#Top Five Popular Attractions to See Between Calgary and Drumheller
Are you planning your next summer road trip? Look no further! Take a drive through the stunningly picturesque Alberta countryside between Calgary and Drumheller. This scenic route is perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Stop at fascinating places and experience everything Alberta has to offer. Here are the top five popular attractions to visit on your road trip:
##1. Royal Tyrrell Museum
First up on our list is the incredible Royal Tyrrell Museum. This museum is a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by dinosaurs and their history. Its vast collection of fossils includes over 130,000 specimens, making it one of the largest dinosaur museums in the world. The museum covers a 3.9-billion-year-old history of life on earth, with interactive exhibits and displays that will keep visitors of all ages engaged. If you love science and history, then the Royal Tyrrell Museum is the perfect place for you.
##2. Horseshoe Canyon
Next on our list is the awe-inspiring Horseshoe Canyon. It is a popular spot for hiking, photography, and sightseeing. The canyon got its name from its peculiar horseshoe-like shape. You can find a well-marked trailhead just off of Highway 9, and once you've started your trek, you'll be surrounded by stunning rock formations and landscapes. As you walk further, you can observe the unique patterns and designs carved by water, wind, and time.
##3. Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site
History buffs, make sure you don't miss out on the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site. The site gives visitors a glimpse into the early days of Alberta's coal mining industry. With a guided tour of the site, you can explore the underground tunnels, old mine shafts, and other heritage buildings. Learn about the hardships and challenges faced by miners, as well as the technology and machinery used during that period. As you explore the various exhibits and displays, you'll come away with a newfound appreciation for the hard work that went into mining coal.
##4. Starland Recreation Area
If you're looking for some outdoor adventure, then make your way to Starland Recreation Area. This wonderful family-friendly attraction has everything, from hiking trails and fishing spots to picnic areas and playgrounds. The area has plenty of shaded spaces and open fields, making it an excellent place for a picnic or a game of frisbee. Go for a hike around the area and discover the scenery that surrounds you. You can see native wildlife, including deer, elk, and even moose. If you're looking for some fun outdoor activities, then Starland Recreation Area is an excellent choice.
##5. Hoodoo Trail
Last but not least, take a drive to Hoodoo Trail to witness the unique geological formations and landscapes in the Badlands. Hoodoos are towering pillars of rock, shaped by the natural erosion of wind and rain. They can stand over 20 meters tall and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. You can hike along the Hoodoo Trail and observe the curious formations up close. This is also an excellent place for photography since the light and shadows change throughout the day, revealing the stark beauty of the Badlands.
Now that you have all these fantastic attractions to explore, let's talk about the best route to take. Calgary to Drumheller takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car. Your halfway point is Linden, AB, which can be a great place to stop for lunch or a snack. The route itself is breathtaking, with gorgeous views of Alberta's countryside. Anyone who loves exploring the outdoors, learning about science and history, or just wants to stretch their legs and take in some stunning scenery, these attractions are a must on your next road trip. Happy travels!