Exploring the rugged beauty of Alberta’s Canadian Badlands becomes effortless with the Calgary: Drumheller and Badlands Tour with Museum Entry. This full-day adventure, priced competitively, offers a seamless way to see iconic landscapes and landmarks without the hassle of planning. Priced at a flat rate, it lasts around 9 hours, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable experience. The tour includes fast-track entry to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, a highlight for dinosaur enthusiasts, and visits to striking geological formations like the Hoodoos. The journey is made comfortable in luxury vehicles or vans, guided by knowledgeable local guides who share insights into the land’s history.

While the Horseshoe Canyon stop is temporarily closed for the season, the itinerary still features plenty of memorable sights, charming small towns, and photo opportunities. Suitable for outdoor lovers, geology buffs, and curious explorers, this tour balances structured stops with free time for personal exploration. The only real consideration: travelers should be prepared for light walking on uneven terrain and bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

Key Points

All-inclusive day trip from Calgary lasting approximately 9 hours with pickup options at two central hotels.
Visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum with skip-the-line entry to explore extensive dinosaur fossil collections.
See the Hoodoos—bizarre sandstone formations shaped by erosion—paired with panoramic views.
Cross the famous Suspension Bridge and enjoy scenic photo stops at viewpoints.
Discover small, off-the-radar towns like Wayne and explore local sights and shops.
Guided by experienced local guides in luxury vehicles, with commentary in multiple languages.

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Starting Point and Transportation in Calgary

This tour begins with pickups at Hyatt Regency Calgary at 8:30 AM and Holiday Inn & Suites Calgary Airport North at 9 AM. The group is transported in luxury vehicles or vans, ensuring comfort throughout the day. The pickup process is straightforward, with meeting points clearly designated at the hotel entrances. The vehicle choice, whether a Lexus TX or similar, emphasizes a luxurious, clean, and comfortable ride for the entire journey.

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Exploring Horseshoe Canyon and Its Scenic Beauty

While Horseshoe Canyon is a key stop on this tour, it is temporarily closed for the season and reopens on April 17, 2026. When available, it offers a photo stop, guided tour, and scenic walk through a landscape carved by ancient rivers. The canyon’s dramatic cliffs and archaeological significance make it a popular highlight, though travelers should note limited access during closure. The scenic drive to this point offers a chance to take in the changing landscape from prairie grasslands to rugged canyon terrain.

Discovering the Royal Tyrrell Museum’s Dinosaur Collection

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is a standout feature, with skip-the-line entry allowing visitors to spend about 2 hours exploring its extensive fossil exhibits. Known for housing one of the world’s largest dinosaur fossil collections, the museum showcases skeletons, fossils, and interactive displays that fascinate both kids and adults. The local guide provides highlights and context, making the experience educational and engaging. There’s also time for self-guided exploration, which means visitors can linger over exhibits that catch their eye.

Marveling at the Hoodoos and Their Legends

Post-museum, the tour ventures into the Badlands, where the Hoodoos dominate the landscape. These bizarre sandstone pillars, shaped over millennia by natural erosion, create a surreal scene. The Hoodoos Trail includes a photo stop, guided walk, and sightseeing around this geological wonder. Visitors get sweeping views of the terrain, with the opportunity to hear Indigenous legends passed down about the formations. The experience is both visually stunning and culturally meaningful, with around 30 minutes allocated for this stop.

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Crossing the Star Mine Suspension Bridge

One of the most distinctive experiences on the tour is crossing the Star Mine Suspension Bridge. This 20-minute stop includes a guided walk across the bridge, providing breathtaking perspectives of the surrounding Badlands landscape. It’s a photographer’s paradise and offers a sense of adventure and scale. The bridge’s design and the views beneath make it a memorable highlight, with plenty of time for photos and to appreciate the engineering marvel.

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Visiting Small Towns and Local Sights

The tour also incorporates visits to off-the-radar towns, such as Wayne. These stops include shopping, sightseeing, and exploring local landmarks like the Last Chance Saloon. This historic spot, although closed from December through mid-April, offers an authentic taste of rural Alberta life and a chance to pick up souvenirs. The tour balances these relaxed stops with the more active sightseeing, giving visitors a well-rounded experience of the region’s culture and history.

Lunch, Refreshments, and Local Brews at the Last Chance Saloon

At the Last Chance Saloon, travelers can enjoy local beers, spirits, and wines, along with a barbecue meal or other regional food options. Though this stop is around 30 minutes, it provides a welcome break and an opportunity to relax and soak in the local atmosphere. The scenic views from this location add to the charm, making it a fitting end to the sightseeing part of the day. Keep in mind the saloon’s seasonal closure from mid-December to mid-April, which may impact availability.

The Tour’s Ending and Drop-off in Calgary

The tour concludes with drop-offs at the same hotels in Calgary, with the Hyatt Regency returning guests around 5:30 PM, and the Holiday Inn slightly later. The comfortable vehicles and organized schedule ensure a smooth end to the day, leaving plenty of time for dinner or evening plans. The full-day structure balances sightseeing with enough downtime, making it suitable for most travelers with moderate activity levels.

Why Choose This Calgary Badlands Tour

This 9-hour guided excursion offers excellent value with priority museum access and plenty of stops at key landmarks. The local guides, praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and timing, enhance the experience with engaging commentary. The tour’s luxury transport and flexible booking options, including reserve now, pay later, add convenience and comfort.

The landscape, geology, and small-town charm make this tour particularly appealing. While some stops like Horseshoe Canyon are seasonal, the core attractions—Royal Tyrrell Museum, Hoodoos, Suspension Bridge, and local towns—ensure a memorable day. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free exploration of the Badlands with expert guidance and comfortable transportation.

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Calgary: Drumheller and Badlands Tour with Museum Entry

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The tour price covers transportation in luxury vehicles, museum entry with skip-the-line access, and guided commentary. Meals and personal shopping are typically not included.

Are there any physical requirements for this tour?
Yes, participants should be prepared for light walking on uneven terrain at stops like Hoodoos and the Suspension Bridge. Wearing comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the stops and pace are suitable for families, especially those interested in dinosaurs and scenic landscapes.

What languages are supported by the guides?
Guides speak English, Arabic, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing for varying conditions.

Is the Horseshoe Canyon stop really accessible?
Currently, Horseshoe Canyon is closed for the season and will reopen in April 2026, so it will not be part of the experience until then.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
Spring and summer are ideal for good weather and accessibility, but the tour operates year-round with seasonal adjustments.

How long is the Royal Tyrrell Museum visit?
Visitors have about 2 hours to explore the museum, which is enough time to see key exhibits and enjoy some self-guided exploration.

Is vegetarian or special dietary options available?
The information does not specify dietary options; it’s best to inquire directly if needed.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
Skip-the-line museum access, experienced local guides, and scenic stops like Hoodoos and Suspension Bridge distinguish this tour. The luxury transportation and flexible booking options add further appeal.

This Calgary: Drumheller and Badlands Tour with Museum Entry offers a well-rounded day exploring some of Alberta’s most striking natural formations and cultural spots. Its focus on comfort, expert guidance, and iconic sights makes it a smart choice for those eager to discover the region’s geological marvels and dinosaur history with minimal hassle.