Dinosaur Provincial Park is one of Canada’s most famous natural sites. Located in the badlands of southeastern Alberta, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the richest places in the world for dinosaur fossils.
Visitors can explore dramatic landscapes of hoodoos, coulees, and cliffs carved by the Red Deer River. The park is also a hub for science, history, and outdoor adventure. Just under an hour from Brooks, Alberta, it’s an easy day trip or a place to stay overnight and camp under the stars.
Getting There
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By Car: The park is about 48 km (30 miles) northeast of Brooks. From the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 1), take Hwy 873 north, then follow signs east on Hwy 544 toward Patricia, and continue to the park.
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From Calgary: Around 2.5 hours (220 km) east.
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From Medicine Hat: About 1.5 hours (160 km) northwest.
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Parking: A main lot is near the Visitor Centre, and additional parking is available by trails and the campground.
Address: Dinosaur Provincial Park, Box 60, Patricia, AB T0J 2K0
Hours & Admission
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Park Access: Open year-round (day-use areas, trails, and camping).
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Visitor Centre & Gallery: Open seasonally (spring to fall). Hours vary — typically 9 AM–4:30 PM in peak season. Off-season visits may be by appointment only.
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Admission: Park entry is free. The exhibit gallery has a small fee (~$2 per person).
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Camping Reservations: Required during busy summer months via
Things To See & Do
1. Visitor Centre
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Interactive exhibits on fossils, geology, and palaeontology.
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Gift shop with books, souvenirs, and fossil replicas.
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Small theatre showing educational films.
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Field station in partnership with the Royal Tyrrell Museum (seasonal).
2. Walking Trails (Self-Guided)
There are five official trails, each 0.3–1.5 km:
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Badlands Trail: Explore hoodoos and eroded cliffs.
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Cottonwood Flats Trail: Shady riverside habitat with birds and wildlife.
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Prairie Trail: Short stroll across native grasslands.
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Coulee Viewpoint Trail: Scenic overlook of the Red Deer Valley.
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Fossil Hunters Trail: Displays fossil replicas and explains excavation work.
3. Guided Tours & Programs
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Bus tours, fossil dig experiences, and guided hikes (seasonal, reservation required).
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Family-friendly interpretive programs are offered in the summer.
4. Camping & Picnicking
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Campground with tent and trailer sites along the river.
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Picnic tables and shelters in day-use areas.
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Evening amphitheatre programs in summer.
Visitor Tips
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Weather: Summers are hot and dry. Carry water, wear a hat, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes.
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Wildlife: Snakes, birds, and prairie animals are common — admire from a distance.
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Pets: Allowed on leash in campgrounds and on self-guided trails, but not in the Visitor Centre or guided programs.
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Reservations: Book tours and camping early, as summer spots fill quickly.
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Photography: Sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting on the hoodoos.
Getting Back
After your visit, return west to Brooks via Hwy 544 and Hwy 873. From there, connect to the Trans-Canada Highway for Calgary, Medicine Hat, or other Alberta destinations. Brooks makes a convenient stop for fuel, food, or an overnight stay before continuing your journey.
Final Note
Dinosaur Provincial Park is not just about fossils — it’s about stepping into a prehistoric world. The combination of breathtaking badlands scenery, world-class palaeontology, and family-friendly trails makes it a must-see in Alberta. Whether you spend a few hours or camp for days, the park offers a mix of discovery and wonder you won’t forget.