5-Day Rural Alberta Breweries and Badlands

Day 1: Arrive in Calgary

Arrive at the Calgary airport and pick up your car rental for the next five days. Calgary, known for its vibrant craft beer scene, boasts a diverse array of top-notch breweries that cater to every beer enthusiast's palate. We recommend heading out for a bite and beer before starting your journey in the morning. From the innovative offerings at Annex Ale Project, where experimental flavors and unique ingredients are embraced, to the community-driven spirit of Dandy Brewing Company, Calgary's breweries showcase a blend of creativity and tradition. Some other notable breweries worth checking out are Citizen Brewing Company or Tool Shed Brewing Co. With several brewery districts within Calgary and over 44 craft breweries, there is something for everyone.

Overnight: Calgary

Day 2: The Badlands - Drumheller

Depart 1.5 hours east to the town of Drumheller – the dinosaur capital of the world. Located in the badlands, Drumheller sits in a desert-like valley characterized by a network of deep, narrow and winding gullies along with occasional hoodoo rocks. Once you arrive, head to the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology for an in-depth interpretive tour. Next, take a drive over to the World’s largest dinosaur and keep your eyes posted for many other dinosaur sculptures throughout the town. After a quick stop, check out the famous hoodoos – sandstone pillars with rock caps that were formed over millions of years. These delicate natural formations are a natural wonder. In the evening, head to Valley Brewing, a family-run brewery, for a crisp beer to quench your thirst. Enjoy their beautiful patio, in the heart of Drumheller's downtown. Overnight in your Drumheller accommodation.

Overnight: Drumheller

Day 3: Atlas Coal Mine, Last Chance Saloon, Drive to Crowsnest Pass

In the morning, depart for the Atlas Coal Mine, about 20 minutes east of Drumheller. Hike through a mine that has been inactive for over four decades and take a ride on their antique train, Linda – a 90-year-old electric locomotive that takes you on a surface tour around the mine site. There are also other experiences including a processing plant tour or a junkyard archaeology tour. Next, go back in time and stop for lunch in the community of Wayne at the Last Chance Saloon. Inside is filled with antiques and memorabilia from the early 1900s during Wayne’s coal mining days – it's almost like a museum and a restaurant in one. After a delicious lunch, depart for the Crowsnest Pass. Overnight in Crowsnest Pass.

Overnight: Crowsnest Pass

Day 4: Crowsnest Pass

Crowsnest Pass is full of majestic views, scenic attractions and Canada’s mining history. In the afternoon depart on the Miners Path Historical Tour. Step into the fascinating history of the Miner's Path and learn about the miners and people from the 1900s. Coleman used to be a coal mining town and is now a special National Historical Site. Discover real stories of those who bravely worked to make a good life and supported the underground miners. Next, stop for lunch at the Pass Brew Co. and try one of their many delicious beer options or maybe a tasting flight. They also serve Canadian fare – Poutine and Woodfire Pizzas. After lunch head to the impressive Crowsnest Museum to learn about the cultural history of the area and the miners that once thrived in this small town. Go to dinner at Oldman River Brewing for a delicious bite and a wide range of craft beers from dry hopped sours to complex brown ales. Enjoy an evening of leisure at your Crowsnest Pass hotel.

Overnight: Crowsnest Pass

Day 5: Turner Diamond Valley

In the morning drive north to Diamond Valley for a stop at Eau Claire Distillery – Canada's most awarded distillery. Try some fine-crafted spirits in their stunning tasting room or take a bottle of the liquid nectar home for later. After a stop at the distillery, drive to Calgary where your journey comes to an end. Return your rental vehicle before heading home.