Drumheller simply would be the coolest place to visit in Alberta. Most individuals make a beeline to the Canadian Rockies in Banff or Jasper, however the Canadian badlands are to not be missed. The city of Drumheller makes for a terrific base to discover a few of Alberta’s quirkiest and most wonderful sights. So let’s discover the dinosaur capital of the world and take a look at all of the cool issues to do in Drumheller.
The Exceptional Panorama of Drumheller
Drumheller is a small city 90 minutes east of Calgary. It could simply be executed on a day trip from Calgary, however to essentially expertise the entire wonderful issues to see and do close to Drumheller, you want not less than 3 days. We have now created this journey information to encourage you to spend a while in Drumheller and discover extra of Alberta outdoors the Canadian Rockies.
Should you plan to go to Drumheller, you want a automotive. We have now this stretch of street as top-of-the-line drive in Canada. You possibly can decide up automobiles immediately on the Calgary Airport. Test charges for automotive leases in Alberta here.
Issues to do in Drumheller
An previous coal-mining city that’s dwelling to the richest dinosaur fossil assortment on this planet, Drumheller gives loads of actions for outside fans, historical past buffs, and pictures lovers. The encompassing Drumheller space is simply as fascinating because the gorgeous Canadian Rockies, so let’s get began and take a look at what to do in Drumheller and past!
Dinosaur Path
The Dinosaur Path in Drumheller, Alberta, gives a fascinating journey by way of the guts of Canada’s dinosaur nation, unveiling the distinctive landscapes and prehistoric heritage of the area. Winding by way of the dramatic badlands and rolling hills, this scenic route options an array of notable sights, together with the famend Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, which homes one of many world’s largest shows of dinosaur fossils.
The Path is split into the North Dinosaur Path and the South Dinosaur Path and we are going to break this journey information into totally different elements to concentrate on every. However when visiting Drumheller you need to ensure that to see all of it.
South Dinosaur Path
1. Hoodoos of Drumheller
The Hoodoos are the star attraction of Drumheller. They’re a cluster of skinny rock spires with a dense rock cap sitting on prime. The cap protects the spires from fully eroding away. They’re smaller than you’d anticipate as slightly cluster on the aspect of a hill, however they’re superior. The hoodoos are positioned simply off the aspect of the street a brief stroll from the parking zone, however they’re fascinating.
If you’re up for slightly mild climbing, you may climb to the highest of the hill to miss the hoodoos.
Made from sandstone, they shaped over a whole bunch of years of abrasion. These fairytale chimneys are very delicate and two to 4 toes each 100 years. Many individuals solely keep on the hoodoos for a couple of minutes taking within the tiny cluster of pillars sitting on the aspect of the street. However take your time to see them from all angles and ensure to hike as much as the excessive lookout. Read about our experience here.
2. Atlas Coal Mine Nationwide Historic Web site
The Atlas Coal Mine Nationwide Historic Web site is what this space was constructed round on the flip of the twentieth century. Working from 1936 to 1970 the Atlas Coal Mine produced coal to energy steam engines for CN and CP rail heading to the prairies. It’s thought-about Canada’s best-preserved full coal mine and guests can tour the mine and might climb the final wood tipple in Canada.
You are able to do a self-guided tour of the grounds, however to entry the underground and tipple you’ll need to take a guided tour. You will note And that’s the place all of the cool stuff is! The Tipple was used to move coal to the prepare automobiles and also you’ll be taking a visit by way of the underground tunnels.
- Admission is Adults: $14.00 Youth/Senior: $11.00 (Self-guided)
- The place to Keep in Drumheller: If you’re on the lookout for lodging in Drumheller, we suggest Heartwood Inn and Spa. There’s a overview on the backside of this submit.
3. East Coulee Faculty Museum
If you wish to pop right into a museum to study a bit extra about life within the coal mining days. The East Coulee Faculty Museum is a ghost city set in an previous schoolhouse that focuses on life at dwelling for the households of the miners from 1930 – 1971.
It serves as each a commemorative institution and an academic middle, aiming to protect and depict the historical past and heritage of the East Coulee space and its individuals, notably specializing in the lifetime of coal miners and their households. Should you cease in for a go to you will note the historic faculty constructing and expertise what it was like within the classroom and there’s a coal mining exhibit, artifacts, and images.
4. Final Probability Saloon
It might be the primary cease in your drive south from Drumheller, however we propose stopping right here in your means again, it’s a terrific place for lunch or dinner. The Final Probability Saloon is without doubt one of the coolest locations to eat in Alberta! To get there, you could detour off Freeway 10 to Freeway 10x and drive west.
After crossing 11 bridges zigzagging over the Pink Deer River, you arrive on the Final Probability Saloon. This was a wild west sort of saloon the place coal miners spent their paycheck on the weekends and plenty of a brawl broke out. They’ve made certain to go away bullet holes on the partitions to point out the rowdy heritage. You’ll undoubtedly need to stroll by way of and peruse the images and memorabilia. It’s a residing museum!
5. Wayne
The Final Probability Saloon, is positioned within the ghost city of Wayne positioned 14km southeast of Drumheller. This was the guts of the mining business the place as soon as 3000 individuals lived within the city, and 10,000 lived within the surrounding communities.
The 11 one-lane bridges are well worth the drive alone, they’re within the Guinness Ebook of World Information as probably the most bridges positioned within the shortest distance. (Guinness will measure something!) The one construction left standing as we speak is the Rosedeer Resort which is related to the Final Probability Saloon. Examine our full street journey at The Cowboy Trail – A Southern Alberta Road Trip
6. Star Mine Suspension Bridge
Observe: The Rosedale Suspension bridge is completely closed however we thought we’d depart in slightly bit concerning the historical past.
Constructed in 1931 the Star Mine Suspension Bridge, (aka Rossdale Suspension Bridge) is a bridge spanning the Pink Deer River which you could stroll throughout. This 117-meter-long suspension bridge was created to offer coal miners from the Rosedale neighborhood entry to the Atlas Coal Mine. Earlier than that, they rowed throughout the river.
7. North Dinosaur Path Drumheller
The North Path takes you on a loop north of Drumheller alongside Hwy 837 and 838. There’s a lot to see on this 48 km loop. Heading out of Drumheller the path will lead you alongside the north aspect of the Pink Deer River. This route gives lovely views of the badlands, the Little Church, and the Bleriot Ferry crossing.
Be sure that to take your time to go for hikes and benefit from the viewpoints. The entire attraction of this a part of Alberta is experiencing the awe-inspiring surroundings.
One other nice Alberta Highway journey is the Icefields Parkway. Check it out here.
8. World’s Largest Dinosaur
Canadians love roadside sights, and it’s becoming that the dinosaur capital of the world shows the world’s largest Dinosaur. The construction is a mannequin Tyrannosaurus rex that stands roughly 86 toes (26 meters) tall and 151 toes (46 meters) lengthy, making it practically 4 occasions bigger than an actual T. rex would have been.
Throughout the Road is Rotary Spray Park which is a well-liked vacation spot for households, particularly through the hotter months. The park gives quite a lot of actions and amenities to maintain guests of all ages entertained. The park options a big spray pad with numerous water options, fountains, and spray nozzles that kids can run by way of and play in. It’s an effective way to chill off on a sizzling day.
10. Hoodoo Path
The hoodoos of Drumheller are all the motive we needed to go to Drumheller in Alberta. So beginning on the Hoodoo Path is our primary factor to do. From Drumheller, begin driving south alongside Freeway 56 to freeway 10 following the Pink Deer River. Many of the route is positioned in Midland Provincial Park which gives loads of pull-offs and picnic stops. The Hoodoo Path is an out-and-back route totaling solely 50km. (23.5 km every means) Learn extra: The Hoodoos of Drumheller
We advise going on to the Hoodoos within the morning earlier than they get too busy after which take your time exploring the remainder of the path. Learn extra of our southern Alberta Highway Journey here.
11. Royal Tyrrell Museum
We aren’t ones to gush over museums, however the Royal Tyrrell Museum is wonderful! 75 million years in the past, dinosaurs roamed this land and so they left their mark throughout Drumheller. The Royal Tyrell Museum is the most effective dinosaur museum on this planet displaying the finds which have been found all through Drumheller and the Badlands. In contrast to most museums around the globe the place dinosaur skeletons are faux, the Royal Tyrell sows actual dinosaur bones.
Plus, The Royal Tyrell Museum has the best-preserved genuine T-Rex skulls on this planet and there are precise Paleontologists engaged on bones. You possibly can strategy them to speak to them, and there are others working behind glass exhibiting you what’s concerned in excavations.
12. Badlands Interpretive Path
If you are on the Royal Tyrrell Museum, take a stroll alongside the Badlands Interpretive Path positioned in Midland Provincial Park.
When you arrive on the park, you may comply with the indicators to find the start line of the Badlands Interpretive Path. The path gives a possibility to study concerning the geology, paleontology, and ecology of the Canadian Badlands.
13. Horsethief Canyon
The primary viewpoint you will note alongside this drive is Horsethief Canyon. It’s the basic Alberta Badlands website and what a sight to behold! Horsethief Canyon obtained its identify from cowboy outlaws hiding stolen horses within the 1800s. When wanting on the canyon beneath, you may see the way it made for a terrific hiding place!
You possibly can really see the layers of time etched within the canyon partitions. There are platforms to absorb the scenic views and you’ll go climbing. I extremely suggest climbing by way of the badlands. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime alternative. Simply make sure you carry loads of water, it will get sizzling!
14. Little Church
As we mentioned above, Canadians love a street aspect attraction and the Little Church of Drumheller is certainly that! Inbuilt 1968 as a spot for meditation and worship. Additionally it is a vacationer attraction in Drumheller attracting 10,000 individuals six at a time. It seats six individuals and nonetheless operates as a marriage chapel and holding companies. How cool would it not be to get married right here?
15. Bleriot Ferry
Cross the Pink Deer River by utilizing the Bleriot Ferry. It’s free and it’s all the time cool to take a ferry. Working day by day from 8 am to 11 pm from Could by way of September, this little ferry crossing has been in operation since 1913. It’s the oldest cable ferry in North America! And the ferry is free!
16. Orkney Viewpoint
When you cross the river, you are actually on the way in which again alongside the Dinosaur Path and the Orkney Viewpoint gives lovely views of the Pink Deer River Valley. Positioned on excessive crimson rock cliffs, it’s the quintessential Alberta view.
17. Horseshoe Canyon
When driving from Calgary this would be the first cease you see in your option to Drumheller. Or in case you are us, the final cease you see in your means out. However it could actually completely be executed on the Dinosaur Path. Horseshoe Canyon has a 3.9 kilometer loop path for higher views of its coulees and hoodoos and the abundance of wildflowers that develop within the canyons. Take into accout, it could actually get extremely popular within the Alberta Badlands, so all the time carry water.
18. Dinosaur Provincial Park
After spending a few days in Drumheller exploring the Dinosaur Path and the Hoodoo Path, make your option to Dinosaur Provincial Park to essentially dig into the dinosaur tradition.
19. Centrosaurus Quarry Hike
Positioned within the coronary heart of the Alberta Badlands, this UNESCO World Heritage Web site is dwelling to the richest assortment of dinosaur fossils on earth. You possibly can take a tour out to The Centrosaurus Quarry to see precise dinosaur fossils. As soon as you realize what you might be on the lookout for (which you study on this guided hike) they’re in all places. A lot of the park is off-limits as it’s nonetheless a working excavation website, however there are a couple of tour alternatives.
We actually loved our hike, however we additionally took a sundown tour by bus taking us out to all of the wonderful lookouts looking for its wealthy deposits of dinosaur bones. Dinosaur Provincial Park deserves a few days to discover. Read all about it here.
When to Go to Drumheller
When visiting the Drumheller space there are some things to take into accounts. We have now damaged down the most effective time to go to.
- Late Spring (Could to June):
- The climate begins to heat up, and the panorama comes alive with blooming wildflowers.
- Outside sights and trails are open for exploration.
- There is perhaps fewer crowds in comparison with the height summer time months.
- Summer season (July to August):
- That is the height vacationer season in Drumheller, with heat temperatures and lengthy days.
- Most occasions, festivals, and outside actions are scheduled throughout these months.
- Standard sights just like the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the World’s Largest Dinosaur will be busy, so plan accordingly.
- Early Fall (September):
- The climate stays nice, however the crowds begin to diminish.
- The panorama options lovely fall colours, and outside actions are nonetheless fulfilling.
Issues to Take into account:
- Climate: The climate in Drumheller will be fairly variable, so it’s sensible to verify the forecast and are available ready with layers, solar safety, and acceptable footwear.
- Crowds: Should you choose a quieter expertise, take into account visiting through the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) to keep away from peak crowds.
- Sights Availability: Whereas summer time gives probably the most accessibility to sights, some websites and actions stay open within the low season, providing a unique expertise.
- Occasions: Test the native occasion calendar for festivals, exhibitions, or different happenings throughout your go to.
No matter while you go to, Drumheller gives a singular and enriching expertise with its fascinating dinosaur heritage, placing badlands panorama, and quite a lot of indoor and outside actions.
Drumheller Itinerary in Two Days
That can assist you plan a visit to Drumheller, we put collectively a straightforward downtown Drumheller Itinerary in two days. Take pleasure in!
Day 1: Exploring Prehistoric Wonders
Morning: Royal Tyrrell Museum
- Time: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Exercise: Start your Drumheller journey on the Royal Tyrrell Museum. Discover the fascinating reveals showcasing Canada’s prehistoric previous, that includes one of many world’s largest shows of dinosaurs.
- Ideas: Arrive early to keep away from crowds. Don’t neglect to take a look at the museum’s rotating particular reveals!
Lunch: Bernie and the Boys Bistro
- Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
- Exercise: Take pleasure in a hearty meal at this native favourite, identified for its mammoth-sized burgers and milkshakes.
- Location: 305 4 St W, Drumheller, AB T0J 0X0, Canada
Afternoon: Drumheller’s Large Dinosaur & Fossil World
- Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
- Exercise: Climb contained in the World’s Largest Dinosaur and benefit from the panoramic views of Drumheller. Afterward, head to Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Middle for interactive reveals and fossil digging actions.
- Ideas: The climb contained in the Large Dinosaur includes stairs, so put on comfy sneakers!
Dinner: Chic Meals and Wine
- Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Exercise: Bask in a tremendous eating expertise at Chic Meals and Wine, having fun with locally-sourced dishes in a comfortable ambiance.
- Location: 109 Centre St, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0, Canada
Night: Drumheller Valley Lookout
- Time: 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Exercise: Finish your day by watching the sundown over the gorgeous landscapes of the Drumheller Valley from one of many scenic lookouts.
- Ideas: Carry a light-weight jacket, as it could actually get chilly within the night.
Day 2: Journey & Scenic Magnificence
Morning: Horsethief Canyon & Bleriot Ferry
- Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Exercise: Begin with the picturesque Horsethief Canyon, adopted by a trip on the historic Bleriot Ferry throughout the Pink Deer River.
- Ideas: Put on sturdy sneakers for climbing and convey your digicam for some lovely panorama images!
Lunch: WHIFS Flapjack Home
- Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
- Exercise: Savor some scrumptious pancakes and different hearty breakfast fare at this native gem.
- Location: 680 2 St E, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0, Canada
Afternoon: Horseshoe Canyon & ATV Journey
- Time: 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM
- Exercise: Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Horseshoe Canyon. Take into account reserving an ATV tour for an exhilarating trip by way of the canyons.
- Ideas: Gown appropriately for outside actions and convey water to remain hydrated.
Dinner: Yavis Household Restaurant
- Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Exercise: Conclude your adventure-filled day with a calming meal at Yavis Household Restaurant, a neighborhood institution providing a various menu.
- Location: 1102 AB-9, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y3, Canada
Night: Ghost Stroll Tour
- Time: 8:30 PM – 10:00 PM
- Exercise: If accessible, be a part of a neighborhood ghost stroll tour to discover the eerie and mysterious aspect of Drumheller, studying about native legends and folklore.
- Ideas: Put on comfy strolling sneakers and convey a flashlight.
This two-day itinerary gives a mixture of journey, historical past, and pure magnificence, showcasing the distinctive attraction of Drumheller, Alberta. Be sure that to verify the supply of actions and opening hours of venues prematurely, as they will range relying on the time of 12 months. Protected travels!
The place to Keep in Drumheller
Heartwood Inn and Spa is a well-liked selection in Drumheller. We stayed right here and cherished it! Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson stayed right here through the filming of Shanghai Midday. If it’s ok for them it’s ok for Dave and Deb! It’s a terrific inn with elegant rooms and pleasant homeowners. It’s the kind of place that takes an curiosity in what you see and do and offers wonderful recommendation.
We particularly loved their well-known French Toast within the morning. It’s the one factor they serve for breakfast. Because the proprietor mentioned to us “I do one factor and one factor very nicely.” Yum!
Different Locations to Keep in Drumheller
Cactus Coulee Enjoyable Park & RV Resort is a good place to remain in Drumheller with children. Even in case you are not staying at Cactus Coulee Enjoyable Park & RV Resort, you may go to for the day and benefit from the sights like go-karting, mini golf and EuroBungy
Horseshoe Canyon Campground is one other excellent place to stick with tenting, cabins, and RV hook-up.
Dinosaur Provincial Park has tenting as nicely. Learn: Dinosaur Provincial Park – Glamping Tour in the Alberta Badlands
And these are the highest sights close to Drumheller. Have you ever been to the Alberta Badlands? The place is your favourite place to go to in Alberta?
