Drumheller: Bad Land & Dinosaur Museum Tour From Calgary

Drumheller’s stunning badlands and rich paleontological history make it a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by dinosaurs and the natural world. This 8-hour tour from Calgary offers an engaging way to explore the region’s highlights, from the iconic Hoodoos to the world-renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum. With an English-speaking guide and comfortable transportation, visitors can enjoy the ancient landscapes and uncover the secrets hidden within the rock formations. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a curious first-time visitor, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

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About Your Stay

This 8-hour tour from Calgary takes visitors to the Drumheller region, known for its badlands and the renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum of paleontology.
Key stops include Horseshoe Canyon, Drumheller Visitor Information Centre, and the Hoodoos Trail, providing a comprehensive exploration of the area’s natural and archaeological wonders.
The tour offers an in-depth experience at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, showcasing an extensive collection of well-preserved dinosaur fossils and insights into recent paleontological discoveries.
Exhibits at the museum also highlight the region’s ancient human settlements and cultural heritage, as well as the impacts of climate change on the area.
Based on 15 reviews, the tour receives an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, with high praise for the transportation and the museum experience.

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Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Drumheller: Bad Land & Dinosaur Museum Tour from Calgary," provides an enriching 8-hour experience for visitors.

Priced at $111.08 per person, the tour includes transportation, a ticket to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, and an English-speaking guide.

Key stops along the way feature the Horseshoe Canyon, Drumheller Visitor Information Centre, and the Hoodoos Trail.

Highlights include discovering dinosaur fossil sites, exploring archaeological records at Dinosaur Valley, and admiring the colorful cliffs and rock formations.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and guests should arrive 5-10 minutes early and bring sunscreen.

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Itinerary Highlights

Visitors embark on this tour at the Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel & Suites by APA.

The first stop is Horseshoe Canyon, where they’ll admire the colorful cliffs for 15 minutes.

Next, they visit the Drumheller Visitor Information Centre for 20 minutes.

After taking in the stunning vistas at Horseshoe Canyon, visitors make a stop at the Drumheller Visitor Information Centre to learn more about the region.

The highlight is the Royal Tyrrell Museum, where they’ll spend 1.5 hours exploring dinosaur fossil sites and archaeological records.

The tour also includes a 15-minute stop at The Little Church and a 30-minute visit to the Hoodoos Trail to learn about the unique rock formations.

Along the way, the guide provides insights into the region’s geological and paleontological wonders.

Discovering Dinosaur Fossil Sites

As visitors explore the Royal Tyrrell Museum, they’ll discover an unparalleled collection of dinosaur fossil sites that offer a captivating glimpse into the ancient past.

The museum’s extensive exhibits showcase an array of well-preserved fossils, from towering T. rex skeletons to delicate plant impressions. Guests can witness the painstaking process of fossil preparation and gain insights into the latest paleontological discoveries.

The museum’s knowledgeable guides lead visitors on an engaging journey through the prehistoric world, fostering a deeper appreciation for the rich scientific heritage of the Drumheller region.

Exploring Archaeological Records

Along With the remarkable dinosaur fossils, the Royal Tyrrell Museum’s exhibits explore the rich archaeological records of the Drumheller region. Visitors can explore ancient human settlements, artifacts, and the story of how the land has evolved over thousands of years. A highlight is the museum’s impressive collection of Indigenous tools, pottery, and ceremonial items, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the area. The tour provides ample time to wander the exhibits and learn about the region’s remarkable archaeological discoveries.

| Exhibit | Description | Significance |

| — | — | — |

| Indigenous Artifacts | Tools, pottery, ceremonial items | Cultural heritage and history |

| Ancient Settlements | Excavated remains and settlements | Human habitation of the region |

| Geological Formations | Sedimentary rocks and fossils | Evolutionary history of the land |

| Climate Change Impacts | Evidence of past environmental shifts | Adaptation and resilience |

| Archaeological Fieldwork | Techniques and methods used | Scientific research and discovery |

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Admiring Colorful Cliffs

The colorful cliffs of Horseshoe Canyon are a captivating highlight of the Drumheller tour. Visitors are treated to a 15-minute stop at this remarkable geological formation.

The canyon’s striking hues, ranging from vibrant reds to muted grays, are the result of millennia of erosion. Towering walls rise dramatically on either side, providing a dramatic backdrop for photos.

Guests can explore the rim of the canyon, taking in sweeping views of the rugged landscape. This scenic stop offers a taste of the region’s stunning natural beauty before continuing on to the next destinations.

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Visiting Historic Landmarks

After marveling at the stunning natural formations of Horseshoe Canyon, the tour moves on to explore historic landmarks in the Drumheller region.

First, visitors stop at the Drumheller Visitor Information Centre to learn about the area’s rich history and plan the rest of the day.

Next, they’ll visit the iconic Little Church, a miniature structure built in the early 1900s.

The final historic stop is the Star Mine Suspension Bridge, a unique engineering feat constructed in the 1930s.

These sites provide a glimpse into Drumheller’s past and complement the prehistoric discoveries at the Royal Tyrrell Museum.

Learning About Hoodoo Rock Formations

As visitors explore the Hoodoos Trail, they’ll be captivated by the remarkable hoodoo rock formations adorning the landscape.

These distinctive, tall, thin rock spires are created by erosion, with the softer rock gradually wearing away around the harder cores.

The unique shapes and vibrant colors of the hoodoos, ranging from rust-red to golden-yellow, make them a must-see highlight of the tour.

Guests will have the chance to wander along the trail, marveling at these natural wonders and learning about the geological processes that formed them over centuries.

The hoodoos offer a truly breathtaking sight.

Customer Feedback

Visitors have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback about the Drumheller: Bad Land & Dinosaur Museum Tour from Calgary, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 15 reviews.

Reviewers praise the tour’s transportation, which received a 4.7/5 rating, and the overall value for money, with a 4.3/5 rating.

Highlights include the positive experiences at the tour stops, especially the Dinosaur Museum, and the informative nature of the tour guide.

Some suggestions were made for providing more information during the travel time between stops to enhance the learning experience.

Questions About Your Stay

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

The tour allows passengers to bring their own food. However, meal times and locations may be limited during the tour schedule. It’s recommended to check with the tour provider for any specific food policies or dining options available.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price of $111.08 per person is the same regardless of age. However, the tour may be suitable for all ages if participants can meet the physical requirements.

Can I Request a Private Tour Rather Than Group Tour?

Yes, customers can request a private tour instead of a group tour. Private tours provide a more personalized experience and allow for more flexibility in the itinerary. Additional fees may apply for a private tour option.

Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place?

Unfortunately, the tour details don’t mention any specific COVID-19 safety protocols. It’s best to check with the tour provider directly to inquire about their current health and safety measures, as these may have been updated since the tour information was published.

Can I Extend My Stay in Drumheller After the Tour?

The tour does not include extending your stay in Drumheller after the tour. However, you’re free to explore the area on your own after the tour if you’d like to spend more time there. Just be sure to arrange your own transportation and accommodations.

Final Verdict On This Stay

This tour offers an immersive experience in the Drumheller region, showcasing its natural wonders and rich prehistoric heritage. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, discover dinosaur fossil sites, and explore the area’s archaeological records at the renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum. With transportation and an English-speaking guide included, this eight-hour adventure is a must-do for anyone interested in the captivating history and stunning landscapes of the Canadian Badlands.