Badlands Tour: Drumheller with Museum, Hoodoos & Dinosaurs

Experience Alberta’s Badlands and Dinosaur Heritage on a Full-Day Tour from Calgary

If you’re craving a mix of spectacular geology, rich paleontology, and authentic small-town charm, this Badlands Tour to Drumheller offers a well-rounded day. Starting in Calgary, you’ll explore Horseshoe Canyon, visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum, stand beneath the World’s Largest Dinosaur, and marvel at the bizarre Hoodoos formations. The tour costs around $150-$180 per person, lasts about 9-10 hours, and includes all major site admissions and a knowledgeable guide who keeps the day lively and informative.

What we love about this trip is how it balances stunning scenery with educational value. The Royal Tyrrell Museum showcases some of the finest dinosaur fossils in the world, making it a highlight for anyone interested in prehistoric life. The Hoodoos Trail offers quirky, mushroom-shaped rocks that are both photogenic and a reminder of natural erosion processes. Plus, the scenic drive through Alberta’s prairies and Badlands provides a peaceful backdrop, with plenty of photo stops to soak in the views.

A potential drawback is the long day’s schedule—it involves early mornings and a fair amount of driving, which might not suit those seeking a more relaxed pace or only a taste of the region. Also, the Atlas Coal Mine is closed for the season, but the tour compensates with an extra stop at the Last Chance Saloon, which adds a fun historic touch.

This tour is perfect for geology buffs, dinosaur enthusiasts, families, and curious travelers who enjoy a mix of facts, history, and eye-popping landscapes. If you’re looking for a full day of discovery with a guide who shares insider insights, this experience is worth considering.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience covering geology, paleontology, and local history in one day
• Expert guides enhance the understanding of each site with local knowledge
• All-inclusive price with museum tickets and key stops included
• Stunning scenery of Badlands, hoodoos, and canyons for memorable photos
• Family-friendly hikes and accessible trails suitable for all ages
• Long but rewarding day, ideal for those who enjoy full-day excursions

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Drumheller Badlands: A Complete Review

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins with convenient pickup options in Calgary from five select locations, including the Holiday Inn, Hyatt Regency, Tim Hortons, Delta Hotels, and the downtown hotel. The tour departs early around 8:25–9:00 AM, so we recommend arriving a few minutes early. The transportation is in a comfortable van or SUV, depending on the size of your group, which makes for a relaxed environment for the full day. You’ll be riding through some of Alberta’s most scenic prairies, which gradually give way to the dramatic Badlands.

Horseshoe Canyon: Nature’s Geological Masterpiece

Your first stop is Horseshoe Canyon, about 40 minutes from Calgary. This U-shaped valley is carved into the Canadian Badlands and offers stunning panoramic views. The steep, layered cliffs tell stories of millions of years of geological change, and the scenery provides great photo opportunities. We loved the way the vibrant colors of the rocks contrasted with the blue sky, creating a picture-perfect landscape. The trails are winding but manageable, allowing for a quick hike into the canyon floor if you’re up for it.

The World’s Largest Dinosaur: A Guilty Pleasure

Next, you’ll visit the World’s Largest Dinosaur, a 26-meter T-Rex sculpture that’s both fun and impressive. It’s a prime photo spot, and the chance to climb inside and look out through its open mouth makes it memorable. As one reviewer put it, “You can even climb inside the dinosaur and peek through its open mouth for panoramic views of Drumheller,” which feels like an adventure for kids and adults alike. It’s a quirky highlight that adds some humor to the day.

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The Royal Tyrrell Museum: Canada’s Dinosaur Depot

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is the crown jewel of this tour. Recognized worldwide for its dinosaur fossil collection, it’s the only museum in Canada dedicated solely to paleontology. We found it extremely well-curated, with fossils of Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops, and Albertosaurus on display. The museum’s exhibits are engaging, interactive, and informative, making it a must-see for anyone interested in prehistoric creatures. The Can’t-miss is the Badlands Interpretive Trail behind the museum, offering a quick hike with interpretive signs explaining erosion and rock formations.

One reviewer, Anish, the guide, was praised for his knowledge and engaging storytelling, which made the exhibits come alive. This is a great stop to get a sense of the immense scale and diversity of dinosaur fossils in Alberta.

Quirky Little Church and Downtown Drumheller

A quick stop at the Little Church, a tiny yet functional place of worship, adds a quaint touch before heading into town. Then it’s time to see the largest dinosaur sculpture, an iconic symbol of Drumheller. From here, you can explore small local shops, grab snacks, or relax at a nearby café.

Lunch Break

You’ll have time to enjoy a sit-down meal at one of Drumheller’s popular cafes or restaurants. This break is a good chance to refuel and discuss the morning’s highlights. Many travelers appreciate how the tour allows you to experience local flavors and soak in the small-town atmosphere.

Hoodoos Trail and Star Mine Suspension Bridge

After lunch, the tour takes you to the Hoodoos Trail, about 15 minutes away. These mushroom-shaped rocks are among the most distinctive formations in the Canadian Badlands, formed over millions of years of erosion. The accessible trail makes it easy for all ages to walk among these natural sculptures. Interpretive signs explain how the hoodoos form, adding an educational touch. One traveler noted, “The Hoodoos are a bizarre, almost surreal landscape that’s unlike anything else.”

The nearby Star Mine Suspension Bridge offers a quick 117-meter walk over the Red Deer River. It’s a great spot for photos and understanding Drumheller’s coal-mining past, with some historic insights provided along the way.

The Last Chance Saloon and Historic Charm

Instead of the Atlas Coal Mine (which is closed in the season), the tour visits the Last Chance Saloon in the ghost town of Wayne. The saloon exudes Western charm, with a lively atmosphere and hearty food. It’s a favorite for travelers wanting to glimpse Alberta’s “wild west” past, and many reviews mention the great food and authentic atmosphere.

Scenic Drive Back and Sunset Views

As your day winds down, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive back to Calgary. If timing aligns, you might catch the warm glow of the sunset over the prairies—an ideal way to reflect on a day filled with fossils, rock formations, and rugged landscapes.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This full-day tour offers a comprehensive look at the geological wonders, dinosaur history, and historic sites of Alberta’s Badlands. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it especially appealing for those who love learning on the go and want a personalized experience. The museum visit and Hoodoo hike provide tangible, memorable moments, while the scenic drives and photo stops keep the journey engaging.

If you’re interested in dinosaurs, geology, or quirky roadside attractions, this tour offers good value. It’s suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who don’t mind a full schedule. Keep in mind the long hours and some walking involved—packing comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure will make the most of it.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Calgary to Drumheller?
The drive takes about 1.5 hours, providing a scenic introduction from the city to the Badlands landscape.

Are all site admissions included?
Yes, the tour price covers admission to the Royal Tyrrell Museum and all key stops, except for optional personal shopping or dining.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, a jacket, and a reusable water bottle are recommended for comfort and practicality.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The trails, museums, and outdoor stops are family-friendly and accessible for all ages.

Can I sit out the longer hikes?
Yes, the hikes are generally manageable, and you can choose to stay at scenic viewpoints rather than walking the trails.

What is the guide like?
Reviewers mention guides like Anish as knowledgeable and engaging, making the trip educational and fun.

Is this tour flexible?
The itinerary is fixed, but the small group size allows some flexibility in timing and stops, especially if requested in advance.

What if it rains?
The tour operates rain or shine. Be sure to bring an umbrella or rain jacket for outdoor stops.

How much time do we spend at each site?
Expect about 40 minutes at Horseshoe Canyon, 2 hours at the Tyrrell Museum, 15 minutes at the Little Church, around 40 minutes in Drumheller town, and 45 minutes at Hoodoos Trail, with additional time for lunch and scenic drives.

In essence, this tour offers a well-organized, memorable day that balances educational insights with stunning landscapes. It’s perfect for anyone eager to see Alberta’s wild, prehistoric side without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. Prepare for an adventure that’ll leave you with plenty of photos, stories, and a deep appreciation for the land of dinosaurs and badlands.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby