From Calgary: Drumheller Badlands Private Tour (Small Group)

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines stunning scenery, fascinating fossils, and a good dose of outdoor adventure, this private tour of Drumheller from Calgary might just be your ticket. Marketed as a flexible and personalized experience, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into Alberta’s most famous landscape, home to dinosaurs and other geological marvels.

What we love about this tour is its customizable pace, thanks to the private format, and the chance to visit key sites that offer both natural beauty and a sense of history. The Royal Tyrrell Museum is certainly a highlight, with its impressive fossil collections and educational exhibits. Equally compelling are the outdoor stops like the Hoodoos and Horsethief Canyon, which look like landscapes straight out of a sci-fi film.

One thing to consider, however, is the cost—at over $400 for a group of up to six people, it’s a significant expense, but the private nature and the comprehensive itinerary do provide good value for those seeking a personalized experience. This tour would suit those who want more than a standard group outing, especially families, small groups of friends, or history and geology enthusiasts eager to explore at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your interests and pace
• Includes major highlights like the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the World’s Largest Dinosaur
• Scenic outdoor stops such as Horseshoe Canyon, Hoodoos, and Horsethief Canyon
• Comfortable transportation with parking fees and guide included
• Flexible schedule with options for shopping or exploring Calgary afterward
• A bit pricier than standard tours, but offers more personalized attention

Diving Deeper into the Drumheller Experience

This tour packs a lot into an approximately 8-hour day, giving you ample time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. Starting from Calgary, your journey begins with the promise of adventure into one of Canada’s most visually striking regions—the Alberta Badlands.

Convenient Pickup and Private Transport

The added convenience of pickup from your Calgary accommodation or designated location means you’ll skip the hassle of navigating public transport or waiting around. The private vehicle ensures a comfortable ride, with parking fees covered and space for your group of up to six. From the start, it’s clear this tour is designed for those who prefer a hassle-free, tailored experience rather than a crowded bus.

Horseshoe Canyon: Nature’s Art Gallery

Your first stop is Horseshoe Canyon, a site that offers sweeping views and a chance to stretch your legs. Known for its dramatic landscape, it’s an ideal spot for photography and short hikes. However, it’s worth noting that during winter months, it might be closed, so check ahead if timing is tight.

The Royal Tyrrell Museum: Dinosaur Central

No trip to Drumheller is complete without a visit to the Royal Tyrrell Museum. As one of the most significant paleontology museums in the world, it showcases an extensive collection of dinosaur fossils and offers educational exhibits suitable for all ages. Expect to spend around two hours here. It’s not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to budget around $15 for entry, but the museum’s exhibits make it well worth the extra cost.

As one reviewer noted, the museum is a “world-class destination,” and the guide’s insights help bring the fossils to life, making it a highlight for both adults and kids alike. If you’re a fan of dinosaurs or natural history, this stop will likely be a memorable part of your day.

The World’s Largest Dinosaur and Little Church

Next, the World’s Largest Dinosaur is a fun and quirky stop. Standing 26 meters tall, this fiberglass T. rex is an Instagram-ready icon. Visitors can climb inside its neck via a staircase and enjoy panoramic views of the Badlands from the mouth. The included admission makes it an accessible and amusing photo op.

Just nearby is Drumheller’s Little Church—a tiny, fully functional church seating only six people. Its quaint charm makes it a delightful contrast to the vast open landscapes and large dinosaur statues.

Exploring the Badlands: Hoodoos, Trails, and Canyons

After the museum, the tour continues outdoors with visits to Hoodoos, the Badlands Interpretive Trail, and Horsethief Canyon. These stops showcase the rugged, sculpted terrain of the Badlands, formed by millions of years of erosion. The Hoodoos are particularly striking: tall, thin spires with caps, standing as natural sculptures atop the landscape.

The Badlands Interpretive Trail is an easy, scenic loop that offers a closer look at the geology and terrain that make this region so unique. For many, walking through this terrain provides a tangible connection to the natural forces that shaped these formations.

Horsethief Canyon offers breathtaking views and historical intrigue—named after horse thieves who used its rugged landscape as a hideout. Its dramatic cliffs and sweeping vistas continue to allure visitors.

The Star Mine Suspension Bridge and Atlas Coal Mine

The Star Mine Suspension Bridge is an unusual historical relic—originally built in 1931 to connect miners to their work at the coal mine. Today, it’s a 117-meter-long pedestrian bridge, offering a walk with a bit of history and excellent views.

The Atlas Coal Mine is a preserved historic site, where you can glimpse into Alberta’s coal mining past. While the tour doesn’t include admission fees, the site itself is worth exploring if time allows, especially since it offers a tangible sense of the region’s industrial history.

Wrapping Up in Calgary

After a full day of exploring, you’ll return to Calgary, with optional time at Cross Iron Mills for shopping or a quick walk. The drop-off makes it convenient to continue your Calgary visit or head straight to your accommodation.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews on this tour provide a balanced picture. A guest praised the “beautiful scenery” and “easy walking”, as well as the knowledgeable guide—Yug—who was called patient and accommodating. That kind of personalized attention can make a big difference in a day packed full of stops.

However, not all experiences were perfect. One reviewer recounted a frustrating experience where the pickup was missed and no communication was received. The company responded, clarifying that their guide did wait, but due to communication issues, the pick-up incident caused a lost day. This highlights the importance of clear communication with tour providers—something to keep in mind.

Pricing and Value

At $407.52 for a group of up to six, the per-person cost can seem steep, but considering the private transportation, guide, and exclusive visits, many will find this offers good value—especially for those seeking a personalized, flexible experience. The flexibility to linger longer at favorite spots or skip others is a notable benefit over larger group tours.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private Drumheller Badlands tour appeals most to travelers who want a tailored, intimate experience. If you value personalized attention, dislike crowded tours, or have a keen interest in natural landscapes and dinosaur fossils, this trip offers a balanced blend of education and scenery.

The inclusion of key sites like the Royal Tyrrell Museum and Hoodoos, along with scenic outdoor stops, means you’ll get a well-rounded introduction to the region. The flexibility to customize your day makes it especially appealing for families or small groups who want to set their own pace.

However, the price point and potential for logistical hiccups—like the missed pickup in one review—are worth considering. It’s best for travelers who prioritize comfort, convenience, and a personalized touch over budget savings.

All in all, this tour provides a fascinating look at Alberta’s most iconic landscapes, with guides who know how to bring these natural wonders to life. It’s a solid choice for those eager to experience the Badlands in comfort and style, without the constraints of a large group.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your Calgary location, making it convenient and saving you the hassle of transport.

How long does the tour last?
Expect approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to see the main sights without feeling rushed.

Is the museum admission included?
No, the Royal Tyrrell Museum entry costs around $15 and is not included, but the guide can assist with tickets or suggestions.

What outdoor sites are included?
You’ll visit Horseshoe Canyon, Hoodoos, Horsethief Canyon, and the Badlands Interpretive Trail, offering a mix of scenic views and light hikes.

How many people are in the tour group?
The private tour is for up to 6 people, providing a more personal experience compared to larger groups.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your interests with the guide and allocate more time to preferred stops.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Absolutely—most travelers can participate, and the stops are suitable for children and adults alike.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, water (provided), and a camera. Check the weather forecast for clothing recommendations.

Can I combine this tour with Calgary sightseeing?
Yes, after the tour, you can spend an hour shopping or exploring Calgary, making it a flexible option for a full day.

To sum it up, if you’re keen on exploring Alberta’s stunning Badlands with a knowledgeable guide and at your own pace, this private tour strikes a solid balance of comfort, flexibility, and in-depth sightseeing. It’s especially well-suited for small groups or families wanting a more personalized adventure in the Dinosaur Capital of the World.