Wild Rose Country is known for its stunning Rocky Mountains and wide-open prairies, but there’s so much more to it! From desert-like destinations to one-of-a-kind venues, our province is wildly diverse and full of surprises. Ready for your next adventure? Here are 7 places that you might not believe actually exist in Alberta.

The Hoodoos

 

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A true natural wonder, the Hoodoos in Drumheller are unlike anything else you’ll see in the province. Formed by centuries of erosion and weathering, these incredible attractions are a must if you’re visiting the Badlands.

Where: Hoodoo Ave, Drumheller, AB

Maligne Canyon

 

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Located in Jasper National Park, Maligne Canyon is a vision, especially in the winter. With the help of a professional guide, explorers can tour 30-metre-high icy passages, majestic frozen waterfalls, and the frozen canyon floor.

Where: Directions here

Red Rock Canyon

 

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Looking to explore something truly spectacular? Check out the Red Rock Canyon, a natural treasure where vibrant rocks, blue sky and lush vegetation can be enjoyed on foot or from a picnic blanket.

Where: Waterton Park, AB – See directions here

Badlands Amphitheatre

 

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The largest of its kind in Canada, the Drumheller’s Badlands Amphitheatre is comparable to those found in Greece and Italy. From live theatre shows and the opera to fireworks, and outdoor movies, this spot has really seen it all.

Where: 605 17 Street SW Drumheller, AB

Lake Minnewanka

 

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Explored by thousands of scuba divers every year, the ice-cold waters of Lake Minnewanka are actually home to a well-preserved ghost town. From house and hotel foundations to ovens, and sidewalks the are some incredibly haunting things hidden under the surface.

Where: Lake Minnewanka – Improvement District No. 9, AB

Cave and Basin

 

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Widely considered the ‘birthplace of Canada’s national parks’ the Cave and Basin in Banff is fascinating. Here hot water seeps from the rocks and the smell of minerals fills the air. You can’t swim here but you can look and learn!

Where: 311 Cave Ave, Banff, AB

Elk Island National Park

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With picnic areas, a playground, and a visitor center with exhibits on the park’s history and ecology, Elk Island Park is not only a wonderful space to camp, hike and wander – it’s also out of this world at nighttime. After dark this place becomes the best place in the province to see stars and the northern lights making it well worth a visit.

Where: 54401 Range Rd 203, Fort Saskatchewan, AB

And there you have it, 7 places that you might not believe actually exist in Alberta. Where will you go first?