7 Last-Minute Day Trips That Are Less Than 3 Hours Away From Calgary

Do something different for once, okay? 😘
Contributor

We don't know about you, but we're tired of looking at the inside of our homes. If you're dying to leave your house and maybe even your city, you might be in the market for an amazing day trip. Don't you worry, we've rounded up a list of day trips near Calgary that won't cost you a fortune on gas.

These last-minute trips are just a couple of hours away from the city, so you don't have to worry about planning way in advance or hunting down affordable accommodation. 

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From sparkling turquoise lakes to the prairie badlands, the diverse terrain that exists just outside Calgary is pretty mind-blowing. 

Our list covers beautiful hidden oases as well as some obscure locations that are just begging to be discovered. Before everything is covered in larch trees and then snow, make sure you take the time to appreciate the greenery. Don't worry, it's all just as stunning during the other seasons. 

Alberta is packed with some truly amazing natural destinations. As yet another season comes to an end, you might be thinking: what did I even do this summer?

We don't want you to get overwhelmed with FOMO. So just get in the car and hit the road. It's that easy. 

Explore The Badlands 

Address: Drumheller, AB

Why You Need To Go: Prepare to unleash your Wild West alter-ego as you wander through this surreal desert location.

Have A Beach Day At Pigeon Lake

Address: Pigeon Lake Provincial Park, AB

Why You Need To Go: Forget about flying to the tropics because this Alberta beach comes with sandy shores, wonderful blue waters, and plenty of sunshine. 

Visit The Ever-Beautiful Crowsnest Pass

Address: Crowsnest Pass, AB

Why You Need To Go: Some of the most staggering mountain views can be found around Crowsnest Pass and we bet you've hardly spent time there. Now's your chance!  

Pretend You're In Ireland 

Address: Bighorn Lookout Day Use Area, Sheep River Provincial Park, AB

Why You Need To Go: The lush green hills of this obscure lookout just an hour away from Calgary will transport you to the fields of Ireland. 

Feel The Mist At Cameron Falls

Address: Cameron Falls, Waterton Lakes National Park, AB

Why You Need To Go: You haven't experienced Alberta until you've road-tripped to a misty waterfall hidden in the forest. 

Stroll Through Endless Sunflowers 

Price: $10+

Address: 34532 RR#14,  Red Deer County, AB

Why You Need To Go: The flowers are blooming in full-force at this time of the year, so this could be a great hideaway if you want to add a pop of colour to your day. 

Take A Dip In Barrier Lake

Address: Bow Valley Provincial Park, AB

Why You Need To Go: If you've been itching for a cool swim in Albertan waters, this turquoise-green lake will be the most picturesque spot to do it. 

We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.

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