Categories: Things To Do

There’s a prehistoric park just north of Edmonton with over 40 life-size animatronic dinosaurs

Photo via Jurassic Forest/Facebook

Jurassic Forest is just north of Edmonton, but it has all the dinosaur magic that comes from a road trip to Drumheller.

Deep in an old-growth forest not far from the city hides a prehistoric paradise that’s extraordinary for adults and kids alike. Whether you’re walking on the boardwalk to get a peek at these life-size animatronics or you’re golfing with friends at their themed course, it’s going to be a good time.

Truth be told, you won’t find something even remotely similar this close to the city. It’s a unique experience, and one that will save you the gas money of driving all the way down to Drumheller.

There are dinosaurs in our own backyard; there’s no need for too much travel.

What to expect

Open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, you can get your dose of dinosaurs whenever you please.

It’s best known for the boardwalk. Here, you can step into a world where prehistoric giants roam a stunning old-growth boreal forest. The two-kilometre trail takes you face-to-face with over 40 life-size animatronic dinosaurs that move and react as you pass.

There are gentle herbivores, terrifying predators, and more than enough excitement to go around.

Not to mention, you’ll also be able to pick up a scavenger hunt sheet at the entrance and track down every dinosaur on the trail. There are two levels, one for the younger folk and one for those who want a challenge.

If you’re looking for something a bit more, you can also add on Journey to Extinction Mini Golf. Their golf course has 18 holes, all dinosaur-themed, of course, suitable for all ages and skill levels. You can also just hop in for a game of golf; there’s no need to buy admission to the whole experience (although I’d certainly recommend checking it out at least once).

Admission to the forest itself is free for children two and under, $12 for children three to 12, $15 for youth aged 13 to 17, as well as seniors (aged 55 and over), and $18 for adults. The mini-golf add-on is $8 per person.

The summer is the perfect opportunity to make the short drive and discover everything Jurassic Forest has to offer. It’ll definitely be an experience you’ll never forget.