Canadian Badlands
Featuring landscapes like nowhere else on earth, the Canadian Badlands will transport you to another time and place. From prehistoric fossil beds and rocky canyons, to coal mining ghost towns and cowboy hangouts, there’s plenty to discover in this unique area.
At a glance
- Southeast Alberta
- Key City: Drumheller
- 135 km (83 mi) drive from Calgary International Airport
- Travel Drumheller
Central Prairies
Here, thousands of acres grow some of the most relied-upon crops in the world. Between fields of barley and wheat, you’ll discover Canada’s Wild Side in its charming towns. Experience the draws of the rural way of life.
Learn MoreFoothills
Acquaint yourself with Alberta’s vast rolling hills and admire the Canadian Rocky Mountains beyond. Soak in the ambiance of a peak-filled horizon as you seek adventure in wide-open plains.
Learn MoreHistoric Plains
Discover a place where archeological and natural wonders divulge secrets of yesterday. Where spaces and skies span as far as the eye can see. Where Canada’s Wild Side awaits.
Learn MoreCanadian Badlands
Featuring landscapes like nowhere else on earth, the Canadian Badlands will transport you to another time and place. From prehistoric fossil beds and rocky canyons, to coal mining ghost towns and cowboy hangouts, there’s plenty to discover in this unique area.
Learn MoreLakelands
The Lakelands is a destination for those in pursuit of year-round adventure, yearning to harness their Wild Side. Break from the beaten path and seek escape in the region’s untamed forests and bountiful lakes.
Learn MoreWood Buffalo
Explore this northern hideaway and allow your Wild Side to run rampant through the region. This is a place for those who push harder, trek further and seek escape from everyday norms.
Learn MoreWest Country
West Country is a place to push boundaries, face challenges and rendezvous with fellow free spirits. Your connection to the land will only deepen as you traverse the peaks and canyons of the Canadian Rockies.
Learn MoreSouthern Rockies
Uncover one of Canada’s best-kept secrets. An absence of crowds in the Southern Rockies makes the views, experiences and journeys that much more special. Take your time to connect with nature and enjoy the sights—there’s nobody else in line.
Learn MoreWildlands
We call them Wildlands for a reason. Boundless undisturbed wetlands, lakes and boreal forest attract all kinds of wild things. Enjoy solitude and natural beauty in this secluded northern region.
Learn MoreNorthern Rockies
Navigate prairie parklands, rolling hills and soaring summits in one of Alberta’s most geographically diverse regions. As you discover Canada’s Wild Side, you’ll ignite yours.
Learn MoreCanadian Rockies
Whether it’s a massive peak, a groomed run or a delicate wildflower, the Canadian Rockies will take your breath away again and again. Formed when continents collided, this is a place for adventure, discovery and serenity—sometimes all at once.
Learn MoreUnique landforms
Transport yourself worlds away, where dinosaurs once roamed. The magical hoodoo formations, also known as fairy chimneys, were once part of a lush forest by the sea.
Dinosaur capital of the world
Known as the Dinosaur Capital of the World, Drumheller has all the amenities you’ll need when visiting the Badlands.
Small town charm
In the historic and charismatic town of Drumheller, you can venture into an old coal mine, peruse an antique museum or step inside a haunted house.
The sun shines on this place, just as it has for billions of years.
It reveals the past...
and brings every moment to life.
Featured attractions
Atlas Coal Mine
Walk the tunnels of a historic coal mine and immerse yourself in Canadian history.
Learn moreRosebud Theatre
Become the only person you know who’s seen a live musical in dinosaur country.
View detailsDinosaur Provincial Park
Hike or take a guided tour through one of Canada’s most unique landscapes. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the world’s richest fossil resources for the Late Cretaceous period.
Learn moreWorld’s Largest Dinosaur
Tyra the T-Rex stands 25 m (86 ft) tall above the Drumheller Visitor Information Centre. Climb into her jaws for a truly killer view.
World’s Largest DinosaurShaped by the rivers and lakes that surround it …
and keeps their spirit strong.
Start building your experience
Stories from the Canadian Badlands
3 min read
Five Unique Spots to Dine in the Canadian Badlands
Treat your taste buds to these memorable dining experiences in Alberta’s Badlands, just a short trip from Calgary.
4 min read
Check Out These Five Guinness World Record Alberta Dinosaur Fossils
You don’t need to go to the movies to have a celebrity dinosaur experience in Alberta. The Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller is home to several famous dinosaur fossils, which will delight dino-lovers of all ages.
4 min read
Plan a Prehistoric Road Trip Adventure on Alberta’s Dinosaur Trails
Alberta is world famous for dinosaurs. Plan a one-of-a-kind dino trail road trip this summer, and don’t miss the chance to be a real-life fossil hunter.
5 min read
Must-See Blockbusters and TV Productions Filmed in Alberta
Alberta’s dramatic landscapes have become some of Hollywood’s favourite filming locations. Visitors can explore these scenic spots that range from the peaks of the Canadian Rockies to Edmonton’s river valley.