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Legends unearthed

The Canadian Badlands: like nowhere else on earth.

The Canadian Badlands delivers world-class otherworldly landscapes close to more than 2 million residents and Calgary’s international airport. The area’s extraordinary geology, paleontological discoveries, friendly people and rich agricultural history are significant tourism assets.

Recognized as a breakthrough destination, the Canadian Badlands features export-ready products, engaged communities, and signature development opportunities. With targeted infrastructure, experiences, and investment, tourism can drive long-term economic diversification while strengthening resident sentiment and place-based identity, region-wide benefits.

At a glance

  • Location: Southeast Alberta
  • Key community: Drumheller
  • Projected visitor spend: $786M by 2035*
  • GDP: $570M by 2035*
  • Jobs: 3,860 by 2035*
  • Openness to tourism development: High - The zone has a committed destination marketing organization driving year-round visitation through promotion and destination development.

*With investment

Travel Drumheller

Progress on the ground

Global recognition of the Badlands’ landscapes and paleontological assets continues to fuel visitor demand, supported by year‑round accessibility and a growing mix of cultural and outdoor experiences. Strategic development throughout the TDZ ensures this demand is met in sustainable ways that benefit communities, protect place, and strengthen Alberta’s visitor economy.

Hoodoos Trail, Drumheller Valley

In the Canadian Badlands, regenerative tourism is redefining what growth can look like—benefiting communities while protecting the iconic landscape.

Read more about what’s possible

Events don’t just attract visitors, they bring communities together. Cold Bones Fest does exactly that for Drumheller, turning winter into a season of creativity, culture, and connection.

Learn more about the investment

This report informs and identifies specific actions Travel Alberta, the Government of Alberta and TDZ communities should take to support the design of a comprehensive Destination Development Plan.

Download the report

Key projects

Demand drivers

High demand for key activities

Highly engaged international travellers are already planning trips to Alberta—but the Canadian Badlands need more four‑season experiences, premium accommodations, and wellness offerings like a spa to fully meet that demand. These additions can anchor year‑round itineraries and drive sustained tourism growth.

Dinosaur Discovery Potential Market Size: 1.6M
Health and Wellness Potential Market Size: 1.1M
Live Music and Arts Potential Market Size: 1.1M

Why develop tourism

Investing in tourism helps make communities a better place to live, work, and visit.

Learn more

2X revenue

Communities with strong visitor economies make twice the municipal revenues per capita

Lower taxes

Residents pay lower residential property taxes in areas with strong visitor economies

More jobs

More visitors create a steady customer base for local businesses, creating great jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Reach out to our Destination & Commercial Development Manager for the Canadian Badlands

Cameron Spence

Cameron Spence

Foothills, Canadian Rockies & Canadian Badlands