moderate
10 hours
Moderate fitness recommended to comfortably navigate short hikes and extended museum visits.
Discover Alberta's Badlands with a full-day trip from Calgary featuring dinosaur fossils, Hoodoos, and coal mining history. Experience the Royal Tyrrell Museum and scenic suspension bridge walks.
Private Tour • Up to 9 People • Up to 10 Hours
Embark on a captivating 10-hour journey from Calgary to Drumheller, where you'll explore the Royal Tyrrell Museum's dinosaur exhibits, traverse the breathtaking Star Mine Suspension Bridge, and marvel at the eerie Hoodoos. Discover Alberta's coal mining history at the Atlas Coal Mine or visit the ghost town of Wayne, all while soaking in stunning Badlands vistas.
10 Hours
Leaving Calgary behind, our journey begins with a scenic drive through the Alberta prairies, gradually giving way to the dramatic Badlands terrain. Our first recommended stop is the renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum*, a world-class paleontological institution nestled in the heart of the Badlands. Here, you'll step back millions of years into the past as you marvel at the extensive dinosaur exhibits and learn about the fascinating prehistoric creatures that once roamed this land.
Continuing our exploration, you may wish to cross the Star Mine Suspension Bridge spanning the Red Deer River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding canyon and the winding river below. Feel the thrill as you walk across this engineering marvel suspended high above the gorge. We then make our way to the Hoodoos, eerie rock formations sculpted by centuries of erosion. As you wander among these towering pillars of stone, you'll be awestruck by the otherworldly beauty of the Badlands landscape.
Our journey may then take us to the Atlas Coal Mine, a National Historic Site that offers a glimpse into Alberta's rich coal mining heritage. Descend into the depths of the mine shaft and explore the historic buildings that once bustled with activity during the peak of the coal mining era. Alternatively, a stop in the ghost town of Wayne for a trip back in time to the Last Chance Saloon. To get there, you'll experience the world record for the most bridges to be found within the shortest distance.
Finally, we may visit Horsethief Canyon, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of the rugged Badlands terrain stretching out as far as the eye can see. Feel the raw beauty of this natural wonder as you take in the sweeping vistas and snap photos to capture the moment.
As our tour draws to a close, you'll leave Drumheller with a deep appreciation for the unique geological formations and rich history that define this enchanting region. With its blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures, Drumheller promises an unforgettable adventure for all who visit.
*Entrance to the Royal Tyrrell Museum is available as an add-on to this tour and is highly recommended.
Carry sufficient water when walking near Hoodoos and along the suspension bridge, as shade is limited in the Badlands.
Trails can be rocky and uneven, so choose supportive hiking shoes to navigate Badlands terrain safely.
The open landscape offers little relief from the sun; a wide-brim hat and sunscreen are critical during summer months.
The Royal Tyrrell Museum has specific opening times; verify them beforehand to plan your visit accordingly.
Drumheller's Badlands are home to fossil beds that contributed to establishing the Royal Tyrrell Museum in 1985.
Efforts focus on protecting delicate sandstone formations and managing visitor impact along popular trails.
Supportive shoes are necessary for uneven trails and walking in the museum.
Keep hydrated to handle the dry climate and physical activity.
summer specific
Protect your skin from strong sun exposure on exposed trails.
summer specific
Layer up during spring visits when temperatures may be cooler in the morning and evening.
spring specific