Trail of the Fossil Hunters

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The Trail of the Fossil Hunters is an interesting little trail in Dinosaur Provincial Park. As you walk along the short path, you’ll see many informational signs providing insight into the fossils found in the area.

Route Description for Trail of the Fossil Hunters

If you’re driving Scenic Loop Road in Dinosaur Provincial Park, then stopping at the Trail of the Fossil Hunters makes for a nice break. It’s a fun, interpretive, family-friendly walk that teaches you about the early days of fossil hunting in Dinosaur Provincial Park. The trail opens to some fascinating views.

Follow the path as it goes deep into the Badlands, stopping to enjoy the views or search the ground for fossils.

When you reach the end, turn around and return the way you came. There’s a small path back at the parking lot that heads south out of the parking lot and connects to Fossil Station #1, though this is not shown in the GPS file.

Insider Hints for Trail of the Fossil Hunters

If you’re staying in the campground, set your alarm early to go hike this trail, as it can be sweltering in summer.
Stay on the trail. Off-trail areas in Dinosaur Provincial Park are restricted areas that you can’t access without a guide.
Stay on marked paths as the badlands are notoriously slippery when wet, even 2 or 3 days after rainfall.

Getting to the Trail of the Fossil Hunters 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.

Drive past the Cretaceous Café and onto Scenic Loop Road. Follow the road until you see the parking for Fossil Station #2. The trailhead is in front of the parking lot.