What are the Canadian Badlands?
Covering a broad swath of southern and eastern Alberta, the Canadian Badlands are a unique place to explore. Eons of compressed sea deposits have been carved by glaciation and subsequent erosion into a striking landscape of strangely-sculpted badland formations and rolling prairies bisected by coulees and deep river valleys.
Fossils and coal
This rapid erosion has exposed rich deposits of fossilized dinosaur bones and coal, the latter prompting a short-lived but colourful era of mining. The stories of coal mines, dinosaur finds and other natural and human histories are well told in the Canadian Badlands’ many fine museums, ranging from the world-class Royal Tyrrell Museum to small-town collections of Aboriginal and pioneer artifacts.
Western hospitality
Ranching and farming – much of it sustained by Canada’s largest irrigation system – remains a backbone of the economy, witness fields of colourful crops and grazing herds of cattle and even bison. You can sample this warm, western way of life at guest ranches, rodeos, livestock auctions and farmers’ markets.
Events and activities
Much of the Canadian Badlands is lightly populated, with sporadic towns and three mid-sized cities. Yet the cultural life is rich, featuring professional theatres, festivals throughout the year and innovative artwork that reflects the compelling landscape.
Recreational opportunities are equally abundant. Choices include camping in protected provincial parks, fishing or boating in lakes and rivers, badlands hiking and cycling, golfing, and watching for distinctive birds and animals under the expansive skies of the Canadian Badlands.
Learn more about the Canadian Badlands by viewing our video and looking at our map.
