Dinosaur Provincial Park

The Dinosaur Provincial Park, covering 6039 ha (14,920 acres), is a unique paleontological site which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979. The remains of more than 35 species of dinosaurs and other saurians were found here.

In the vicinity of this park the Red Deer River has cut its way more than 100 m (330 ft) deep into the valley floor.

Annual rainfalls of 300 to 400 mm (12 to 16 in.) have produced what must be the most spectacular Badlands in Canada, with fascinating hoodoos, rock-needles, gorges and mesas. The slopes, devoid of any vegetation, shimmer in shades of reddish-black and grayish-green. This barren moonscape-like region forms the bulk of the park; beyond it the Badland spreads relatively fast and devours about 1 cm (1/2 in.) more land and loose material every year.

Fossil deposits

T. C. Weston discovered these superb fossil deposits in 1889, and by the turn of the century the Canadian Geological Society has carried out extensive digs. The Badlands and the archaeological sites, including a dinosaur skeleton left "in situ", can be seen on a circular tour of 31/2 km (2 mi.). However, most of the park can be seen only on a guided tour led by a park ranger or on a coach trip. Early reservation for these tours is essential.

The Tyrell Museum of Palaeontology maintains a field station here. Palaeontologists can also be watched as they prepare finds.