Need a reason to get out of town for the day? Wembley, Alberta is just 25 minutes from Grande Prairie, making it an easy day trip when you want a change of scenery without much planning. Grab your jacket, pack a few snacks and hit the road because there are dinosaurs to discover, trails to explore, good coffee to find and plenty of fresh air waiting just down the road.
Start with the dinosaurs
Your first stop should be the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum, where the story of the peace region dinosaurs come to life. But that story starts long before the museum or the discovery of the Pipestone Creek Bonebed. Early geologists and amateur fossil hunters began exploring the region more than a century ago, laying the groundwork for paleontology in northwestern Alberta. That history eventually led to one of the region’s most significant discoveries.
In the early 1970s, local teacher Al Lakusta discovered dinosaur bones along Pipestone Creek. Decades of excavation and research followed, uncovering thousands of bones and revealing more about the horned dinosaur Pachyrhinosaurus. The species found at the bonebed was eventually named Pachyrhinosaurus lakustai in Lakusta’s honour.
Inside the museum, explore fossils, exhibits and a recreation of the Pipestone Creek Bonebed, one of the densest accumulations of dinosaur bones in the world. You can also see paleontologists at work in the fossil lab and, depending on the day, catch a gallery or lab tour, family movie or other special programming. There’s also a theatre, gift shop and dinosaur-themed playground, so it’s easy to spend a few hours here.
Refuel with a little local flavour
You don’t have to leave the museum when you get hungry. Café on 43 is right inside, serving everything from appetizers and lunch to entrées, desserts and coffee, along with fresh baking and daily specials (their homemade donuts are some of the best!). In warmer months, there’s also a patio and outdoor playground, making it an easy stop for families.
Before you head out, check the museum and Café on 43 hours, as they can differ and may change seasonally.
Head to Pipestone Creek Park
From the museum, head to Pipestone Creek Park for some fresh air and a little time on the trails. The park has about 7 km of natural trails, with routes ranging from easy to more challenging. In warmer months, hike, mountain bike, have a picnic or enjoy the Wapiti River valley.
Fall brings colourful trails and a quieter landscape, while winter is a great time to explore by snowshoe. The park also offers weekend day use during the off-season from October 16 to May 14, so you don’t have to wait for camping season to enjoy the trails.
If you’re visiting in winter, keep an eye out for the County’s Winter Family Frostival at Pipestone Creek in February. The family-friendly event features activities such as snowshoeing, wagon rides, snow painting, warm-up fires, s’mores and hot chocolate. It’s a fun way to enjoy the park in the winter, and a great reason to bundle up and get outside.
One thing to keep in mind: Public access to the Pipestone Creek Bonebed is currently limited to visitors taking part in appropriate museum programs with staff, with bonebed tours primarily offered from summer into early fall. Check the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum’s website before you go to see current tour dates, events and other special offerings.
Have a little more time?
Make the detour to Saskatoon Island Provincial Park. It’s another easy addition to a day trip from Grande Prairie, with something to enjoy in almost every season. In summer, walk or bike the trails, look for birds and wildlife or settle in for a picnic by the lake.
Fall is a good time for a quieter walk through the changing trees, while winter brings opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. And if you’re travelling with kids, there’s a playground for a little extra energy-burning before you head home.
Depending on when you visit, keep an eye out for local events around Wembley, too. Seasonal celebrations, family activities and community events happen throughout the year, including events at the Wembley & District Arts, Culture and Historical Society heritage site and the South Peace Farmers Market. Check local event calendars before you go. You might find something extra to add to your day.
Stay up to date with local and regional events here.
