much more of an inconvenience.  Today, it is open to the public and you can take the walk by yourself and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. 

Walk the Hoodoos Trail

Located on Highway 10, not far from Drumheller, Hoodoos Trail is the best way to explore the Hoodoos of Dinosaur Valley. A hoodoo, which is also known as a fairy chimney, is basically a thin rock that protrudes from an arid rock basin or Badlands. On top of the hoodoo is a soft rock with softer, eroded stone as the column. If the rock topper is dislodged the hoodoo can erode completely, which is why it is prohibited to climb them.

The hoodoos can be seen right from the highway, but it really is worth the stop to admire them up close. After all, it took millions of years to form these unique natural art pieces. 

Ride the Bleriot Ferry

The cable-operated Bleriot Ferry links the two sections of the North Dinosaur Trail near Drumheller (Highway 838) as it crosses the Red Deer River, from Kneehill County on the west to Starland County on the east. It was built by Andre Bleriot in 1913. We wouldn’t say it’s a “must-do” attraction, but it is quite unique and provides a wonderful detour that connects the roads between Horsethief Canyon and Orkney Viewpoint. The ferry ride is free and takes about seven minutes but it only runs seasonally between late May and early September. Check the website for more details.

Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site

If you’re looking for some human history in the area, another great spot to visit is the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site . Once a working mine back in the early 1900s, it now features historic surface plant buildings, a wash house, a lamp house, a supply house, and an interpretive building. You can walk in the footsteps of the miners around the tipple trail and get insight into the stories vi the many interpretive panels. Whether you choose to go underground on a tour or stay above ground and still learn about how it worked, the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site is great for the whole family. The mine is typically open from May to October.

The Canadian Badlands Passion Play

For those of you into religion and/or plays, the Canadian Badlands Passion Play should be high on your bucket list. Staged in a natural amphitheatre in July, this play takes you back 2,000 years to tell the story of Jesus Christ. Started in the 1960s, the play is a portrayal of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The play has won numerous awards over the years and really is worth a visit. Keep in mind, however, that this play is done outdoors and in all weather, so you’ll want to prepare in advance and pack accordingly. 

Good Knights Encampment

If you’re travelling with kids, we’ve heard great things about the Good Knights Encampment in Three Hills. This place is perfect for anyone into the “medieval world” with live workshops like lucent hand weaving and siege machine craft and even a Knights School that offers advanced sword fighting classes. To make things even better, they also offer a glamping experience with really beautiful and unique accommodations.

Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park

Not too far north of Drumheller near Trochu, Alberta is a secret gem within the Alberta Provincial Park system. With beautiful views of the Red Deer River valley, Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park boasts over 150 different species of birds, a boat launch for paddlers, and a number of trails that snake their way throughout the coulees and native grasslands. The park is day-use only though, so don’t expect to camp. It can also close due to wet weather. 

Explore Dinosaur Provincial Park

Located 165 kilometres east of Drumheller is Dinosaur Provincial Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers both camping and a range of activities. If you’re wondering how it earned its name, it’s actually home to the biggest fossil deposit sites in the world and has unearthed more than 50 different dinosaur species over the years. Fossils range from the largest carnivorous dinosaurs right down to the smallest microscopic fern spores. Whether you decide to spend the night or not, there are a variety of guided tours and hikes, both of which can help you learn the history of the area. 

If you happen to be driving from Calgary, it’s an excellent road trip that transitions from the Alberta prairies to the painted coulees of the Canadian Badlands. It really is a gorgeous drive. 

Admire the Brooks Aquaduct

Not too far from the badlands of Dinosaur Provincial Park is the small town of Brooks, which is also home to the Brooks Aquaduct, a 3.2km long aqueduct suspended 20 metres above the ground that once supplied water to the southwest croplands of Alberta. Built back in 1910, it really is an engineering marvel and was completed in partnership with the Canadian Pacific Railway.

Bassano Dam

The Bassano Dam is a reservoir for the local communities and is part of the irrigation system for the surrounding farmlands. The Dam forms part of the Canadian Pacific Railway’s mainline. The highest point of the dam is 150 metres wide at the base. The amount of water the dam holds is an incredible sight to see. Some people like to have a picnic here but just admiring the architecture is also great. The dam was refurbished in 1984 and today it offers irrigation water to more than 1500 farmers that are part of the irrigation system. 

Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park

Those looking for indigenous culture should not miss out on the Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park , which preserves the site of the signing of Treaty No.7 and showcases the culture, traditions and history of the Siksika Nation Peoples. Visitors can take an indoor tour of the exhibit hall with a local Siksika guide, go hiking, see traditional dances, or even stay in the Tipi Village.

Devil’s Coulee Dinosaur & Heritage Museum

Want more dinosaurs? Head over to Devil’s Coulee Dinosaur Museum in Warner, which is just 50 minutes south of Lethbridge) to learn about the exciting discovery of a dinosaur eggshell that began the exploration of this area. In the museum, you’ll see everything from a Hadrosaur nest and embryo to murals, exhibits, ancient fossils, and dinosaur models. It’s not just dinosaurs though. The museum also features a Heritage Gallery with artifacts and stories from the early days of the Warner region, from settlers to the two World Wars.

Visit the City of Lethbridge

Not only is Lethbridge the biggest city within the Alberta Badlands but it’s also the third biggest city in the province. One of the most striking features of Lethbridge is the dramatic coulee, which goes right through the heart of the city. You really can’t miss them and you can drive right through via Whoop-Up drive. You can also get fabulous views of the coulees from the Galt Museum or can go hiking all around them. There are also some cool sites within the coulees, including Fort Whoop-Up and the Helen Schuler Nature Centre. 

(Want to explore even more? Then check out our guide to the best things to do in Lethbridge that includes where to eat, stay, and more.)

Alberta Birds of Prey Centre

Located just outside of Lethbridge in Coaldale is the Alberta Birds of Prey Centre , which offers visitors the unique opportunity to get an interactive experience with Alberta’s birds of prey. From experiencing a visit from a friendly owl to learning ancient falconry training methods, this place is incredible for anyone interested in birds or wildlife in general. There are also daily interpretive programs featuring eagles and hawks that will fly free and visitor admissions help this non-profit organization return injured and orphaned owls, eagles, and hawks back to the wild. 

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the most gorgeous places to not only enjoy the Alberta Badlands but to also learn about the vast history of the Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot Nation). You’ll find thousands of rock art drawings and carvings, many of which date back to 1050 BC! This is one place where we highly recommend taking the very informative tour offered by the visitor centre. Whether you snag a spot at the campground or just visit for the day, Writing-on-Stone is a gem!

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s just a short drive north of Lethbridge is Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump , a site that dates back 6,000 years when the Blackfoot hunted buffalo by driving them off cliffs. The building itself, which won the Governor General’s Award for Architecture, is worth the visit alone, but the incredible wealth of information and history inside makes this a must-see destination. In fact, we’ve been here many times and recently had the opportunity to experience “Piskun, the Buffalo Jump”, a 3-hour immersive experience that takes visitors back in time to learn the basics of buffalo hunting, get deeper into the Blackfoot culture, and get a much better appreciation of the site. 

You may also like Fort Macleod: Although we don’t really consider Fort Macleod as part of the badlands, it is very close to Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump and is home to the wonderful Fort Macleod Museum and NWMP musical ride , which is held during the summer months. 

Gopher Hole Museum

Another unique and truly odd-ball experience is the Gopher Hole Museum , which isn’t too far from Drumheller and Highway 2. Located in Torrington, Alberta, this attraction features stuffed gophers (aka Richardson ground squirrels) posed in a series of 47 anthropomorphic scenes, from a hairdresser to an RCMP officer. Did we say odd?

Explore the City of Medicine Hat

Another major city (by Canadian standards) that sits within the Canadian Badlands and is not too far from Saskatchewan is Medicine Hat. Here you’ll find an array of accommodations and restaurants as well as some outdoor adventure, cultural events, and the World’s Largest Teepee. Another popular attraction here is Medalta Potteries in the old clay district, which is known for being one of the best things to buy on a Canadian Badlands vacation. 

Admire the Unique Boulders at Red Rock Coulee

Not too far south of Medicine Hat are the unique and fascinating boulders of Red Rock Coulee Natural Area . Popular for hiking,  hunting, geocaching, and wildlife viewing, this area is full of dramatic badland scenery. This area features large red spherical sandstone concretions that have eroded out of the softer bedrock, which just so happens to be the best example of spheroid rock formations in Alberta. Concretions measure up to 2.5 metres across and are believed to be among the largest in the world. Wildlife you might be lucky enough to see include white-tailed jackrabbits, mule deer, pronghorn, western rattlesnakes, bull snakes, short-horned lizards and scorpions. 

Outdoor Adventure in Cypress Hills

Another very popular outdoor area is Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, which is shared between Alberta and Saskatchewan. This is a great spot for those looking for outdoor adventure and camping, although there are a number of lodges and cottages as well. Popular activities include canoeing, SUP-ing, Kayaking, hiking, and so much more. Even in the winter, Cypress Hills is a wonderful spot to go snowshoeing, tobogganing, and skiing! While here, don’t miss a meal at Camp Cookhouse, which is run by a former Top Chef contestant. 

Where to Stay in the Alberta Badlands

Considering the vast size of the Alberta Badlands, we don’t want to give you all the options of where to stay. However, there are some we can recommend. 

Drumheller: Drumheller is the most famous of all the badland towns. During our visit, we stayed at the Heartwood Inn, a charming Bed & Breakfast with a delicious french toast breakfast. The room we stayed in was the same room Jackie Chan stayed in when he was here filling Shanghai Noon! 

Dinosaur Provincial Park: If you’re down for camping, this is a great place to go. It’s popular with families who want to really engage in prehistoric history where paleontological digs continue.

Lethbridge: We recommend the Sandman Signature Lodge, which not only has a beautiful atrium and pool but is also right next to some of the best views in Lethbridge. They also serve a hearty hot breakfast. 

In addition to all the hotels around the area, there’s also a plethora of camping, RV, and Airbnb options. If you make it to Cypress Hills, Elkwater Lake Lodge is a popular place and has pet-friendly suites. 

Explore the Canadian Badlands

Considering that Alberta is the only place home to the Canadian Badlands, this province is a great place for an adventure. Whether you’re game to spend all your time in the hotbed of former dinosaurs or if you’d rather split up with some time in the magnificent Canadian Rockies, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do in Alberta.

For more, consider checking out these articles below:

• Things to Do in Calgary
• Things to Do in Edmonton
• Things to Do in Saskatchewan
• Things to Do in Regina
• Things to Do in Saskatoon

IF YOU LIKE THIS BLOG POST, PLEASE SHARE! … THANK YOU 😊 

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

April 4, 2021 at 7:57 am

An abundance of information, thank you! We hope to visit the area this summer.

April 8, 2021 at 7:05 pm

We have been to Drumheller twice and loved it both times. The first time we went I researched all the things to do and where to eat and where to stay. I made a list and tried to fit it all in in the 3 days. It didn’t happen. The first time we did the Royal Tyrell Museum, the Hoodoos, helicopter ride over Horseshoe Canyon, the Tipple tour at the mine, the world’s largest dinosaur and the little church. The tipple tour was hit for my family. We absolutely loved it! I wanted to do the ghost walk and cemetery walk but unfortunately those tours were only offered on the weekends and we were there in the middle of the week. Thats the one thing I will absolutely go back for. We stayed at Rivergrove cabins and LOVED it there. Rustic little log cabins with firepits in each yard. You can walk across the street to the downtown area. Our family always looks for cabins rather than hotels when traveling so we can cook our own meals and have a fire. We ate at Bernie and the Boys Bistro – I read it was featured on “You gotta eat here” It was fantastic! That was certainly the best trip we have done in Alberta – we are from Newfoundland but living in Alberta so the scenery here doesn’t really impress compared to the beauty of Newfoundland lol

May 12, 2021 at 9:03 am

I enjoy going to see the badlands they are so interesting.

October 13, 2023 at 11:11 am

Hi; if you are going to do an update to this article, you should consider adding the Good Knights Medieval themed glamping park to your listing. Check out: http://www.goodknights.ca .

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6 Day Private Tour:

Banff and lake louise from calgary, six days of exploring the highlights banff national park.

Tour Category:

Private Multiday Tours

December to March | May to October

Destinations:

Calgary | Banff  | Lake Louise

Tour Description:

From Calgary to Banff and Lake Louise. This 6-day, 5-night sightseeing tour will take you to all of the must-see highlights in Banff National Park. From the plains of Calgary to the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, you will see the very best of Canada’s landscapes: mountains, lakes, and waterfalls.

Banff and Lake Louise: 6 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Calgary / Banff
• Day 2: Banff Tour
• Day 3: Banff to Lake Louise Tour
• Day 4: Free Day to Explore Lake Louise
• Day 5: Lake Louise to Calgary Sightseeing
• Day 6: Departure from Calgary

Arrival in Calgary and touring to Banff

To start your vacation, your private tour guide for the next five days will pick you up from the location of your choice within Calgary whether it is the Calgary Airport, downtown, or the surrounding area. For those who are arriving on a flight, your guide will meet you in the arrivals section of the airport.

From Calgary, your adventure to the Canadian Rockies begins! The drive from Calgary to Banff takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours as the scenery outside of your private vehicle gradually changes from prairie landscapes, to foothills, to mountain peaks. Depending on the time that you arrive in Calgary and the preferences of your group, your guide would be happy to make stops to show you some of the sights along the way.

Your hotel in Banff for the next two nights is included.

Half-Day Private Tour: Banff Highlights and Banff Gondola

Today, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in the morning for a half-day sightseeing tour of the town of Banff and its surrounding highlights. Visit Surprise Corner for the best views of Fairmont Banff Springs hotel, otherwise known as “The Castle in the Rockies”. See the towering mountains including Rundle, Tunnel, Cascade, and Norquay. Learn about the wind-shaped hoodoos, see Bow Falls, and experience a scenic drive along Tunnel Mountain Drive.

The highlight of today’s tour is a gentle ride on the Banff Gondola up to the top of Sulphur Mountain for fantastic views of the Bow Valley, interpretive boardwalks, and endless photo opportunities.

Upon completion of the tour, the rest of the afternoon in Banff is yours to spend how you wish. The exact timing of the day is up to you as it is a private tour but it is best to plan for a 2 to 3 PM end to the tour if you are making afternoon plans. Let your guide know where you would like to be dropped off in town.

Your hotel in Banff tonight is included.

For ideas on how to spend your free time in Banff, see below:

Full-Day Private Tour: Banff to Lake Louise Sightseeing Tour

Today, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in the morning with your luggage for a full-day sightseeing tour of the area between Banff and Lake Louise. During this tour, you will travel along the Alberta and BC border, cross the Continental Divide, and explore more sights within Banff National Park and Yoho National Park.

From May to October , the tour will focus on the many mountain lakes, and waterfalls in the area which include key locations such as Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald Lake, and Takakkaw Falls.

From December to March , the lakes will be frozen over and some of the mountain roads will be closed meaning that Moraine Lake and Takakkaw Falls are not accessible, however, there is still plenty to do and see! There are some great, optional, Canadian winter activities that can be included on this day. Let us know your preference for the following activities in advance of your trip:

• Ice Skating on Lake Louise
• Horsedrawn Sleigh Ride at Lake Louise
• Dogsledding in Banff National Park
• Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing at Emerald Lake

Your hotel for the next two nights at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is included. This world-famous lake is known as the Jewel of the Canadian Rockies and is one of the most photographed locations in the world.

Free Day to Explore Lake Louise

Today is a free day to relax and enjoy one of the most beautiful locations in the Canadian Rockies. If you need some recommendations for what to do, see below, or let your guide know the day before if you prefer to take things day by day.

From May to October , here are a few ideas on how to spend your day:

• Canoeing – Rent a canoe and explore the waters of Lake Louise (generally available starting in late May or early June)
• Hiking – The Lake Agnes Tea House is a popular 7 KM (4.5 Mile) hike that starts from the hotel
• Afternoon Tea – A popular afternoon activity at the Fairmont hotels across Canada
• Spa Day – enjoy a relaxing day at the Chateau Lake Louise Spa
• Lake Louise Gondola – A popular spot for grizzly bear viewing during the summer months

From December to March , here are a few ideas on how to spend your day if you haven’t already included one of these on the previous day’s tour:

• Ice Skating on Lake Louise – skate rentals available at the hotel
• Go Skiing or Snowboarding at Lake Louise Ski Resort

Your hotel for tonight at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is included.

For additional ideas on how to spend your free time in Lake Louise, see below:

Full-Day Private Tour:  Lake Louise to Calgary with Sightseeing Stops

Today, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in the morning with your luggage for a full-day tour/transfer from Lake Louise back to Calgary. By this time, your guide will have gotten to know you pretty well and will make some recommendations for any last-chance sights to see before leaving the Rockies. This could include other stops in Banff, Yoho, or Kootenay National Parks that weren’t previously included on Day 2 or 3, or new locations such as Kananaskis, Canmore, or even a highlights tour of the city of Calgary.

Upon arrival in Calgary, you will be dropped off at your Calgary downtown hotel. It is time to say goodbye to your tour guide as your trip comes to an end with your last night in Calgary.

Your hotel in Calgary for one night is included. *For those with an early morning flight the next day, a Calgary Airport hotel can also be substituted.

Departure from Calgary

Your vacation concludes upon check out of the Calgary hotel.

Should you have a flight to catch from YYC, a complimentary private shuttle to the airport will be included from your hotel.

Should you have some free time before you depart from Calgary, see below for ideas on how to spend your free time in the city:

6 Day Private Tour: Sample Pricing for 2023 & 2024

Group of 6 people (3 rooms).

• +$746 Superior Hotel Upgrade
• +$1476 Deluxe Hotel Upgrade
• +$2127 Premium Hotel Upgrade

Pricing Details:

• Peak Season rates are for June through September – you’ll save more by traveling outside of those months
• Sample prices are per person(based on a group of 6 people) in Canadian Dollars and are subject to an additional 5% Canadian sales tax.
• Prices are based on double occupancy in hotels. For single, triple, or quad sharing, please request a quote.
• Base prices are based on the Popular Hotel category
• Prices are available for one to nine people traveling. Please request a quote to find out the exact pricing for your group.
• For groups or 10 or more people, please contact us for a custom itinerary.
• To qualify for any current  Specials , please  r equest a quote.

What's Included

• Private Tour Guide/Driver
• Private Vehicle (Up to 9 people with luggage)
• 5 Nights of Hotel Accommodations *(Hotel Level Selection Required)
• National Park Passes
• Private Transfer between Calgary & Banff
• Private Transfer between Calgary Hotel & Airport
• Private Half-Day Banff Tour (Banff Gondola – All Seasons)
• Private Banff to Lake Louise Tour (+ Optional Activity – Dec to Mar only)
• Private Lake Louise to Calgary Tour
• Luggage Handling

Not Included

• Flights in or out of Calgary
• Gratuities/tip for guide and hotel staff
• Canadian 5% sales tax

Popular Hotels

Our base level of hotels or “ Popular hotels ” typically include standard room types in major hotel chains such as Marriott, Delta, and Sheraton properties.

Superior Hotels

Our Superior level of hotels or “ Superior hotels ” provide you with upgraded rooms at Popular Hotels or base-level rooms at some of our 4-star properties.

Deluxe Hotels

Our Deluxe level of hotels or “ Deluxe hotels ” offer a guarantee of either a larger room or a spectacular view at one of the Superior Hotels, or at a 4.5-star hotel.

Premium Hotels

Our high-end hotel options, or “ Premium hotels ” include the Gold Floor at all Fairmont hotels where available, otherwise known as the Grand Railway Hotels.

Request Availability & Quote for Your Group

More tour options.

From Calgary to Drumheller and Banff. This 5-day, 4-night sightseeing tour will take you to the must-see locations on either side of Calgary. Travel east to see Drumheller and Alberta's Badlands, and west to the Rocky Mountains where you will see the very best of the Canadian Rockies' most popular…

4 Day Private Tour: Banff Weekend Getaway from Calgary

From Calgary to Banff. This quick 4-day, 3-night sightseeing tour will take you to all of the must-see highlights in Banff National Park. From Calgary to the Rocky Mountains, you will see the very best of the Canadian Rockies' most popular mountain town.

7 Day Private Tour: Best of the Canadian Rockies from Calgary

From Calgary to Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper. This 7-day, 6-night sightseeing tour will take you to all of the must-see locations in the Canadian Rockies. From the plains of Calgary to the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, you will see the very best of Canada’s landscapes: mountains, lakes, glaciers,…

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Drumheller Attractions Canadian Badlands Day Trip from Calgary

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: May 30, 2024

Looking for the perfect day trip from Calgary, tourists most often think of the Canadian Rockies with panoramic mountain views , gorgeous  waterfalls , tons of hiking trails, and  beautiful glacier lakes .

But one of the best day trips from Calgary is actually in the other direction. Only 130 km (80 miles) from Calgary, the Drumheller Badlands offer plenty of things to do on a day trip from Calgary.

Let’s have a look at the best Drumheller attractions.

One of best things about the Canadian Badlands is the great number of FREE things to do around Drumheller.

The Canadian Badlands are located in Dinosaur Provincial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Let’s take a look at all the fun stuff to do on a road trip from Calgary to the Drumheller area .

Why visit Drumheller Badlands?

Drumheller is the dinosaur capital of the world and dinosaurs are fascinating.

With over 130,000 fossils at the Tyrrell Museum AND the World’s Largest Dinosaur plus dinosaur statues all around town you get the feeling you are in dinosaur country right away.

What’s so cool about Drumheller Badlands is the abundance of fun activities combined with educational experiences. It makes a great solo trip or family outing with the kids.

For instance you can tour around Drumheller on the Dino-Walk with over 20 statues that represent the dinosaurs that used to roam the area.

Or learn about dinosaurs and fossils with a visit to the Fossil Shop or Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Centre .

Horseshoe Canyon hiking trails

Horseshoe Canyon

First stop on the way to Drumheller Badlands from Calgary I chose Horseshoe Canyon for stunning panoramic views and a morning hike.

Note there are a lot of stairs getting down to the hiking area. Part of the way you can walk on a fairly steep gravel path instead of taking the stairs.

There is no shade in this area so be prepared with water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat when you hike Horseshoe Canyon.

Horseshoe Canyon address

Township Rd 284, Kneehill County, AB – about 15 minute drive southwest of Drumheller

Easy day trip from Calgary

• Take Deerfoot Trail (AB Hwy 2) North and continue for 20 km (12 miles)
• Take exit 275 for AB-566 (signs for Kathryn E/Keoma E) and continue for 22 km (14 miles)
• Turn left onto AB-9 E and follow Hwy 9 (signs for Drumheller) for 70 km to Horseshoe Canyon parking area.

LEARN MORE: 15 Fun Things to Do in Calgary in Summer

Spend a few hours hiking around Horseshoe Canyon

Drumheller attractions – Hoodoos Trail most popular

One of the most popular attractions around Drumheller is the Hoodoos Trail just 16 km (10 miles) southeast of town (take Hwy 56 S and continue straight onto Hwy 10 S)

What are Hoodoos?

Hoodoos are tall skinny spires of rock formed over thousands of years due to erosion. Other names for Hoodoos include Tent Rocks and Fairy Chimneys.

The hoodoos trail is a place to explore and wander, there isn’t an actual hiking trail at the hoodoos.

Walk among the Drumheller Hoodoos

In the parking lot there are a couple of ice cream trucks to help you keep cool after hiking around the Hoodoos. I stopped at Hoodoo Hydration Station and fell into conversation with the proprietor.

Turns out he attended Alberta College of Art (now Alberta College of Art & Design) back in the 80’s. We knew some of the same instructors, although I’m surprised I remembered their names, and it got me reminiscing about my year at ACA. It’s interesting how some memories remain so fresh in our mind while others fade away.

Hoodoo Hydration Station serves ice cream and several shave ice flavors to quench your summer thirst.

Cool off with some ice cream

Royal Tyrrell Museum at Midland Provincial Park

Another top attraction in Drumheller Badlands area is the incredible Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology located in Midland Provincial Park. This is not only a must visit for dinosaur fans but anyone visiting Drumheller.

Allow 2 -3 hours to visit the museum. It’s a great place to visit on a rainy day or when it’s super hot out and you need to chill for awhile.

With a collection of over 130,000 fossils and lots of activities for kids the museum is a perfect stop on a day trip from Calgary.

Named in honor of Canadian geologist Joseph Burr Tyrrell, the man who discovered dinosaur bones around in the Canadian Badlands back in 1884.

Royal Tyrrell Museum address

1500 N Dinosaur Trail, Drumheller, AB

Summer hours

9 am to 9 pm 7 days a week including holidays from May 15 to August 31

10 am to 5 pm 7 days a week including holidays from September 1 to September 30

Winter/Spring hours

10 am to 5 pm (closed Mondays, except holidays) from October 1 to May 14

Admission price

All prices in Canadian dollars. All prices include tax.

Adult $21 Youth (age 7 – 17) $10 Senior (age 65+) $14 Children 6 and under FREE Family (2 adults and their children age 7 – 17 with max of 8 people) $50

Badlands Amphitheatre

Plan a visit to Canada’s largest outdoor theatre. This natural amphitheatre is an ideal venue to experience an opera, concert, or play. Visit Badlands Amphitheatre website for upcoming events and tickets.

Badlands Amphitheatre address

605 17th Street SW, Box 457, Drumheller, AB

World’s Largest Dinosaur

Making her official debut October 2000, World’s Largest Dinosaur weighs in at 65 tonnes (145,000 lbs) and is 26 m (86 ft) tall.

The model T-Rex is 4 – 5 times larger than an actual Tyrannosaurus Rex body.

Did you know you can climb up 106 stairs to the mouth of World’s Largest Dinosaur and hang out in the mouth of T-Rex? Up to 12 people fit in the dinosaur mouth balcony.

World’s Largest Dinosaur address

60 1 Avenue West, Drumheller, AB

Admission fee to climb up to the mouth

• $5 per person (full day)
• FREE for children under 5 years old

9 am to 9 pm daily

Go see the World’s Largest Dinosaur

Horsethief Canyon is an easy day trip from Calgary

From Drumheller drive 16 km (10 miles) on the Dinosaur Trail (Hwy 838) to Horsethief Canyon for more panoramic views of the Canadian Badlands.

Horsethief Canyon gets its name due to the illegal horse smuggling that occurred in this canyon back in the 1800’s. Stolen cattle and horses were hidden in the canyon and rebranded.

Many fossils and dinosaur specimens uncovered in Horsethief Canyon are now in the Royal Tyrrell Museum.

An alligator that once roamed the area is named Stangerochampsa mccabei after the two men (Ron Stanger and Jim McCabe) who discovered the fossilized gator while on a hike at Horsethief Canyon.

Bleriot Ferry

Drive the Dinosaur Trail on Hwy 838 and take the small Bleriot Cable Ferry across the Red Deer River. It only takes a few minutes to make the crossing.

In operation for over 100 years, Andre Bleriot built the ferry in 1913, with a replacement constructed in 1997.

Bleriot Ferry hours

• May 5 to May long weekend 8 am to 7 pm daily
• May long weekend to September long weekend 8 am to 11 pm daily
• Day after September long weekend to October 30th: 8 am to 7 pm

There is no fee to use the Bleriot Ferry.

Rosedale Suspension Bridge

Just south of Drumheller visit cross the Red Deer River on the pedestrian suspension bridge in Rosedale. The  bridge is 117 m (384 ft) long and sometimes there is a line of people waiting to cross the bridge.

FREE admission.

11 suspension bridges in Rosedale Alberta

In the short 6 km (3.5 miles) drive from Rosedale to Wayne Alberta cross 11 single-lane suspension bridges over the Rosebud River.

Last Chance Saloon in Wayne Alberta

Make sure to pay a visit to the Last Chance Saloon for a meal or liquid refreshments. Inside the place is like a small museum. Out on the covered patio is where I enjoyed my lunch of bison burger and a beer.

Once a thriving mining town near Drumheller, the community of Wayne boasts a population of just 31 people as of August 2018.

As I finished my meal Eileen and Charles walked out to the patio with beer in hand. Earlier in the day we crossed path at the Horseshoe Canyon hike. Waiting out a small rainstorm we quenched our thirst with beers and shared travel stories.

Last Chance Saloon address

555 Jewell St, Rosedale Station, AB T0J 2V0

Last Chance Saloon hours

• Monday 11 am – 7 pm
• Tuesday to Thursday 11 am – 9 pm
• Friday and Saturday 11 am – 11 pm
• Sunday 12 noon to 7 pm

Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site

Step back in time and tour the Atlas Coal Mine . Several guided tours available (extra fee applies) or explore on your own.

Atlas Coal mine admission fee

• $10 per person or $30 per family
• Note some tours require closed toe shoes be worn

Atlas Coal Mine address

110 Century Dr W, East Coulee, AB

Scenic drive from Drumheller to Calgary

Finish the day with a scenic drive back to Calgary from Drumheller along Alberta Hwy 564. Enjoy the view of rolling hills and the brilliant yellow canola fields while on a leisurely drive back to Calgary.

Scenic drive along canola fields from Drumheller to Calgary

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Ryan Biddulph

Wednesday 29th of August 2018

Whoa this place is cool. Like Mars. On earth. Digging those single lane suspension bridges too. You know you're in the middle of nowhere when these things pop up. Tweeted for you.

Susan Moore

Hey Ryan thanks for commenting and sharing! Drumheller Badlands is other worldly and fun to explore, I've always been fascinated with dinosaurs. I know you're more into beaches, but if you ever travel to Calgary be sure to to make time for a road trip out to Drumheller.