The Atlas Coal Mine is literally a blast from the past, situated right in the middle of the Canadian Badlands. Constructed in 1936 to load and sort coal, the coal-sorting tipple is 12 metres tall and stands against the backdrop of the unforgiving Badlands. Designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1989, these mines offer insight into the dirty enclaves and tough working conditions of coal miners throughout the last century. Since the mine was closed in 1979, the rudimentary mining camps have developed into the civilised town of Drumheller.
There are a number of tours available, including an underground tour, a trip through the coal-sorting tipple and a ride on the coal train. For a chance to gain in-depth knowledge of the area and the lives of the miners who once roamed these underground factories, make sure you go on a guided tour around the inside of the tipple. For a tour of the Badlands, take the 45-minute Mine Train Tour, which consists of a ride on a locomotive that was once used to transport the coal from the mines to the surface. And for a truly unique experience, go on the Tunnel Tour and delve deep into the darkness of the tunnels beneath under the light of a miner’s lamp. Here, workers spent countless hours at hard, back-breaking labour. Visitors should be advised that this tour is unsuitable for those with mobility difficulties or for children under the age of 6.
Enhance your experience by taking the Ghost Tour where you will learn about the manager’s untold secrets which are still stowed in the safe in his office. The deadly accidents and stories of ghost sightings will have you on the edge of your seat.
For those wanting to remain firmly above ground, a general admission ticket allows you to peruse the historic buildings at your leisure. There is also a film about the mine and marked trails with information panels.
Situated an approximate 15-minute drive from Drumheller and 1.5 hours from Calgary, the Atlas Coal Mine offers free on-site parking for visitors and opening hours differ according to the season. There is no public transport to the site however taxis do run from Drumheller. Visitors are advised to check the official website before travelling.
