WEMBLEY WORKSHOP FIELD GUIDE

A Day in Deep Time: Digging at Pipestone Creek with Real Paleontologists

An eight-hour, hands-on excavation run by the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum that pairs participants with researchers at the Pipestone Creek bonebed—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

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A Day in Deep Time: Digging at Pipestone Creek with Real Paleontologists.

Duration

Contact operator

Location

Wembley

Operator

Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum

Outing Highlights

THE DIG

Hands-on excavation at a world-class bonebed

Participants join an active palaeontological excavation at Pipestone Creek, using real field tools under the guidance of museum paleontologists to uncover fossils and contribute to scientific discovery.

THE MUSEUM

Behind-the-scenes laboratory access

The program begins with an exclusive tour of the museum's paleontology lab, offering a close-up look at preparation and research before heading to the field.

THE LANDSCAPE

Pipestone Creek’s rich fossil context

Pipestone Creek is among the densest fossil sites, and the day includes time in the field to absorb the open landscape while participating in a structured dig and field documentation.

What the day feels like

The day starts inside the museum with a lab tour, then moves outdoors: participants follow the supervisor to Pipestone Creek Park, hike to the bonebed and spend sustained, hands-on time excavating fossils with museum staff, pausing for a catered packed lunch and packing up late afternoon.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this program suits—and who should think twice.

Science-minded adultsIdeal for adults seeking a structured, hands-on field experience with professional paleontologists; the program is designed for participants age 12 and up (with age conditions).

Families with older childrenFamilies with children 12 and older can participate; those under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who has also purchased a ticket.

Students and aspiring paleontologistsGood for students wanting real field exposure to excavation techniques and museum research, as the day pairs participants with researchers in an active dig.

Not suited for very young children or those unable to hikeParticipants must be at least 12 years of age; the activity includes a short hike to the bonebed and sustained outdoor physical work, which may not suit younger children or those with limited mobility.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The program runs approximately eight hours with a morning lab tour, field excavation through the day, and late-afternoon pack-up.

What to Bring

Participants must bring weather-appropriate attire and personal sunscreen, water, and hats. The program provides a museum tote, water bottle, packed lunch and fossil-hunting tools.

Meeting & Logistics

Meet at the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum for the 9:00 am start; participants follow the supervisor to Pipestone Creek Park in their own vehicles for the field portion.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

What is the minimum age to participate?

Participants must be at least 12 years of age; those under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who has also purchased a ticket.

How long is the Palaeontologist for a Day program?

The program lasts approximately eight hours.

What does the program include?

The program includes a behind-the-scenes lab tour, a museum tote and water bottle, a catered packed lunch, and real fossil hunting tools, plus free admission to the museum.

Where do participants meet and begin the day?

Participants meet at the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum for the lab tour and program start.

What is the weather policy?

Programs proceed rain or shine; cancellations occur only in the event of extreme or dangerous weather conditions.