How Long Does it Take to Drive from Calgary to Drumheller, Alberta?

Are you planning a road trip from Calgary to Drumheller, Alberta? If so, you might be wondering how long the drive will take. Well, the answer is: it depends! In this blog post, we'll explore the various routes you can take and the approximate driving times for each.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Calgary to Drumheller is via the AB-9 N and AB-56 E highways. This route covers a total distance of 139 km and takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to drive under normal traffic conditions. However, keep in mind that this is the fastest route, so it may be subject to heavy traffic during peak hours.

The Scenic Route

If you want to enjoy scenic views on your road trip, you can take a longer route via the AB-1 E and AB-21 N highways. This route covers a total distance of 183 km and takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes to drive under normal traffic conditions. It's a great option if you have some extra time to spare and want to see more of the Alberta countryside.

The Slowest Route

The slowest route from Calgary to Drumheller is via the AB-2 Hwy S and AB-9 S highways. This route takes you through some smaller towns and covers a total distance of 186 km. It takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive under normal traffic conditions. However, this route can be quite scenic and would be a great choice if you're not in a hurry.

Driving Time at Peak Traffic Times

If you're planning to leave during rush hour, it's important to factor in additional driving time. On the fastest route - AB-9 N and AB-56 E - it could take up to 2 hours to reach Drumheller during peak traffic times. The same applies to the scenic route, which could take up to 2 hours and 30 minutes. The slowest route could take up to 3 hours during peak hours.

Driving Time at Low Traffic Times

On the other hand, if you're travelling outside of rush hour, you can expect shorter driving times. The fastest route could take as little as 1 hour and 30 minutes while the scenic route could take around 2 hours. The slowest route could take just under 2 hours.

In conclusion, the driving time from Calgary to Drumheller varies depending on the route you take and the time of day you travel. The fastest route gets you there in just over an hour and a half while the slower, more scenic routes take between 2 and 3 hours. If you're travelling during rush hour, be sure to factor in additional time for traffic. Overall, whichever route you choose, you're sure to enjoy the beautiful scenery on the way to Drumheller.