Drumheller: Dinosaurs, Museum, & Hoodoos Day Tour

Discover Drumheller’s Dinosaur and Hoodoo Highlights in a Day

The Drumheller: Dinosaurs, Museum, & Hoodoos Day Tour offers an engaging 10-hour journey through Alberta’s striking Badlands. Starting from Calgary, this tour showcases Canada’s largest dinosaur fossils at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, ups the adventure with a pass-by of the World’s Largest Dinosaur Model, and explores the whimsical hoodoo formations along the Hoodoo Trail. The tour also includes a two-hour shopping stop at CrossIron Mills Outlet for top brands, making it a perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and leisure.

Operated by Westar Travel, this tour appeals to those keen on geology, paleontology, and scenic landscapes. While the admission to the Royal Tyrrell Museum is not included, the 150-minute visit still offers ample time to see impressive fossil exhibits. Expect a well-organized day with a brisk but comprehensive itinerary, suitable for visitors with a full day to spare.

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Key Points

• Full-day excursion from Calgary lasting approximately 10 hours.
• Includes a visit to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, home to Canada’s largest collection of dinosaur fossils.
• Passes by the World’s Largest Dinosaur Model for a quick photo opportunity.
• Explores the Hoodoo Trail, with 30-minute photo stops and walking among mushroom-shaped formations.
• Offers 2 hours of shopping at CrossIron Mills Outlet, Alberta’s largest mall.
• Features scenic views of Alberta’s Badlands with striking red and white rock layers.

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in Calgary

The tour begins at one of two convenient locations in Calgary: Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre or an alternate meeting point. The journey departs early, with a bus or coach ride of about 1.5 hours across the prairies toward Drumheller. This setup makes for a smooth start, with comfort and efficiency built into the morning.

On the return trip, the bus ride lasts approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, bringing the group back to Calgary around late afternoon or early evening. Drop-offs are at the same hotel or designated locations, offering ease and flexibility for travelers.

Exploring Alberta’s Badlands and Hoodoo Formations

Once in Drumheller, the landscape transforms into a vivid tableau of weathered canyons and layered rock formations. The Hoodoo Trail is a highlight, where mushroom-shaped stone pillars have been sculpted by wind and erosion over thousands of years. Visitors walk among these formations, marveling at the smallness of humans compared to nature’s artistry.

The scenic views along the trail are ideal for photos and appreciating the natural forces that shape this unique landscape. The trail walk lasts about 30 minutes during the first stop, giving ample time for photos and exploration. Later, a second 30-minute stop at the Hoodoos allows for more sightseeing and scenic viewing, often combined with a short hike.

The World’s Largest Dinosaur Pass-by

A quick drive-by past the World’s Largest Dinosaur Model offers a fun photo opportunity from the coach. Although this stop isn’t a full visit, it provides a memorable visual of Drumheller’s dinosaur-themed attractions. The model is an iconic landmark, symbolizing the region’s paleontological significance.

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Royal Tyrrell Museum: Alberta’s Dinosaur Treasure

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is the tour’s centerpiece, where paleontology enthusiasts can spend about 2 hours exploring the extensive fossil collections. This museum is renowned for housing Canada’s largest dinosaur fossils, and its exhibits vividly bring prehistoric creatures to life.

While admission is not included, the museum’s well-curated displays, informative exhibits, and fossil reconstructions make it a must-visit. Visitors can learn about the region’s prehistoric past through interactive displays and dedicated fossil halls. The museum’s location in the Badlands enhances the experience with scenic surroundings.

A 30-minute lunch break at the museum or nearby eateries allows for a quick refuel before continuing the day’s exploration.

Shopping at CrossIron Mills Outlet Mall

After the museum visit, the tour includes a two-hour shopping stop at CrossIron Mills, Alberta’s largest outlet mall. This center features a wide variety of top brands and discount outlets, perfect for those looking to purchase clothing, accessories, or souvenirs at reduced prices.

The shopping time is generous enough to browse comfortably, but some reviews suggest it might be a lengthy stop for those eager to spend more time exploring Drumheller itself. Nonetheless, it provides a good opportunity to unwind and pick up last-minute gifts.

Additional Stop at Hoodoos for Photos and Scenic Views

Following shopping, the tour makes a second short visit to the Hoodoo Trail, giving travelers more chances to walk among the formations or enjoy panoramic views. This 30-minute stop is ideal for capturing photographs or simply soaking in the unusual landscape.

This second visit balances the day nicely, allowing travelers to reflect on the scenery and take in some fresh air after the museum and shopping segments.

Pacing and Group Experience

The tour maintains a brisk pace, with most stops lasting between 30 minutes to 2 hours. The schedule offers a good balance between sightseeing, leisure, and travel time, though some reviews note that the shopping stop at CrossIron Mills can feel a bit lengthy compared to natural attractions.

The tour’s group size and guided approach ensure smooth transitions between stops, with experienced guides leading the way. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, though some reviewers mention that at least one guide’s explanations could be more detailed.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

The tour involves walking around the Hoodoo Trail and the museum, which might require moderate mobility. The landscape at Hoodoo Trail is accessible for most, but travelers with mobility issues should check with the provider for specific accommodations. The overall physical demand is manageable for most, given the moderate walking and sightseeing durations.

Value and Cost Considerations

While the admission to the Royal Tyrrell Museum is not included, the $124 per person for the entire 10-hour experience covers transportation, guided commentary, and the shopping stop. The inclusion of scenic stops and the museum visit makes it a worthwhile option for those interested in dinosaurs and natural formations, especially given the convenience of a guided day tour.

The flexible booking options allow for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind for spontaneous plans or uncertain schedules.

Summary of Strengths and Limitations

This tour excels in showcasing Alberta’s iconic dinosaur fossils and hoodoo landscapes, with knowledgeable guides and a well-paced itinerary. The scenic views, combined with the informative museum experience, give a balanced look at the region’s natural and prehistoric wonders.

A notable limitation is the admission fee not included for the museum, which can add to the overall cost if not purchased separately. Plus, some may find the shopping stop at CrossIron Mills less appealing if focused solely on natural attractions.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This full-day experience is ideal for families, dinosaur enthusiasts, geology fans, and anyone eager to explore Alberta’s striking Badlands. It suits those who appreciate a guided, organized trip with a mix of outdoor scenery and educational exhibits. Travelers with moderate mobility and an interest in shopping will find it especially convenient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the museum admission included in the tour price?
No, admission to the Royal Tyrrell Museum is not included, so visitors should plan to purchase tickets separately if they wish to explore the exhibits extensively.

How long is the shopping stop at CrossIron Mills?
The shopping stop lasts about 2 hours, giving ample time to browse top brands and pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Are the stops suitable for all physical abilities?
The Hoodoo Trail involves walking, but it is generally accessible for most. Visitors with mobility concerns should check with the tour provider for specific accommodations.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The primary highlights include seeing the Royal Tyrrell Museum, viewing the Hoodoo formations, driving past the World’s Largest Dinosaur, and shopping at CrossIron Mills.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, offering flexible planning.

This Drumheller day tour offers a thorough, engaging look at Alberta’s most iconic natural and prehistoric sights, perfect for those eager to combine education, scenery, and leisure into one memorable day.

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