Ready to explore Badlands Alberta, the epic dinosaur capital of the world? So buckle up, and let’s embark on a north-to-south tour of this historic and prehistoric wonderland—don’t forget to peek at the map at the end of this guide!
What are Canadian Badlands or Badlands Alberta?
The Canadian Badlands stretch east from Drumheller to the Saskatchewan border and south to the United States. This area has more dinosaur fossils than anywhere else in the world. You can explore stunning landscapes with unique rock formations, deep canyons, and hoodoos.
The region is home to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which features one of the world’s finest collections of dinosaur skeletons and exhibits on prehistoric life. Outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and fossil hunting are popular in the Canadian Badlands, making it a great destination for adventure and history enthusiasts.
Things to Do in Badlands Alberta
Dinosaur Trail
Kick off your adventure at the Badlands Alberta with Drumheller Visitor Centre. Grab some maps and hit the 48 km Dinosaur Trail, looping around the north and south sides of the Red Deer River via Highways 575, 837, and 838.
Start with a climb up the world’s largest dinosaur—25 meters of prehistoric awesomeness—and take in the view from its jaws. This trail isn’t just a drive; it’s a journey back in time through canyons and hoodoos, complete with a cable ferry ride.
Fun tip: Pack a picnic—plenty of spots to chill and enjoy the ancient vibes!
Horsethief Canyon
Why the mysterious name? Some say it was a hideout for cattle rustlers back in the day. This spot isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a trekker’s delight. Strap on your hiking boots and hit the trails to explore the canyon floor, where you’ll find traces of coal and lush, unexpected greenery during the summer. It’s a top spot for a picnic, so bring your grub and enjoy the view.
Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology
Our next pick on the list of Badlands Alberta is the Royal Tyrell Museum of Paleontology. This isn’t your typical museum. Home to one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaurs, the Royal Tyrrell offers hands-on digs and badlands tours. Fancy making a fossil replica or chatting up with real-life paleontologists? This is your spot. They’ve got everything from storytime for the kiddos to real digs you can get dirty in.
Midland Provincial Park
Once the Midland Coal Mine site, now a breathtaking day park with no camping—but lots of hiking and wildlife viewing. Don’t miss the fossil beds or the old mine site, where a tragic explosion in the 1920s took many miners’ lives. It’s a somber yet fascinating piece of history.
The Canadian Badlands Passion Play
Travel back 2000 years with this spectacular outdoor play depicting the life and times of Jesus Christ. Performed in Badlands amphitheater Alberta, this event has bagged numerous awards. Pack for all weather—this show goes on rain or shine. And hey, keep it cash-friendly; the kiosk doesn’t take cards.
Horseshoe Canyon
Just off Highway 9, this is your first stop if you’re coming from Calgary. With trails for days and picnic spots aplenty, don’t forget your binoculars—the bird watching is ace, and the wildflowers are not to be missed.
Rosedale Suspension Bridge
Swing by the Rosedale Suspension Bridge, a 117-meter trek across the Red Deer River built in 1931. It’s a fab spot to stretch your legs and soak in the scenery.
Wayne
Have you ever crossed 11 bridges to get to a point? Wayne’s your spot. This tiny town was once a mining hub, and the Last Chance Saloon is just the place to soak in the old-timey vibes with a cold beer and some live tunes.
Hoodoos Trail
No climbing—just admiring. Standing up to 7 meters tall, these natural sculptures are a must-see. The trail lets you get up close with these geological marvels—each formed over millions of years.
Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site
Step into the shoes of a miner at this historic site. Explore the old buildings at your leisure and learn about the coal industry that once thrived here through interpretive panels and trails.
FAQs About Badlands Alberta
The term “badlands” originates from French traders who described the area as “bad land to travel.” The name reflects the challenging conditions faced by those navigating the rugged terrain, a stark contrast to the flat expanse of the Great Plains.
Badlands National Park is renowned for housing one of the planet’s richest fossil beds. This allows scientists to delve into the evolutionary history of various mammal species, including horses, rhinos, and saber-toothed cats. The park is also a sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife, including mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and butterflies, ranging from tiny shrews to massive 2,000-pound bison.
The late 19th-century discoveries of coal and dinosaur fossils were groundbreaking. The Badlands, particularly the arid landscape of Dinosaur Provincial Park—a UNESCO World Heritage site—stand unparalleled in the abundance and quality of preserved prehistoric remains. Ongoing excavations continue to reveal new insights into the ancient past, making it a must-visit for anyone fascinated by the age of dinosaurs.
That brings an end to our guide to activities in Badlands Alberta. Grab your gear and get ready for an adventure that’s as educational as it is exciting. And remember, Alberta’s not just about stunning scenery—it’s about stories. So, let’s make some memories, eh?
