Spend a full day exploring Alberta’s badlands: world-class fossils at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, otherworldly hoodoos, the Badlands Amphitheatre and panoramic Horseshoe Canyon. This accessible tour packs geology, paleontology and photo ops into an 8–9 hour day trip from Calgary.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the climate-controlled van and the badlands push back: bleached clay ridges and wind-sculpted pillars stretch toward a wide prairie sky. The air feels dry and sharp; gulls wheel above the Red Deer River, and the World's Largest Dinosaur watches over a town that grew around fossils and railways.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks, stairs, and standing during museum visits.
Wildlife
History
Drumheller grew as a coal and rail town and later became central to paleontology when rich fossil beds were discovered in the early 20th century, leading to excavations and the Royal Tyrrell Museum.
Conservation
Erosion is an active process here—stay on marked trails to protect fragile hoodoos and native grasses; local groups promote responsible visitation to minimize footprint.
Reserve your spot on the 1 Day Drumheller Highlights: Museum Amphitheatre Hoodoos Canyon today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Sun protection is essential
The badlands have little shade; bring a wide-brim hat, sunscreen and UV sunglasses to avoid overexposure during midday stops.
Wear grippy shoes
Trails include loose gravel and steel staircases—closed-toe shoes with traction reduce slip risk and keep you comfortable.
Carry a refillable bottle
Bottled water is provided, but having a refillable bottle and a small filter or sanitizer helps on longer self-guided sections.
Protect camera gear from dust
Badlands wind kicks up fine dust—use lens caps and a protective bag, and bring a microfiber cloth for cleaning.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provides traction on loose gravel, steel staircases and uneven interpretive trails.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects from strong prairie sun during open-exposure stops like Horseshoe Canyon and hoodoo viewpoints.
summer
Refillable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated through the long day; bottled water may be provided but extras are useful.
Light insulating layer
Wind and temperature swings are common—bring a packable jacket for comfort between stops.
spring