Calgary 
Driving along Highway 9, the views are quite flat. It is hard to imagine that only 30 seconds away from these prairies are sweeping views of the Alberta badlands with their rounded mountains, colourful layers, and bright green strips of grass and shrub.
Horseshoe Canyon, only 15 minutes west of Drumheller, offers this type of surprise off the highway and is a must-visit while in the area.
The Canyon carves into the prairies, which separate it from the rest of the Drumheller badlands that follow the Red Deer River southeast. The unique views offer a quiet escape in the valley and a beautiful place to stop and simply marvel at or explore. There are a few different lookout points at the rest area which give you a full view of the Canyon.
Horseshoe Canyon serves as a popular hiking spot, which is no wonder when you get a chance to see the beauty surrounding the area. But as the area is only open in summer, it is important to remember how hot and dry it can get in southeastern Alberta during this time, especially if you plan for a hike.
There is also little natural shade in the Canyon, so prepare with sunscreen, hats, or umbrellas, try to wear loose/light clothing, and plan your hike closer to sunrise or sunset when it is coolest.
The trails of Horseshoe Canyon may not be for everyone and every age, though, so stopping here for a picnic or photo shoot is also a perfect way to make the most of your time in the area. You can also stay the night!
The nearby Horseshoe Canyon Campground offers tent sites, RV sites with services, and cabins. This could be an ideal place for hikers to rest their heads after exploring the Canyon trails.
Planning your Trip – Horseshoe Canyon
What:
The site of Horseshoe Canyon was a Provincial Recreation Area, which is now owned and maintained by Kneehill County. The Canyon is a bit of a shock while you drive on Highway 9, a corridor which leads to the large badlands of the Red Deer River. However, while you drive along, you mostly see flat prairies and farmland. A short turn off the highway takes you to Horseshoe Canyon, a deep section of badlands in the middle of the prairies, the formation of which dates back to the Cretaceous period.
The area includes a rest stop and washroom, as well as a private campground. You can also access trailheads at the parking lot, which take you into and around Horseshoe Canyon. There is a unique plant and wildlife to see, ancient layers of rock,
How to get there:
Located on Highway AB-9. From Drumheller, go west of Highway 9 for about 15 minutes
Best time to go:
Summer (Parking lot closed Fall-Spring)
How much: parking is $2 per day
Camping: $40-$254 per night
For more information:
Horseshoe Canyon – Kneehill County (official website)
