The Red Rock Coulee Natural Area in Orion, Alberta is out of this world. In fact, those who visit might feel like they’ve been transported 140 million miles away.

Nestled south of Medicine Hat, this sprawling destination is surreal, filled with giant Mars-like formations that will rock your world.

What to Expect at the Red Rock Coulee

Measuring up to 2.5 metres across, Orion boasts spheroid concretions that have quite the reputation.

Here, those who visit can enjoy the picturesque scenery as well as the unusual rock formations — which are said to be among the largest in the world.

Photo via Shutterstock

According to Alberta Parks, these particular sandstone balls have eroded out of the softer bedrock and are also the best examples of this happening in all of Alberta, making them truly unique!

Want to explore this one-of-a-kind destination?

While it’s an impressive sight all year round, winter is the time to go if you fear small critters.

Not only are white-tailed jackrabbits, mule deer, and pronghorn familiar to the area, but those who visit in the warmer months may encounter western rattlesnakes, bull snakes, short-horned lizards, and scorpions—but don’t let that stop you!

This area really is something, so pack some snacks, keep an eye out, and bundle up!

The Red Rock Coulee is nothing short of extraordinary.

Red Rock Coulee Natural Area, Alberta

Where: Orion, AB – Directions here

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Cassandra Stefanic

Regional Editor, Prairies –Cassandra is a Calgary-based journalist with a deep appreciation for music, film, food, travelling, and storytelling. When she’s not chasing a story, writing, or editing, you’ll likely find her in the mountains, binge-watching a new series, at a speakeasy, cooking, or getting lost in a Taylor Swift re-record.

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