Calgary to Drumheller Dinosaur Exploration Tour

Start your day with a scenic 1.30 hours drive from Calgary to Drumheller, where Alberta’s prairies transform into the dramatic canyons of the Badlands.
Your first stop is Horseshoe Canyon, a breathtaking U-shaped valley with layered cliffs and hiking trails.

Next, visit the world-renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum, home to one of the largest collections of dinosaur skeletons, and enjoy a short hike on the Badlands Interpretive Trail.

Stop by the tiny yet Little Church before heading into town to see the 26m-tall World’s Largest Dinosaur.

Stroll Drumheller’s Downtown Plaza for shops and snacks, then enjoy lunch at a local café.

In the afternoon, explore the Hoodoos Trail with its iconic mushroom-shaped rock formations and visit the historic Star Mine Suspension Bridge.

If time allows, discover the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site. (Note: Closed for the Season. On closures, we visit the Last Chance Saloon.) Conclude with a scenic sunset drive back to Calgary.

Meeting Point

Holiday Inn & Suites Calgary Airport North by IHG

20 Freeport Pl NE, Calgary, AB T3J 0T6, Canada

Please meet at 8:50 to 9 AM just outside the hotel's main entrance.

Hyatt Regency Calgary

700 Centre St S, Calgary, AB T2G 5P6, Canada

Please meet at 8:30 AM just outside the hotel's main entrance.

Delta Hotels Calgary Downtown

209 4 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0C6, Canada

To ensure a smooth and timely start to your tour, please be ready at your designated pickup location a few minutes before the scheduled time. 8:25 AM – Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown (Calgary) ▸ Meet your vehicle at the designated passenger pickup area across the street.

What's included:

• Bottled Water

Not included:

• Personal expenditures
• Atlas Coal Mine Admission Tickets (Coal mine is Closed for the Season)

What to expect:

Duration: 10 hours

Horseshoe Canyon

Drumheller

Horseshoe Canyon offers a perfect blend of dramatic badlands scenery, moderate hiking routes, wildlife, and star‑filled skies—all in the heart of Drumheller. Whether you're a solo explorer, family, or photography enthusiast, this spot is a must-see on any Alberta Badlands adventure.

40 minutes

World's Largest Dinosaur

60-1 Avenue West, Drumheller, T0J 0Y0

The World’s Largest Dinosaur is an iconic 86-foot-tall T. rex statue in Drumheller, Alberta—four times the size of a real T. rex. Visitors can climb 106 stairs inside to reach a viewing platform in its mouth, offering panoramic views of the town and badlands. Located beside the Drumheller Visitor Centre and Rotary Spray Park, it’s a fun stop for families and photo lovers. Great for a quick visit, selfies.

40 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included

Royal Tyrrell Museum

1500 N Dinosaur Trl, Midland Provincial Park, Drumheller, T0J 0Y0

The Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller, Alberta is Canada’s top destination for dinosaur lovers. It showcases over 800 fossils, life-size dinosaur skeletons (like T. rex and Triceratops), and hands-on exhibits about ancient life. Visitors can also view real fossil prep work in the lab and walk the Badlands Interpretive Trail outside. It’s a must-visit for families, science fans, and anyone exploring Alberta’s badlands.

2 hours • Admission Ticket Included

Drumheller

Drumheller

Taking a lunch break in Drumheller is a great way to recharge between exploring dinosaurs, badlands, and scenic trails. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a sit-down meal, or a picnic spot, Drumheller has a variety of options.

1 hour

Star Mine Suspension Bridge

Star Mine Suspension Bridge, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y9, Canada

A charming, free slice of local history that mixes a playful suspension-bridge experience with dramatic views of the Drumheller Badlands—and a nice stop to break up your Dinosaur Trail tour.

30 minutes

Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site

110 Century Dr. East, Drumheller, T0J 1B0

The Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site, just 20 minutes from Drumheller, is one of Canada's most complete historic coal mines. It features the last wooden coal tipple in the country and offers self-guided tours and unique guided experiences like:
Train rides through the old mine site

️ Tipple tours to explore coal processing

️ Underground hikes into mining tunnels

Open seasonally (May–October), it's perfect for families, history lovers, and anyone curious about Alberta’s coal-mining past. Wear sturdy shoes and book tours in advance!

Please note that the Coal Mine is now closed for the season. We have added an additional stop at the Last Chance Saloon instead.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Not Included

The Hoodoos

Hoodoo Ave, Drumheller, T0J 0Y4

The Drumheller Hoodoos are striking sandstone rock formations located about 16 km east of Drumheller. These natural spires, shaped by erosion over thousands of years, stand 5 to 7 meters tall and are protected by harder capstones. Visitors can enjoy a short, easy loop trail with parking and picnic areas nearby.

1 hour

Last Chance Saloon

555 Jewell St, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y9, Canada

The Last Chance Saloon in Drumheller is a historic bar and restaurant located in the ghost town of Wayne. It offers classic western charm, great food, and a glimpse into Alberta’s wild past — a must-stop on your Drumheller adventure!

1 hour