WHAT LIES BURIED JUST UNDER THE SURFACE?

In our ‘Palaeontologist for a Day’ guided excavation experience, you will join a palaeontological dig! Get shoulder-to-shoulder with our palaeontology team as we excavate at the Pipestone Creek Bonebed, one of the largest and densest dinosaur deposits in the entire world.

Become a citizen scientist and help uncover the mystery of to what was really happening right here, 73 million years ago. Each new fossil you find will provide another piece of the puzzle and enhances our understanding of the enigmatic animals that once made their home here.

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      Ages 12+  $225 per person   9 am to 3:30 pm     Capacity: 6 people
This experience runs 6 hours and 30 min, with optional time afterwards to return to the museum and explore the galleries and giftshop.

As a excavation team member, your hands-on experience begins with an exclusive Behind-the-Scenes tour of the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum fossil lab, before heading out to a short, scenic hike though a sun-dappled mixed forest to an active bonebed where real discoveries are made. Our Palaeo Team will give you the lowdown on the history of the bonebed and introduce you to the tools we will be using for excavation.

Whether you’re travelling with family or seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure, this experience offers something for everyone; dig for fossils, explore ancient landscapes, and learn the stories hidden beneath your feet.

Take time to relax, connect with nature, and enjoy a freshly packed lunch by our catering team, in a serene setting before continuing your exploration along Pipestone Creek. Book today for your fossil dig experience or to give a fossil dig experience to others!


TICKETS

Looking to make the most of your visit? Pair this experience with another museum adventure and enjoy 10% off when you book both.
Visit our Summer Experience Package page.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?
  1. A Behind-the-Scenes lab tour at the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum
  2. An adventure bag containing a PJCDM water bottle, branded scale bar, pen, and ‘Palaeontologist for a Day’ information booklet
  3. Packed lunch from Café on 43, plus snacks
  4. Same-day admission to the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Musuem
  5. Tools for and training in palaeontological excavation
  6. One-on-one time with real palaeontologists
PROGRAM SCHEDULE :

9:00 AM: Greeting and introduction at the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Muusem. Behind-the-scenes tour of palaeontology lab. Adventure bag provided.

9:45 AM: Participants follow our Palaeo Team to Pipestone Creek Park in their own vehicles. There is a short, 15-minute hike to the bonebed (approximately 1.2 km).

10:30 AM: Introduction to the bonebed and the excavation tools. Time to get digging!

12:00 PM: Break for a packed lunch, provided by Café on 43.

12:30 PM : Stretch your legs with a short hike (approx. 1km) down Pipestone Creek to explore other palaeontological and geological treasures. (Optional but recommended).

3:00 - 3:30 PM: Start packing up for the day. Hike back to vehicles.

3:30 - 5:00 PM: (Optional) Head back up to the museum and check out the galleries and gift shop. Museum admission is included in your experience.

*Please note times may vary slightly

2026 DATES

July 2nd, 3rd, 4th

July 11th, 12th

July 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 21st

July 23rd, 24th

August 20th, 23rd

August 28th, 29th, 30th

September 5th

PRICE

$225.00 per person

*All youth 12-16 years must have a paying adult with them. Youth 17-18 years can attend PFAD on their own (without an adult), although they are still responsible for their own transportation to and from the bonebed. Includes free admission to the museum.

NOTES

  • ‘Palaeontologist for a Day’ is an outdoor, physical activity. Participants must bring their own weather-appropriate attire, including sunscreen, hats, and shoes.

  • ‘Palaeontologist for a Day’ will proceed rain or shine. Cancellations will only occur in the event of extreme or dangerous weather conditions.

  • Excavation in the bonebed requires kneeling or sitting on the ground for long periods of time. Kneeling pads will be provided, but those with knee issues may find it uncomfortable.

  • There is no cell phone reception in Pipestone Creek Park. If you are arranging a ride to or from Pipestone Creek Park for the experience, please do so ahead of time.

  • We will be working in bear country. Our staff are knowledgeable and trained in bear safety and awareness

TRAVEL AND ACCOMODATION 

PJCDM Members and those who book experiences with us get discounted rate at Sandman Hotel Grande Prairie, Nitehawk RV Park, Bear Paw RV Park and PipeStone Creek Campground. Visit our Travel and Accommodate page for more information. 

CANCELLATION POLICY
  • If you are unable to make your booking for any reason, you need to change or cancel your program booking. Please contact us at 587-771-0662 at your earliest convenience.
    • Changes made up to one week prior to the program’s start date are eligible for a 90% refund.
    • Changes made between one week and three days (72 hours) are eligible for a 50% refund.
    • Changes made less than 3 days (72 hours) prior to the program start date are not eligible for a refund.
  • In addition to this, if the cancellation is due to circumstances beyond your control (travel delays or extreme weather ie. smoke), the first option is to explore re-booking.  If re-booking is not an option, 100% will be refunded.