Ghosts of Drumheller: a Smartphone Audio Ghost Tour

Ghosts of Drumheller: A Smartphone Audio Ghost Tour

If you’re curious about the ghost stories that swirl around Drumheller, or just looking for a fun way to explore this quirky Alberta town, this Ghosts of Drumheller tour might be just what you need. It’s a self-guided, smartphone-based experience that takes you through the town’s most haunted spots, blending history with spooky tales. Since it’s delivered via an app, it offers a flexible, private way to get your ghost fix without the need for a big group or scheduled tour times.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its independent feel—you choose when and where to go, with no pressure. Plus, the tour covers a good chunk of Drumheller’s iconic sights, from the Hoodoos to abandoned buildings, and even the water tower. On top of that, it’s quite budget-friendly at just over six dollars per person. However, one thing to keep in mind is that it’s a walking tour that involves quite a bit of exploring on foot, so comfortable shoes are a must. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, local lore, and a dash of the supernatural, especially if you prefer exploring at your own pace rather than in a large group.

Key Points

• Self-guided and flexible: Perfect for those who prefer to explore on their own schedule.
• Affordable: At just $6.67 per person, it offers good value for a scenic and spooky experience.
• Interactive app: Uses GPS to guide you, with commentary that automatically plays at each stop.
• Rich variety of locations: From natural formations to haunted buildings, there’s plenty of diversity.
• Ideal for independent travelers: Solo, couples, or small groups will find this easy to enjoy.
• Potential for a full evening: With over 15 points of interest, you can take your time exploring.

What to Expect from the Tour

This self-guided walking tour covers a wide span of Drumheller, taking you through its neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems. The tour is designed to be independent, meaning there are no guides or scheduled times—just download the app, load the tour via Wi-Fi or a good mobile signal, and go. The map and GPS ensure you stay on route, while the audio commentary provides historical context, fun trivia, and ghostly stories.

The tour lasts about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how long you linger at each stop or take breaks. You can pause and resume at any time, giving you full control. The tour’s stops include well-known sites like the Hoodoos, the Waldorf Hotel, and the Water Tower, plus some lesser-known spots with their own histories and ghostly tales.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The Hoodoos

As you start your walk, you’ll get a quick intro to Alberta’s Badlands and see the famous Hoodoos. These tall, oddly-shaped rock formations have an eerie, otherworldly look—perfect for a ghost tour setting. The audio commentary shares fun facts and some ghostly stories connected to the area, and it’s a quick stop—about 5 minutes.

Waldorf Hotel

Next, you’ll pass the historic Waldorf Hotel, where a ghostly patron who once ran a saloon named after himself is part of local lore. The story probably adds a bit of local color to your walk, and it’s a short, 5-minute stop, but one that gives a taste of the haunted history that lurks in old buildings.

376 Centre St

Here, you’ll hear about the building’s transformation from a luxury spa to a haunted site, where a ghostly client is said to linger. It’s an intriguing glimpse into how places change over time, with a little ghostly twist. Expect to spend about 5 minutes here.

Drumheller Municipal Cemetery

A stop at the cemetery reveals some of the local customs and practices—one of the more heartwarming parts of the tour, showing respect and traditions surrounding the departed. It’s a quick, 5-minute walk through, but full of stories about the area’s past.

Last Chance Saloon & Rosedeer Hotel

This old watering hole, nicknamed the “Bucket of Blood” in the 1920s, has a reputation for being haunted. The stories about the hotel and saloon add a lively spooky flavor, perfect for those interested in old Western ghost tales. Again, only about 5 minutes here.

Navy League of Canada / Miners Memorial Hall

Once a makeshift morgue, this site has seen its fair share of tragedies and ghost stories, adding a darker tone to the tour. It’s a brief stop but one that packs a punch.

The Johnson House & Atlas Coal Mine

The Johnson House, which is rumored to house more than just the living, and the Atlas Coal Mine, known as the most haunted spot outside of Drumheller, are highlights. The mine, in particular, is a key location if you’re interested in the spooky history of local coal mining—an essential part of Drumheller’s heritage.

Nearby Rosedale & the Suspension Bridge

A tragic accident on the Star Mine Suspension Bridge years ago adds an element of historic tragedy, while the blue dinosaur sculpture invites a bit of whimsy in between the spooky tales.

Cultural & Historic Sites

From the Valley Doll Museum, which ties into horror film lore, to the Drumheller Community Church, the tour offers both eerie stories and local character. The East Coulee School Museum is a sweet nod to childhood memories, and the Water Tower, which even starred in movies, offers a fun photo op.

Final Stops and the Dinosaur Icon

No visit to Drumheller is complete without a mention of its world-famous dinosaurs. The giant T-Rex “Reaper of Death” sculpture is a fun, spooky photo op, while the nearby historic sites round out your ghostly exploration.

The Experience and Atmosphere

What makes this tour stand out is its personalized pace. You’re not crammed into a bus or a guided group—you walk at your speed, decide when to stop, and really get immersed in the scenery and stories. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable and engaging commentary that makes the experience more vivid. One reviewer mentioned, “Great commentary!” and appreciated that they could stop for coffee along the way without missing a beat.

The app’s GPS functionality is reliable—most users find it keeps them on route—and the audio automatically plays at each point, which means you can focus more on the sights and less on fiddling with your device. The visual cues like the blue dinosaur sculpture and the historic buildings help you connect stories to real-world landmarks.

The cost is very reasonable for such an experience, especially considering you get to enjoy it privately and at your leisure. For just over six dollars, you’re essentially paying for an interactive guide that’s available whenever you want.

What Could Be Improved?

Some reviews mention slight inaccuracies in stop locations or timing, like the few blocks off at certain points. While not a huge deal, it might mean a little extra walking or a quick map check. Also, since the tour is entirely walk-based, it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet and with good weather.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This ghost tour is ideal for independent travelers who enjoy history, local legends, and a spooky atmosphere. It’s perfect if you want to explore Drumheller’s haunted spots without joining a scheduled group or paying a high price. Families with older kids or teenagers who love ghost stories will find it engaging, especially with the mix of natural and man-made haunted locations.

It’s also a great way to learn about Drumheller’s coal mining past and see some of its most iconic landmarks, all while enjoying a bit of spooky storytelling. However, if you’re looking for a guided, commentary-heavy experience with a guide leading the way, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

All in all, Ghosts of Drumheller offers an affordable, flexible way to discover the town’s haunted corners. It’s particularly well-suited for self-reliant explorers who appreciate history, ghost stories, and the outdoors. The mix of natural formations like the Hoodoos, historic sites, and spooky tales makes it a well-rounded experience that adds a little thrill to your visit.

The tour’s interactive app and private format give you control over how much time you spend at each stop, making it a good choice for those who like to customize their sightseeing. If you’re interested in a ghostly adventure with a touch of local flavor, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s suitable for older kids and teenagers who enjoy ghost stories and history. It involves walking and some storytelling about spooky topics.

Do I need special equipment to participate?
You only need a smartphone with a good mobile signal or Wi-Fi to download and access the tour. Headphones are optional; sound will play from your device’s speaker if you prefer.

How long does the tour take?
Most people spend between 1 to 2 hours completing the tour, depending on how long they linger at each stop or take breaks. There’s no time limit, so you can go at your own pace.

What locations does the tour cover?
It includes over 15 points of interest around Drumheller, such as the Hoodoos, Waldorf Hotel, Water Tower, and Atlas Coal Mine, among others.

Are attraction tickets required?
No, all stops are free to explore. You might choose to pay for additional attractions separately if you wish.

Can I do this tour more than once?
Yes, since you keep the download, you can revisit the tour as many times as you’d like, making it a flexible way to explore Drumheller’s haunted sites.

If you’re into ghost stories, natural wonders, and exploring on your own terms, Ghosts of Drumheller offers a compelling, affordable way to add a spooky twist to your trip. Just lace up your shoes, download the app, and let the stories unfold at your own pace.