Day of Dinosaurs and Hoodoos From Calgary to the Badlands

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and some good old-fashioned adventure, this Day of Dinosaurs and Hoodoos tour from Calgary might just be what you need. We’ve been digging through the reviews and details to give you an honest picture of what to expect and whether it’s worth the price.

What we love about this experience is its focus on iconic Alberta sights — from the world-famous Royal Tyrrell Museum to the surreal Hoodoos. Plus, the small-group setting means you get more personalized attention, which can make all the difference when exploring scenic spots and learning about prehistoric times.

On the flip side, a couple of travelers mentioned that the museum visit might feel a bit rushed and that the quick drive through Wayne left some wanting more time at the museum or more meaningful stops. If you’re someone who loves to take your time at each site, this is worth considering.

All in all, this tour suits history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone curious about dinosaurs or striking landscapes. It’s a full-day adventure that offers a good balance of education, scenery, and fun, especially if you enjoy small-group experiences and expert guides.

Key Points

• Focus on Alberta’s geological and paleontological treasures with visits to the Royal Tyrrell Museum and Hoodoos.
• Small-group tours enhance the experience with more interaction and personalized guidance.
• Varied stops offer a mix of museums, scenic viewpoints, and ghost towns, appealing to diverse interests.
• Pricing is competitive considering museum admission, transportation, and guided commentary.
• Guides receive high praise for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Timing is tight but generally well-organized, with some suggestions from guests to extend certain stops.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point: The Royal Tyrrell Museum

Your day kicks off at the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller, renowned for its extensive collection of dinosaur fossils. If you’re a fossil fanatic or just love imagining the prehistoric giants that roamed Alberta, this is the highlight. Visitors rave about the interactive displays and the chance to see some of the world’s most important fossils up close.

One reviewer, Joan, said, “The high point for me was the Royal Tyrrell Museum,” emphasizing how impressive the exhibits are. Another mentioned that the VIP walk-in made their experience smooth, avoiding long lines. However, some found the allotted two hours a bit tight to fully explore everything, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re a detailed explorer.

Horseshoe Canyon: A Natural Marvel

After the museum, the tour heads to Horseshoe Canyon, known for its sweeping panoramic views and striking geological formations. The canyon’s unique shape and vast openness make it perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

Guests have described it as an interesting site with great photo opps, and many appreciate the free admission—a bonus for those on a budget. It’s a quick stop (about 40 minutes), but certainly enough to get a sense of the canyon’s beauty.

Rosedale Suspension Bridge: A Thrilling Walk

Next, you’ll walk across the historic Suspension Bridge in Drumheller. Built in 1931 for coal miners, this bridge offers striking views of the Red Deer River and the surrounding Badlands.

It’s a quick 20-minute stop, but one that many remember fondly for its sense of history and the scenery. Travelers note that it’s an iconic piece of local history, and the views from the bridge are well worth the brief stop.

The Hoodoos: Sculptures of Sandstone

A highlight for many photographers and landscape lovers, the Hoodoos are tall, bizarre sandstone pillars shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. The landscape feels almost surreal, and the textures and shapes are mesmerizing.

Guests describe the Hoodoos as surreal and stunning, perfect for exploring and snapping photos. However, some reviews highlight that the paths can be slippery if wet, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Wayne: A Ghost Town and a Quick Bite

The tour’s last stop is the ghost town of Wayne, home to the Last Chance Saloon, a historic spot where you can pause for a quick drink or ice cream. It’s a small, quiet place with a nostalgic vibe, giving you just a taste of Alberta’s old frontier.

While some reviewers found this stop a bit brief — just 30 minutes — they still appreciated the chance to glimpse into the past and relax a bit before heading back.

All-Inclusive and Practical Details

The tour includes bottled water, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and museum admission, making it quite straightforward. The price of around $132.69 per person is reasonable considering the length and the attractions covered, especially since museum entry is often expensive on its own.

It’s a small-group tour with a maximum of 14 travelers, which means more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The tour lasts about 9 hours, including travel time to and from Calgary. Be prepared for a full day — comfortable shoes, some snacks, and extra water are recommended since it can get warm and the stops are spaced out.

What Real Travelers Say

From the glowing reviews, the guides really make the experience. Multiple guests praised guides like Aziz, Amin, and Walid for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness. Travelers felt the guides went beyond just narrating facts — they shared stories, took photos, and kept the group engaged.

Several reviews also mention how stunning the scenery was, especially at Horseshoe Canyon and the Hoodoos. One reviewer noted, “The views were incredible even in rainy weather,” proving that the scenery holds up regardless of conditions.

Some guests expressed that they would have liked more time at the museum or at certain stops, but generally, the organization was praised for being smooth and well-managed.

Potential Drawbacks

The main critique comes from the short time allocated at each stop, particularly at the museum, which some wished was longer. The quick drive-through Wayne left some feeling like they missed out on a deeper look into the historic town.

Weather can be a factor, especially at the Hoodoos, where wet or muddy conditions might make walking slippery. Also, the cost might seem steep if you’re expecting a leisurely day with ample time at each site — this is a fairly packed itinerary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, geology lovers, and those eager to see Alberta’s spectacular landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple visits. It’s great for people who enjoy guided experiences, want to learn from knowledgeable guides, and prefer a small-group setting for a more intimate vibe.

It’s also suited for anyone wanting a full-day adventure that combines education with breathtaking views, especially if you’re interested in dinosaurs. However, if you’re someone who prefers more time at each stop or a more relaxed pace, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

Final Thoughts

This Day of Dinosaurs and Hoodoos tour from Calgary provides a well-rounded experience packed with sights that are both visually stunning and scientifically intriguing. The inclusion of a top-tier museum, scenic drives, and historic sites makes it a compelling choice for travelers keen to explore Alberta’s geology and history in one go.

The guides consistently earn praise for their friendliness and knowledge, making the day not just educational but also enjoyable. The small-group format means you get more interaction and tailored commentary, which can turn a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable adventure.

Overall, if you’re after a convenient, informative, and scenic day trip that captures the essence of Alberta’s prehistoric and geological marvels, this tour is a solid pick — especially if you value comfortable pacing and expert guides.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best suited for older children or teenagers who can handle a full, active day of sightseeing and walking. The stops are mostly outdoors and involve some walking on uneven terrain.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time between Calgary and the Badlands. Expect a full day with several stops.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, a knowledgeable guide, bottled water, and admission to the Royal Tyrrell Museum. Food, snacks, and gratuities are not included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. If you cancel earlier, you get a full refund.

Is the tour operated rain or shine?
Yes, but if weather conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled and a different date or full refund is offered.

How many people are in a group?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, which helps keep things personable and less crowded.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes (boots are recommended if the weather’s wet), extra water, snacks, and sunscreen. The tour provides bottled water, but having some personal supplies is always a good idea.

Does the tour focus more on geology or dinosaurs?
It offers a balance, with the Royal Tyrrell Museum highlighting dinosaur fossils and exhibits, and scenic stops like the Hoodoos and Horseshoe Canyon showcasing geological features.

Is there free time at any stop?
Most stops are brief, designed for sightseeing and photos, with the museum being the main attraction where you might want more time. Some guests suggest extending the museum visit if possible.

If Alberta’s prehistoric landscapes and fossils get your imagination going, this tour offers a great way to see it all in one day — with the guidance of friendly experts and stunning scenery along the way.