calgary drumheller tour

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Private Day Tours

Drumheller & badlands tour from calgary.

Discover Drumheller, the badlands of Alberta. Your private day tour starts in Calgary, and you’ll experience the changing landscape, from prairie to rugged rock, on this 90-minute drive to Drumheller and Midland Provincial Park. Pick-ups are available from downtown Calgary or the airport.

Drumheller is known for its rugged landscapes, fossil findings, hoodoos, and much more. Points of interest include Drumheller Hoodoos, Horsethief Canyon, Atlas Coal Mine, Orkney Viewpoint and Midland Provincial Park.

Entrance to the Royal Tyrrell Museum is available as an add-on to this tour.

About this tour

• Guided tour to Drumheller with an interpretive guide (10 hours total)
• Private vehicle (up to 9 people)
• Pick up and drop off from Calgary and surrounding areas are available
• Royal Tyrrell Museum (Optional Add-on)
• Tips (not included)

Day Tour of Drumheller from Calgary Itinerary

Your full-day private tour starts from your pick-up location in Calgary. The drive from Calgary to Drumheller takes approximately 1.5 hours. Points of interest include the Hoodoos, Horsetheif Canyon, Atlas Coal Mine, Orkney Viewpoint, and Midland Provincial Park.

*Adding addmission to the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology is recommended as it displays one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaurs and is Canada’s only museum dedicated to the study of acient life.

At the end of your tour, your guide will drop you off in the location of your choice within Calgary.

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Top Tours in Drumheller, Alberta

Drumheller tours.

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1. Calgary to Royal Tyrrell Museum | Drumheller – PRIVATE TOUR

2. Drumheller (Dinosaur Valley) & Horseshoe Canyon 1-Day Tour

3. Dinosaur World 1 Day: Drumheller-Badland-Hoodoo-Mine National Historic

4. 7 Day Banff Yoho Jasper Waterton NP and Drumheller Tour

5. 6 Day Summer Rockies visit Banff Jasper Yoho and Drumheller tour

6. Private Badland Tour

7. Ghosts of Drumheller: a Smartphone Audio Ghost Tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

[Day Tour]Lake Louise, Kootenay Marble Canyon, Yoho National Park

1 Day Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald Lake& Yoho National Park

[Day Trip]Adventure in Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon & Banff Town

Winter Ice Walk in Johnston Canyon + Lake Minnewanka Day Trip

Calgary to Banff (Canmore) Public Shuttle

6-Day VIA Rail from Calgary to Vancouver visit Rocky Mountain Banff Jasper Tour

Fairmont Experience in the Rockies Banff, Japer & Yoho 5-Day Tour

[Day Tour] Sulphur Mountain, Banff Gondola & Upper Hot Springs

3 Day Rockies Tour, travel Banff & Columbia Icefield from Calgary

5 Day Glacier Mountain View Lodge Visit Canadian Rockies Tour

Minivan Airport Shuttle: Calgary Airport <—-> Downtown Calgary

5 Days Winter Rockies Fairmont Experience,Banff, Lake Louise Tour

Classic Banff DayTour: Banff, Bow Falls, Johnston Canyon

Banff, Yoho & Columbia Icefield Tour from Calgary 4-Days Tour

3 Day Rocky Mountains Columbia Icefields Banff and Yoho NP Tour

Super DEAL! Canadian Rockies visit Banff, Jasper and Yoho, 5-days tour

4 Days Fairmont Experience Rocky Mountains Jasper Yoho NP Tour

[4-Day Tour] Winter Rockies in Banff, Lake Louise,Johnston Canyon

Glacier Day Tour: Calgary, Bow Lake, Columbia Icefield

Explore The City That Moved in Historic Walking Tour Through Strathmore

Rockies 4 Day tour from Calgary visit Icefield Jasper and Yoho NP

Transfer in private minivan from Calgary Airport (YYC) - Calgary Downtown

3-Day Columbia Icefield & Jasper Tour from Calgary,airport pickup

4 -Day Canadian Rockies-Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Maligne Lake

What travellers are saying.

• Private Badland Tour
• Dinosaur World 1 Day: Drumheller-Badland-Hoodoo-Mine National Historic
• Drumheller (Dinosaur Valley) & Horseshoe Canyon 1-Day Tour
• Ghosts of Drumheller: a Smartphone Audio Ghost Tour
• 7 Day Banff Yoho Jasper Waterton NP and Drumheller Tour
• Red Deer River Adventure
• Wild West Badlands Tours
• Drumheller, Biggest dinosaur land in the world, and the Tyrell Museum
• Tripvia Tours
• Drumheller Guided Ghost Walk Tour

Please fill out our contact form below. 

C algary   T our   C ompany

DRUMHELLER BADLANDS TOUR Royal Tyrell Museum, Horseshoe Canyon, Hoodoos

      Canadian Badlands ,  a unique geographical region, which tells a story of glaciers and erosion which formed this fascinating landscape. It is also the historic home of Canada’s great dinosaur finds, the largest in the world, and so connects to the enduring curiosity and mythology surrounding the rise and fall of the dinosaurs.

Tour Highli gh ts:

Sightseeing & informative driving through th e Great Canadian Prairies of Alberta.

Shortstops & photo opportunity at:

Horseshoe Canyon

Royal Tyrell Mus eum - 2.5 hours - Key Sto p

Admission Included

North Dinosaur Trail

Little Church 

Bleriot Ferry -  open - May till mid. Oct.

Orkney Viewpoint -   open -  May till mid. Oct.

Dino 2000 - World’s Largest Dinosaur 

Admission Not Included

Suspension Bridge

Duration: 8- 10 hours

Operates: Year-Round

  Quick Tour Facts:

Tour operates based on the following criteria:

Operator Availability

Max - 7  people

Tour st art fro m Calgary Tower at: 

Peak S eason -   7:00 am   (May.15-Aug.31)

Rest of Season -   8:00 am   (Sept.1-May.14)

Pick-up & Drop-off at Calgary Downtown:

Calgary Tower

Westin Hotel

Sandman Hotel

Payments & Cost:

All payments are in Canadian dollars - CAD

5% GST - inclusive in the price

2024 Season Private DB Rate:

1 person - Total: $400

2 people - Total: $430    ($215 per person)

3 people - Total: $570    ($195 per person

4-7  people - $175 per person

***HST strongly recommends traveler insurance***  

TESTIMONIALS - few of many

Very interesting day trip

We visited the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, the Badlands, Drumheller, the Hoodoos, and other places of interest in the area. Peter was an excellent guide, Very friendly, helpful, and informative with many interesting stories of the area. Lots of opportunities for photographs. The museum was very interesting, with one of the largest dinosaur fossil collections in the world. Walking shoes a must, the terrain was quite rough in places. Ended with a beer in the 'Last Chance Saloon' which was very welcome.

Mary S. -  Hamilton, New Zealand 

Date of experience: August 2019

We had the pleasure of touring the Badlands and visiting the Royal Tyrrell Museum with Petar. We were a group of 6 adults and we all enjoyed our tour. Booking online was easy and straight forward. Pick up and drop off was very efficient. As a guide, Petar was knowledgeable and had a great approach. The tour driving component was very comfortable and not at all boring as Petar provided ongoing commentary - we all learned so much. The group size is limited which is wonderful - 9 in total. The Royal Tyrrell Museum is amazing - well worth the visit. Despite being jet-lagged (from arriving previous night) we all enjoyed the tour pace and itinerary. Petar ensured all guests have looked after. Thank you, Petar.

Susanne P. -  Kings Creek, Australia

Date of experience: June 2019

AMAZING Drumheller Badlands Tour

I would highly recommend to anyone who is looking to do a small group tour! Peter has been very communicative with me through email with regards to booking and reservation. Just from the email itself, I could tell he is a very sincere and genuine person! On the day of the tour, Petar took one step ahead to go up to the guests, including me who are waiting for the pick-up. Knowing that I am a Deaf person (but I am wearing hearing aid), Petar understands the needs to speak slowly as well as inform the other guests that there is a Deaf passenger on this tour. Petar is very informative and knowledgeable at each place that we went to! On the whole, Petar is a very friendly and approachable person who never fails to lighten up the mood of the tour. And transportation is comfortable and spacious! It has a high and large window which allows us to look out easily and clearly. They have plenty of other tours and if I have a chance to be in Calgary again, I would go for another tour whichever they have, to see other beautiful parts of Alberta!

Desmond L. -  Singapore

Date of experience: July 2019

Summer Tours

Every tour with rtb tours & shuttles is bundled with fun our staff are dedicated to making your time on our tours exciting and informative. below, you will find our exclusive touring options ....

Banff National Park

Come on our Banff National Park Tour and explore the breathtaking and inspiring scenery that Alberta has to offer.

Drumheller & Badlands Tour

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.

Calgary Evening Tour

Only in Calgary overnight? Want to see what Calgary is all about? Come and join us and see Calgary in a different light!

Private Tours

Immerse yourself in Calgary’s history and culture! This Private Calgary Tour features a friendly driver/guide who will provide exciting and informative commentary of the city while conveniently stopping at interesting sights and attractions for photo opportunities.

PEOPLE LOVE US

This was the first tour I booked through TripAdvisor and was pleased with the whole process. Booking was simple and the tour was wonderful! Ian was our guide and he was very informative and friendly. We got on the tour at the Calgary Tower stop and we departed on time. We had a few issues finding one of the group members at another stop and got started on the tour a bit late. However, we didn't miss any stops and had plenty of time to take pictures and enjoy the views at each place. When we arrived in downtown Banff the driver gave us several recommendations for food. There was ample time for a sit down meal and some shopping. It was a really wonderful way to see the beauty of the area in a one day trip. Highly recommended!!!

(TripAdvisor Review)

Super happy with how the trip turned out, lots of good feedback about the new bus as well. Thank you for being flexible with the route change and many stops along the way out. It’s always a pleasure working with you on this trip!

Ian, our tour guide, was very knowledgeable about the area. This is a great way to get a taste of the National Park if you aren't hiring a car but bear in mind that they can't possibly show you as much as if you were driving yourself! It certainly made us keen to go back and spend more time in the areas we visited and more off the beaten track places in future. Don't forget that the altitude means that it can be a lot colder in the National Park than it is in Calgary, so take your gloves if going in autumn!

We loved the whole day! The tour of the Atlas Coal Mine was my favourite but my 15 year old daughter loved the Tyrell Museum. The whole day was very interactive and interesting. Norm was our guide for the entire day. He was friendly and full of knowledge. On the drive from Calgary to Drumheller, he gave us lots of facts of the city as well as the history of the area and the rock formations. My 13 year old son was able to get his energy out at our stops along the way and we were able to take a lot of great pictures. I would definitely recommend this company and tour. I am really glad we did it. We will be talking about it many years from now.

My friend and I had a wonderful and unforgettable experience at the Round the Block Tours. We did a tour around Calgary and in Drumheller so if you are a history buff this tour might be the one for you. Very friendly and accommodating hostesses, careful and kind bus drivers and especially Tony. Our favourite tour is the Drumheller tour, it’s a 3 hours drive with stops if you need a washroom and explore the near sites. We went to the Badlands (you’ll see Hoodoos which are really cool formed rocks so better have your camera with you), to the Drumheller Museum (approximately 2 hour tour in this; lots of dinosaur remains; will expand your knowledge about their history), to the underground coal mine (very cool tour; you get to wear helmets and go explore the underground coal mines and an excellent and very informative tour guide), you’ll go at the star mine suspension bridge too which was a little bit scary for us to cross but its worth it. It was a good day. We took a lot of good pictures. We made friends. We had fun and we’re up to do another tour from the Round the Block Tours in the future.

History of Calgary

Loved the tour. Very informative. Brian took the time to show us what made Calgary what it is today.

I have been living in Calgary for 14 years and accompanied a friend on the tour. What a pleasant experience! Our drivers on both tours were friendly and knowledgeable and full of interesting information about my home city that I never knew. I would highly recommend this city tour to visitors and locals

Even though it rained all day it was still an amazing trip. The Badlands and especially the Hoodoos are well worth seeing. The trip to the mine was very interesting. There were steps to climb but they were not that bad. Though due to the rain leaking through some of the gaps in the wall there were a few spots that needed a bit more care. The Tyrell Dinosaur museum was amazing and a great way to spend a rainy afternoon

A must to discover Calgary!

Price-quality ratio excellent! Well presented and organised! Brian, our guide, was a great and passionated speaker.

What a great day out - packed with lots of different activities and our tour guide and driver, Rose, was informative, helpful and made every effort to ensure we got the best out of the tour. It included stops at a number of scenic vantage points looking out on to various stunning landscapes or interesting geological or historical places, and a shoogly pedestrian suspension bridge for fun. A stop at a coal mine was fascinating and the conducted tour inside (by a specialist guide) a tremendous experience. The Royal Tyrrell museum is superb and well worth the two hours or so we were there. We even managed a short ferry ride. Whilst it was a long day for us - 7:15 am pick up and back around 6:30 or so - it was an even longer day for Rose but she was cheerful and informative to the end! Admissiions to the mine and the museum are included and its a small group tour so I thiught it excellent value. Lunch was extra and pruchased at a small school museum between the mine and the museum and was a good soup and sandwich, with pie to follow if desired - we tried one we hadn't come across before and it was home made and delicious.

Our firm booked RTB to take a group of 12 ladies to the mountains for a business networking hiking adventure. I received a call from Tony the day before to confirm details, our driver Rose called me when she arrived (half an hour early!!) and everything went great the whole day. Rose was super easy going, and made sure we were well taken care of. I will use RTB again next year for our 2nd annual hiking adventure!

(Karen K. TripAdvisor Review)

I had an extra day in Calgary, was looking for doing something and then I found this day trip. The booking was super easy and so was the day itself. The driver was waiting in front of the Calgary Tower and greeting me right away. We were 9 people on the tour from all over the world. It was the perfect size! The tour started at 7:30am and we had a little washroom break in Canmore. Our first stop was at Lake Louise where we had about 90mins so spend our time walking around and checking out the scenery. After that we headed to Moraine Lake where we had about 30mins -- a bit short for my liking but it was okay. We had to wait for a group member for about 15mins and because of the tight schedule our driver had to shorten our time in Banff down to about 1h15mins which I really disliked but she immediately offered to stay a little bit longer in the Rocky Mountains after checking with the group if that's okay. I really liked this kind of service, offering extra spare time! After Banff we went and had a look at Bow Falls, Surprise Corner and had 30mins at the Tunnel Mountains Hoodoos Trail to enjoy this beautiful view after heading back to Calgary where we arrived at around 7pm.

It was the perfect tour for getting a little insight in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Everything went really well, the driver was super nice and offered us free water during the trip. On the entire trip she told us a lot about the area, culture, history, etc. A lot of information, a lot of amazing nature, a great trip!

I would probably do it again!

Full Day Tour in Drumheller: Horseshoe Canyon and Tyrrell Museum

• Entrance into the Tyrell Museum
• mountain glacier water
• Guided Tour
• Entry/Admission - Royal Tyrrell Museum
• Option 1 Central Library, 800 3 St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2E7, Canada Hello! I will contact you within 24 hrs of the trip and give you the specifics on what time I will pick you up. Please meet at the from t doors. I drive a black SUV. Also, please provide you cell number so I can text you or contact you through What's app.
• Option 2 CF Chinook Centre, 6455 Macleod Trail, Calgary, AB T2H 0K8, Canada Hello! I will contact you within 24 hrs of the trip and give you the specifics on what time I will pick you up. Please meet at the front doors. I drive a black SUV. Please meet me outside the Chapters on the South end of the mall
• Hello! Please let me know where you need two be picked up. Usually I can accommodate anywhere in the city, and anywhere along the route.
• Calgary Intl Airport, 2000 Airport Rd NE, Calgary, Alberta T2E 6Z8 Canada
• Central Library, 800 3 St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2E7, Canada
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You’ll have 2 starting options Or, you can also get picked up See departure details
• 1 Horseshoe Canyon Stop: 2 hours See details
• 2 Royal Tyrrell Museum Stop: 3 hours - Admission included See details
• 3 Drumheller Stop: 2 hours See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• Lorraine F 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Spectacular Place to Visit Wow! What an amazing place to visit! I really enjoyed reading the stories behind the fossil finds. This is a huge museum and there is so much to see. Lots of genuine artifacts and casts. Admission price is very reasonable. Surrounding area outside is beautiful. A must see if you are in the area. Read more Written August 27, 2023

More to explore in Calgary

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Full Day Tour in Drumheller: Horseshoe Canyon and Tyrrell Museum provided by Drumheller, Biggest dinosaur land in the world, and the Tyrell Museum

Choose Your Tour

Trip details.

• Tour Highlights

Celebrate 25 years of touring with us!

Wild West Badlands Tours is proud to have served the Drumheller Valley with world class tours for 25 years and counting.

Your Guided Tour Operator Right Out of the Alberta Badlands

Wild West Badlands Tours is an Award Winning tour of Drumheller. Let Wild West Badlands Tours show you a side of the Drumheller Valley you’ve never seen before. Choose from our different tours to discover the beautiful geography, hidden history, and unique culture surrounding Drumheller. Local stories, anecdotes, humour and history will accompany you as you view the sites and unparalleled scenic views from the comfort of our air conditioned bus. Our goal is to provide our guests with an enjoyable, informative, and memorable vacation experience while visiting this unique location in Drumheller, Alberta, Canada.

See the sights — Learn the history — Have fun with Don & Val "The Badlands Couple"

All tours include pick-up service from your hotel, campground, B&B, or the World’s Largest Dinosaur and return in our air conditioned bus.

Badlands, Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Times

Enjoy our three hour tour that will take you to incredible attractions in the Dinosaur Valley and numerous out-of-the-way places. View the Hoodoos, Badlands Passion Play site and Horsethief Canyon. Cross the Red Deer River via the Bleriot Ferry and a walk over a suspension bridge. While visiting a ghost town, learn about unique happenings — and more! We make the Badlands come alive with our engaging narrative paired with exceptional sites. Discover eras dating back 150 million years! Find out where dinosaur fossils can be found. Learn about first nations people, fur trade explorers, cowboys, pioneers, coal miners, and all of the people who contributed to this rich region, right up to today’s oilfield workers.

Tours leave at 9:00 AM and 1:30 PM daily.

Wild West Adventure Tour

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime with adventure with us while exploring Alberta in Western Canada. See herds of buffalo in ranch settings on the prairies! Enjoy a hay ride and get “up close and personal” with buffalo from the safety of a secure hay wagon. Watch one-ton buffalo bulls munch oats right next to the wagon! Visit a sod house similar to those used by the original pioneers in this area. Stop at a beautiful lookout of the Valley for photographs. Visit Rowley and Sam’s Saloon or the Rosedeer Hotel and Last Chance Saloon in the Ghost Town of Wayne. Since wildlife sightings such as deer and antelope are always a possibility, be sure to bring your camera along!

Tour leaves at 6:30 PM daily.

Ride in Comfort

"We know the territory, pardner!"

Rain or shine, you can sit back and relax knowing that everyone in your family will enjoy their Wild West Badlands Tours in comfort. Our air conditioned 14 passenger bus boasts mid high passenger seats with aisle side arm-rests and seat belts. Padded cloth walls and a high ceiling offer roominess with great views of the Alberta Badlands ! Our family friendly bus offers full safety features. Child safety seats are also available on request.

Your Tour Guides

Your tour operators right out of the Alberta Badlands

We are Don and Val Johnston and have lived in Alberta for over 40 years. Both of us have extensive knowledge of the Badlands and can show you the "roads less travelled” and out of the way places. We will make the history, geographical uniqueness, and culture of the area come alive. By passing on stories from a local and aboriginal perspective, we will make this the highlight of your trip. But don’t take our word for it, read the Wild West Badlands Tour Review on Trip Advisor .

Rates for day tour (GST Extra)

Rates for night tour (gst extra), getting to drumheller.

We make it easy to experience the Alberta Badlands no matter how you are traveling or where you are staying. If you or your family are flying in to Calgary International Airport (YYC), give us a call to discuss our affordable shuttle service that will pick you and your luggage up at the airport and deliver you to the hotel of your choice in Drumheller, Alberta. When your trip is done, we will get you back to the airport and on your way. We can also pick you up at any Hotel, Campground or Bed and Breakfast in the Drumheller area.

Call (403) 823-3118 to discuss.

Highlights of Tours Include

The Canadian Badlands Passion Play Site

Deep in the Canadian Badlands, a location famous for its prehistoric attractions, lies a hidden valley where the events of a not-so-distant past echo, a place where ancient Israel is reborn and you can experience, "the greatest story ever told." The 14,000 who come each July are moved to laughter and tears by the dramatic portrayal of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Visit Website

The Royal Tyrrell Museum

Since 1985, the Royal Tyrrell Museum has presented the fascinating evolution of dinosaurs through it's collection of dozens of skeletons and hundreds of fossils.

Horse Thief Canyon Alberta

Horse Thief Canyon is where bright yellow canola fields and giant rocking pump jacks meet the precipice of pure Badlands splendour. Stand at the canyon edge and take in the entire valley or strap on some hikers and venture deep into the canyon itself - just be careful, there are no interpretive signs and it's easy to get lost.

Drumheller Hoodoos

A hoodoo (also called a tent rock, fairy chimney, and earth pyramid) is a tall, thin spire of rock that protrudes from the bottom of an arid drainage basin or badland. Hoodoos, which may range from 1.5–45 metres (4.9–147.6 ft), typically consist of relatively soft rock topped by harder, less easily eroded stone that protects each column from the elements. They generally form within sedimentary rock and volcanic rock formations.

Bleriot Ferry

The Bleriot Ferry is a ferry in Alberta, Canada. It links the two sections of the North Dinosaur Trail (Alberta Highway 838) as it crosses the Red Deer River from Kneehill County on the west, to Starland County on the east. The Drumheller suspension bridge was built by Andre Bleriot, commissioned in 1913 and, in addition to providing an essential transport service, acted as a major social hub in the Drumheller Valley.

Rosedale Suspension Bridge

The Rosedale Suspension Bridge is a 117 metre long pedestrian suspension bridge across the Red Deer River in Drumheller, Alberta, Canada. Constructed in 1931, it was built for the coal workers of Star Mine. In 1958, the Alberta provincial government rebuilt (and currently maintains) the bridge to "commemorate part of the colourful mining history of the Drumheller Valley."

Other Points of Interest

• Rosebud Theater
• Atlas Coal Mine
• World's Largest Dinosaour
• The Little Church

Where To Find Us

Drumheller Attractions Canadian Badlands Day Trip from Calgary

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: July 13, 2023

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 Fall hours 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 as of August 2018. All prices include tax.

Adult 1 day $19 Adult 2 day $27 Youth (age 7 – 17) 1 day $10 Youth (age 7 – 17) 2 day $15 Senior (age 65+) 1 day $14 Senior (age 65+) 2 day $21 Children 6 and under FREE Family (2 adults and their children age 7 – 17 with max of 8 people) $48 for 1 day and $69 for 2 day  

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

World’s Largest Dinosaur admission fee

• $4 per person (full day)
• FREE for children under 5 years old
• $10.50 family rate

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

Love it?! Share it now

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.

Haunted Canada: A podcast of Canada’s most creepiest ghost stories, hauntings, true crimes and mysteries. Hosted by professional storyteller Nadine, producer of the awarding winning Edmonton Ghost Tours. 

HAUNTED CANADA 🍁 Ghosts, Hauntings, and True Crimes Nadine Bailey

• 4.4 • 10 Ratings
• MAR 25, 2024

Episode 6 ⚓️ The Five Fisherman Restaurant, Halifax, NS 👻 Prince House, Calgary, AB 🎭 Walker Theatre, Winnipeg, MB

Episode 6   ⚓️ The Five Fisherman Restaurant, Halifax, NS   👻 Prince House, Calgary, AB   🎭 Walker Theatre, Winnipeg, MB Have you ever felt a shiver creep down your spine as you step into a room, certain that someone, or something, unseen is sharing the space with you? Our latest episode takes you on a haunting voyage across Canada, from the ghostly echoes in the Five Fishermen Restaurant in Halifax to the mysterious chambers of Calgary's Prince House, and the tragedy-tinged air of Winnipeg's Walker Theatre. Alongside personal encounters and hair-raising narratives from staff at these venues, we weave tales of grief and the paranormal, painting a chilling tapestry of a history that refuses to die. Join us as we piece together the spectral puzzle of Calgary's Prince House, where the tragic love story of Peter Prince unfolds amidst the whispers of his lost wives. Then, brace yourself for the enthralling account of Winnipeg's Walker Theatre, where the spirits of stage legends Lawrence Irving and Mabel Hackney are rumored to take their eternal bow. Prepare to connect with the sorrow and mysteries of these haunted dwellings, as we question the thin veil separating the past's spirits from our present reality, in an episode that promises to captivate your senses and perhaps, stir your very soul. Music by: Mountain Sound AudioJungle Music Standard -Mystery Logo Audiojungle For more information about this podcast please visit us at: http://www.HauntedCanada.com To learn more about the Edmonton Ghost Tours visit us at: http://www.EdmontonGhostTours.com Written,Narrated and Produced by Nadine  Music by: Mountain Sound AudioJungle  Music Standard -Mystery Logo Audiojungle Research: The research for these stories came from Nadine’s personal research, writings and many  researched sources.  History Nerds UnitedLet's make history fun again! Come listen to interviews with today's best authors.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Support the show

• MAR 18, 2024

Episode 5 🎓 Drake Hall Winnipeg, MB. 🔪 La Boheme Restaurant Edmonton, AB 🏰 Craigdarroch Castle. Victoria, BC

Episode 5  🎓 Drake Hall Regina, SK 🔪 La Boheme Restaurant Edmonton, AB 🏰 Craigdarroch Castle Victoria, BC Music by: Mountain Sound AudioJungle Music Standard -Mystery Logo Audiojungle For more information about this podcast please visit us at: http://www.HauntedCanada.com To learn more about the Edmonton Ghost Tours visit us at: http://www.EdmontonGhostTours.com Written,Narrated and Produced by Nadine  Music by: Mountain Sound AudioJungle  Music Standard -Mystery Logo Audiojungle Research: The research for these stories came from Nadine’s personal research, writings and many  researched sources.  History Nerds UnitedLet's make history fun again! Come listen to interviews with today's best authors.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Edmonton Ghost Tours Alberta’s most popular Ghost Tour sharing the haunted and darker side of Edmonton. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

• SEP 4, 2021

Episode 4- 🦖 Drumheller Alberta's Most Haunted House. 🚒 Hose & Hound Calgary, AB. 🏠 Historic Rutherford House in Edmonton, AB

Episode 4 The Most Haunted House in Drumheller, ABThe Hose & House Restaurant Calgary,ABThe Rutherford House - Alberta’s First PremierFor more information about this podcast please visit us at: http://www.HauntedCanada.com To learn more about the Edmonton Ghost Tours visit us at: http://www.EdmontonGhostTours.com Written,Narrated and Produced by Nadine Bailey Music by: Mountain Sound AudioJungle  Music Standard -Mystery Logo Audiojungle Research: The research for these stories came from Nadine’s personal research and writings as well as sources list. https://traveldrumheller.com https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/drumheller-haunted-house-1.5342079 https://www.drumhellermail.com/news/31177-historic-drumheller-home-subject-of-paranormal-investigation https://www.thehose.ca https://where.ca/alberta/calgary/spooky-city-calgarys-most-haunted-houses/ https://rutherfordhouse.ca History Nerds UnitedLet's make history fun again! Come listen to interviews with today's best authors.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Edmonton Ghost Tours Alberta’s most popular Ghost Tour sharing the haunted and darker side of Edmonton. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

• JUN 28, 2021

Episode 3 - The Unsolved Murder of MaryAnn Plett. One of Edmonton, Alberta’s first female real estate agents.

Episode 3 The Unsolved Murder of MaryAnn Plett. One of Edmonton, Alberta’s first female real estate agents.  On the morning of Wednesday, Sept 15, 1971, 29 year old Mary Ann Plett, one of Edmonton, Alberta’s first female real estate agents left her office on Whyte Ave in Edmonton, Alberta to show an acreage just outside the city in nearby Looma, Alberta to a mysterious man only know as “James Cooper”.  Mary Ann Plett was never seen alive again and the mysterious “James Cooper” was never brought to justice. For more information about this podcast please visit us at: http://www.HauntedCanada.com To learn more about the Edmonton Ghost Tours visit us at: http://www.EdmontonGhostTours.com Written and Narrated by Nadine Bailey Music by: Mediation By: ashot-danielyan-composer Mountain Sound AudioJungle  Music Standard -Mystery Logo Audiojungle Research and Information Sources: https://edmontonjournal.com/news/local-news/sept-15-1971-real-estate-agents-murder-remains-a-mystery https://archive.macleans.ca/article/1978/3/6/religion https://www.sportsnet.ca/football/cfl/edmontons-cfl-team-dropping-use-name-eskimos/ Deadmonton  written by Pamala Roth Valley of Shadows written by Jake Plett https://www.canadiancrimestoppers.org History Nerds UnitedLet's make history fun again! Come listen to interviews with today's best authors.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Edmonton Ghost Tours Alberta’s most popular Ghost Tour sharing the haunted and darker side of Edmonton. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

• MAY 31, 2021

Episode 2 - MORE of Alberta’s Creepiest Ghost Stories - 🔸Walter, The Ghost Edmonton, AB 🔸 The Children’s Ward Lethbridge, AB🔸 Haunted Zoo Bridge. Calgary, AB

Episode 2 Walterdale Playhouse Edmonton, Alberta - Walter, a volunteer fireman still haunts his old fire hall. Galt Museum Lethbridge, Alberta- A former hospital that is still the home of many spirits from the old children’s ward. Haunted Zoo Bridge Calgary, Alberta- The ghostly spirt of a young boy who was tragically murdered still plays around the same bridge where his body was discovered in 1946. For more information about this podcast please visit us at: http://www.HauntedCanada.com To learn more about the Edmonton Ghost Tours visit us at: http://www.EdmontonGhostTours.com Written,Narrated and Produced by Nadine Bailey Music by: Mountain Sound AudioJungle  Music Standard -Mystery Logo Audiojungle Research: The research for these stories came from Nadine’s personal research and writings. History Nerds UnitedLet's make history fun again! Come listen to interviews with today's best authors.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Support the show

• MAY 20, 2021

Episode 1 - Three of Alberta’s Creepiest Ghost Stories. 🔸The Women in White Edmonton, AB 🔸Little Girl. Canmore, AB 🔸 Deane House. Calgary, AB 🔶 Bonus Story - The Elephant Castle Pub. Edmonton, AB

Episode 1- Alberta’s Ghosts and Hauntings Three ghost stories from Alberta, Canada.  The Princess Theatre  Edmonton, AB- “ The Women in White” still wanders around the  historic Princess Theatre where she took her own life. Little Girl Canmore, AB - A little girls spirit is seen roaming around the Canmore Receration Centre, hockey arena and walking paths.Deane House Calgary, AB  - Employee’s and customers of a fancy restaurant in Calgary, Alberta still hears the screams of the women that was murdered in the house. Bonus Story - The Elephant Castle Pub  Edmonton, ABWritten, Narrated and Produced by Nadine Bailey   http://www.EdmontonGhostTours.com http://www.HauntedCanada.com Music by: Mountain Sound AudioJungle  Music Standard -Mystery Logo Audiojungle Research: The material for these stories came from Nadine’s own research, previously written  and performed  ghost stories.   History Nerds UnitedLet's make history fun again! Come listen to interviews with today's best authors.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Edmonton Ghost Tours Alberta’s most popular Ghost Tour sharing the haunted and darker side of Edmonton. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

• © 2024 HAUNTED CANADA 🍁 Ghosts, Hauntings, and True Crimes

Customer Reviews

I love listening to your podcast. The cases from Canada are interested and more sinister. I can’t wait to hear more.

Too many pauses between phrases/ sentences

Informative but the pauses between phrases and sentences is a bit annoying. In some cases it’s necessary but too many makes your listener think you got cut off. A lot of redundancy/ repeat of the same information as well. Definitely could be better; just can’t finish the episode.

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