Badlands bus: Calgary to Drumheller FlixBus route launching in May

Couple walking along the trails in Horseshoe Canyon. (Travel Alberta)

Whether you’re hoping to explore hoodoos or the Royal Tyrrell Museum, travellers can soon take a bus to Alberta’s Badlands instead of drive.

FlixBus is launching direct service from Calgary to Drumheller starting May 14, stopping in both downtown Drumheller and at the Royal Tyrrell Museum.

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“Drumheller is one of Alberta’s most unforgettable destinations, and our new service makes getting there simple, affordable and stress-free,” said Karina Frayter, FlixBus spokesperson, in a Tuesday news release.

“With a direct connection from Calgary, more travellers can discover the Badlands and enjoy one of Canada’s most unique landscapes without needing a car.”

A month later, on June 26, Drumheller will see the launch of ValleyConnect, a free hop-on, hop-off shuttle connecting the town to tourist hotspots like the Royal Tyrrell Museum, the Hoodoos, the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site and the East Coulee School Museum.

“Improving how people get to and around Drumheller strengthens both our community and our local economy,” said Mayor Tony Miglecz. “These services make it easier for residents to access jobs and services, while helping visitors experience more of what our valley has to offer.”

Travel Alberta has designated the Badlands region a priority tourism development zone.

“The Canadian Badlands represent one of Alberta’s most promising tourism growth opportunities, already drawing more than half a million visitors each year,” said David Goldstein, president and CEO of Travel Alberta.

“Through our partnerships and investments in the future of this emerging destination, we’re driving real economic impact for communities throughout the valley.”

For schedules and more information, you can visit the FlixBus website.