The Rosedale Suspension Bridge crosses the Red Deer River at Rosedale, about nine kilometres from downtown Drumheller, and it dates from 1931, when it was built for coal miners walking to work at the Star Mine on the far bank. Travel Drumheller lists it as the Star Mine Suspension Bridge, and locals still use it to reach the river for fishing and the badlands beyond. It is a simple wooden footbridge strung from cables, and it sways a little as you cross, which is half the fun. The setting is quiet, with the river below and pale badlands slopes rising on the far side. It is one of the best-known photo stops in the valley and one of the few places where the mining story is easy to picture.
What to do
Walk across, look downstream and take photographs, then spend a few minutes reading the setting. On the far side the old mine site and the badlands slopes invite a short wander, although you should stay on obvious paths and respect any signs. The bridge is best experienced slowly, with a pause in the middle to feel it move.
Practical planning
The bridge is on Mabbot Road in Rosedale, and the access road is rural. Travel Drumheller does not publish opening hours or fees for it, so treat it as a free, open-air stop and use common sense. In winter the river below freezes into a white sheet, which is beautiful, but the crossing can be icy, so wear shoes with grip, hold the cables and cross one or two at a time. The bridge is narrow and not suited to prams, bicycles or anyone nervous about heights. Keep dogs and children close.
Fitting it in
Rosedale sits on the road southeast of Drumheller that also leads to Wayne, so the bridge and the Last Chance Saloon make a natural pair, and the Hoodoos are a little further along Highway 10. It takes only fifteen to thirty minutes, which makes it an easy add-on between bigger stops. Late afternoon light is the most flattering, and a warm hat and gloves help when the wind blows along the river.
What to expect
The experience
A short walk across a swaying wooden suspension bridge over the Red Deer River, with room to wander on the far bank.
Best time
Late afternoon for soft light on the river and the badlands slopes, or a still winter day when the river is frozen.
How long
Fifteen to thirty minutes, a little longer if you explore the far bank.
Tips
Wear shoes with grip, cross one or two at a time, hold the cables in winter and keep dogs and children close.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Photographers and history lovers who want a quick look at the valley's mining past.
- Families
- Children enjoy the sway, but the bridge is narrow and unsuited to prams, so hold hands and cross carefully.
- Couples
- A pleasant short stop at golden hour, easy to combine with dinner in Drumheller.
- Pair with
- The Last Chance Saloon in Wayne and the Hoodoos fit naturally on the same side of the valley.
- Time needed
- Under half an hour.
Good questions
Where is the Rosedale Suspension Bridge?+
It is at Rosedale on Mabbot Road, about nine kilometres from downtown Drumheller. It crosses the Red Deer River.
When was it built?+
It dates from 1931 and was built so coal miners could cross the river to work at the Star Mine. Today it is used for river access and walking.
Does it cost anything?+
Travel Drumheller does not show an admission fee or opening hours, so treat it as a free, open-air stop. Use common sense about conditions.
Is it safe in winter?+
The crossing can be icy when the river below is frozen. Wear shoes with grip, hold on and cross carefully.
Can I take a pram or bicycle across?+
The bridge is narrow and sways, so prams and bicycles are not a good idea. Carry small children and leave wheels at the car.
