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Dinosaur Provincial Park Is Hiding Fossils, Hoodoos, and Views You Won’t Believe Are Real
Posted on July 1, 2025 by Nerissa McNaughton
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dinosaur Provincial Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and incredible archaeological significance. It’s a protected area in Alberta, renowned for its dramatic badlands scenery, and is also one of the planet’s richest deposits of dinosaur fossils. Covering around 80 square kilometers, the park is home to a stunning array of geological formations, wildlife, and over 500 species of plants.
What truly sets it apart is its status as a treasure trove for paleontologists. Since its discovery, more than 150 complete dinosaur skeletons and thousands of fossils have been unearthed here. You too can explore these ancient riches while soaking in the beauty of the valley.
If you’re ready to start planning your visit here, read on!
What Is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a place recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization for its cultural, historical, scientific, or natural importance. These sites are considered to have “Outstanding Universal Value” and are protected for future generations. Think of them as humanity’s greatest hits when it comes to natural and man-made wonders.
Why Does Dinosaur Provincial Park Qualify as a UNESCO Site?
Dinosaur Provincial Park earned its UNESCO status due to three key factors:
- Paleontological Richness: The park is one of the most important fossil sites in the world, with fossils dating back 75 million years to the Late Cretaceous period.
- Geological Significance: Its striking badlands are a natural masterpiece, showcasing millions of years of erosion that have sculpted hoodoos, mesas, and coulees.
- Exceptional Ecosystem: Beyond fossils, the park protects an array of species, from prairie rattlesnakes to prairie falcons, all thriving in this unique semi-arid environment.
Unique Finds and Little-Known Facts
At Dinosaur Provincial Park, expect to encounter fossils from species like the Albertosaurus and Centrosaurus, but that’s just the beginning. Here are some unique discoveries and fascinating facts about the park:
- Oldest Fossils: The ancient fossils you’ll find here date back roughly 75 million years. Imagine holding a piece of history predating humanity by millions of years!
- Dinosaur Hotspot: Over 50 different species of dinosaurs have been discovered in the park, making it one of the most diverse dinosaur fossil sites on Earth.
- The Bone Bed: Some areas of the park, like the Centrosaurus Bone Bed, contain layers upon layers of dinosaur fossils, showcasing a prehistoric ecosystem that thrived in this region.
- Lesser-Known Dino Trivia: Did you know that dinosaurs from this park had to adapt to a habitat that was once a subtropical floodplain? It’s hard to imagine when you’re standing in the dry badlands today! Many newly identified dinosaur species, like the horned dinosaur Coronosaurus, were first discovered here. The park’s unique landscape has made it a popular filming location for movies and TV shows.
Making the Most of Your Visit
To fully immerse yourself in all Dinosaur Provincial Park has to offer, consider these activities:
- Guided Tours: The park offers a range of guided tours, including fossil safaris and hikes through areas typically not readily accessible to the public. These tours give you an up-close look at real fossils still embedded in the ground.
- Camping Under the Stars: Stay overnight in the park to experience its serene beauty under a canopy of stars. The campgrounds are well-equipped, and there’s even the option to book a glamping tent for a touch of luxury.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the badlands via the park’s hiking trails, where you’ll encounter hoodoos, fossil displays, and panoramic views of the valley. Be sure to bring sturdy shoes, water, and a camera!
- Photography: The otherworldly landscape of the badlands makes for unbeatable photo opportunities. Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the park’s natural splendor.
Put Dinosaur Provincial Park on Your Summer Bucket List
From its unique scenery to the chance to walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs, Dinosaur Provincial Park offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Plan your visit and enjoy this very special UNESCO site.
Nerissa McNaughton is a freelance writer and a contributor to Alberta Newspaper Group. This story was written for the Alberta Newspaper Groups Sunny Escapes Summer fun Guide advertising feature. Sunny Escapes is a special feature offered as a Summer Guide for things to do in Alberta and Southeastern Saskatchewan this summer. Activities like, staycations, road trips, camping, and other adventures including local attractions, events and food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
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