Roadtrip from Debden, Saskatchewan to Calgary, Alberta
If you're looking for a scenic road trip full of interesting stops and beautiful sights, a road trip from Debden, Saskatchewan to Calgary, Alberta is a great option. The route takes you through small towns, vast prairies, and breathtaking mountain views, providing a perfect blend of natural and cultural attractions.
An interesting fact about this road trip is that you'll be driving along the historic Red Coat Trail, which was a major transportation route used by the North-West Mounted Police in the late 1800s.
Viking, AB is the halfway point of this road trip, and it's home to the world's largest viking statue, standing at 12.2 meters tall. It's a great spot for a unique photo opportunity and a stretch break.
The distance from Debden to Calgary is approximately 600 kilometers, which can take around 7 hours to drive without any stops. However, with the many interesting attractions along the way, you'll want to plan for a longer trip.
1. Royal Saskatchewan Museum (Regina, SK)
The Royal Saskatchewan Museum in Regina is a must-visit for anyone interested in natural history and cultural heritage. The museum boasts a diverse collection of exhibits, including fossils, indigenous artifacts, and interactive displays. It's a great way to learn about the history of the province and its unique ecosystems.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a walk through the museum's outdoor exhibits, which feature life-sized replicas of prehistoric creatures and a native prairie garden.
*2. Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park (MAP)
Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park spans the borders of Saskatchewan and Alberta and offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park is known for its diverse landscapes, from grassy prairies to dense forests, and is a perfect stop for nature lovers.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't miss the stunning views from the park's highest point, Bald Butte, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding area.
3. T.rex Discovery Centre (Eastend, SK)
Located in the town of Eastend, the T.rex Discovery Centre is a fascinating attraction for dinosaur enthusiasts. The centre showcases the rich fossil heritage of the area, with a focus on the Tyrannosaurus rex, and offers guided tours of nearby dinosaur excavation sites.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a guided tour to learn about the paleontological discoveries made in the region and see real dinosaur fossils up close.
4. Dinosaur Provincial Park (Brooks, AB)
Dinosaur Provincial Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exceptional fossil resources, particularly dinosaur fossils. The park offers interpretive programs, guided hikes, and a visitor centre with exhibits that explore the area's prehistoric past.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Join a guided bus tour to explore the park's badlands and see firsthand where dinosaurs once roamed.
5. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump (Fort Macleod, AB)
This archaeological site and interpretive centre provides a unique opportunity to learn about Indigenous cultural history and the traditional practice of buffalo hunting. Visitors can explore the interpretive centre, hike along the buffalo jump cliffs, and take part in cultural demonstrations.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Attend one of the centre's daily talks or demonstrations to gain a deeper understanding of the significance of the buffalo jump to Indigenous peoples.
In conclusion, the road trip from Debden, Saskatchewan to Calgary, Alberta offers a diverse range of attractions and natural landscapes that make for an unforgettable journey. With an estimated driving time of around 7 hours, not including stops, this route provides a perfect mix of cultural and natural experiences for road trippers. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the adventure!