Drumheller Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Descending into the Red Deer River Valley, the flat prairie suddenly gives way to a lunar landscape of striped canyons and wind-sculpted rock. This is the heart of the Canadian Badlands, a place where the echoes of the prehistoric past are deafening. Drumheller isn’t just a town; it is a geological marvel that transports you back 75 million years to a time when dinosaurs roamed these lush deltas.

Beyond the fossils, the valley offers a stark, haunting beauty that has captivated artists and adventurers for decades. The contrast between the fertile river banks and the arid, rust-coloured coulees creates a visual drama unique to Alberta. Whether you are hunting for dinosaur bones, exploring abandoned coal mines, or simply watching the sunset set the sandstone on fire, Drumheller offers an escape into a world that feels entirely alien yet deeply grounded in history.

A Valley Built on Coal and Bones

While famous for its dinosaurs, Drumheller’s human history is rooted in the gritty era of coal mining. In the early 20th century, this valley was a booming industrial hub with over 130 mines operating in the area. The legacy of these miners is preserved in the ghost towns like Wayne and the towering wooden tipples that still stand sentinel against the valley walls. This industrial heritage adds a fascinating layer of depth to a visit, balancing the ancient natural history with stories of frontier resilience.

Culturally, the town embraces its identity with a sense of fun and pride. From the dinosaur statues adorning nearly every street corner to the world-class palaeontology research conducted here, the community lives and breathes its heritage. It is a place where science meets roadside attraction kitsch in the most delightful way, making it approachable for families yet intellectually satisfying for serious history buffs.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Royal Tyrrell Museum - This is Canada’s only museum dedicated exclusively to palaeontology. Located 6 km northwest of town in Midland Provincial Park, it houses one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs. Admission is roughly $21 CAD for adults.

The Hoodoos - These sandstone pillars take millions of years to form and stand like silent sentinels protecting the valley. Located 16 km east of Drumheller on Highway 10, there is a designated viewing area with platforms to protect the fragile rock. Parking is free.

Star Mine Suspension Bridge - Built in 1931 for coal miners, this 117-metre pedestrian bridge sways gently over the Red Deer River. It is located in Rosedale, about 9 km southeast of Drumheller, and offers free access to hiking trails on the far bank.

World’s Largest Dinosaur - You literally cannot miss this attraction. Standing 86 feet tall next to the Visitor Information Centre in downtown Drumheller, this fibreglass T-Rex offers a view from inside its mouth. Entry to climb up is approximately $5 CAD.

Horseshoe Canyon - A massive U-shaped canyon located 17 km west of town on Highway 9. It offers hiking trails that take you down into the valley floor, revealing different geological eras in the rock layers. Access is free, though it can get very hot in summer.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Drumheller is a straightforward drive, located about 135 km northeast of Calgary (approx. 1.5 hours) or 265 km south of Edmonton (approx. 3 hours). There is no direct train service, and bus options are limited, so renting a car is highly recommended. Having a vehicle allows you to explore the “Dinosaur Trail” loop and access outlying sites like the Atlas Coal Mine and Wayne which are not walkable from downtown.

When packing, remember that the Badlands are a semi-arid desert environment. Even if the forecast looks mild, the valley floor can be significantly hotter than the surrounding prairies. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and more water than you think you need, especially if you plan on hiking the canyons. Good walking shoes with grip are essential, as the bentonite clay becomes incredibly slippery when wet.

Drumheller is a destination that feels otherworldly regardless of when you visit, but timing your trip can drastically change your experience. Whether you brave the summer heat for the full tourist experience or visit in the shoulder season for solitary hikes among the hoodoos, the Badlands leave a lasting impression. Just remember to respect the landscape, fossils are protected by law, so take only photos and leave the history in the ground for the palaeontologists.