Step back 97 million years in Tumbler Ridge with a guided tour of fossilized dinosaur footprints. Discover ancient tracks in their natural setting during a scenic two-hour hike, perfect for history buffs and outdoor adventurers alike.
Step back 97 million years in Tumbler Ridge with a guided tour of fossilized dinosaur footprints. Discover ancient tracks in their natural setting during a scenic two-hour hike, perfect for history buffs and outdoor adventurers alike.
Book with Tumbler Ridge Museum Foundation
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Tumbler Ridge Museum Foundation · Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia
In the rugged wilderness of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, a rare glimpse into prehistoric life awaits on the Dinosaur Trackway Tours. This two-hour adventure immerses you in the ancient world as guides lead you to the Cabin Pool-Flatbed Creek site, where 97-million-year-old footprints of ankylosaurs—armored dinosaurs—remain etched in the mudstone riverbed. The site’s exposed tracks provide a vivid connection to the distant past, offering a rare opportunity for discovery in a striking outdoor setting. Visitors traverse gentle trails that wind through the lush BC landscape, arriving at a natural rock formation where these fossilized footprints create a striking graffiti of history. Guides share insights into the Jurassic period and the dinosaurs that roamed this region, enriching the experience with context that turns a simple hike into a journey through time. This activity is perfect for families, geology buffs, and adventure seekers keen to witness one of British Columbia’s most unique outdoor attractions. The site’s natural beauty, coupled with its scientific significance, makes it a standout highlight for anyone visiting Tumbler Ridge. The tours run during the summer months, coinciding with the warm weather and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor exploration. The terrain remains accessible for most hikers, requiring only basic fitness and no technical skills, though a sturdy pair of walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The surrounding area offers lesser-known scenic spots and wildlife encounters—look out for moose or eagles while wandering nearby. Photographers will appreciate the striking footprints and vibrant natural backdrop, especially during late morning and golden hour. The Dinosaur Trackway Tours present a compelling blend of outdoor adventure and paleontological wonder—an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re curious about the past or craving a memorable outdoor activity, this tour is a highlight in Tumbler Ridge’s diverse landscape.
easy.
2 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels, with minimal hiking experience required
Yes, the tour is accessible for families with children, but ensure everyone can comfortably handle a moderate walk.
Tours may be postponed or canceled in extreme weather; check with the operator beforehand for updates.
Facilities are limited on-site; plan accordingly before the hike.
Absolutely—photography is encouraged, especially during golden hour for best lighting.
Guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate the site’s history and geology, though self-guided options may be available.
Summer offers the best weather and accessibility, but spring and fall can be equally rewarding with fewer crowds.
The area has a rich geological history, with fossils dating back millions of years marking this region as a paleontological treasure trove.
Efforts focus on preserving the fossil sites and natural habitats, ensuring future generations can also experience this window into prehistoric life.
Tumbler Ridge Museum Foundation is a community-based organization in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, that preserves and interprets the region's rich fossil heritage. The foundation operates a museum and offers a range of experiences that connect visitors with real fossils and active paleontological research. Visitors can choose General Admission to view a curated fossil collection spanning more than 200 million years, from the Triassic Period through the Ice Age. Seasonal Dinosaur Trackway Tours provide 2-hour guided hikes to the Cabin Pool–Flatbed Creek site to see 97 million-year-old ankylosaur footprints in their natural setting. For hands-on fieldwork, Dig Tours bring guests to the Flatbed Creek trackway for a 3-hour guided excavation led by paleontologists from the Tumbler Ridge Museum, the Royal BC Museum, and the University of Victoria. Families with children can enroll kids aged 6–12 in Day Camps that teach fossil basics, field techniques, and local ecology through supervised activities. The foundation emphasizes safety, education, and collaboration with established museums and university researchers, ensuring scientifically informed experiences. Facilities and tours follow regional guidelines for site protection and visitor care. The Tumbler Ridge Museum Foundation also contributes to local interpretation and public outreach, helping residents and visitors understand the Peace Region’s paleontological significance. Whether attending a museum exhibit, hiking a trackway, participating in a dig, or enrolling a child in camp, guests encounter authentic fossils and expert guidance that highlight the deep natural history of northeastern British Columbia. Programs suit families, school groups, and individual visitors seeking hands-on, science-based outdoor educational experiences.
Book with Tumbler Ridge Museum Foundation