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Red Deer River - Dorothy to Steveville Bridge Canoe map
Red Deer River - Dorothy to Steveville Bridge Canoe map. Canoeing the Red Deer River between Dorothy and Steveville Bridge is a scenic and peaceful experience, offering a combination of natural beauty and historical significance. Here is an overview of wh
 
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Description
 
Red Deer River - Dorothy to Steveville Bridge Canoe map. Canoeing the Red Deer River between Dorothy and Steveville Bridge is a scenic and peaceful experience, offering a combination of natural beauty and historical significance. Here’s an overview of what you can expect on this section of the river:

Distance & Time
  • Distance: Approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles).
  • Time: Depending on river conditions and paddling speed, this trip usually takes 4-6 hours, though some may prefer to take their time, spread the trip out over a day, or even camp along the way.

Scenery & Terrain

This section of the Red Deer River takes you through the heart of Alberta's Badlands, with impressive rock formations, coulees, and hoodoos along the way. The landscapes are arid, featuring steep cliffs and mesas. You may also pass by fossil beds as the area is rich in dinosaur history.

The river flows lazily here, with gentle currents most of the time. However, there can be sections with moderate rapids or riffles, particularly depending on water levels.

Wildlife

The river corridor is home to a variety of wildlife. You might spot beavers, deer, bighorn sheep, eagles, and various bird species along the way. The riverbanks are a mix of willows and cottonwood trees, providing habitat for many animals.

Points of Interest

  • Dorothy: Dorothy is a small hamlet that serves as the starting point. There are remnants of grain elevators and historic buildings that make for an interesting pre-trip exploration.
  • Badlands Topography: This section offers stunning views of the Alberta Badlands, with their striking erosion patterns, hoodoos, and layered sedimentary rock formations.
  • Paleontological Interest: The Red Deer River flows through an area rich in dinosaur fossils. While the riverbanks themselves are not typically fossil sites, you're near areas like Dinosaur Provincial Park (though farther upstream).

Steveville Bridge

The end point at Steveville Bridge is a convenient take-out, located near Dinosaur Provincial Park. There are basic facilities nearby, and it's a well-known spot for ending a day trip.

Camping

While this section of the river is often done as a day trip, there are opportunities to camp along the way. Check with local authorities for designated camping spots, as some areas may have restrictions due to the ecological sensitivity of the region.

Weather & Conditions

  • Best time to go: Late spring to early fall (May-September) offers the most reliable conditions. Summer can be hot, while spring and fall offer cooler temperatures but are prone to windy conditions.
  • Water levels: The Red Deer River is subject to changing water levels depending on recent rainfall and snowmelt. Check current conditions before your trip.

Safety Tips

  • Sun protection is essential, especially in the open terrain of the Badlands, where shade is limited.
  • Bring plenty of water as the area can be hot and dry, especially in the summer.
  • Check river conditions before setting out. The river is usually calm, but higher water levels can change the character of the river.
  • Be prepared for wind, which can be a factor, especially in the open Badlands terrain.

This stretch offers a combination of serene paddling, awe-inspiring landscapes, and a taste of Alberta's natural history. Whether you're an experienced paddler or new to canoeing, the Dorothy to Steveville Bridge section of the Red Deer River provides a memorable outdoor adventure.