Discover Drumheller, Horseshoe Canyon, Royal Tyrrell Museum

If you’re considering a day trip from Calgary that combines stunning scenery with a touch of prehistoric wonder, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. Designed for those who love nature, history, and a bit of adventure, it takes you out into the Canadian Badlands to see some truly iconic sights. While you won’t be driving yourself—making it perfect for a relaxed day—there are a few things to keep in mind about the itinerary and length.

What we really like about this experience is how smoothly everything is organized, with highlights that appeal to a range of interests. Plus, it’s a chance to explore some of Canada’s most interesting landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The inclusion of bottled water and a fun take-home luggage tag adds a little extra to the overall package.

However, it’s worth noting that the day can be quite full, and the stops are fairly brief, so if you’re after in-depth exploration or a slower-paced visit, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for first-timers or those eager for a rundown of the area’s highlights, it’s a solid choice.

This tour suits travelers who want an easy way to see Drumheller’s famous dinosaur exhibits and the incredible Badlands scenery without the stress of logistics. It’s especially good for curious visitors interested in fossils and prehistoric life, but anyone wanting a taste of Alberta’s unique landscape will find plenty to enjoy.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation makes the day stress-free and allows you to relax during the drive.
• Expert guides provide a good balance of information—never overwhelming but always interesting.
• Highlights like Dinosaur exhibits and Horseshoe Canyon deliver memorable scenery and educational value.
• Brief stops mean you’ll see a lot, but some may wish for more time at each site.
• Good value for the price, given the inclusions of museum tickets and transport.
• Accessible for most travelers, with most participants being able to join.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Pickup and Starting Point

Your adventure begins with a friendly welcome at either the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel NE or the Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown. From there, you’ll hop into a climate-controlled vehicle that’s big enough to accommodate the group comfortably. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, which means you get a good social atmosphere but enough space to stretch out.

The driver/guide, often bilingual in Mandarin and English, acts as your storyteller and travel companion for the day. Based on reviews, guides like Vincent and Winston are praised for their knowledge and personable approach, making the journey enjoyable and informative without feeling rushed or overly academic.

Horseshoe Canyon: The First Stop

About 15 minutes into your trip, you’ll arrive at Horseshoe Canyon. This spot is a fan favorite because of the dramatic maroon-colored canyon walls that showcase layers dating back 70 million years—when dinosaurs roamed these lands. The scenery is striking and makes for excellent photo opportunities, especially at sunset when the lighting accentuates the canyon’s hues.

The short 30-minute stop includes a scenic hike, perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the views. Reviewers appreciated the brief but memorable visit, describing the canyon as a must-see for anyone interested in natural beauty and paleontology. One reviewer even noted that this stop’s views alone made the trip worthwhile.

The Royal Tyrrell Museum: Dinosaur Enthusiasts’ Dream

The highlight for many travelers is the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which you’ll explore for roughly two and a half hours. It’s celebrated as the world’s largest and most captivating paleontology museum, offering an impressive collection of fossils and dinosaur displays. Walking through the exhibits feels like stepping back into a prehistoric world.

Visitors often mention the museum’s extensive dinosaur skeletons and engaging displays, making this stop perfect for anyone fascinated by fossils and ancient creatures. One reviewer pointed out that Winston, the guide, covered all the spots and allowed enough time for exploration, reinforcing that the visit is well-paced.

Hoodoo Trail and Sunset Views

Next, you’ll visit the Willow Creek Hoodoos, sandstone formations that look like natural sculptures rising from the ground. It’s a nice, free 30-minute break to admire and photograph these unique pillars. If timing allows, a short hike on the Hoodoo Trail offers sunset views, adding a magical touch to the trip.

Reviews highlight how stunning these formations are at sunset, along with the historical context your guide shares about the area. This stop offers a different perspective on the landscape, complementing the earlier canyon views.

Shopping and Return to Calgary

The tour includes a visit to CrossIron Mills, a large shopping outlet located just outside Calgary, where you can browse over 200 stores. While some, like one reviewer, found the bargains lacking, others appreciate this as a relaxing way to wind down or pick up a souvenir. You’ll have around two hours here before heading back.

Finally, your day ends with a comfortable ride back to your original pickup point, typically arriving around 6-7 pm, depending on traffic and weather. The driver will drop you off where you started, leaving you with plenty of time to reflect on a day packed with scenery and stories.

The Value and Practical Aspects

Price and What’s Included

At $123.15 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions: transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a bilingual guide, and museum admission. The tour’s price might seem high for a single day, but it covers a lot: scenic stops, educational exhibits, and the convenience of organized logistics. Plus, bottled water and a fun luggage tag are added bonuses that make the experience feel a little more special.

Duration and Pacing

The 9-10 hour schedule means you’ll cover a lot of ground, so be prepared for a full day. The stops are fairly short—around 15-30 minutes at Horseshoe Canyon and Hoodoos, and 2.5 hours at the museum—so if you’re someone who prefers more leisurely exploration, it might feel rushed. Still, most reviews indicate that the guides keep things well-paced and informative.

Group Size and Accessibility

With a maximum of 50 travelers, the group feels manageable, and the transportation is comfortable. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but if you have mobility issues, check with the provider about the terrain at each stop.

Weather and Flexibility

The tour depends heavily on good weather, especially for outdoor stops like Horseshoe Canyon and Hoodoos. In case of poor weather, the schedule or itinerary might change. The provider offers full refunds if canceled due to weather, which gives some peace of mind.

Authentic Insights From Travelers

Multiple reviews commend the guides’ knowledge, with one stating, “Vincent was a fantastic guide. Gave just the perfect amount of information,” and another praising Winston as “an amazing tour guide.” These highlight how important a good guide is for making the experience memorable.

Some feedback points to consider: one reviewer found the meeting instructions a little confusing, and another was less pleased about the outlet shopping, noting no real bargains. But overall, most travelers found the experience well-organized and enjoyable, with plenty of stunning scenery and educational content.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who want a rundown of Alberta’s Badlands in a single day without the stress of organizing transport and logistics themselves. It’s perfect for dinosaurs fans, nature lovers, or anyone interested in unique landscapes. If you’re traveling with people who enjoy short walks, easy hikes, and engaging museum exhibits, this tour hits the right notes.

However, if you prefer a slower pace or in-depth exploration at each stop, you might find the schedule a bit tight. It’s also a good choice for first-time visitors to Calgary wanting to get a sense of the region’s natural and prehistoric highlights.

This tour balances value, scenery, and education, making it a solid choice for a day outside Calgary. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, and the stops are carefully curated to showcase the best of the Canadian Badlands. It’s not a laid-back, leisurely journey—expect a full day of sights, stories, and photo opportunities—but if that sounds appealing, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding.

The combination of Horseshoe Canyon’s stunning views, the awe-inspiring dinosaur exhibits at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, and the scenic Hoodoo Trail offers a well-rounded taste of Alberta’s natural and prehistoric wonders. It’s worth considering if you’re in Calgary and want an efficient, organized way to explore some of the most interesting landscapes in the region.

FAQ

What is included in this tour?
You get transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a bilingual guide service, museum admission, bottled water, and a fun luggage tag to take home.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, including travel, stops, and sightseeing.

Where do I meet the tour?
Pickup is available at the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel NE or the Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the stops involve short walks and sightseeing suitable for most ages. Check with the provider if you have specific needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, water, and a camera. Remember that outdoor stops are brief, so bring anything you want to photograph or explore more closely.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on the tour?
A maximum of 50 travelers, making it a manageable group size.

Is there free time at the stops?
Yes, each stop allows for some exploration and photography, but the overall schedule keeps things moving efficiently.

This tour offers a practical, engaging way to experience the best of Alberta’s Badlands in a day, especially if you want a guided, hassle-free trip that combines natural beauty with dinosaur history.