Discover the rugged beauty of Alberta’s stunning landscapes on the "From Calgary: Drumheller, Horseshoe Canyon, Hoodoos Day Trip." This full-day adventure takes you on an unforgettable journey through the region’s most captivating natural wonders. From the awe-inspiring Horseshoe Canyon to the whimsical Hoodoos Trail, every moment promises to leave you breathless. But the true highlight? The chance to uncover the secrets of the past at the renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum. Are you ready to embark on a adventure like no other?
Good To Know
- Explore the Drumheller region, including the Royal Tyrrell Museum and Hoodoos Trail, on a full-day tour from Calgary, priced from $116.82 per person.
- Enjoy a 30-minute hike through Horseshoe Canyon, 2.5 hours at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, and a 30-minute stop at the Hoodoos Trail.
- Depart from convenient locations in downtown Calgary and enjoy comfortable, air-conditioned transportation throughout the day.
- Benefit from complimentary amenities, including a knowledgeable tour guide, museum admission, and refreshments.
- Be prepared for moderate physical activity, as the tour may involve challenging terrain and uneven paths.
Tour Overview
This full-day tour from Calgary takes travelers on a captivating journey through the rugged landscapes of Drumheller and Horseshoe Canyon.
Priced from $116.82 per person, the 10-hour excursion promises an unforgettable experience, with visits to the renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum and the Hoodoos Trail.
Guests can expect complimentary amenities, including a tour guide, museum admission, and refreshments.
The tour’s flexibility allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
With a focus on sightseeing, hiking, and shopping, this day trip offers a well-rounded exploration of the region’s natural wonders and cultural attractions.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Drumheller.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour’s itinerary highlights an enthralling mix of natural wonders and cultural attractions.
Visitors will embark on a 30-minute hike through the dramatic Horseshoe Canyon, capturing breathtaking photos of the rugged, sculpted landscape.
Next, they’ll enjoy the rich paleontological heritage at the renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum, allotting 2.5 hours to explore its extensive fossil collection and exhibits.
The adventure continues with a 30-minute stop at the Hoodoos Trail, where towering, otherworldly rock formations stand as silent sentinels.
Starting Locations
For this day trip, travelers can embark on their excursion from either the Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown or the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre. These starting points offer convenient access to the tour’s itinerary, ensuring a seamless start to the adventure. The table below highlights the key details for each location:
| Location | Address | Distance to Tour Start |
|---|---|---|
| Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown | 209 4th Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0C6 | 0 km |
| Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre | 1316 33 St NE, Calgary, AB T2A 6B6 | 16 km |
With either option, guests can look forward to an unforgettable day exploring the stunning natural landscapes of Drumheller and the Hoodoos.
Activities
Travelers embark on an exhilarating adventure during this day trip, with several captivating activities awaiting them.
First, they’ll explore the breathtaking Horseshoe Canyon, snapping photos and hiking its scenic trails.
Next, they’ll enjoy the rich paleontological discoveries at the renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum, where they can indulge in a leisurely lunch and explore the exhibits.
Finally, the journey continues to the Hoodoos Trail, where they’ll marvel at the otherworldly rock formations and capture more stunning vistas.
This well-balanced itinerary ensures a dynamic and memorable day filled with natural wonders, educational experiences, and ample opportunities for exploration.
- Horseshoe Canyon: Photo stops, sightseeing, and hiking
- Royal Tyrrell Museum: Visit, lunch, and sightseeing
- Hoodoos Trail: Photo stops, sightseeing, and hiking
Transportation
Whisking guests away from their starting points, the air-conditioned bus or coach takes them on a 1.5-hour journey to the majestic Horseshoe Canyon. Once there, the group can enjoy a photo stop, sightseeing, and a 30-minute hike to explore the stunning geological formation. The journey continues, with a quick 20-minute drive to the famous CrossIron Mills shopping outlet. After browsing the shops, the tour heads back to the starting locations, ensuring a seamless and comfortable transportation experience throughout the day.
| Starting Locations | Duration | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown | 1.5 hours | 130 km |
| Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre | 1.5 hours | 130 km |
| CrossIron Mills | 20 minutes | 20 km |
Included Amenities
Complementing the tour’s seamless transportation, the package includes a range of amenities designed to enhance the overall experience.
The highlight is the complimentary admission to the renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum, allowing guests to enjoy the captivating world of paleontology.
Plus, the tour provides:
- A knowledgeable guide fluent in both Chinese and English, ensuring seamless communication and insights throughout the journey.
- A refreshing bottled water to keep travelers hydrated as they explore the dramatic landscapes.
- Gratuity for the driver and guide, eliminating the need for guests to worry about tipping.
These thoughtful inclusions elevate the excursion, creating a well-rounded and stress-free adventure.
Important Information
What makes this tour not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments? The itinerary includes hiking at Horseshoe Canyon and Hoodoos Trail, which can be challenging for those with limited mobility.
The terrain is rugged, with uneven paths and steep inclines. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. Visitors should be prepared to spend extended periods on their feet, as the tour involves a significant amount of sightseeing and exploring.
However, those who can manage the physical aspects will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the unique geological formations that define the Drumheller landscape.
Customer Reviews
The day trip to Drumheller and Horseshoe Canyon has earned overwhelmingly positive reviews from a diverse range of travelers.
With an impressive 4.3/5 overall rating based on 15 reviews, this tour offers an unbeatable value for money. Traveler feedback highlights several standout aspects:
Transportation: The comfortable, air-conditioned bus/coach travel receives a solid 4/5 rating, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Diverse Experiences: Couples, groups, solo travelers, and families alike have praised the varied itinerary, from the majestic Horseshoe Canyon to the fascinating Royal Tyrrell Museum.
Expert Guidance: The tour’s Chinese and English-speaking guides receive high marks for their knowledge and attentiveness, enhancing the overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Comfortable Are the Tour Bus Seats?
The tour bus seats are described as comfortable by reviewers, providing ample cushioning and support for the full-day excursion. Travelers can relax and enjoy the scenic views in air-conditioned comfort during the rides between destinations.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though the tour includes a visit to the Royal Tyrrell Museum where lunch is available. The tour bus is air-conditioned, offering a comfortable ride through the scenic Alberta landscape.
Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?
The tour offers several restroom breaks throughout the day, allowing travelers to comfortably freshen up at the Royal Tyrrell Museum and other scenic stops along the journey to Drumheller and the Hoodoos. Guests can expect a well-paced itinerary with ample time to explore.
Can I Take Additional Stops for Photos if Needed?
Certainly, the tour provides ample opportunities for additional photo stops along the way. Guests can request extra time at scenic locations to capture the breathtaking landscapes of Horseshoe Canyon and the Hoodoos Trail.
What Happens if the Weather Is Poor on the Tour Day?
If the weather is poor, the tour operator will adjust the itinerary to focus on indoor activities like the Royal Tyrrell Museum. They’ll also provide guidance on navigating the weather to ensure guests have an enjoyable, safe experience.
The Sum Up
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Alberta’s breathtaking landscapes. Explore the awe-inspiring Horseshoe Canyon, marvel at the stunning Hoodoos Trail, and learn about the rich history of the Royal Tyrrell Museum. With comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and flexible policies, this day trip offers an adventurous and hassle-free experience for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
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