Discover Drumheller, Horseshoe Canyon, Royal Tyrrell Museum

If you’re considering a day trip from Calgary into some of Canada’s most striking landscapes, this guided tour offers an engaging mix of natural beauty and prehistoric wonders. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed information and traveler reviews paint a clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see dramatic landscapes like Horseshoe Canyon and the Hoodoo Trail without the hassle of driving, plus the opportunity to explore the world’s largest dinosaur museum. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the bilingual guide service, which might not suit everyone if you’re looking for a fully English-speaking experience.

This tour is perfect for dinosaurs enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone eager to see Canada’s unique badlands in a day. It’s a well-rounded option if you’re short on time but craving authentic, scenic, and educational experiences.

Key Points

• Convenient full-day trip from Calgary with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle makes the long day easier.
• Highlights include Horseshoe Canyon, Royal Tyrrell Museum, and Hoodoo Trail, offering diverse scenery and history.
• Guided by knowledgeable bilingual guides, ensuring an informative experience.
• Good value for the price considering the included museum entry, bottled water, and souvenirs.
• Suitable for most travelers, but note the group size and potential bilingual aspect.

An Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a comprehensive day out of Calgary, packed with breathtaking views and intriguing insights into the region’s prehistoric past. It’s designed to make the most of the Canadian Badlands’ rugged scenery and rich dinosaur history, without the stress of navigating yourself.

Starting early in the morning, you’ll be greeted at either the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel NE or the Delta Hotels downtown. The vehicle, an air-conditioned bus, provides a comfortable environment for the approximate 9-10 hour trip. The small group size, capped at 50 travelers, helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Calgary Pickup and Introduction

Your day begins with a friendly welcome from your guide, who will set the tone for the adventure ahead. Expect some initial briefing and a chance to ask questions as you settle into the vehicle. This is where the practical details—such as the day’s schedule and safety tips—are shared.

Horseshoe Canyon: Dipping into the Prehistoric Past

Your first stop is Horseshoe Canyon, a site that showcases layers of sediment dating back 70 million years. The maroon-striped canyon walls and layered formations make for dramatic scenery. The 30-minute stop allows time for a scenic walk and photos, but don’t expect a full hike unless you choose to explore further on your own.

Travelers consistently comment on how stunning the canyon views are, with one reviewer noting, “The canyon offers stunning views of maroon-striped canyon walls, showcasing layers that date back to the age of dinosaurs.” It’s a great spot for snapping photos and marveling at natural artistry.

Royal Tyrrell Museum: A Dinosaur Lover’s Paradise

The crown jewel of the trip is the Royal Tyrrell Museum—the world’s largest and most captivating paleontology museum. Spending about two and a half hours here gives you ample time to explore the extensive dinosaur fossil displays, highlighted by one of the world’s largest dinosaur exhibits.

A reviewer mentioned, “Winston was an amazing guide. He covered all the spots and we had enough time to explore,” emphasizing the value of knowledgeable guiding. The museum offers interactive displays, fossil casts, and informative panels—perfect for all ages, especially if dinosaurs fascinate you.

Hoodoo Trail and Sunset Views

After the museum, you’ll visit the Willow Creek Hoodoos. These iconic sandstone pillars create fantastic photo opportunities. The 30-minute stop includes a short hike along Hoodoo Trail, where you can enjoy sunset vistas and learn about the area’s geological history.

Travelers have found this stop particularly picturesque; one said, “The Hoodoos are stunning, especially at sunset. Great for photography and appreciating natural sculptures.”

Optional Shopping at CrossIron Mills

On the return leg, there’s a two-hour stop at CrossIron Mills, just outside Calgary. While some reviews note the shopping experience as more suitable for those who enjoy retail therapy, it offers a chance to stretch, browse over 200 stores, and grab a meal before heading back. Keep in mind, shoppers have mentioned that this outlet mall isn’t known for bargains, but it adds a leisurely wind-down to the day.

How the Experience Comes Together

Transportation & Comfort: The air-conditioned vehicle makes a long day more bearable, especially during the summer months. The group size and bilingual guides foster a friendly, informative environment, though the latter might mean some information is presented in Mandarin or English, which could influence the overall flow for some.

Guides & Information: According to reviews, the guides are generally praised for their knowledge. One reviewer wrote, “Vincent was a fantastic guide. Gave just the perfect amount of information,” highlighting the value of expert narration. However, some travelers noted that the bilingual aspect might limit the depth of commentary if you’re expecting only English.

Timing & Pacing: The itinerary balances sightseeing with sufficient time at each stop, meaning you won’t feel rushed. Though a longer museum visit or additional hikes could be appealing, the schedule as planned offers a solid overview of the region’s highlights.

Value & Cost: At $123.15 per person, including museum entry and bottled water, the tour offers a good balance between cost and experience. You’re paying for transportation, guided insights, and entry fees, making it a convenient and budget-conscious way to see multiple sites in one day.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Among the seven reviews, there’s a consistent appreciation for the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. One reviewer called the guide “Winston,” an “amazing tour guide,” and appreciated the coverage of all the spots with enough exploration time. Others highlighted the breathtaking scenery of Horseshoe Canyon and the Hoodoos as real highlights.

A slightly mixed review pointed out that the group composition of mostly Chinese-speaking travelers and the bilingual guide might not suit everyone, especially if you’re looking for an entirely English-speaking experience. Still, most found the tour enjoyable, and the guide’s professionalism was often praised.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress comfortably and bring layers, as weather can vary, especially if you plan to hike or spend time outdoors.
• Bring your camera—the views are photo-worthy, particularly at Horseshoe Canyon and the Hoodoo Trail.
• Hydrate well, as bottled water is included but you’ll want to drink plenty during the day.
• Plan for some shopping or lunch at CrossIron Mills if you enjoy retail therapy or need a break.
• Be punctual for pickup times to keep the schedule running smoothly.
• Note the bilingual guide—if you prefer only English commentary, check with the supplier beforehand.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re a dinosaurs fanatic or a lover of rugged landscapes, this trip hits the right notes. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate comfortable, guided travel and want to see the highlights without the stress of planning or driving. The mix of educational stops and scenic views makes it appealing for families, solo travelers, or small groups.

However, if you’re seeking a more in-depth or physically active experience, you might find the pacing a little relaxed or limited in hiking options. Also, those who prefer an exclusively English guide might want to clarify the bilingual aspect beforehand.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Canada’s striking Badlands and its prehistoric secrets. With comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and visits to iconic sites like Horseshoe Canyon and the Royal Tyrrell Museum, it delivers good value and memorable sights.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want to experience the region’s natural beauty and dinosaur history without the hassle of self-driving. The inclusion of bottled water, a fun souvenir, and the option to explore Hoodoo Trail adds to the overall appeal.

While it may not satisfy those craving strenuous hikes or a fully English-speaking guide, it strikes a nice balance for most travelers looking for an easy, engaging day of discovery.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 9 to 10 hours, including travel time and stops, making it a full-day adventure.

Where do I get picked up?
You can be picked up at either the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel NE or the Delta Hotels downtown Calgary.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned, helping keep everyone comfortable during the long drive.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Yes, the Royal Tyrrell Museum admission is included in the price.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You can plan to buy food during the shopping stop or bring snacks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider your children’s interests and stamina for a full day of sightseeing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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

Exploring the Canadian Badlands from Calgary through this guided tour offers a balanced mix of natural scenery and historical discovery. Whether you’re a dinosaur enthusiast or just want to see some of Alberta’s most unique landscapes, this trip provides a practical, rewarding way to make the most of a day outside the city.