Coulee Viewpoint Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
0.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
0.9 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
32 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead
Coulee Viewpoint Trail

The Coulee Viewpoint Trail is spectacular. On this short walk, you’ll explore the most dramatic scenery of all the trails in Dinosaur Provincial Park. Don’t miss this highly recommended trail in Dinosaur Provincial Park.

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Route Description for Coulee Viewpoint Trail

Walk the Coulee Viewpoint Trail in Dinosaur Provincial Park is a must-do when you’re in this area. This wonderful trail has dramatic scenery and visually pleases adults and kids alike.

Start from the Cretaceous Café, and follow the trail from the signboard in the southwestern part of the parking lot. This trail quickly takes you up to the Visitor Centre, which has some exhibits that are worth checking out.

Continue on the path past the Visitor Centre and admire the incredible view. The trail loops in a circle, and you can go either way but expect it to be very slippery in wet weather.

Soon, you make your way to the ridge-top viewpoint of Little Sandhill Coulee. There are drop-offs here, so keep little ones close as you enjoy the absolutely stunning views.

Continue on the trail, come back to the Visitor Centre, and then make your way down to the parking lot.

Insider Hints for Coulee Viewpoint Trail

  • This trail is undergoing a significant change from when this was written. Expect the route to change from the GPS as shown on the site.
  • It can be sweltering in summer, so try to avoid hiking during the heat of the day.
  • Bring bug spray as mosquitoes get pretty bad in Dinosaur Provincial Park in the summer.
  • Stay on marked paths as the badlands are notoriously slippery when wet, even 2 or 3 days after rainfall.
  • Stop after the walk for a snack at the Cretaceous Café!

Getting to the Coulee Viewpoint Trail Trailhead

From Brooks, head north on AB-873 for 11.3 km, then turn right onto AB 544. Head east for 16.3 km, then turn left at the Albertosaurus statue, following signs for Dinosaur Provincial Park. Take a right on Township Road 204, then head left at the junction with Range Road 125A, continuing for 3.0 km until taking a slight right onto Township Road 210A. Follow this road for 9.7 km, heading into Dinosaur Provincial Park, and then park in the parking lot by the Cretaceous Cafe.

Route Information

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Toilets

    Yes at Visitor Centre

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Coulee Viewpoint Trail Elevation Graph

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