Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
the United States
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Australia
Fiji
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Canyon · Drumheller, Alberta
Horseshoe Canyon (Horseshoe Canyon)
A horseshoe-shaped canyon in the badlands, about 17 km from Drumheller, with a roadside viewpoint and trails that descend between striped slopes.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Horseshoe Canyon (Horseshoe Canyon)
Horseshoe Canyon sits beside Highway 9, about 17 km southwest of Drumheller, on the road from Calgary. The flat prairie suddenly opens into a horseshoe-shaped canyon with slopes of gray, ochre and reddish layers.
From the roadside viewpoint next to the parking area you can see the whole canyon. Trails descend to the canyon floor among eroded hills, small stone chimneys and layers of coal and clay. Prairie plants such as sage and low cacti grow on the slopes.
The layers hold fossils from the dinosaur age, which should not be collected: in Alberta fossils belong to the province. There is no entrance fee.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the trails.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, when the light brings out the colors and temperatures are lower. Avoid descending in the rain.
How to get there
On Highway 9, about 17 km southwest of Drumheller, with roadside parking.
Tip
Bring water and a hat in summer: there is no shade on the canyon floor.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Horseshoe Canyon (Horseshoe Canyon)
Where is Horseshoe Canyon located?
On Highway 9, about 17 km from Drumheller, on the road coming from Calgary.
Can you descend to the bottom of Horseshoe Canyon?
Yes, via trails from the viewpoint. The ground is clay and becomes slippery when it rains.
Can you take fossils found in Horseshoe Canyon?
No. In Alberta, fossils belong to the province and must not be collected.