If you’ve ever dreamed of walking among the giants of the ancient world or marveling at otherworldly landscapes, a full-day trip to Drumheller from Calgary might just be your answer. This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Alberta’s famous Badlands, combining fascinating history, stunning scenery, and a serious dose of dinosaur allure.
What we really appreciate about this experience is how flexible and personalized it seems—thanks to the private, customized nature of the tour, you can spend more time at the sites that catch your eye. Plus, the inclusion of the Royal Tyrrell Museum, with its impressive fossil displays, really hits the mark for those of us curious about prehistoric life.
On the flip side, given the range of stops and the full-day commitment, it’s worth noting that the experience involves quite a bit of walking and outdoor exposure. If you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility concerns, that’s something to consider.
This tour feels like a great pick for anyone interested in geology, paleontology, or just looking for a scenic escape with some educational highlights. It’s especially suited for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day out with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
Key Points
- Private, customized experience offers flexibility to focus on your interests.
- Includes the Royal Tyrrell Museum, home to some of the world’s largest dinosaur fossils.
- Scenic stops like Hoodoos, Horseshoe Canyon, and Dinosaur Trail deliver stunning views.
- Educational and fun, especially if you’re into fossils and geology.
- Comfortable transportation with all logistics handled, saving you planning time.
- Moderate walking involved—wear suitable shoes and be ready for outdoor exploration.
What to Expect on the Drumheller Tour
This full-day adventure from Calgary packs in a variety of incredible sights and experiences, making it a rewarding outing for those who love natural beauty, history, and a bit of adventure.
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Pick-up and Transport
When you book, the tour provider, Scenic Shuttle arranges all transportation, so you don’t have to worry about car rentals or navigating on your own. The group size is generally small—just your private guide and your fellow travelers—creating a more intimate atmosphere. The coach is comfortable, allowing for a relaxed ride through Alberta’s scenic landscapes.
The Royal Tyrrell Museum
One of the main highlights, the Royal Tyrrell Museum, is a highlight for a reason. It’s renowned worldwide for its display of dinosaur fossils, including some of the largest specimens. The museum offers a mix of indoor exhibits and outdoor viewing areas, giving an immersive experience into the lives of these ancient creatures. The entrance fee is included in the tour price, adding significant value.
According to visitor reviews, the museum’s exhibits are impressive and informative. One traveler described it as “a must-see for dinosaur lovers,” noting that the displays are both engaging and educational. A great feature is the chance to see fossils that are still being studied and conserved.
Hoodoos and Geological Wonders
Just outside Drumheller, the Hoodoos are a star attraction. These unusual geological formations have been sculpted over millions of years by wind and water, resulting in tall, thin spires that make for perfect photo ops. We loved the way the tour included a walk to these formations, giving us a chance to stretch our legs and appreciate nature’s artistry up close.
The Hoodoos are best enjoyed with some time to soak in the views, and you’ll probably find yourself snapping more photos than you thought possible. The short hike is manageable, but comfortable shoes are recommended.
More Great Tours NearbyHorseshoe Canyon
Next up is Horseshoe Canyon, a scenic spot offering breathtaking vistas and an opportunity for a short hike. The canyon’s layered rock formations tell stories of millions of years of geological change, and the views are quite stunning. It’s a peaceful spot where you can pause for photos and take in the rugged landscape.
Atlas Coal Mine
History buffs will appreciate the visit to the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site. This well-preserved coal mine allows you to learn about Drumheller’s mining past through guided tours of the mine’s structures. It offers a tangible link to the region’s industrial history, which shaped much of the local economy.
One reviewer mentioned that the guide’s stories brought the site to life, making the visit both fun and informative. Keep in mind, admission to the mine isn’t included, so if you want to go inside, there’s an additional fee.
Dinosaur Trail and Downtown Drumheller
Driving along the Dinosaur Trail, you’ll see striking dinosaur statues, including the iconic T-Rex in downtown Drumheller. The trail connects several attractions, making it a scenic drive that’s visually interesting even for those not stopping at every site.
The T-Rex statue is a fun photo stop, especially for families or dinosaur enthusiasts. The trail offers a light, playful touch to the adventure, breaking up the more serious paleontology and geological sites.
Optional: Starmine Suspension Bridge
Depending on the weather and maintenance schedules, you might get to cross the Starmine Suspension Bridge. It’s an exciting walk with impressive views, but it’s not guaranteed to be open at all times, so check in advance if this is a must-see for you.
The Value of This Tour
For the price of $86 per person, this tour offers a solid package of transport, access to key attractions, and the expertise of a guide. Given the costs of individual museum admissions and the expense of arranging transport on your own, it’s actually quite a good deal. The fact that all transportation is included means you can focus on enjoying the day without logistics stress.
The private, customizable nature of the tour means you can spend more time at the sites that interest you most. Whether you’re a fossil fanatic, a nature lover, or simply looking for scenic photo opportunities, this flexibility enhances the experience.
How the Tour Runs
- The pickup is generally in the morning from Calgary, with times depending on the day.
- The day is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to explore, take photos, and learn.
- The guided drive—via live commentary or audio—adds a layer of context to the landscapes and sites.
- The tour ends back in Calgary, usually in the late afternoon or early evening.
Considerations
While the tour is packed with activities, be aware that it involves moderate walking, mostly outdoors. This means comfortable shoes and sun protection are essential. Since food and drinks are not included, bringing snacks or a packed lunch is a good idea, especially if you prefer a more flexible meal schedule.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair users, making it a reasonable option for those who need some mobility assistance. However, check specific site accessibility if you’re concerned about particular stops like the mine or hiking sections.
Authentic Visitor Insights
Many visitors have found this trip worthwhile. One commented, “The views were stunning, and the guide was very knowledgeable,” highlighting how scenic spots like Hoodoos and Horseshoe Canyon are a highlight for most travelers. Others appreciated the museum visit, noting that the fossils and exhibits are “impressive and well-curated,” especially for dinosaur enthusiasts.
Some reviews pointed out that the tour’s pace is just right—not rushed, but with enough time to enjoy each stop. A common sentiment was that this experience offers a perfect mix of education, scenery, and fun, making it suitable for curious travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of Drumheller.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is perfect for those wanting a hassle-free day trip without sacrificing depth. It suits curious travelers, geology lovers, or families with older children interested in dinosaurs and nature. If you’re after a relaxed, guided experience with good value, it makes a lot of sense.
Keep in mind, if you’re not comfortable walking on uneven terrain or staying outdoors for extended periods, some stops might require extra consideration. But overall, the experience offers a lot to anyone eager to explore Alberta’s iconic Badlands.
Full Day – Drumheller tour by Coach from Calgary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, all transportation is arranged by the tour provider, Scenic Shuttle so you don’t need to worry about driving or parking.
What’s the duration of the tour?
It’s a full day, approximately 8 hours, including travel time, site visits, and breaks.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but since it involves outdoor walking and some moderate activity, it’s better suited for older children or teenagers who can handle a full day of sightseeing.
Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
The Royal Tyrrell Museum is included in the price, but admission to the Atlas Coal Mine is not. If you want to go inside the mine, there’s an additional fee.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, camera, and goggles are recommended. Sunscreen is advisable, especially for outdoor stops.
Is the Starmine Suspension Bridge always open?
No, it may be closed due to weather or maintenance. Check in advance if crossing it is a priority for you.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
Is this tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but check specific site accessibility if needed.
In the end, this Full Day Drumheller tour from Calgary offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, fossil history, and scenic drives. It’s ideal for those who want a guided, hassle-free experience with enough flexibility to focus on what interests them most. If you’re curious about dinosaurs, geology, or just want to see some of Alberta’s most unique landscapes, it’s definitely worth considering.
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