Exploration Guide 2019 - Travel Drumheller · Spend your weekend taking advantage of big, sunny skies and adventurous activities suitable for all ages. Saturday morning: Visitors

Exploration Guide 2019 TIME-TRAVELLING EXPERIENCES ACTIVE ADVENTURES SEASONAL HIGHLIGHTS ARTSY ESCAPES

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3Exploration Guide 2019

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MAY TO SEPTEMBER

4 traveldrumheller.com

p.31Active AdventuresWhether it’s hiking among the hoodoos or paddling along the serene Red Deer River, exploring the area’s otherworldly scenery is sure to inspire.

TRAVEL DRUMHELLER | Box 1357, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0, Ph 403-823-2242, traveldrumheller.com | Advertising inquiries, [email protected] | Statements, opinions and viewpoints expressed within this publication do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher, Travel Drumheller in partnership with RedPoint Media & Marketing Solutions. | Copyright 2019 by RedPoint Media Group Inc. | No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written consent of the publisher. Printed in Canada for free distribution.Published by RedPoint Media Group Inc., 100, 1900 11th St. S.E., Calgary, AB T2G 3G2, Ph 403-240-9055 | redpointmedia.ca | President & CEO Pete Graves | Group Publisher Joyce Byrne | Client Relations Manager Natalie Morrison | Editorial Director Jill Foran | Art Director David Willicome | Graphic Designer Rebecca Middlebrook | Contributors Elizabeth Chorney-Booth, Jennifer Dorozio, Lisa Kadane, Julia Williams | Production Manager Mike Matovich | Audience Development & Reader Services Manager Rob Kelly | Printed by Transcontinental LGM Media & Marketing Solutions

p.9Drumheller in Every SeasonThere’s plenty to do in Drumheller, no matter what time of year you visit. Follow these sea-sonal itineraries for the ideal weekend escape.

p.14Travel Back in TimeDiscover the rich and evocative history of the Drumheller Valley on one of the many expe-riential tours offered in the region.

p.20New SensationsFrom a brand-new craft brewery to a fresh twist on a much-loved eatery, these local businesses are shaking things up.

ON THE COVER

Crossing the Star MineSuspension Bridge

Photo by Jeremy Fokkens

p.26Culture TripCreative expression thrives throughout the Drumheller region, and you can experience it first-hand at these nine artistic venues.

p.36Welcome to the Last Chance SaloonGood food, friendly people and rollicking stories await at this iconic watering hole.

Contents

p.40Do the Dino WalkLearn about Drumheller’s prehistoric heritage on a fun and informative stroll around town.

Photo by Inga Wandinger/Alamy Stock Photo

HOT TUBWATERSLIDEGRADUATED POOL ENTRYSTEAM ROOM

BY THE WORLD'S LARGEST

DINOSAUR

403 823 1322

DINOSAURVALLEY.COM/AQUAPLEX


Drumheller Valley

838

838

837

575

956

10

570

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10x

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840

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569

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838

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570

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840

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MUNSON

NACMINE

ROSEDALE

CAMBRIA

LEHIGH

EAST COULEE

WAYNE

To Morrin, Stettler, Delia & Hanna

To Little Fish Lake Provincial Park

To Dorothy & Dinosaur Provincial Park

North Dinosaur

Trail

Visitor Information Centre & World's Largest Dinosaur

Hoodoo Trail

South Dinosaur

Trail

To H

wy

27

To Carbon & Hwy 21

Bleriot Ferry

Orkney Viewpoint

Horsethief Canyon

Dinosaur Trail Golf & Country Club

Drumheller Municipal Airport

Last Chance Saloon/Rosedeer Hotel

Star Mine Suspension BridgeDrumheller

Stampede Grounds

Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site

East Coulee School Museum

The Hoodoos

Badlands Amphitheatre

Horseshoe Canyon

Royal Tyrrell Museum

Midland Prov. Park

& McMullen Island

?

Red Deer River

To Dalum & Hwy 1

To Calgary

Hoodoo Trail

DRUMHELLER

Hoodoo Trail

The Little Church

To get to Rosebud turn south off of Highway 9 onto

Highway 840. Continue south for approx 10 km to Rosebud

To R

oseb

ud

Red Deer River

ROSEBUD

Dinosaur Trail

Begin the tour at the bridge, leading to North Dinosaur Trail. There are many attractions, services and facilities along the 48-km trail. Distances are from the Visitor Information Centre:

The Fossil Shop 0.5 kmThe General Store 2 kmHomestead Museum 2 kmBumper Boat Amusements 2 kmFossil World Dinosaur Discovery Centre 3 kmMidland Provincial Park Interpretive Centre 4 kmRoyal Tyrrell Museum 6 kmThe Little Church 7 kmDinosaur Trail Golf & Country Club 8 kmHorsethief Canyon 16 kmBleriot Ferry (halfway point on the Dinosaur Trail) 24 kmOrkney Viewpoint 18.5 kmBadlands Amphitheatre 3.5 kmNewcastle Beach Recreation Area and Boat Launch 2 kmRosebud Theatre 35 km

S

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575

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MUNSON

NACMINE

ROSEDALE

CAMBRIA

LEHIGH

EAST COULEE

WAYNE

To Morrin, Stettler, Delia & Hanna


To Dorothy & Dinosaur Provincial Park

North Dinosaur

Trail

Visitor Information Centre & World's Largest Dinosaur

Hoodoo Trail

South Dinosaur

Trail

To H

wy

27

To Carbon & Hwy 21

Bleriot Ferry

Orkney Viewpoint

Horsethief Canyon

Dinosaur Trail Golf & Country Club

Drumheller Municipal Airport

Last Chance Saloon/Rosedeer Hotel

Star Mine Suspension BridgeDrumheller

Stampede Grounds


East Coulee School Museum

The Hoodoos

Badlands Amphitheatre

Horseshoe Canyon

Royal Tyrrell Museum

Midland Prov. Park

& McMullen Island

?

Red Deer River

To Dalum & Hwy 1

To Calgary

Hoodoo Trail

DRUMHELLER

Hoodoo Trail

The Little Church

To get to Rosebud turn south off of Highway 9 onto

Highway 840. Continue south for approx 10 km to Rosebud

To R

oseb

ud

Red Deer River

ROSEBUD

Hoodoo Trail

Much of the famous eerie landscape of the badlands can be seen along the popular Hoodoo Trail. Distances are from the Visitor Information Centre:

Rosedale Suspension Bridge & Picnic Area 8.5 kmLast Chance Saloon/Rosedeer Hotel 11 kmThe Hoodoos 16 kmEast Coulee School Museum 23 kmAtlas Coal Mine National Historic Site 24 km

585

839

849

576

849

851

851

838

56

27 9

9

9

575

56

5610

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Farrell Lake

Red Deer River

Chain Lakes

MudspringsLake

McKeeLake

North Dinosaur Trail

DRUMHELLER

ROSEDALE

Starland Recreation

Area

Michichi Dam Recreation Area

Sod House

Bleriot Ferry

Buffalo Paddock

Horsethief Canyon

Springwater School

Historic Site

McLaren Dam

RUMSEY

MORRIN

MUNSON

MICHICHI

CRAIGMYLE

ROWLEY Museum

DELIA Museum

TWP RD. 324

TWP RD. 30-4

TWP RD. 30-2

To Stettler

To Hanna


To Three Hills

To Calgary & Rosebud

RGE

RD

. 185

RGE

RD

. 19-

0

To Carbon & Hwy 21South Dinosaur Trail

Starland County


M any people flock to Drumheller during the summer months, when kids are out of school and the weather is hot. Summer is undeniably a great time to visit the valley, but with so many services, attractions and historical sites, there’s something to see and do every

month of the year. If you’re planning a weekend in the area, these itinerary suggestions will keep your days filled, whether it’s spring, summer, fall or winter.

There’s plenty to do in the valley, no matter what time of year you choose to visit.By Elizabeth Chorney-Booth

Drumheller IN EVERY SEASON

Photo by Rory Collins/ @rorycollinspatrick


SPRINGSpring is the season to get a jump on Drumheller’s premier activities, since the crowds are generally smaller than they would be in the summer months. Spend a laid-back weekend exploring and relaxing.

Saturday morning: Shoul-der season may just be the best time to visit the world-famous Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology — take your time and get an up-close look at the dinosaur exhibits, or participate in a spring program led by the museum’s educators. Saturday afternoon: Enjoy some pampering at the Heart-wood Inn and Spa. This wel-coming inn features a luxurious spa offering blissful massages, manicures, pedicures and other specialty body treatments. Saturday evening: Indulge in an intimate dinner and a sig-nature cocktail at Sublime Food & Wine, Drumheller’s premium restaurant specializing in fine Canadiana cuisine made with fresh and local ingredients. Sunday morning: Explore the terrain of the badlands and breathe in the crisp spring air with a walk along the 117-metre Star Mine Suspension Bridge in Rosedale, followed by a lei-surely hike through the Willow Creek Hoodoos. Sunday afternoon: End with a visit to the East Coulee School Museum. Opening for the season in May, this spot is a 12-room former schoolhouse, now used to tell the stories of the coal mining families that settled in the Drumheller Valley.

THE EXIBITS IN DINOSAUR HALL, at the Royal

Tyrrell Museum, include this towering display of the

mighty Tyrannosaurus rex.

ABOVE Flavourful entrees made with local ingredients await at Sublime Food & Wine.

Sublime photo by Dennis Standage; T-rex photo by Rebecca Middlebrook


SUMMERSummertime is family time in the Drumheller Valley. Spend your weekend taking advantage of big, sunny skies and adventurous activities suitable for all ages.

Saturday morning: Visitors to Drumheller won’t see living

back of a horse. Willow Creek Adventures offers a trail-ride experience that gives riders of all skill levels a unique view of the area’s landscape and geological features. Saturday evening: Grab a burger at Bernie & the Boys Bistro before heading out to the Badlands Amphitheatre to catch a performance of the

dinosaurs, but Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Museum’s animatronic dinosaurs are per-haps the next best thing. Kids can learn about palaeontology through a fossil dig or other forms of creative play, while adults peruse the multitude of fossils on display. Saturday afternoon: Explore the badlands on the

Badlands Passion Play, which, for the first time ever, is being presented as a musical this year. (Running the first three weekends in July.) Sunday morning: See the Horseshoe and Horsethief Canyons from above with a helicopter tour from Mountain View Helicopters. After a spin in the chopper, take a hike into

Taking in a bird's-eye view of Horseshoe Canyon is an unforgettable experience.

INSET Bring your appetite to Bernie & the Boys Bistro, loved for its fun vibe and massive burgers.

Horseshoe Canyon, where the flights take off and land. Sunday afternoon: Burn off a little steam at Cactus Coulee Fun Park. The family-friendly park features go-karts, a Western-themed mini-golf course and, for the truly adventurous, Eurobungy trampoline equipment.

Helicopter photo by Robert Berdan; Bernie & The Boys Bistro photo by C. Schatz Photography


Saturday morning: Start your weekend with some retail therapy! Wander Drumheller’s collection of interesting shops and galleries. You’re bound to find some curiosities and original works of art at the

Valley Doll Museum & Gifts, the Badlands Gallery, Natural Light Images, Dry Canyon Collect-ables or The Fossil Shop. Saturday afternoon: Make the short drive to Dorothy, a pioneer “ghost town” just 15 minutes away. Wander among the abandoned structures, which include an old grain elevator, two little churches and vintage cars. Saturday evening: Bond with friends and family over a spirited bowling tournament. Drumheller’s Sandstone Lanes offers Canadian-style five-pin bowling and also is home to a fully licensed lounge. Sunday morning: Winter doesn’t mean the end of out-door adventure in Drumheller. In addition to its summertime tours and activities, Red Deer River Adventures provides tours and rentals for snowshoe expe-ditions and electronic fat bikes. Sunday afternoon: Engage in a little indoor adventure at Escape This!, Drumheller’s first escape room. In the spirit of the area, visitors can try out coal mining, Prohibition era, and, yes, dinosaur-themed escape games. -

FALLFall is a particularly pictur-esque time in the Drumheller Valley — as the leaves change and the weather cools, the badlands take on a new kind of beauty.

Saturday morning: Check out the Homestead Antique Museum, which is open through to the second week of October. Peruse the museum’s collection of early homestead-ers’ clothing, furniture, musical instruments, farm equipment and other antique items. Saturday afternoon: While the afternoon away with lunch and a round of drinks at the Last Chance Saloon in the tiny town of Wayne. The saloon is known for its excellent burgers and friendly vibe. On your way

WINTERMany of Drumheller’s seasonal attractions close mid-fall, but there’s still plenty to do around town in the winter, as the snow adds some sparkle to the coulees and hoodoos.

NOW 101 YEARS OLD, the Atlas Coal

Mine is a National Historic Site and the

most complete historic mine in Canada.

out from Drumheller, enjoy the drive over the 11 one-lane bridges between Rosedale and Wayne. Saturday evening: Take in dinner and a show at the Rosebud Theatre, which stages several professional-level productions every year, most of which include a buffet meal. Sunday morning: Embark on an easy hike through Midland Provincial Park, which surrounds the Royal Tyrrell Museum. The self-guided Badlands Interpretive Trail is a 1.4-km loop, complete with signage explaining all of the natural formations you’ll encounter along the way. Sunday afternoon: Dig into Drumheller’s history with a guided tour of the Atlas Coal Mine. The outdoor site, which includes the recently restored iconic tipple, is open into October.

BELOW Antique dolls are displayed in creative scenes at Valley Doll Museum & Gifts; Winter walks in the hoodoos can be invigorating.

Atlas Coal Mine photo by iStock/Getty Images Plus; Valley Doll photo by Rebecca Middlebrook; hiking photo by Leigh McAdam/HikeBikeTravel.com


place copy here about this picture and what is hap-pening

Guest Service Agent noun. (see chauffeur, translator, tour guide, travel agent, etc.)

“I-can’t-believe-they-did-that” momentMany Albertans think three hours is a long way to come see the Badlands and the Tyrrell Museum. But last year we had a family who came over 18 hours, and 9,000 km. All the way from Beijing to experience our natural wonders. Of course they didn’t bring their car with them so when it came time to visit the museum, they needed a taxi.

How hard can that be right? Well it turns out that when you don’t speak English, don’t have extra cash, and when cabs are expensive – it’s actually quite a challenge. Our Guest Service Agent, Rene, took it upon himself to right some wrongs when he, aided by one of our maintenance staff, acted as a translator and chauffeur for this lovely family. Our people spent their weekend getting taxi quotes, translating, and deciding it would be best to transport them to and from the museum in their own cars.

These guests were astonished by the level of hospitality, but it was all in a day's work for our team at Canalta Jurassic. This above-and-beyond service is easier to understand when you know how our hotel group is privately owned, family-run and based right here in Western Canada. We don’t have a rigid set of global policies, rather we empower our staff to be legendary with just one overriding guideline: Do whatever it takes to surprise and delight our guests.

Canalta Hotels. Empowered to be legendary.

CanaltaHotels.com1.855.933.1933

Dogs can stay for $15

FREE Deluxe Breakfast

FREE High Speed wifi

Indoor Hot tub


TRAVEL BACK IN TIME

here’s something romantic about palaeontology. You spend your days working in a picturesque landscape, hunting for dinosaur

skeletons — like the dashing Dr. Alan Grant from the original Jurassic Park movie — and help

further science by uncovering part of the Earth’s past. It’s no wonder many kids aspire to be fossil hunters when they grow up.

The chance to see dinosaurs and search for their remains is just one reason why history- loving travellers come to the Drumheller region.

Not only was the town the epicentre of the Great Canadian Dinosaur Rush between 1911 and 1917, the discovery of coal in the Red Deer River Valley in the late 1880s fuelled the development of Western Canada, and visitors come to explore the historic mining towns.

Become a geologist, fossil hunter, coal miner or pupil for a day at some of the valley’s most popular sites and attractions. By Lisa Kadane

TiStock/ Getty Images Plus


Hunt for fossils next to the Royal Tyrrell Museum of PalaeontologyJourney into the heart of the badlands in Midland Provincial Park on a 90-minute Dinosite guided hike to prospect for fos-sils. The park, which surrounds the Royal Tyrrell Museum, is rich with the fossilized remains of dinosaurs such as the had-rosaur, a common duck-billed dino that roamed the land around 72 million years ago.

A museum educator teach-es kids (over four) and adults alike how to tell the difference

72 MILLION YEARS AGO the Drumheller

Valley was a warm, wet coastal environment

where dinosaurs thrived.

Both dinosaur tourism and the explosive growth of the coal industry were made possible thanks to Drumheller’s geology. Seventy-two mil-lion years ago, the region was a warm, wet coastal environment on the shore of the inland Bearpaw Sea — the dinosaurs died and were buried in the swamps, which preserved their remains; over time, other organic matter was compressed and slowly transformed into coal.

Fast-forward to the present day, and those bogs and swamps are now the Canadian Badlands, a fascinating, arid landscape of easily erodible sandstone and mudstone. The scenery is unique in Canada, and another reason to visit the region.

There are a variety of fun, immersive ways to explore the rich geological and social history of the Drumheller region. Following are just four suggestions of experiential tours to try.

PALAEONTOLOGISTS continue to unearth

exciting finds in the

Drumheller region.

between rocks and fossils before they’re set loose to find their own bones.

“It’s more than just dino-saurs,” says Earle Wiebe, head of education at the Royal Tyrrell Museum. “They find fossils of other species as well — turtle shells, crocodile teeth, clam or oyster shells, a lot of petrified wood. After they finish prospecting, they return their finds to the badlands.”

Wiebe says the tour will open your eyes to the diversity of creatures that lived and died in the region over the millen-nia. You’ll even get to see a

partial hadrosaur skeleton still in the ground and learn about how it might have come to be buried there. tyrrellmuseum.com 403-823-7707

BELOW Experience the hands-on fun of fossil-hunting on a Dinosite hike.

Palaeontologist photo by Greg Funston; Dinosite photo ©Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology

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Go underground at the Atlas Coal MineDinosaurs might get all the glory, but it was the area’s coal miners — who risked their lives to bring coal above ground — that really built the area’s towns. There wasn’t anything glamorous about coal

drinking, gambling and prosti-tution that went on in frontier boomtowns like East Coulee and Drumheller.

Russell says any of the tours at the Atlas Coal Mine are a step back in time because the buildings and mine have been left as they were on the day the mine shut down in 1984.

“All of the site is original and in situ,” says Russell. atlascoalmine.ab.ca 403-822-2220

mining; in fact, it was a dark, dank, dangerous job, and the Unmentionables Tour at the Atlas Coal Mine in East Coulee reveals all of its dirty secrets during an hour-long tour that takes mature guests (14+) into site buildings.

“We don’t hold back — we tell it like it was,” says site curator Jay Russell.

You’ll learn all about coal mining fatalities — between 1911 and 1980, more than 200

miners died on the job, many of them crushed during cave-ins. You’ll also get an earful about the region’s terrible living conditions during the 1910s and 1920s, as well as the sordid aspects of life in a mining town, including the bootlegging and

“We don’t hold back — we tell it like it was.” —Jay Russell

COAL MINING has played a huge role in shaping

Drumheller's history and development.

Photos courtesy of Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site (3732.1, 3569.3a, 3569.68)

2


Discover the spirit of the area on a guided ghost walk“Drumheller is considered to be the most actively haunted town in Alberta,” says Lothar Malmberg. He would know, considering he wrote the book on it.

Malmberg, author of Drumheller Ghost Walk, also created the Drumheller Guided Ghost Walk Tour, which runs every Friday and Saturday night

from June through August. The family-friendly, two-hour walk leads participants on a historic tour of downtown Drumheller, where more than 37 heritage buildings still stand. The guide stops at various storefronts and talks about the people who built them, why they built them, how they influenced the town, and what happened to them, bringing their stories to life and tapping in to what Malmberg calls the “echoes of the folks

that have come and gone.” The guide also tells three

ghost stories along the way. These aren’t scary tales; rather, they focus on the specters’ feelings of sorrow and sadness. After all, the town is haunted because of its history as a coal-mining centre where many lost their lives — in a span of seven decades, more than 200 miners died in accidents.

“If you’re sensitive to that sort of paranormal stuff, you’ll

certainly get a sense of it as we go through the tour,” Malmberg promises.

Failing that, he says that guests’ imaginations usually take the reins as they’re led through the twilight by lantern light. [email protected]

Be a pupil inside a 1930s schoolhouseSubmit to a hand inspection and talk back to the teacher at your peril during the Miss Morrison program at the East Coulee School Museum.

“Miss Morrison is a very strict schoolmarm,” explains Barb Steeves, executive director of the museum, which is located inside the town’s original 12-room schoolhouse. During this reenactment of a 1936 school day, Miss Morrison doles out some of the old punishments, like putting on

the dunce cap, taking people out for the strap, or making them stand with their nose to the blackboard.

“Kids love it when their dad gets punished,” says Steeves, who runs the program on long weekends between May and September, or for groups of 15 or more.

During the tour, you’ll have to pledge allegiance to the flag and sing “God Save the King,” as was customary during the 1930s. You’ll also discover what students ate for lunch back then. It could be anything from “gopher stew” (an actual meal back in the day), to hurka sausage and cabbage rolls, which reflect the town’s immigrant population from Eastern Europe.

The program ends with a discussion of classroom differ-ences over the past 80 years. ecsmuseum.ca 403-822-3970 -

“Drumheller is considered to be the most actively haunted town in Alberta.” —Lothar Malmberg

LEFT Lothar Malmberg has been leading ghost tours in the area since 2011.

RIGHT The East Coulee School Museum lets visitors experience the pleasures and rigours of school days in the 1930s.

Ghost walk photo courtesy of Lothar Malberg; dunce cap photo by Karen Durrie; schoolroom photo courtesy of East Coulee School Museum

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CARACOL CLAY STUDIO AND GALLERY

Janet and John invite you to visit their East Coulee Gallery full of their handmade pottery treasures. Open from 10 am–4 pm daily. Just follow the signs. Browsers welcome.

169 6 St, East Coulee403-822-2258

JUNGLING WORKSHOME AND GIFT

Featuring Canadian Crafted Products inspired by the wonders of the Badlands and designed by owner/artist Debra Jungling. Treat yourself to a shopping experience! The store offers a unique blend of gifts, kitchenware and home decor set in the inviting atmosphere of a restored 1920s brick building. Open year round. 299 1st St W (Gorgosaurus Street), Drumheller AB403-823-2208 [email protected]

Year Round Seasonal Wheelchair Access Family Friendly Breakfast

MCLAREN DAM

Open May 15 to Oct. 15. From the junction of Hwy 9 and Range Rd 17-5, travel 24 km north on SH 851, then 3.2 km west, 0.8 km south and east into the site. This serene location offers great fishing opportunities in a quiet country setting.

403-772-3793starlandcounty.com

STARLAND RECREATION AREA

Open May 15 to Oct. 15, this campground is located beside the Red Deer River north of the Morrin Bridge. It offers large, spacious camping areas and a scenic backrop of the river and hills. Besides fishing, canoeing and great hiking opportunities, there is also a playground and three ball diamonds.

175 3 St W, Drumheller AB403-820-5524

WHAT TO DO | WHERE TO GO | WHAT TO BUY

MICHICHI RECREATION AREAOpen May 15 to Oct. 15, this campsite is located 0.5 km south of Michichi along SH 849. The campsite offers a beautiful setting with great fishing opportunities, a playground, coin-operated showers and a camp kitchen.

403-772-3793 starlandcounty.com

EAST COULEE SCHOOL MUSEUM

Experience life in a coal mining community: a school converted into a museum of the coal mining era. Learn how families lived or book an interactive program with the strict school marm! Cafe - homemade food. Fifteen minutes east of Drumheller. Open May to Sept 30, 7 days 10 am to 5 pm.

403.822.3970 ecsmuseum.ca


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DRUMHELLER RAMADA INN & SUITESIndoor pool, waterslide, hot tub, free breakfast, fitness centre, guest laundry, business centre, meeting room, high-speed Internet. Pets with permission. King suites, ground-floor rooms with exterior access, elevators. Close to Super 8, Boston Pizza, A&W, O’Shea’s Eatery and Ale House.

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CANALTA HOTELS - HANNA

The newly renovated Canalta Hotel in Hanna offers friendly service and quality amenities. This location offers guests a fitness center, hot tub, guest laundry, free high speed Wi-Fi and complimentary deluxe conti-nental breakfast to start your day. Room types include kitchenette and business suites.

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CANALTA JURASSIC HOTEL

Free deluxe continental breakfast, guest laundry, high speed internet, elevator, hot tub and steam room. Kitch-en Suites and ground floor rooms with exterior access. Hotel is attached to the Cretaceous Conference Center, the ultimate venue for your next event or corporate meeting. Close to Tim Horton’s, Extra Foods, conve-nience store, Dairy Queen and liquor store.

403-823-7700 Toll Free: 1-888-823-3466 (DINO) canaltahotels.com

KNEEHILL COUNTY CAMPGROUNDSCamp in Kneehill County!Keiver’s Lake, west of Three Hills, offers over 40 campsites, 8 group sites, day use areas, and various recreational amenities. Braconnier Dam, located off Highway 21, has 10 campsites available. Swalwell Dam, off Highway 575, boasts a fully stocked dam, 10 camp-ing stalls and day use areas.

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NEWCASTLE COUNTRY INN

Adult and senior accommodations. Clean, comfort-able and quiet. Charming staff. Recipient of many housekeeping awards. Free Wi-Fi, self-serve breakfast, gluten-free available upon request. Air-conditioned. No pets.

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20 traveldrumheller.com Photo by Christy Turner Photography

THE VALLEY BREWING TEAM, LEFT TO RIGHT Nick Sereda, Ryan Sisson and Nick Patterson.


Discover the modern side of the Drumheller Valley.By Elizabeth Chorney-Booth

NEW SENSATIONSDrumheller is famous for things that are very, very old — things like dinosaur fossils, rock formations and remnants of Alberta’s coal mining heyday.

Of course, that doesn’t mean new things aren’t happening in the area all the time. The valley has plenty of fresh attractions to discover and services to experience. The following three businesses represent a constantly evolving community that keeps on top of modern tastes and trends.

Valley Brewing

S ince the provincial regulations surrounding craft and microbreweries opened up at the end of 2013, Alberta has seen an explosion of new breweries, and Drumheller is getting in on the action this spring.

The brand-new Valley Brewing is the brainchild of business partners Nick Sereda and Ryan Sisson. Sereda is already well-known to Drumheller shoppers: for 15 years, he’s owned and operated Shredz Snow and Skate, supplying local skateboarders, cyclists and snowboarders with gear and trendy clothing and accessories.

Born and raised in Drumheller, Sereda wanted to expand his business, so he began looking for gaps in what Drumheller had to offer to both locals and visitors. Seeing how well craft breweries were doing in other communities in Alberta, he teamed up with Sisson, and Valley Brewing was born.

To highlight Drumheller’s sense of community and educate tourists on local history, Valley Brewing’s packaging is helping to tell the stories that make the area unique. The brewery’s logo features a stylized hoodoo, and each beer is named after an iconic piece of Drumheller history.

“We want to tell a story of the valley,” Sereda says. “Drumheller has a rich history with its geological features, the dinosaurs, the coal mining days and the agriculture. We’d like to tie each variety of beer into one of those things and tell a story with the name and what’s printed on the can.”

Valley Brewing brews all of its beer on-site, and beer lovers will soon be able to enjoy pints and flights in the on-site tasting room, with cans and growlers available for take-home purchase. Sereda says the plan is to start with four or five core “easy drinking” beers and then to slowly develop some seasonal specials as well. (Valley Brewing is anticipated to open in May 2019.) valleybrewing.ca

THIS SPRING, DRUMHELLER is welcoming its very first craft brewery.


Vintage Kitchen and BarEvan Pappas, who has lived in Drumheller since the early 1990s and has experience operating a number of different restaurants in the area, has owned the popular Vintage Tap House since 2009. With plenty of TVs playing sports and a menu full of comfort food favourites, the pub quickly became a popular spot for locals and visitors to stop in to watch a game and have a pint of beer.

There was only one issue: since the tap house is licensed as a bar, families with kids couldn’t come in to enjoy Vintage’s relaxed atmosphere and great food. To solve that problem, Pappas decided to expand his family-run business to make it more

accessible to people of all ages. Last fall, he opened the Vintage Kitchen and Bar, attached to the Tap House. That room has the same menu as the Tap House, including the juicy, flavourful steak that has made the bar a go-to for locals.

“We’re known for our steaks,” Pappas says. “We’ve only got one kind of sirloin on the menu, but

everyone seems to really like the steak spice we use.”For those who aren’t craving steak, Vintage

also serves pizza, pasta, burgers and other sand-wiches. With satisfying food and a comfortable room, it’s another great dining choice for families looking for somewhere to eat after a busy day exploring the valley.

Vintage Kitchen and Bar photos by C. Schatz Photography


OPPOSITE PAGEDiners can enjoy steaks, pizza and a variety of other delicious options at the newly opened Vintage Kitchen and Bar.

THIS PAGEFrozen treats and cold drinks at Hoodoo Hydration Station bring wel-come refreshment on a hot day in the hoodoos.

Hoodoo Hydration StationAnyone who has been to the Drumheller hoodoos on a sunny summer day knows that temperatures there can get pretty toasty. Spend an hour or so hiking through these fascinating rock formations and you’ll be more than ready for a nice, cool refreshment.

Historically, visitors have had to bring their own snacks and drinks to keep hydrated during a visit to the hoodoos. But last year, a new business called Hoodoo Hydration Station emerged like an oasis in the parking lot of the provincial hoodoo site.

The business won a bid to lease out a shipping container placed on the site by Community Futures Big Country. Recognizing that hoodoo hikers would want a chance to chill out — both literally and metaphorically — proprietor Doug Macrae decided to focus his business on ice cream, shaved ice, floats and cold drinks like root beer, lemonade and iced coffee.

“Our menu is essentially ice cream and things you can make with ice cream,” Macrae says. “We’ll do things like espresso with ice cream. We’re planning to expand that further this season.”

But the refreshments are only part of the experience: Macrae also wanted to give hoodoo explorers an invigorating place to hang out. The bright turquoise structure is surrounded by café-style tables with umbrellas for shade, so that

“Our menu is essentially ice cream and things you can make with ice cream.”—Doug Macrae

patrons can sit and take a load off as they enjoy their refreshments. As an avid music fan, Macrae also makes sure that summer tunes ring out, giving the area around the stand a laid-back patio feel. And there’s plenty of room for kids to dance around while their parents recover from the heat.

Macrae, who spent most of his career as a photographer based in Calgary, bought a place in East Coulee in 1994 so that his young family could escape from the city. He and his wife, Vivianne Kohse, moved to East Coulee full-time last year to run Hoodoo Hydration Station. He has other plans for new businesses in the future, but, for the time being, is happily focusing on ice cream.

Hoodoo Hydration Station is open seasonally from mid-May to mid-September. Follow it on Instagram at @hoodoohydrationstation.

THESE OLD FAVOURITES HAVE SOME NEW THINGS IN STORE THIS YEAR:

Atlas Coal Mine A classic Drumheller attraction, the Atlas Coal Mine just recently completed the restoration of its 82-year-old tipple (the tall struc-ture in which the coal was sorted and stored), which took five years to complete. Visitors can also enjoy the museum’s new series of interpretive signs!

Badlands AmphitheatreAfter 25 years the Badlands Passion Play, a recreation of the life and death of Jesus Christ, is trying something new by presenting the Biblical story as a musical. Alberta- based musician Luke Ertman and scriptwriter Barrett Hileman have composed 22 original songs for a new spin on “the greatest story ever told.” Red Deer River AdventuresThis popular outdoor gear rental company and tour outfitter is known for its enjoyable kayak, canoe and hiking adventures, but it has also just expanded this year to offer more in the way of winter programming. Now, winter enthusiasts can enjoy touring the area on a fat tire electronic bike (also available for summer treks) or embark on a snowshoe excursion, which includes a scavenger hunt that ties a historical story into the snowshoe action.

Royal Tyrrell MuseumThe famed palaeontology museum recently underwent a $9 million expansion, with the support of both the federal government and the government of Alberta. Opened this spring, the addition offers up new exhibition space, conference and learning rooms, a rest area and accessible washroom facilities. -

Hydration Station photo courtesy of Hoodoo Hydration Station; ice cream photo iStock/Getty Images Plus

StarlandCounty

Morrin Historical Park-"Sod House". Stop by the Village of Morrin and visit our unique Sod House. Originally built in 1980 to honour our forefathers the turn of the century furnishings will bring back many memories. Substantial upgrades in 2009 helped to sustain this historic legacy. Relive the past in this authentic replica of Morrin's rich history.

Call 403-772-3870, 403-772-3909or 403-823-9484 to arrange a tour.

Morrin Corner Buffalo ToursExperience the real Wild West by touring an actualoperating buffalo ranch! This is a great opportunity to getamazing photos of these majestic prairie animals. Pleasephone and make a reservation for your tour. 1/4 mile (0.4 km) east of the intersection of Hwy 9, 56 and 27 (Morrin Corner).

Tours require a reservation and run at 7pm.

Contact us at 403-772-3843 or 403-820-0691Email: [email protected]

Morrin

Rowley is an amazing ghost town with an undying spirit! It is also a must to visit when travelling through the Canadian Badlands. The community's main attractions include the newly restored elevators which have been designated as a provincial historic site, the Rowley Church, Prairie School Museum and the Yesteryear Artifacts Museum (housed in the original railway station).

The most famous stop in Rowley is Sam's Saloon, a well-known local watering hole and meeting place. Be sure to stop by on the last Saturday of the month for Pizza Night and great entertainment! Pizzas can be ordered between 5 pm to 8 pm. Free camping is available in designated areas and all donations are greatly appreciated!

Check us out on Facebook!

Rowley is 8 miles (12.8 km) north of the junction of Highway 56, 9 & 27 (Morrin Corner), then 3 miles (5 km) west on Township Road 32-4.

For tours or event bookings, call 403-368-3757,403-368-2355 or 403-368-3816.

RowleyCounty Camping

McLaren Dam, Michichi Dam & Starland Recreation Area These three campgrounds, operated by Starland County, each offer large, spacious campsites in beautiful serene settings. A great place to relax and do some fishing or hiking!

Campgrounds are open from May long-weekend to mid-October.

Note: Camping is on a ‘first come, first serve’ basis. The County does not take reservations.

Additional information can be found in the Campground section of this guide.

403-772-3793 | www.starlandcounty.com

DeliaDelia Museum & Grist MillThis original 1913-14 two-room school contains a restored original classroom as well as local artifacts. Adjacent to the Museum is the only "New Ideal of Branford Goold, Shapley & Co." grist mill of this type in Western Canada. This wind powered mill pumped water, ground grain and ran a fanning mill or a lumber saw. It's a must see in Delia!

Open 10am to 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday, July 1 to LabourDay. Open holiday Mondays. Other times by appointment.Admission free. Donations always welcome!

307 Main Street, Delia. Call 403-364-3848.

Mother Mountain Tea House & Restaurant (Lic) & Country Craft StoreBeautifully restored and furnished with antiques located in a 1912 former lumberyard in the Village of Delia, the Tea Houseoffers an excellent dining experience in a quaint and peace-ful setting. Friday night we serve our famous baby back ribs.Saturday night we feature a Chef's Special. Sunday evening enjoy our Alberta Triple A Roast Beef. We also feature thelargest selection of home-made pies and desserts in the region. Open 11 am to 8pm, Friday to Sunday.

Call 403-364-2057 for reservations.www.mothermountainteahouse.ca

www.STARLANDCOUNTY.com

StarlandCounty

Morrin Historical Park-"Sod House". Stop by the Village of Morrin and visit our unique Sod House. Originally built in 1980 to honour our forefathers the turn of the century furnishings will bring back many memories. Substantial upgrades in 2009 helped to sustain this historic legacy. Relive the past in this authentic replica of Morrin's rich history.

Call 403-772-3870, 403-772-3909or 403-823-9484 to arrange a tour.

Morrin Corner Buffalo ToursExperience the real Wild West by touring an actualoperating buffalo ranch! This is a great opportunity to getamazing photos of these majestic prairie animals. Pleasephone and make a reservation for your tour. 1/4 mile (0.4 km) east of the intersection of Hwy 9, 56 and 27 (Morrin Corner).

Tours require a reservation and run at 7pm.

Contact us at 403-772-3843 or 403-820-0691Email: [email protected]

Morrin

Rowley is an amazing ghost town with an undying spirit! It is also a must to visit when travelling through the Canadian Badlands. The community's main attractions include the newly restored elevators which have been designated as a provincial historic site, the Rowley Church, Prairie School Museum and the Yesteryear Artifacts Museum (housed in the original railway station).

The most famous stop in Rowley is Sam's Saloon, a well-known local watering hole and meeting place. Be sure to stop by on the last Saturday of the month for Pizza Night and great entertainment! Pizzas can be ordered between 5 pm to 8 pm. Free camping is available in designated areas and all donations are greatly appreciated!

Check us out on Facebook!

Rowley is 8 miles (12.8 km) north of the junction of Highway 56, 9 & 27 (Morrin Corner), then 3 miles (5 km) west on Township Road 32-4.

For tours or event bookings, call 403-368-3757,403-368-2355 or 403-368-3816.

RowleyCounty Camping

McLaren Dam, Michichi Dam & Starland Recreation Area These three campgrounds, operated by Starland County, each offer large, spacious campsites in beautiful serene settings. A great place to relax and do some fishing or hiking!

Campgrounds are open from May long-weekend to mid-October.

Note: Camping is on a ‘first come, first serve’ basis. The County does not take reservations.

Additional information can be found in the Campground section of this guide.

403-772-3793 | www.starlandcounty.com

DeliaDelia Museum & Grist MillThis original 1913-14 two-room school contains a restored original classroom as well as local artifacts. Adjacent to the Museum is the only "New Ideal of Branford Goold, Shapley & Co." grist mill of this type in Western Canada. This wind powered mill pumped water, ground grain and ran a fanning mill or a lumber saw. It's a must see in Delia!

Open 10am to 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday, July 1 to LabourDay. Open holiday Mondays. Other times by appointment.Admission free. Donations always welcome!

307 Main Street, Delia. Call 403-364-3848.

Mother Mountain Tea House & Restaurant (Lic) & Country Craft StoreBeautifully restored and furnished with antiques located in a 1912 former lumberyard in the Village of Delia, the Tea Houseoffers an excellent dining experience in a quaint and peace-ful setting. Friday night we serve our famous baby back ribs.Saturday night we feature a Chef's Special. Sunday evening enjoy our Alberta Triple A Roast Beef. We also feature thelargest selection of home-made pies and desserts in the region. Open 11 am to 8pm, Friday to Sunday.

Call 403-364-2057 for reservations.www.mothermountainteahouse.ca

www.STARLANDCOUNTY.com


CULTURETRIPThe Drumheller Valley is a vibrant scene for art, music and theatre.By Jennifer Dorozio

A mid the rocky dips and rises that make the Drumheller Valley such a distinct geological destination lies a treasure trove of cultural offerings well worth exploring. Get a taste of the valley’s creative and resilient spirit first-hand by experiencing some of the area’s key music, arts and theatre destinations.

Ateliero Verdo photo by Jennifer Dorozio


THE CLASSIC CHOICE Ateliero Verda Art Gallery and StudioWhen colour-loving, Quebec- born artist Jacqueline Sveda first saw the Drumheller Valley, she was underwhelmed by the muted colours typical of its landscape. But now, Sveda — who has owned Ateliero Verda Art Gallery and Studio for more than 10 years — says she is constantly inspired by the rich history of the area, and she uses Drumheller’s unique peo-ple and surroundings as muses for her vivid acrylic paintings. Throughout her gallery are her own large-scale works, as well as a curated collection of sculptures, photographs and paintings by other local talent.

FOR AN ART FIX…A QUIRKIER OPTIONBadlands GalleryIt’s the non-uniformity of the art at Badlands Gallery that makes this spot so charm-ing. The gallery’s pieces are eclectic, and are produced specifically for the gallery by local artists. Run by the Canadian Badlands Artist Association, the space is operated by volunteers and seeks to encourage develop-ment in the visual arts, for both its visitors and its artists. At any given time, the gallery showcases a fascinating and often surprising collection of sculptures, abstract paintings, wood carvings and more.

THE LOCAL GEM Caracol Clay Studio Just off the landmark Hoodoos Trail, about 20 minutes southeast of Drumheller in East Coulee, sits the Caracol Clay Studio. Situated in an old miner’s house, the pottery shop is run by clay artist Janet Grabner, whose husband, John Dahm, also creates pieces and helps to promote the business. Known for its hand-built works, Caracol sells one-of-a-kind treasures in the form of mugs, platters, jugs, vases and more. The shop’s best-sellers are its “rock rattles,” which are clay rattles inspired by nature that are available in multiple colours and shapes.

Badland Gallery photo by Carrie Mashon; rock rattles photo courtesy of Caracol Clay Studio

OPPOSITE Ateliero Verda Art Gallery and Studio.BELOW Badlands Gallery’s colourful storefront.INSET Rock rattles from Caracol Clay Studio.


TOP LEFT A perfor-mance at Rosebud Centre of the Arts.

LEFT INSET Badlands Passion Play.

TOP RIGHT The annual WayneStock Music Festival at the Last Chance Saloon.

THE CLASSIC CHOICE Badlands Passion Play For 25 years, the Badlands Passion Play has transported audience members back thousands of years through its powerful retelling of the story of Jesus Christ’s time on earth — from birth to crucifixion to resurrection. The award-winning production incorporates live animals, special effects and authentic costumes to create an unforgettable experience for audience members. New elements are added to the play each year by its largely volunteer-led produc-tion team, all of whom are determined to outdo themselves each season. The Badlands Passion Play runs the first three weekends in July, and this year, it will be a full-fledged musical, with music by Luke Ertman and lyrics by Barrett Hileman.

FOR A NIGHT AT THE THEATRE…

A QUIRKIER OPTIONKaleidoscope TheatreKaleidoscope Theatre began more than three decades ago, thanks to a group of local thespians who really wanted to build an amateur theatre company in Drumheller. Much like its name suggests, Kalei-doscope is constantly taking new forms — it has inhabited several different venues in town over the years and presents a variety of play genres. Currently, it’s running out of the Drumheller Valley Secondary School.

THE LOCAL GEM Rosebud Centre of the ArtsIt may seem like an unlikely spot for a renowned theatre, but the tiny hamlet of Rosebud — 35 kilometres from Drumheller and home to fewer than 100 residents — draws large crowds of eager playgoers every year. Part theatre school, part playhouse, the Rosebud Centre of the Arts offers up lively performances by pro-fessional actors, along with great food (buffet style). It features two venues — the Rosebud Opera House and the Studio Stage — and includes a rich variety of plays each season. And the surrounding charm of Rosebud cannot be missed!

LIVE PERFORMANCES abound

throughout the Drumheller Valley.

Rosebud photo courtesy of Rosebud Centre of the Arts; Passion Play photo by Ron Nickel Photography


THE LOCAL GEM Neighbours’ Corner PubNicknamed “The Basement” by locals, Neighbours’ Corner Pub in Drumheller — which, at absolute capacity can host 60 patrons — gives off that downhome, nostalgic vibe of hanging out in a friend’s basement while taking in some music. On some week nights, Neighbours’ hosts jam sessions, during which anyone above the age of 18 can bring an instrument and join in. The party continues into the weekend, with rocking karaoke every Friday and live music on most Saturdays. On any given night, the pub’s crowd is full of Drumheller locals and curious visitors, but all are encouraged to let loose and perhaps belt out a tune or three. -

FOR A MUSICAL INTERLUDE… THE CLASSIC CHOICE Badlands Amphitheatre It’s the largest outdoor theatre stage in Canada, the risers are built into the natural slope of the hills, and a wide-open sky stretches endlessly above. The Badlands Amphitheatre, known best as the host site of the highly acclaimed Canadian Badlands Passion Play, also hosts legendary Canadian musicians with its “Canadian Icons” music series every August, as well as various seasonal concerts. In the past, revered talent such as Paul Brandt, Tom Cochrane and Blue Rodeo have filled the amphitheatre with music, using the superb natural acoustics of the arena (and a state-of- the-art sound system) to amplify their sound.

A QUIRKIER OPTIONThe Last Chance SaloonAdjacent to the old-fashioned Rosedeer Hotel, the Last Chance Saloon is a must-visit music venue in Wayne — just 15 minutes south of Drumheller. With its friendly, Wild West ambiance and walls covered with bits of local history in the form of black-and-white photos, taxidermy and other treasures, this spot is a memorable place to take in some live music. From smooth jazz to rock and roll, visitors to the Last Chance Saloon enjoy talent from across Canada. In the fall, the Saloon also hosts the WayneStock Music Festival, which draws thousands of enthusiastic listeners.

WayneStock photo by Cameras and Canines Photography

w w w . k n e e h i l l c o u n t y . c o mHORSESHOE CANYON

home of

@ k n e e h i l l c o u n t y# s h a r e k n e e h i l l

visit

Orkney Viewpoint Located off Highway 837

west of Drumheller,this Viewpoint is a popular

tourist attraction and rest area,offering stunning views of the

Red Deer River Valley.

Horseshoe Canyon

explore

A must see attraction along theHighway 9 corridor, over 400,000

visitors come every year to enjoy theCanyon's hiking trails, amazing

views, day-use and rest areas.

Keiver's Lake Campground

South of Three Hills on Highway 21. 10 stalls, self-register, camp kitchen,

no fishing.

camp

West of Three Hills on Highway 583. 54 stalls, large group site,

wash house, play park, basketball court, ball diamond,

camp kitchen, no motorized boats, swimming not recommended.

Swalwell DamSouthwest of Swalwell. Self-register.

Picnic areas, fire pits, fishing.

Braconnier Dam


Horsethief Canyon

T o really understand why the landscape around Drumheller is called the badlands — and have an adventure at the same time — you need to strike out into its maze of sandstone mesas and whimsical, capped-rock forma-

tions called hoodoos, all cut through with dry, twisty coulees. I’ve hiked the Horseshoe Canyon Trail into a picturesque natural

amphitheatre; marvelled at looming, mushroom-shaped hoodoos with my husband along the Hoodoos Trail; and, with my children,

Photo by iShutter Photography

explored the interpretive loop path just outside the Royal Tyrrell Museum. Almost every time, we’ve stumbled across dinosaur fossils, which are revealed every year after wind and rain erode the soft rock.

With those kinds of rewards for getting off the beaten path, why wouldn’t you park your car and then hoof it, saddle up, cycle around or hit the river? Here are a few ideas for veering off the tourist track to experience Drumheller in unique ways.

ActiveADVENTURES

See the badlands from a different perspective when you hike, ride, e-bike or paddle through the region.By Lisa Kadane


of town, and amble in to a land-scape that alternates between lush vegetation, spruce groves and the iconic Martian scenery that everyone loves.

“It’s not just a classic trail ride — you learn a lot about the area,” says Willow Creek

Saddle up Drumheller’s original settlers used horses to navigate the badlands, and you can, too, on a horseback ride with Willow Creek Adventures. Trail rides leave from Kirkpatrick, on South Dinosaur Trail northwest

Adventures owner Conway Vidal. “One area we ride in is very fossil rich, so we stop and pick up bones and show people.”

In fact, there’s a mudstone formation where hip bones from a duckbill dinosaur are visible, and some of the rides

“It’s not just a classic trail ride — you learn a lot about the area.”—Conway Vidal

pass near the site where Joseph B. Tyrrell discovered the partial Albertosaurus skull fossil that put Drumheller on the map. You might even see “modern” animals such as deer, rabbits and coyotes. willowcreekadventures.ca

Photo by Whitney Loewen


and then cycle to see Drum-heller’s dino-sights, including the World’s Largest Dinosaur, a T.rex replica that menaces high above the Visitor Infor-mation Centre, as well as the 30-plus, harder-to-spot dino-saur statues situated on park benches and street corners around town.

Next, hit some of the 18

Try an e-bikeWheel around Drumheller on an electric assist bike, or e-bike. It’s a fun way to cover a lot of ground under your own power (well, kind of — the bikes go 30 kilometres on a single battery, and pedal assist definitely helps on hills).

Rent the bikes in town from Red Deer River Adventures,

Kayak or canoe the Red Deer RiverYour perspective changes on the water, says Red Deer River Adventures owner Eric Neuman. You might notice beavers swimming, swallows flying near the riverbank, or bald eagles perching in cottonwood trees. Even the badlands seem wilder without the marked trails that have helped tame the tortuous canyons.

THE RED DEER RIVER meanders through some of the

most significant palaeontological areas in the world.

“Paddling down the river, you get a more intimate feel of the badlands.”—Eric Neuman

kilometres of trails that lead up to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, and pedal even farther along North Dinosaur Trail to The Little Church, a local landmark.

E-bikes are meant for riders 12 and older, so if your plans include younger children call ahead to reserve one of the bikes with a trailer. drumhellerebikes.ca

“Paddling down the river, you get a more intimate feel of the badlands,” Neuman says.

Rent a craft to take out on your own, or join one of the company’s tours that last from two to seven hours, depending on distance covered and paddling experience. The popular Islands Tour paddles close to a spot where dinosaur fossils have been discovered. Naturally, the guide talks about Drumheller’s history as a palaeontology hot bed, as well as its coal mining past. In fact, from the river you can spot the remains of old mining communities. reddeerriveradventures.com -

LEFT Exploring the region on two wheels is especially fun with an elec-tric-assist bike.

OPPOSITE On the trail with Willow Creek Adventures.

Canoe photo by Travel Alberta /Katie Goldie; e-bike photo courtesy of Drumheller E-Bikes


UncoverSolitude

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Once nicknamed the “Bucket of Blood” because of its reputation for mayhem, the Rosedeer Hotel and Last Chance Saloon

is now one of the most beloved eateries in the Canadian Badlands. The hotel and restaurant was opened by the Rosedeer Coal Company in 1913 to accommodate and feed the workers who toiled at the region’s coal mines. The Dayman family ran the place for two generations before handing the reins to its current owners, Dave and Videll Arsenault, in 2013.

You’ll find the Rosedeer Hotel and Last Chance Saloon about 15 kilometres southeast of Drumheller on the 10X, a roadway famous for its 11 picturesque bridges and striated badlands scenery. Keep your eyes peeled between bridges nine and 10 for the tiny settlement of Wayne, a once-booming mining town. The hotel and saloon are unassuming — just simple brown buildings nestled into the hills — but, standing in this pre-historic landscape and looking at the false-front saloon that hasn’t changed in a century, you’ll feel like you’ve walked straight into a Western film, and no wonder. The Rosedeer Hotel and Last Chance Saloon have been featured in a few westerns, including Jackie Chan’s Shanghai Noon.

The Last Chance Saloon serves drinks and classic Alberta pub grub, including a hearty perogy plate and a big burger called the Shovelhead. The historic dining room is teeming

with stories. Coal miners used to drink and fight here before the mines shut down in the 1950s. Rumour has it, members of the Ku Klux Klan also used to hang out in the saloon and rough up communist agitators who might try to unionize the miners. In addition, the third floor of the hotel is permanently closed, a source of ongoing intrigue for ghost hunters. And sharp-eyed diners will spot a small picture frame around three bullet holes in the saloon’s

wall. Back in the 1970s, three patrons refused to pay for their drinks and a bartender named Laurence (known ever after as the Shootin’ Bartender) took a revolver from behind the bar and fired a shot over each of their heads. They settled their bill.

Paula Sutherland, manager of the Rosedeer Hotel and Last Chance Saloon since 2013, says the property’s rough and tumble rep is all in the

Past meets present at this century-old watering hole in the Rosebud Valley.

By Julia Williams

LAST CHANCE SALOONWelcome to the

1 3 52 4 6

past, but the spot still remains a remarkable place. Here, history is so close you can touch it, and she’s constantly reminded of all the human activity that has taken place among these walls.

“You think about the people who came here from different countries, working down in the pits all day, dealing with frigid temperatures and trying to develop a community. It’s pretty amazing,” Sutherland says. “And that was only 100 years ago.”

The saloon is a must-stop for many, from touring motorists and cyclists to families, locals and overseas visitors. The Rosedeer Hotel has only a handful of rooms, but in the summer, the surrounding landscape turns into a campsite and exponentially increases Wayne’s 32-person pop-ulation. Similarly, the Last Chance Saloon seats 75, but that number increases by more than 250 when the patio is open. Despite its capacity, the place still sees long lineups on summer Sundays.

Sutherland believes the popularity of the Rosedeer Hotel and Last Chance Saloon isn’t hard to explain. “I like to think it’s because we’re great hosts,” she says with a laugh. She says people just seem to feel comfortable here, where beautiful surroundings and a genuine sense of place provide the perfect antidote to the chain restaurant experience. Sutherland claims she is never surprised by who drops by. “I’ve seen a Tibetan monk walk through the door, and that’s God’s honest truth,” she says.

Highway 10x: Road of 11 bridges

Historic photo courtesy of Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site (3740.6); 11 bridges photos by Rebecca Middlebrook

Paula Sutherland and Dave Arsenault enjoy a beer at the Last Chance Saloon.


Sandy Page Annual LGBTQ+ CampoutMay 18 to 20For the 39th year, the Alberta LGBTQ+ community will spend the May long weekend camping in Wayne, with live entertain-ment, games, a bonfire and other events.

Royal Rally: Badlands IIJune 8 & 9 The Last Chance Saloon is a checkpoint on this scenic driv-ing event that winds through the Badlands from Calgary to Medicine Hat.

Gran Fondo BadlandsJune 22The Last Chance Saloon is the “Baconsaurus” aid station for this annual cycling race, serving bacon sandwiches to riders as they roll by.

Lost Egg Disc Golf Tournament Aug. 3 & 4 This annual tournament in the rugged Badlands terrain near Wayne attracts more than 100 players.

WayneStock Music FestivalAug. 31 to Sept. 2The Saloon serves food and pancake breakfasts to campers and festival-goers, who come to see more than 40 Canadian roots, rock, country and blues bands perform. -

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN WAYNE THIS SUMMER

7 98 10 11

Paula and Dave photo by Christy Turner Photography; Royal Rally photo courtesy of Royal Rally

THE LAST CHANCE SALOON IS ONE OF the most beloved eateries

in the Canadian Badlands.


Point of view

iStock/Getty Images Plus

STAR MINE SUSPENSION BRIDGE: Towering over

the Red Deer River in

Rosedale, the 117-metre-long

bridge was built in 1931 to

be used as a passage route

for Star Mine coal workers.

…will you discover a thriving artistic community exuding the perfect balance of rustic comfort and urban energy. This hidden gem boasts of engaging professional theatre, relaxing stays, gift shops and music festivals, all wrapped in warm hospitality within the beauty of the Rosebud river valley. Experience a hamlet bursting with character and culture: like nothing you’ve seen.

Rosebud is a journey worth making… and we’re closer than you think.

Only in Rosebud…

VisitRosebud.com

L I V E T H E A T R E • D I N I N G • A T T R A C T I O N S • F E S T I V A L S • U N I Q U E G I F T S • C H A R M I N G S T A Y S

Only in Rosebud.indd 1 2019-01-27 8:55 PM


…will you discover a thriving artistic community exuding the perfect balance of rustic comfort and urban energy. This hidden gem boasts of engaging professional theatre, relaxing stays, gift shops and music festivals, all wrapped in warm hospitality within the beauty of the Rosebud river valley. Experience a hamlet bursting with character and culture: like nothing you’ve seen.

Rosebud is a journey worth making… and we’re closer than you think.

Only in Rosebud…

VisitRosebud.com

L I V E T H E A T R E • D I N I N G • A T T R A C T I O N S • F E S T I V A L S • U N I Q U E G I F T S • C H A R M I N G S T A Y S

Only in Rosebud.indd 1 2019-01-27 8:55 PM


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837


South Dinosaur Trail

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ichi

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SOUTH RAILWAY AVE SW

25 S

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W17

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T SW

HILL

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W16

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NW

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T W

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T W

8 ST

W 6 S

T W

4 ST

SWBA

NKV

IEW

DR

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2 ST

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E

1 ST S

E HUNT

S CRE

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IPER

RD

TWIN HILL CL

12 AVE S

E

HUNTINGTON PARK

3 ST

SE

11 ST

SE

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8 ST E

7 ST E

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E11 S

T E12

ST E

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E

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E16

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BEEC

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VILL

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POPL

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1 AVE NW

PARK PL

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NEWCASTLE TR

NEWCASTLE TR

GROVE AVE

LARCH AVE

WILLOW AVE

GROVE PL

MICHICHI DRPOPLAR


HEALTH CENTRE DR

PREMIER CL

PREMIER RD

NEWCASTLE RD

4 AVE SW

2 AVE NW

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2 AVE W

3 AVE W

7 AVE SW

8 AVE SW

BIRCHWOOD CL

7 AVE SE

6 AVE E

6 AVE E

7 AVE E

6 AVE E RIVERSIDE DRIVE EAST

WILLOW

PT

8 AVE SE

9 AVE SE

10 AVE SE

11 AVE SE

PINE PLCEDAR CRES

SPRUCE DR

HUNTS DR

HUNTS CRES

PREMIER CRES

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1 AVE N

W

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12 ST

BANKVIEW DR

H

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W

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T W

14 S

T W

RIVERSIDE AVE W

9 ST

SW

HY GRADE CRES

McDOUGALL

LANE

CRES

6 AV

E S

E 6 ST E

To Munson, Morrin, Stettler, Delia & Hanna


To Rosebud & Calgary

To Rosedale, Wayne & East Coulee

Red Deer River

To Badlands Amphitheatre

To Royal Tyrrell Museum

To Rosebud Theatre

5 ST

W

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W

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T SW

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SW

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ELGIN HILL RD

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TRE

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Visitor Information

Centre

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27 7

Get to know quirky downtown Drumheller using your cellphone as your tour guide. The Drumheller DinoWalk is a website that acts as a map, leading you to 15 numbered dinosaur signs that will fill you in on some of Alberta’s most interesting prehistoric residents. dinowalk.ca

For a lovely view of layered sandstone hills and the tranquil Red Deer River, be sure to pause on the Bridge Street bridge, between the first two stops of the DinoWalk.

She’s the star of the town and can be spotted from most locations: The World’s Largest Dinosaur (at 86 feet!) in Rotary Spray Park stands between stops 3 and 4. A $4 admission fee lets you climb the 106 stairs inside this giant T-Rex, right

up to her mouth, where you can take in an awesome view of the valley from inside her gaping jaw.

At Treasures on Centre, you’ll find a whole lot of small-town charm. “Guarded” by the world’s friendliest dog (who sports a stylish crocheted bib), this antique shop abounds with cool, one-of-a-kind merchandise.

It’s true: dinosaurs pop-up everywhere around town, in

INSIDER TIP: THE DINOWALK ALSO GIVES

YOU AN OPPORTUNITY TO CHECK OUT SOME OF

THE TOWN’S OTHER CHARMS. HERE ARE SIX

PLACES TO LINGER ALONG THE WAY:

the form of murals, statues and even street names. But the two dinos “waiting” at the benches on the crossroads of Centre St. and 3rd Ave are especially cute – and they’re great for photo-ops.

Refuel with a fancy coffee and a hearty treat at locally- loved Café Olé, just past stop number eight.

Take in the town’s retro water tower at stop 10. It rises above a lovely manicured garden, featuring local blooms, and, of course, a dinosaur statue. -— Jennifer Dorozio

DO THE DINOWALK

Albertosaurus

Troodon

Styracosaurus

Tyrannosaurus

Ankylosaurus

Centrosaurus

Triceratops

Parasaurolophus

Edmontosaurus

Edmontonia

Lambeosaurus

Ornithomimus

Stegoceras

Dromaesaurus

Gorgosaurus

Downtown Drumheller

HAPPY HUNTING:

KEEP TRACK OF WHICH

DINOSAURS YOU’VE

FOUND BY CHECKING

THEM OFF ABOVE.

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Dinowalk and Treasure on Centre photos by Jennifer Dorozio; World Largest Dinosaur photo by Janice Ikeda; water tower photo by Rebecca Middlebrook


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South Dinosaur Trail

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25 S

T N

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W17

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T SW

HILL

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SW12

ST SW

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T N

W16

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NW

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T N

W

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T W

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T W

8 ST

W 6 S

T W

4 ST

SWBA

NKV

IEW

DR

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SW

2 ST

SW

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SW

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E

1 ST S

E HUNT

S CRE

S

JUN

IPER

RD

TWIN HILL CL

12 AVE S

E

HUNTINGTON PARK

3 ST

SE

11 ST

SE

5 ST

E

8 ST E

7 ST E

9 ST E

10 ST

E11 S

T E12

ST E

14 ST

E

15 ST

E16

ST E

17 ST

E

19 ST

E

BEEC

H ST

VILL

A ST

POPL

AR S

T

9 ST

W

11 ST

W

14 S

T N

W

1 AVE NW

PARK PL

4 AVE NW

NEWCASTLE TR

NEWCASTLE TR

GROVE AVE

LARCH AVE

WILLOW AVE

GROVE PL

MICHICHI DRPOPLAR


HEALTH CENTRE DR

PREMIER CL

PREMIER RD

NEWCASTLE RD

4 AVE SW

2 AVE NW

2 AVE W

2 AVE W

3 AVE W

7 AVE SW

8 AVE SW

BIRCHWOOD CL

7 AVE SE

6 AVE E

6 AVE E

7 AVE E

6 AVE E RIVERSIDE DRIVE EAST

WILLOW

PT

8 AVE SE

9 AVE SE

10 AVE SE

11 AVE SE

PINE PLCEDAR CRES

SPRUCE DR

HUNTS DR

HUNTS CRES

PREMIER CRES

1 AVE W

1 AVE N

W

13 ST

12 ST

BANKVIEW DR

H

17 S

T N

W

13 S

T W

14 S

T W

RIVERSIDE AVE W

9 ST

SW

HY GRADE CRES

McDOUGALL

LANE

CRES

6 AV

E S

E 6 ST E

To Munson, Morrin, Stettler, Delia & Hanna


To Rosebud & Calgary

To Rosedale, Wayne & East Coulee

Red Deer River

To Badlands Amphitheatre

To Royal Tyrrell Museum

To Rosebud Theatre

5 ST

W

4 ST

W

3 ST

W3 S

T SW

2 ST

SW

1 ST

SW

4 ST

E

BRIDGE ST

2 AVE W

6 AVE SE

5 AVE E

ELGIN HILL RD

1 AVE W

2 ST

W

1 ST

W

CEN

TRE

ST

1 ST

E

2 ST

E

3 AVE E

4 AVE ERAILWAY AVE E

3 ST

E

RIVERSIDE

DRIVE EAST

?2 AVE W

3 AVE W

RIVERSID

E AVE W

Visitor Information

Centre

Shopping

1 AtelieroVerdaFineArtGallery&Studio – 40 3rd Ave W 2 BuyGoneGeneralStore Pawn&Consign – 50 North Railway Ave W 3 CC’sCloset – 65a 3rd Ave 4 DryCanyonCollectables – 175 3rd Ave W 5 TheFauxDen – 175 3rd Ave. W6 TheFossilShop – 61 Bridge St

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6

Red Deer River

Bridge

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CE

NT

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2 AVE W

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4 AVE E

RIVERSIDE DRIVE EAST

NORTH RAILWAY AVE

SOUTH RAILWAY AVE

VETERANS WAY

Medical Clinic

Badlands Community Facility

Post Office

Curling RinkArena

Police Station

Fire Department

5 AVE E

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E

2 ST

W

5 AVE W

1 ST

W

3 ST

W

4 ST

W

Town Hall

3 AVE W

7 TheGeneralStore – 901 North Dinosaur Tr 8 JunglingWorks – 299 1st St W 9 NaturalLightImages – 175D 3 Ave W10 RiversideValueDrugMart – 167 Centre St11 R&JFlowerCentre – 40 3rd Ave E 12 ShredzSnow&Skate – 250 3rd Ave W13 SunriseAutoRepair – 389 1st St E14 ValleyDollMuseum&Gifts – 84 3rd Ave W

Restaurants

15 Bernie&theBoysBistro – 305 4th St W 16 CaféOlé – 11 Railway Ave17 PizzaHut – Valley Plaza, 249 3rd Ave W18 SublimeFood&Wine – 109 Centre St19 VietnameseNoodleHouse – 202 2nd St W20 YavisFamilyRestaurant – Valley Plaza, 249 3rd Ave W

Attractions

21 BadlandsAmphitheatre – 605 17th St SW22 BadlandsGallery – 50C 3 Ave W, Drumheller 23 BadlandsHistoricalCentre – 335 1st St E24 BumperBoatAmusements – 901 North Dinosaur Tr25 TheHomesteadMuseum – 901 North Dinosaur Tr26 RosebudTheatre – 116 Main St, Rosebud27 RoyalTyrrellMuseum – Hwy 83828 ValleyBrewing – 242 3rd Ave W29 World’sLargestDinosaur – 60 1st Ave W

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Walking Trails

Hotels and Campgrounds

30 CanaltaJurassicHotel– 1103 Hwy 9 S 31 DinosaurRVParkandDino’sRVNest – Corner of Hwy 9 and North Dinosaur Tr32 EconoLodge – 392 Centre St & Railway Ave33 HeartwoodInn – 320 North Railway Ave E34 McDougallLaneB&B – 71 McDougall Lane35 NewcastleCountryInn – 1130 Newcastle Tr36 QualityHotel – 100 S. Railway Ave37 RamadaInn&Suites – 600, 680 2nd St SE38 RiverGroveCampgroundandCabins – 25 Poplar St N39 Super8 – 800, 680 2nd St SE40 Travelodge – 101 Grove Pl

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Exploration Guide 2019 - Travel Drumheller · Spend your weekend taking advantage of big, sunny skies and adventurous activities suitable for all ages. Saturday morning: Visitors