Uncover fossils and learn from paleontologists at the Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum's Bonebed Tour. A truly immersive prehistoric adventure for all ages awaits.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3-4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical condition, comfortable walking and standing for periods.
Wildlife
History
The Pipestone Creek Bonebed has been a focus of paleontological research since the early 2000s, revealing one of the most significant Late Cretaceous dinosaur assemblages in North America.
Conservation
The site is protected to ensure fossils are preserved responsibly, supporting ongoing scientific discovery.
Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum
Uncover fossils and learn from paleontologists at the Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum's Bonebed Tour. A truly immersive prehistoric adventure for all ages awaits.
Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum in Wembley, Alberta is a regional centre for palaeontology and public education. The museum preserves and interprets local fossil heritage and operates research-led public programs that connect families, students and researchers to Alberta’s deep past.
Exhibits highlight mounted skeletons, interactive displays and rotating collections that showcase discoveries from the Pipestone Creek bonebed and the Wapiti Formation.
The museum runs guided field experiences and seasonal events led by trained palaeo-professionals, including the Pipestone Creek excavation visits, “Palaeontologist for a Day” digs, and the Bonebed Tour featuring the Pachyrhinosaurus skull known as BIG SAM. River-based outings such as the “Secrets of the Wapiti” float focus on regional geology, fossils and safe outdoor interpretation. Family-focused programs include Night at the Museum sleepovers, birthday parties with gallery access, Nesting Grounds early childhood sessions, and School’s Out PD Camps for ages 5–13.
Educational offerings extend to Homeschool Days and annual Science Festivals like Palaeo Palooza, providing hands-on activities, maker spaces, and film screenings. Admission options include full-day General Admission tickets with no re-entry. The museum partners with researchers, community groups and volunteers to conduct fieldwork and curate findings, following accepted conservation and documentation standards. Accessibility, safety and evidence-based interpretation are priorities. Visitors can expect guided learning, tangible fossil encounters, and professionally run events that support palaeontology, local heritage tourism and science education. Curatorial staff maintain research-grade collections, publish findings in peer-reviewed outlets when appropriate, and collaborate with universities to ensure scientific rigour and long-term preservation of specimens for future generations.
Location
Wembley, Alberta
Near Pipestone Creek and Wapiti River
Tours Offered
11 Experiences
From floats to excavation days
Family Programs
Multiple age programs
Birthday parties and camps available
Reserve seats for guided floats, excavations and family events at the Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum — spaces fill fast.
Bring sturdy footwear
Wear durable boots suitable for uneven excavation sites.
Pack sun protection
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for outdoor fossil digs.
Prepare for weather
Dress in layers to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.
Arrive early
Get there ahead of scheduled activities for the full experience.
Sturdy hiking boots
Necessary for navigating excavation terrain comfortably and safely.
Sun protection gear
Protects against sun exposure during outdoor digs.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated while exploring the fossil site.
Light jacket
Layers help adjust to changing outdoor temperatures.
Research Site
Pipestone Creek bonebed
Active excavations and fieldwork