Discover the captivating geological wonders that lie just outside Calgary. This day trip to Drumheller promises a fascinating exploration of the area’s unique landscapes, from the dramatic Horseshoe Canyon to the renowned Hoodoos. Along the way, visitors will explore the rich history of the region at the acclaimed Royal Tyrrell Museum, home to an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and flexible scheduling, this adventure offers a seamless and memorable experience for travelers seeking to uncover the natural beauty and ancient secrets that make this part of Alberta truly remarkable.
Key Points
- Full-day tour from Calgary to Drumheller, Horseshoe Canyon, and Hoodoos Trail, priced from $117.53 per person and lasting 10 hours.
- Highlights include the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Horseshoe Canyon, and the Hoodoos Trail, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
- Tour departs from two locations in Calgary with complimentary pickup and drop-off, and transportation provided via air-conditioned vehicle.
- Itinerary includes a 30-minute photo stop and hiking at Horseshoe Canyon, 2.5 hours at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, and a 30-minute photo opportunity at the Hoodoos Trail.
- Tour suitable for most travelers, with recommended attire including comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, and admission fee for the Royal Tyrrell Museum included in the tour price.
Tour Overview
The full-day tour from Calgary to Drumheller includes visits to the Horseshoe Canyon, Royal Tyrrell Museum, and Hoodoo Trail.
Priced from $117.53 per person, the tour lasts 10 hours and offers language options in Chinese and English.
Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle.
The tour highlights the opportunity to explore the dinosaur age at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, take a scenic hike in the Horseshoe Canyon, and admire the naturally sculpted sandstone columns of the Hoodoo Trail.
Complimentary amenities include a luggage tag and a refreshing bottle of water.
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Itinerary
Starting from the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre or the Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown, the tour heads to Horseshoe Canyon for a 30-minute photo stop, sightseeing, and hiking.
Next, guests spend 2.5 hours at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, exploring the dinosaur age and enjoying lunch.
The tour then stops at the Hoodoos Trail for another 30-minute photo op and sightseeing before heading to CrossIron Mills for 2 hours of shopping.
At the end of the day, the tour returns to the starting locations.
Starting Locations
The tour departs from two convenient starting locations in Calgary – the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre and the Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown. This allows participants to easily join the excursion from various parts of the city.
The tour includes:
- Complimentary pickup and drop-off at the selected starting location
- Air-conditioned transportation throughout the day
- A knowledgeable guide to provide commentary and insights
- Flexibility to accommodate different schedules and preferences
- Seamless logistics to ensure a smooth and efficient experience.
Stops
The tour makes several stops throughout the day, allowing participants to explore the region’s diverse landscapes and attractions.
First, the group visits Horseshoe Canyon, where they can take photos and go on a short hike to admire the stunning geological formation.
Next, they spend 2.5 hours at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which houses an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils and exhibits.
After lunch, the tour heads to the Hoodoos Trail, where travelers can marvel at the naturally sculpted sandstone columns.
The final stop is at CrossIron Mills, a large shopping mall, where guests have two hours to browse the shops.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyEnding Locations
At the end of the tour, participants return to the same locations where they started the day – either the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre or the Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown.
This ensures a seamless start and end to the excursion, allowing for a hassle-free transition. The tour’s ending locations provide the following benefits:
- Convenient departure and arrival points
- No need to arrange separate transportation
- Familiarity with the starting location
- Ability to continue the day’s activities or head back home
- Peace of mind knowing the route has been navigated efficiently
Highlights
Guests’ explorations of the Drumheller region begin with the awe-inspiring Horseshoe Canyon, where they can capture stunning photographs and embark on scenic hikes.
Next, they’ll visit the renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum, which offers a comprehensive dive into the dinosaur age.
Along the Hoodoo Trail, they’ll marvel at the naturally sculpted sandstone columns, a true geological wonder.
Throughout the tour, guests enjoy complimentary amenities like a refreshing bottle of water and a souvenir luggage tag.
This immersive day trip provides an unforgettable opportunity to uncover the rich natural and paleontological treasures that make Drumheller and its surroundings a must-visit destination.
Important Information
Although this day trip is suitable for most travelers, it may not be ideal for those with limited mobility, as the tour involves moderate hiking in Horseshoe Canyon and along the Hoodoos Trail.
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, it’s recommended to wear:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Light layers in case of changing weather
- Water and snacks
The admission fee for the Royal Tyrrell Museum is included in the tour price, and gratuity for the driver/tour guide is also covered.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this day trip offers flexibility and convenience for exploring the stunning landscapes of Drumheller.
Customer Reviews
Customers who’ve experienced this day trip to Drumheller and Horseshoe Canyon have provided an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 12 reviews.
The transportation for the tour received a 4.5/5 rating, while the value for money was scored 3.5/5.
The highlights praised by reviewers include the exploration of the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the scenic hikes, though some expressed a desire for more time at the museum and less time spent shopping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?
The tour may not be suitable for families with young children. The hikes and long durations could be challenging, and the itinerary doesn’t seem tailored for children’s interests. Families should consider tours designed specifically for younger audiences.
Do We Have an Opportunity to Interact With Dinosaur Exhibits?
The tour includes a visit to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, where visitors can explore interactive dinosaur exhibits and learn about the ancient creatures that once roamed the Drumheller Valley. The museum provides an immersive experience for those interested in paleontology.
Can We Customize the Itinerary to Spend More Time at Specific Locations?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to spend more time at specific locations. Customers can speak with the tour operator to adjust the schedule and focus on areas of greatest interest, such as the dinosaur exhibits at the Royal Tyrrell Museum.
Is There a Discount Available for Seniors or Students?
Yes, there are discounted rates available for seniors and students on this tour. Customers can inquire about these discounts when booking the tour directly with the tour provider.
How Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols Implemented During the Tour?
The tour follows COVID-19 safety protocols, including mandatory masking, social distancing, and sanitization measures. Hand sanitizer is provided, and group sizes are limited to allow for proper distancing. Guests’ health and safety are prioritized throughout the excursion.
Recap
This day trip from Calgary to Drumholder offers a captivating exploration of the region’s stunning natural landscapes. Visitors will marvel at the dramatic Horseshoe Canyon and the iconic Hoodoos, while also seeing the fascinating world of dinosaurs at the Royal Tyrrell Museum. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and flexible cancellation options, this adventure provides a seamless and memorable experience for all travelers.
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