Exploring the stunning natural wonders of Drumheller and the Canadian Badlands is a must-do for any visitor to Alberta. This private tour from Calgary promises an unforgettable adventure, immersing you in the region’s rich history and geological marvels. From the iconic hoodoos to the world-class exhibitions at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, this curated experience offers the flexibility to discover these breathtaking landscapes at your own pace. Whether you’re a budding paleontologist or simply in awe of nature’s masterpieces, this tour promises to leave you with lasting memories of Alberta’s breathtaking beauty.
Key Points
- Provides private sightseeing tour from Calgary to Drumheller Provincial Park and the Canadian Badlands, including the Royal Tyrrell Museum and Atlas Coal Mine.
- Highlights the iconic geological formations of the Canadian Badlands, such as hoodoos and Horseshoe Canyon.
- Offers luxury sprinter van transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, allowing for a personalized experience.
- Allows visitors to explore the destinations at their own pace and according to their interests.
- Entrance tickets to the Royal Tyrrell Museum and Atlas Coal Mine are not included in the tour price.
Tour Overview
This private sightseeing tour takes visitors to the stunning Drumheller Provincial Park and the Canadian Badlands, showcasing the region’s natural attractions like the hoodoos and Horseshoe Canyon.
Guests will travel at their own pace in a luxury sprinter van, with hotel pickup and drop-off available.
The tour includes visits to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Canada’s premier paleontology museum, and the Atlas Coal Mine, where visitors can learn about the area’s mining history.
Throughout the journey, guests will have the freedom to explore these remarkable destinations at their leisure.
With all taxes, fees, and handling charges included, this private tour offers a seamless and immersive experience in the heart of the Canadian Badlands.
Highlights of the Tour
The private sightseeing tour showcases the stunning natural attractions of Drumheller Provincial Park and the Canadian Badlands, including the iconic hoodoos and the vast Horseshoe Canyon.
Visitors will be awestruck by the towering, thin spires of rock known as hoodoos, formed over centuries by wind and water erosion. Exploring Horseshoe Canyon, with its dramatic, sweeping vistas, is sure to be a highlight.
The tour also includes a visit to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Canada’s premier paleontology museum, where guests can marvel at the impressive dinosaur fossils and learn about the region’s ancient past.
For those interested in mining history, an optional stop at the Atlas Coal Mine offers a glimpse into the area’s industrial heritage.
Drumheller Provincial Park
Nestled within the rugged terrain of central Alberta, Drumheller Provincial Park showcases the awe-inspiring geological formations that have shaped the Canadian Badlands over millions of years.
Visitors are drawn to the park’s iconic hoodoos – tall, slender spires of rock that stand as testament to the region’s dramatic past. Horseshoe Canyon, with its sweeping vistas and winding trails, offers a glimpse into the park’s sculpted landscapes.
Elsewhere, the towering cliffs and deep ravines of the park create a striking contrast against the prairie grasslands, inviting guests to explore this unique natural wonder.
From the hoodoos to the canyons, Drumheller Provincial Park captivates with its raw, untamed beauty, making it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Canadian Badlands.
The Canadian Badlands
Stretching across the heart of Alberta, the Canadian Badlands captivate visitors with their otherworldly landscapes sculpted by millions of years of geological forces.
Explore the region’s three main highlights:
Hoodoos: These tall, slender spires of rock tower above the landscape, carved by wind and water erosion into whimsical shapes.
Horseshoe Canyon: A dramatic, crescent-shaped canyon with layered rock walls that stretch hundreds of feet high, offering stunning views.
Royal Tyrrell Museum: Canada’s premier paleontology museum, housing one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaur fossils and skeletons.
From the unique geology to the fascinating fossil record, the Canadian Badlands promise an unforgettable adventure.
Horseshoe Canyon and Hoodoos
Carved by the relentless forces of wind and water, Horseshoe Canyon‘s dramatic, crescent-shaped walls stretch hundreds of feet high, casting long shadows over the canyon floor below.
Nearby, the region’s iconic hoodoos – tall, slender spires of rock – dot the landscape, their unique shapes and colors a testament to the power of erosion.
Visitors can hike along the canyon’s trails, marveling at the otherworldly geological formations that have been shaped over millennia.
The hoodoos, with their distinct caps of resistant rock perched atop columns of softer sediment, are a breathtaking sight that draws visitors from around the world to the Canadian Badlands.
The Royal Tyrrell Museum
The Royal Tyrrell Museum stands as Canada’s premier institution dedicated to the study and exhibition of paleontology, housing an unparalleled collection of prehistoric fossils that captivate visitors from across the globe.
As the only museum in the country solely focused on this field, it offers a wealth of knowledge and exhibits that bring the ancient past to life.
Visitors can explore:
- The museum’s vast collection of dinosaur fossils, including complete skeletons and rare specimens.
- Interactive displays that provide insight into the evolution of life on Earth.
- Engaging educational programs that cater to budding paleontologists of all ages.
With its world-class facilities and unparalleled expertise, the Royal Tyrrell Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the wonders of the prehistoric world.
Atlas Coal Mine
Visitors to the Drumhiller region can explore the rich coal mining history of the Canadian Prairies by exploring the Atlas Coal Mine, a premier historic site that offers a captivating glimpse into the industry’s past.
Guests can embark on guided tours, descending into the original mine shafts and navigating narrow tunnels to witness the challenging conditions miners once faced.
The site’s preserved tipple, rail, and other equipment provide a vivid interpretation of the region’s industrial heritage.
Whether exploring the museum exhibits or taking a surface tour, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the vital role coal mining played in shaping the development of Drumhiller and the surrounding area.
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
This private sightseeing tour to Drumheller and the Canadian Badlands includes private transport, hotel pickup and drop-off, and all taxes and fees.
Visitors will need to purchase separate entrance tickets for the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Atlas Coal Mine, and any other optional attractions they wish to explore.
The tour offers the following exclusions:
- Entrance tickets to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Atlas Coal Mine, and other attractions.
- Food and drinks during the tour.
- Gratuities for the driver or guide.
While the tour provides a comprehensive look at the natural wonders of the region, guests are responsible for covering the costs of admission and personal expenses to fully enjoy the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour information states that food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so you are welcome to bring your own.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
While the tour does not offer specific discounts for seniors or students, travelers may be able to obtain reduced admission rates at some of the tour’s attractions, such as the Royal Tyrrell Museum. The tour operator can provide more details upon booking.
How Many People Can the Sprinter Van Accommodate?
The sprinter van can accommodate up to 12 passengers, providing a comfortable and spacious private sightseeing experience. The vehicle’s size allows for a flexible group size to explore the Drumheller and Canadian Badlands attractions.
Is There a Restroom Available in the Sprinter Van?
The sprinter van does not have a restroom available. However, the tour includes stops at various attractions and landmarks where guests can use public restroom facilities. The tour operator ensures comfort and convenience throughout the excursion.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Needs?
Yes, the tour can be customized to fit your needs. The private tour allows you to adjust the itinerary and pace to your preferences, ensuring an optimal experience exploring the highlights of the Canadian Badlands at your own pace.
Recap
This private tour offers an unparalleled journey through Alberta’s stunning natural landscapes.
Visitors will marvel at the captivating hoodoos and canyons of Drumheller Provincial Park, enjoy the world-class exhibits of the Royal Tyrrell Museum, and gain insights into the region’s rich mining history.
With luxury transportation and the flexibility to explore at one’s own pace, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking Canadian Badlands.
