Dinosaur Provincial Park
One of the world’s richest dinosaur fossil sites, this badland valley in central Alberta has yielded specimens representing 58 species, now displayed in museums worldwide.
At a glance
Dinosaur Provincial Park protects a dramatic stretch of the Red Deer River valley, where layered badland cliffs expose fossils spanning millions of years. The site preserves an extraordinary record of ancient life—from microscopic fern spores to massive carnivorous dinosaurs—making it essential for understanding prehistoric ecosystems.
History
The park’s paleontological significance was formally recognized when it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. This designation acknowledged the fossil assemblage’s global importance and the site’s role in advancing scientific knowledge of dinosaur species and their environments. More than 500 specimens have since been extracted and distributed to museums across the globe.
What you see
The landscape is defined by striking badland topography—steep, barren cliffs carved into colorful rock layers that expose fossils spanning geological time. The Red Deer River valley’s exposed strata reveal the park’s natural stratigraphy, with bones and fossils embedded in accessible formations that tell the story of life 75 million years ago.
Cultural significance
Dinosaur Provincial Park stands among the world’s premier paleontological sites. Its 58 documented dinosaur species contribute substantially to scientific understanding of Cretaceous fauna and ecology. The diversity of fossils—ranging from microscopic plant remains to apex predators—creates an unusually complete picture of ancient communities that scientists continue to study today.
Key facts
- Location: Alberta, Canada
- Coordinates: 50.76°N, 111.49°W
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: 1979
- Dinosaur species documented: 58
- Specimens removed: more than 500
- Distance from Calgary: 220 km (137 mi) east
- Distance from Brooks: 48 km (30 mi) northeast
Practical information & getting there
The park lies in central Alberta, easily reached via highway from Calgary or Brooks. The badlands terrain and river valley setting make this an active destination for paleontologists, educators, and visitors interested in prehistoric life and geological processes.
Sources & resources
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