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 lookout points at the rest area that offer a full view of the Canyon.
Horseshoe Canyon is a popular hiking spot, and it’s no wonder once you see the beauty surrounding it. But since 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 to hike.
There is also little natural shade in the Canyon, so prepare with sunscreen, hats, or umbrellas, wear loose/light clothing, and plan your hike for 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 Horseshoe Canyon site was a Provincial Recreation Area, now owned and maintained by Kneehill County. The Canyon is a bit of a surprise as you drive along Highway 9, a corridor leading to the large badlands along the Red Deer River. However, while you drive along, you mostly see flat prairies and farmland. A short turnoff from the highway takes you to Horseshoe Canyon, a deep section of badlands in the middle of the prairies, whose formation 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 that lead into and around Horseshoe Canyon. There are unique plants and wildlife to see, as well as 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 (tenting) to $289 (deluxe cabins per night
For more information:
Horseshoe Canyon – Kneehill County (official website)
