The sun is shining, the leaves have started to turn a golden yellow and another weekend is just around the bend. How will you spend it? Why not take a little drive to one of the many beautiful valleys, lakes, gardens or mountains within 3 hours of the big city? Here are 10 day trips you can take from Calgary this fall.

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Drumheller 

 

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The Alberta Badlands are a magical place rich with history and things to do and see. One of our favourite spots? Drumheller! Here, you can check out the iconic Royal Tyrrell Museum, Hoodoo hikes, and the world’s largest T-Rex.

Where: Directions here

Nordegg

Though it’s small, it’s anything but dull and inactive. From hiking trails to their beautiful lake, wildlife tours, crescent falls and fishing, Nordegg practically spoils visitors with fun things to do and see.

Where: Directions here

Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

An interactive destination perfect for the Calgary animal lover, the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is educational, fun and, above all, incredibly cool. Get up close and personal with their resident wolfpack, feed, pet and sit with them.

Where: 263156 Range Road 53 Cochrane, Alberta

Sylvan Lake 

Sylvan Lake is an incredible destination no matter the season, but in the fall when the trees are colourful and bright – it’s really something else. Enjoy a bite to eat, go shopping, have a picnic or hang out on the beach (if it’s warm enough). You’re in for a treat!

Where: See directions here

Banff

You just can’t have a day-trip list without including Banff! While this one may be obvious, it’s still worth mentioning because it really is one of the most beautiful places in Canada. Shop, eat, walk, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. There’s no place like it.

Where: Directions here

Frank Slide Interpretive Centre

Sitting alongside Canada’s deadliest rockslide, the Frank Slide interpretive centre makes for an incredibly eye-opening day trip. Learn why, when, and how half of a town and its residents got trapped under hundreds of thousands of rocks, in one of the country’s worst accidents.

When: AB-3, Crowsnest Pass, AB

Rowley

An abandoned destination north of Drumheller, there is plenty to see in Rowley. Frozen in time visitors are encouraged to respectfully explore the town which consists of several buildings, including a garage, church, bank, store, saloon and community hall.

Where: Directions here

Kananaskis 

Going with a fussy group? Kananaskis has something for everyone, and we mean everyone. Need a day away to unwind? Spend a day at the Nordic Spa, picnicking and sightseeing, or hiking. The fresh air will go straight to your head, the sun will warm your skin, and the memories will last a lifetime.

Where: 1 Centennial Dr, Kananaskis

Nikka Yuko

One of the most beautiful places in not just Alberta, but all of North America, the Nikka Yuko Gardens have flowers, trees, ponds and daily activities. Check it out and enjoy!

Where: Corner of 9th Ave S &, Mayor Magrath Dr. S, Lethbridge

Quarry Lake

Looking for somewhere to go for a scenic walk or a picnic? Surrounded by colourful trees and mountains, Quarry Lake is a charming destination in the Rockies.

Where: Directions here

There you have it. Incredible day trips you can take from Calgary. Where will you be heading first?!