9 underrated day trips from Calgary to take this summer
Sometimes the hustle and bustle of Calgary can feel like a lot, but quick summer day trips can be all it takes to reset.
Luckily, Calgary is surrounded by plenty of spots that are perfect for day trips, especially in the warmer months. From small towns to amazing lakes, here are nine underrated day trips from Calgary to go on this summer.
Bragg Creek
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If you’re looking to get out into nature this summer but don’t want to face the crowds of Banff, Bragg Creek is an easy escape, less than an hour from Calgary. You’ll find forested trails, river spots, and a small but charming main street filled with cafes and shops. If you’re looking for more of an adventure, you can check out the nearby Elbow Falls.
Diamond Valley
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Made up of Black Diamond and Turner Valley, this area is an easy day trip from Calgary, filled with small-town charm, local cafes, and scenic views of the foothills. You can stop in at the popular Chuckwagon Cafe, browse local shops, or walk the trail that connects the two towns.
Drumheller
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Located about one and a half hours from Calgary, Drumheller is known as the dinosaur capital of the world, and for good reason. You can stop in at the Royal Tyrrell Museum to view one of the largest dinosaur displays in the world, visit the world’s largest dinosaur, explore the dramatic badlands, and take in the iconic hoodoos for a break from the prairies.
Frank Slide
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If you’re up for a bit of a drive, Frank Slide is one of the most dramatic historic sites in Alberta. In 1903, part of Tyrtle Mountain collapsed and buried the town of Frank. Today, you can walk through the massive rock field and visit the interpretive centre to learn the story behind the disaster.
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Ghost Lake
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If you’re on the hunt for a lake day this summer, Ghost Lake is a quick escape from Calgary that offers mountain views, picnic spots, and plenty of space to relax by the water, just under an hour from Calgary.
Nanton
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Nanton is the perfect destination for a day out of the house this summer. You can find the Bomber Command Museum of Canada, which is home to a super-rare plane, and wander the town’s antique shops and classic small-town main street.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump
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This UNESCO World Heritage Site, located about two hours from Calgary, is one of the most significant Indigenous heritage sites in North America. Built into the cliffs of the Porcupine Hills, the interpretive centre shares the history of Indigenous peoples in Alberta. It’s an amazing cultural experience and a look into Alberta’s history.
Okotoks
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While Okotoks itself has a lot to offer, the Okotoks Erratic is a standout attraction. It’s a massive glacial erratic that was carried into Alberta thousands of years ago and now sits just outside the town, making it a super unique stop on a summer day. After checking that out, you can wander the town’s river pathways, explore local shops or grab a bite to eat in its growing downtown.
Cochrane
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Just over 30 minutes from Calgary, Cochrane is one of the easiest day trips on this list. The town has a walkable main street full of ice cream shops, cafes, and local boutiques. You can also explore nearby pathways or simply enjoy a relaxed day outside the city.