Summary of the Hoodoos of Drumheller
What is a Hoodoo?
A hoodoo is a tall, thin rock spire made of sandstone with a hard and dense rock sitting atop it, resembling a hat. As described by park signage, they are “Eroded pillars of soft sandstone rock topped with a resilient cap.“
These remarkable formations develop over hundreds of years due to erosion from freezing, frost, rainfall, and wind. Eventually, the sandstone erodes into chimney-like structures that stand tall because the hard rock “hat” shields them from complete erosion.
The hard rock crowning the hoodoos safeguards the underlying soft sandstone layer from adverse weather, creating their unique shapes. Interestingly, once they morph into the charming fairytale-like chimneys, their lifespan is limited; they reportedly lose 2-4 feet every century.
The Hoodoos of Drumheller
Before embarking on our adventure, our only knowledge of hoodoos stemmed from the TV series Supernatural. This show discusses magic, demons, and the afterworld, often referencing “Bad Hoodoo.”
When we first heard the term, we assumed it implied something akin to dark Voodoo. To our surprise, that assumption was correct!
How Are Hoodoos Formed?
This photo illustrates what a Hoodoo looks like in its formative stages. You can observe the layering of rock and how the harder top layer will eventually serve as the Hoodoo’s cap in the distant future.
With time, the soft rock erodes away beneath the hard cap. The photo captures the softer rock below the hard layer. As the sandstone continues to erode, it elongates and narrows, leading to the intriguing formations we admire today.
Drumheller Hoodoos
I arrived with expectations of vast valleys filled with myriad formations, imagining we would hike through the area for miles. However, upon stepping out of our car at a roadside location, I found myself exclaiming, “Is this it?” At first glance, the site seemed modest.
A cluster of about seven or eight hoodoos exists near a parking area, surrounded by a protective barrier. A walkway allows visitors to admire each viewpoint, yet climbing too close to the formations is prohibited.
I had no idea the Hoodoos were concentrated in a single area as a tourist attraction. For some reason, I envisioned that all Hoodoos resembled these and could be scattered across a barren desert landscape. Contrary to my assumptions, the Drumheller Hoodoos indeed stand out as unique, with none more defined and striking than the cluster in Drumheller.
Hoodoo Rocks
Initially, I anticipated our stay would last about 10 minutes. However, after exploring, we were captivated and remained for over an hour!
I started to appreciate just how fascinating and distinctive these hoodoos were. The Drumheller Hoodoos represent the pinnacle of hoodoo formations. They are remarkably well-preserved, leading me to realize that without a protective barrier, these natural wonders could easily be damaged.
The Drumheller Hoodoos showcase nature’s spectacular artistry. It’s hard to fathom that wind and rain can sculpt rock into such beautiful shapes, allowing me to appreciate them for extended periods.
The Hoodoo Trail Lookout
We also undertook a hike up the mountain to enjoy a panoramic view. The trek is fun, albeit steep and slippery, providing a great opportunity to stretch our legs after the long drive.
This hike additionally offered us a chance to overlook the hoodoos from a different vantage point. While the vista isn’t breathtaking—you should keep in mind that the hoodoos are located right next to the highway—it’s still a rewarding experience.
Top of the Hoodoos Trail Drumheller
Up at the top, there’s little more than a field, and the view isn’t remarkable. Nevertheless, I would recommend the hike; it’s quite enjoyable, and you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment once you reach the summit. The descent is even more entertaining as you search for a safe path that won’t lead to a tumble.
We hiked in flip-flops, which wasn’t the wisest decision; had I known better, I would have opted for my hiking boots. Nonetheless, it certainly added to the adventure!
Are the Hoodoos of Alberta Worth The Stop on the Drive to Drumheller?
So, do the hoodoos of Drumheller merit a stop? Absolutely! Although they are clustered together and conveniently located just off the roadway, they are still remarkable. In fact, they are featured on our list of the most Beautiful Places to Visit in Alberta.
These formations are entirely natural, standing proudly in their native environment. The hoodoos represent a captivating stop as you journey from Dinosaur National Park to Drumheller.
When you spot the signs along the road, be sure to halt at the Hoodoos and consider hiking to the top. You’ll be glad you did. Check out the video on Instagram.
