Day of Dinosaurs and Hoodoos From Calgary to the Badlands

If you’re searching for a day trip that combines prehistoric intrigue with breathtaking natural scenery, this tour from Calgary to the Alberta Badlands offers a compelling bundle. While we haven’t personally tagged along, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded experience that balances fun facts, scenic landscapes, and a touch of adventure.

Two things we love about this trip: first, the chance to wander through the world-renowned Tyrrell Museum, home to one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils, and second, the visit to the Hoodoos, those whimsical and mysterious geological formations carved over millions of years.

One possible drawback? The itinerary shifts slightly after October 15th, with one notable stop—Wayne’s ghost town—being replaced by Horseshoe Canyon and a viewpoint. So, if you’re eager to explore Wayne’s historic ghost town, you’ll want to book before mid-October.

This tour suits travelers eager to see geological marvels, learn about dinosaurs, and enjoy natural landscapes without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect for those with a day to spare, families with curiosity about the past, and anyone looking for a mix of education and scenery.

Key Points

• Educational and scenic: Combines dinosaur fossils at the Tyrrell Museum with stunning landscapes like Hoodoos and Horseshoe Canyon.
• All-inclusive price: Covers transportation, museum entrance, and a guided experience, offering good value.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
• Expert guides: Known for friendly, knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience.
• Comfortable transportation: Pickup from centrally located hotels makes the day hassle-free.
• Authentic experiences: Visits to historic sites like the Last Chance Saloon in Wayne add a nostalgic touch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting the Day: Pickup and Transportation

The adventure begins with pickups at the Hyatt Regency at 8:30 AM or the Holiday Inn & Suites at 9 AM, depending on where you’re staying in Calgary. The transportation is included, and reviews show that the coach is comfortable and well-organized. Having everything arranged in advance means you can relax and focus on the scenery outside the window rather than stressing over logistics.

Royal Tyrrell Museum: A Dinosaur Lover’s Dream

The first major stop is the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller. This museum is often highlighted as a standout feature, with reviewers praising the interactive exhibits and extensive fossil collections. We loved the way the museum manages to make dinosaurs feel real, with lifelike models and engaging displays that suit both kids and adults alike.

One reviewer from the UK called it a “fantastic tour with 6 brilliant stops,” emphasizing the knowledgeable and friendly guide who brought the exhibits to life. The museum’s entrance fee is included, which is a smart way to keep the overall cost reasonable. Expect to spend around 1.5 to 2 hours here, giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Exploring Wayne’s Ghost Town and Historic Sights

After the museum, the tour ventures into the historic Last Chance Saloon in Wayne. This ghost town, once a thriving coal-mining community, now feels frozen in time. Visitors often comment on the charm of this quiet spot, where every building and artifact seems to whisper stories from the past.

One traveler noted, “The ghost town felt like stepping into a Western movie,” and many enjoy the quick walk through and photo opportunities. It’s a brief but memorable stop that adds depth to the day, especially for history buffs.

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The Hoodoos: Nature’s Sculpted Art

The Hoodoos are next—a natural playground shaped over millennia by wind and water. These tall, thin spires of rock are both whimsical and mesmerizing. From the viewing points, you’ll get a close-up look at these geological formations that look like they belong in a fantasy landscape.

One review raved about the stunning views and the photographer’s dream opportunities, praising the guide’s tips for capturing the perfect shot. The Hoodoos are a highlight not just for their beauty but for the fascinating story of their formation, which the guide often shares.

Rosedale Suspension Bridge: A Touch of Adventure

Crossing the Rosedale Suspension Bridge adds a dash of excitement to the day. The bridge offers a panoramic view of the Red Deer River, and many find it surprisingly fun and a bit thrilling. It’s a short crossing but provides excellent photo ops and a chance to stretch your legs.

Horseshoe Canyon: The Hidden Gem

If you’re on the tour after October 15th, Horseshoe Canyon replaces Wayne’s ghost town. This site is famed for its unique rock formations and rich geological history, which make it a haven for photographers and nature lovers. The canyon’s sweeping vistas reveal layers of earth history, making it a compelling stop for anyone interested in geology.

A reviewer described Horseshoe Canyon as an “amazing landscape,” and many appreciate how it rounds out the day with spectacular scenery.

Lunch and Flexibility

The tour provides time for lunch either in the museum café or in town. Since food isn’t included in the $129 price, travelers often bring snacks or plan for a quick meal in Drumheller or nearby. The flexibility to choose where to eat adds to the relaxed pace.

Final Stop: Scenic Views and Reflection

The tour concludes with scenic views of the canyon and geological formations that remind us how much earth can change over millions of years. The overall 8-hour day is a balance of walking, learning, and gazing at natural artwork, all with comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

The Real Value of this Tour

For $129, this day trip offers a well-rounded experience, especially considering that transportation, entrance fees, and guiding are included. Visitors consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides, which significantly enhance the experience. The ability to skip the ticket lines at the Tyrrell Museum adds convenience, and the small group size often makes the day feel more personal.

What sets this tour apart from others is the combination of educational stops — like the museum and ghost town — with scenic natural highlights, ensuring you leave with both knowledge and awe. The reviews frequently mention how the stops are well-paced, giving enough time to enjoy without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The Caveats

While most reviews highlight the positive aspects, some mention minor inconveniences, such as the need to travel a bit to the meeting point or the fact that certain stops like Wayne’s ghost town might be unavailable after mid-October. Planning ahead and confirming your preferred dates can help you maximize your experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for families, geology enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. It’s perfect if you want to see a variety of sites in one day without the stress of planning individual visits. The tour’s educational aspect makes it especially suitable for curious travelers wanting to learn about dinosaurs, earth formations, and historical towns.

If you prefer a more relaxed, insightful day with guided commentary and minimal hassle, this tour hits the mark. However, if you’re seeking intense hiking or want to explore the sites independently, you might prefer other options.

Final Thoughts

This Day of Dinosaurs and Hoodoos tour offers a compelling snapshot of Alberta’s natural and prehistoric wonders. It balances value and authenticity with enough sightseeing and storytelling to satisfy most travelers. The presence of knowledgeable guides, scenic vistas, and well-chosen stops make it a worthwhile investment for anyone eager to connect with Alberta’s rugged landscape and ancient past.

While not perfect—some stops depend on the season and preferences—the overall experience delivers good value, memorable sights, and the kind of stories that stay with you long after the day ends. It’s especially suited to those who want a taste of Alberta’s diverse landscape without the hassle of self-driving or extensive planning.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with a flexible itinerary that includes stops at key sites around Alberta’s Badlands.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers all transportation, entrance to the Tyrrell Museum, a guided drive (with audio and live commentary), and a bottle of water.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.

Are there options for lunch?
While lunch isn’t included, there is time to eat at the museum or in town. You can also bring your own snacks or plan ahead for a quick meal.

What should I wear?
Since most stops involve walking and outdoor viewing, dress comfortably and consider layers, especially if visiting in fall or early winter.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides are friendly, professional, and well-versed in the sites’ history and geology, making the experience more enriching.

In short, this tour provides a lively, informative, and scenic day out—perfect for those wanting a taste of Alberta’s prehistoric past and natural beauty in a manageable, well-organized package.

You can check availability for your dates here: