• Distance: Approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles).
• Time: This section typically takes 2-3 days to complete, depending on your paddling speed, water levels, and how often you choose to stop for camping or exploration.

Scenery & Terrain

This portion of the Red Deer River is defined by a mix of Badlands topography, river valleys, and prairie landscapes. The river continues its gentle meander through eroded cliffs and valleys, with striking views of geological formations. As you progress towards Estuary, the river begins to widen, and the surrounding landscape becomes more open, gradually transitioning to the prairies of southeastern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan.

You'll see a fascinating mix of badlands formations, including hoodoos and mesas, with sections of open prairie stretching into the horizon. The landscape changes gradually as you approach Estuary, with fewer steep cliffs and a more expansive river valley.

Points of Interest

• Dinosaur Fossils and Badlands: Although this part of the river is not directly within Dinosaur Provincial Park, the region is still part of the fossil-rich Badlands. Keep an eye out for unique rock formations and eroded hillsides that tell the story of millions of years of geological history.

• Historic Sites: Some old ranching and homestead ruins can be found along this route, offering a glimpse into the history of settlement in the area.

• Estuary (Take-Out Point): Estuary is a historic river crossing in Saskatchewan, located near the confluence of the Red Deer and South Saskatchewan Rivers. It's a quiet, remote area with some interesting remnants of early settlement. The location offers a serene take-out point at the end of your journey.

Wildlife

This section of the river is home to a variety of wildlife, including:

• Birds of prey like hawks, falcons, and golden eagles.
• Beavers and muskrats can be seen along the riverbanks, while deer and antelope are common in the more open prairie regions.
• Coyote sightings are also frequent, especially in the more remote areas.

The river supports a diverse population of waterfowl, including ducks, geese, and pelicans. Fish species in the Red Deer River include walleye, northern pike, and sturgeon.

Camping

This route is ideal for a multi-day canoe trip, and there are plenty of places to camp along the way. Sandbars along the river offer natural camping spots, though you should ensure that you’re on public land and practice Leave No Trace principles. Be sure to pack plenty of water or a reliable water filtration system, as the river water may not always be safe to drink.

Weather and Conditions

• Best time to go: Late spring to early fall (May to September) is the most favorable period for canoeing this section of the Red Deer River. Summer offers the warmest temperatures but can also be hot, so sun protection and hydration are important.
• Wind: Winds can be a challenge, especially in the more open sections near Estuary where the prairie landscape offers little shelter. Wind can slow your progress or, if at your back, make paddling faster.
• Water levels: As with other sections of the Red Deer River, water levels can fluctuate based on rainfall and snowmelt. High water levels can make the river flow faster, while low levels may expose more rocks and sandbars.

Safety & Preparation

• Navigation: This is a more remote section of the river, so it’s essential to have a good map and understand the route before setting out. Cell phone service may be limited in parts of the river.
• Self-sufficiency: You’ll need to be fully prepared for this journey, as there are few amenities along the way. Pack sufficient food, water, and supplies for 2-3 days of paddling, and be ready for any weather changes.
• Wildlife awareness: While this area isn’t heavily populated by dangerous wildlife, it's still important to be aware of the potential presence of coyotes and, in some areas, bears. Proper food storage and wildlife safety precautions are recommended.

Estuary Take-Out

Estuary is a remote and quiet take-out spot. It is a small community in Saskatchewan, and the nearby bridge marks the transition to the South Saskatchewan River. Be sure to plan for transportation here, as it’s a rural area with limited services.

Final Thoughts

Canoeing from Highway 886 to Estuary is a rewarding journey through some of Canada’s most dramatic landscapes. This section of the Red Deer River offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and history of the Alberta Badlands and the expansive prairies. For those looking for an extended and peaceful canoe trip, this route is ideal, providing both adventure and tranquility in a remote setting.

• 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.