Start your day early with a drive from Calgary, watching the rolling prairies gradually give way to the dramatic landscapes of the Canadian Badlands.

Your first stop is Horseshoe Canyon, a breathtaking U-shaped valley carved into the earth with colorful, layered cliffs that offer stunning views. It’s the perfect introduction to the rugged beauty of Drumheller.

From there, head into the town of Drumheller to see the World’s Largest Dinosaur, an 86-foot structure you can climb for panoramic views of the valley. While in town, grab a coffee or pastry at one of the local bakeries before continuing your adventure.

Next, spend a few hours at the world-famous Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, where you’ll explore fascinating dinosaur fossils and prehistoric displays. Don’t miss the short interpretive trail behind the museum, which showcases the striking Badlands terrain up close.

For lunch, stop at Bernie & The Boys Bistro, a quirky local favorite known for its massive burgers and creative menu items.

In the afternoon, make your way to the iconic Hoodoos Trail, where you can walk among surreal sandstone pillars shaped by millions of years of wind and water erosion. Afterwards, head to the Rosedale Suspension Bridge, a swinging pedestrian bridge that offers sweeping views of the Red Deer River and a glimpse into Drumheller’s coal mining past.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site, where you can step back into the early 20th century and even take a guided tour through old tunnels or climb the last wooden tipple in Canada. (Summer Only & Optional)

Finally, begin your return drive as the sun sets across the prairies, casting golden light over the Badlands and giving you one last chance to soak in the beauty of this otherworldly landscape.