Drumheller simply could be the coolest place to go to in Alberta. Most individuals make a beeline to the Canadian Rockies in Banff or Jasper, however the Canadian badlands usually are not to be missed. The city of Drumheller makes for a terrific base to discover a few of Alberta’s quirkiest and most superb 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 Remarkable Landscape of Drumheller
Drumheller is a small city 90 minutes east of Calgary. It can simply be carried out on a day journey from Calgary, however to actually expertise all the superb issues to see and do close to Drumheller, you want a minimum of 3 days. We have created this journey information to encourage you to spend a while in Drumheller and discover extra of Alberta outdoors the Canadian Rockies.
If you propose to go to Drumheller, you will have a automobile. We have this stretch of highway as among the best drive in Canada. You can decide up vehicles immediately on the Calgary Airport. Check charges for automobile leases in Alberta right here.
Things to do in Drumheller
An previous coal-mining city that’s house to the richest dinosaur fossil assortment in the world, Drumheller provides loads of actions for outside lovers, historical past buffs, and images lovers. The surrounding 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 Trail
The Dinosaur Trail in Drumheller, Alberta, provides a fascinating journey via the center of Canada’s dinosaur nation, unveiling the distinctive landscapes and prehistoric heritage of the area. Winding via 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 Trail is split into the North Dinosaur Trail and the South Dinosaur Trail and we are going to break this journey information into completely different components to concentrate on every. But when visiting Drumheller you need to make sure that to see all of it.
South Dinosaur Trail
1. Hoodoos of Drumheller
The Hoodoos are the star attraction of Drumheller. They are a cluster of skinny rock spires with a dense rock cap sitting on prime. The cap protects the spires from fully eroding away. They are smaller than you’d anticipate as a bit cluster on the facet of a hill, however they’re superior. The hoodoos are positioned simply off the facet of the highway a brief stroll from the parking zone, however they’re fascinating.
If you might be up for a bit mild mountaineering, you may climb to the highest of the hill to overlook the hoodoos.
Made of sandstone, they fashioned over tons of of years of abrasion. These fairytale chimneys are very delicate and two to 4 ft each 100 years. Many individuals solely keep on the hoodoos for a couple of minutes taking in the tiny cluster of pillars sitting on the facet of the highway. But take your time to see them from all angles and ensure to hike up to the excessive lookout. Read about our expertise right here.
2. Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site
The Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site is what this space was constructed round on the flip of the twentieth century. Operating from 1936 to 1970 the Atlas Coal Mine produced coal to energy steam engines for CN and CP rail heading to the prairies. It is taken into account Canada’s best-preserved full coal mine and guests can tour the mine and might climb the final picket tipple in Canada.
You can do a self-guided tour of the grounds, however to entry the underground and tipple you will have to take a guided tour. You will see And that’s the place all of the cool stuff is! The Tipple was used to transport coal to the prepare vehicles and also you’ll be taking a visit via the underground tunnels.
Admission is Adults: $14.00 Youth/Senior: $11.00 (Self-guided) Where to Stay in Drumheller: If you might be in search of lodging in Drumheller, we suggest Heartwood Inn and Spa. There is a overview on the backside of this submit.
3. East Coulee School Museum
If you need to pop right into a museum to be taught a bit extra about life in the coal mining days. The East Coulee School Museum is a ghost city set in an previous schoolhouse that focuses on life at house for the households of the miners from 1930 – 1971.
It serves as each a commemorative institution and an academic heart, 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. If you cease in for a go to you will notice the historic faculty constructing and expertise what it was like in the classroom and there’s a coal mining exhibit, artifacts, and images.
4. Last Chance Saloon
It could be the first cease in your drive south from Drumheller, however we propose stopping right here in your method again, it’s a terrific place for lunch or dinner. The Last Chance Saloon is among the coolest locations to eat in Alberta! To get there, you want to detour off Highway 10 to Highway 10x and drive west.
After crossing 11 bridges zigzagging over the Red Deer River, you arrive on the Last Chance Saloon. This was a wild west sort of saloon the place coal miners spent their paycheck on the weekends and lots of a brawl broke out. They have made positive to go away bullet holes on the partitions to present the rowdy heritage. You’ll undoubtedly need to stroll via and peruse the images and memorabilia. It’s a residing museum!
5. Wayne
The Last Chance Saloon, is positioned in the ghost city of Wayne positioned 14km southeast of Drumheller. This was the center of the mining trade the place as soon as 3000 individuals lived in the city, and 10,000 lived in the encompassing communities.
The 11 one-lane bridges are definitely worth the drive alone, they’re in the Guinness Book of World Records as probably the most bridges positioned in the shortest distance. (Guinness will measure something!) The solely construction left standing in the present day is the Rosedeer Hotel which is linked to the Last Chance Saloon. Read about our full highway journey at The Cowboy Trail – A Southern Alberta Road Trip
6. Star Mine Suspension Bridge
Note: The Rosedale Suspension bridge is completely closed however we thought we’d go away in a bit bit in regards to the historical past.
Constructed in 1931 the Star Mine Suspension Bridge, (aka Rossdale Suspension Bridge) is a bridge spanning the Red Deer River which you could stroll throughout. This 117-meter-long suspension bridge was created to give coal miners from the Rosedale group entry to the Atlas Coal Mine. Before that, they rowed throughout the river.
7. North Dinosaur Trail Drumheller
The North Trail takes you on a loop north of Drumheller alongside Hwy 837 and 838. There is lots to see on this 48 km loop. Heading out of Drumheller the path will lead you alongside the north facet of the Red Deer River. This route provides lovely views of the badlands, the Little Church, and the Bleriot Ferry crossing.
Make positive to take your time to go for hikes and benefit from the viewpoints. The complete appeal of this a part of Alberta is experiencing the awe-inspiring surroundings.
Another nice Alberta Road journey is the Icefields Parkway. Check it out right 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 ft (26 meters) tall and 151 ft (46 meters) lengthy, making it almost 4 occasions bigger than an actual T. rex would have been.
Across the Street is Rotary Spray Park which is a well-liked vacation spot for households, particularly in the course of the hotter months. The park provides a wide range of actions and services to hold guests of all ages entertained. The park options a big spray pad with varied water options, fountains, and spray nozzles that kids can run via and play in. It’s an effective way to cool off on a scorching day.
10. Hoodoo Trail
The hoodoos of Drumheller are all the motive we needed to go to Drumheller in Alberta. So beginning on the Hoodoo Trail is our primary factor to do. From Drumheller, begin driving south alongside Highway 56 to freeway 10 following the Red Deer River. Most of the route is positioned in Midland Provincial Park which provides loads of pull-offs and picnic stops. The Hoodoo Trail is an out-and-back route totaling solely 50km. (23.5 km every method) Read extra: The Hoodoos of Drumheller
We recommend going immediately to the Hoodoos in the morning earlier than they get too busy after which take your time exploring the remainder of the path. Read extra of our southern Alberta Road Trip right here.
11. Royal Tyrrell Museum
We aren’t ones to gush over museums, however the Royal Tyrrell Museum is superb! 75 million years in the past, dinosaurs roamed this land they usually left their mark throughout Drumheller. The Royal Tyrell Museum is the perfect dinosaur museum in the world displaying the finds which have been found all through Drumheller and the Badlands. Unlike most museums all over the world 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 in the world and there are precise Paleontologists engaged on bones. You can method them to discuss to them, and there are others working behind glass displaying you what’s concerned in excavations.
12. Badlands Interpretive Trail
While you might be on the Royal Tyrrell Museum, take a stroll alongside the Badlands Interpretive Trail positioned in Midland Provincial Park.
Once you arrive on the park, you may observe the indicators to find the start line of the Badlands Interpretive Trail. The path provides a possibility to be taught in regards to the geology, paleontology, and ecology of the Canadian Badlands.
13. Horsethief Canyon
The first viewpoint you will notice alongside this drive is Horsethief Canyon. It is the basic Alberta Badlands web site and what a sight to behold! Horsethief Canyon received its identify from cowboy outlaws hiding stolen horses in the 1800s. When wanting on the canyon beneath, you may see the way it made for a terrific hiding place!
You can really see the layers of time etched in the canyon partitions. There are platforms to take in the scenic views and you may go mountaineering. I extremely suggest mountaineering via the badlands. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime alternative. Just be certain to convey loads of water, it will get scorching!
14. Little Church
As we stated above, Canadians love a highway facet attraction and the Little Church of Drumheller is unquestionably that! Built in 1968 as a spot for meditation and worship. It can be 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 Red Deer River through the use of the Bleriot Ferry. It’s free and it’s at all times cool to take a ferry. Operating day by day from 8 am to 11 pm from May via 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
Once you cross the river, you at the moment are on the best way again alongside the Dinosaur Trail and the Orkney Viewpoint provides lovely views of the Red Deer River Valley. Located on excessive purple 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 method to Drumheller. Or if you’re us, the final cease you see in your method out. But it will possibly completely be carried out on the Dinosaur Trail. Horseshoe Canyon has a 3.9 kilometer loop path for higher views of its coulees and hoodoos and the abundance of wildflowers that develop in the canyons. Keep in thoughts, it will possibly get highly regarded in the Alberta Badlands, so at all times carry water.
18. Dinosaur Provincial Park
After spending a few days in Drumheller exploring the Dinosaur Trail and the Hoodoo Trail, make your method to Dinosaur Provincial Park to actually dig into the dinosaur tradition.
19. Centrosaurus Quarry Hike
Located in the center of the Alberta Badlands, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is house to the richest assortment of dinosaur fossils on earth. You can take a tour out to The Centrosaurus Quarry to see precise dinosaur fossils. Once what you might be in search of (which you find out about on this guided hike) they’re all over the place. Much of the park is off-limits as it’s nonetheless a working excavation web site, however there are a number of tour alternatives.
We actually loved our hike, however we additionally took a sundown tour by bus taking us out to all of the superb lookouts in search of its wealthy deposits of dinosaur bones. Dinosaur Provincial Park deserves a few days to discover. Read all about it right here.
When to Visit Drumheller
When visiting the Drumheller space there are some things to think about. We have damaged down the perfect time to go to.
Late Spring (May to June): The climate begins to heat up, and the panorama comes alive with blooming wildflowers. Outdoor sights and trails are open for exploration. There is perhaps fewer crowds in contrast to the height summer season months. Summer (July to August): This is the height vacationer season in Drumheller, with heat temperatures and lengthy days. Most occasions, festivals, and outside actions are scheduled throughout these months. Popular sights just like the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the World’s Largest Dinosaur may 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 pleasurable.
Things to Consider:
Weather: The climate in Drumheller may be fairly variable, so it’s sensible to examine the forecast and are available ready with layers, solar safety, and applicable footwear. Crowds: If you favor a quieter expertise, contemplate visiting in the course of the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) to keep away from peak crowds. Attractions Availability: While summer season provides probably the most accessibility to sights, some websites and actions stay open in the low season, providing a unique expertise. Events: Check the native occasion calendar for festivals, exhibitions, or different happenings throughout your go to.
Regardless of once you go to, Drumheller provides a singular and enriching expertise with its fascinating dinosaur heritage, placing badlands panorama, and a wide range of indoor and outside actions.
Drumheller Itinerary in Two Days
To assist you to plan a visit to Drumheller, we put collectively a straightforward downtown Drumheller Itinerary in two days. Enjoy!
Day 1: Exploring Prehistoric Wonders
Morning: Royal Tyrrell Museum
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM Activity: Begin your Drumheller journey on the Royal Tyrrell Museum. Explore the fascinating displays showcasing Canada’s prehistoric previous, that includes one of many world’s largest shows of dinosaurs. Tips: Arrive early to keep away from crowds. Don’t overlook to try the museum’s rotating particular displays!
Lunch: Bernie and the Boys Bistro
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Activity: Enjoy a hearty meal at this native favourite, recognized for its mammoth-sized burgers and milkshakes. Location: 305 4 St W, Drumheller, AB T0J 0X0, Canada
Afternoon: Drumheller’s Giant Dinosaur & Fossil World
Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM Activity: Climb contained in the World’s Largest Dinosaur and benefit from the panoramic views of Drumheller. Afterward, head to Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Center for interactive displays and fossil digging actions. Tips: The climb contained in the Giant Dinosaur entails stairs, so put on comfy footwear!
Dinner: Sublime Food and Wine
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Activity: Indulge in a effective eating expertise at Sublime Food and Wine, having fun with locally-sourced dishes in a comfy ambiance. Location: 109 Centre St, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0, Canada
Evening: Drumheller Valley Lookout
Time: 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM Activity: End your day by watching the sundown over the gorgeous landscapes of the Drumheller Valley from one of many scenic lookouts. Tips: Bring a light-weight jacket, as it will possibly get chilly in the night.
Day 2: Adventure & Scenic Beauty
Morning: Horsethief Canyon & Bleriot Ferry
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM Activity: Start with the picturesque Horsethief Canyon, adopted by a trip on the historic Bleriot Ferry throughout the Red Deer River. Tips: Wear sturdy footwear for mountaineering and produce your digicam for some lovely panorama images!
Lunch: WHIFS Flapjack House
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Activity: 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 Adventure
Time: 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM Activity: Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Horseshoe Canyon. Consider reserving an ATV tour for an exhilarating trip via the canyons. Tips: Dress appropriately for outside actions and produce water to keep hydrated.
Dinner: Yavis Family Restaurant
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Activity: Conclude your adventure-filled day with a calming meal at Yavis Family Restaurant, an area institution providing a various menu. Location: 1102 AB-9, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y3, Canada
Evening: Ghost Walk Tour
Time: 8:30 PM – 10:00 PM Activity: If obtainable, be a part of an area ghost stroll tour to discover the eerie and mysterious facet of Drumheller, studying about native legends and folklore. Tips: Wear comfy strolling footwear and produce a flashlight.
This two-day itinerary provides a mixture of journey, historical past, and pure magnificence, showcasing the distinctive appeal of Drumheller, Alberta. Make positive to examine the provision of actions and opening hours of venues in advance, as they will range relying on the time of yr. Safe travels!
Where to Stay in Drumheller
Heartwood Inn and Spa is a well-liked selection in Drumheller. We stayed right here and liked it! Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson stayed right here in the course of the filming of Shanghai Noon. 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 provides wonderful recommendation.
We particularly loved their well-known French Toast in the morning. It’s the one factor they serve for breakfast. As the proprietor stated to us “I do one thing and one thing very well.” Yum!
Other Places to Stay in Drumheller
Cactus Coulee Fun Park & RV Resort is a good place to keep in Drumheller with youngsters. Even if you’re not staying at Cactus Coulee Fun 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 good spot to stick with tenting, cabins, and RV hook-up.
Dinosaur Provincial Park has tenting as nicely. Read: Dinosaur Provincial Park – Glamping Tour in the Alberta Badlands
And these are the highest sights close to Drumheller. Have you been to the Alberta Badlands? Where is your favourite place to go to in Alberta?