Is there life on Mars? There’s certainly life in this Alberta natural area. And you don’t have to travel 140 million miles away to check it out.
Located just north of Medicine Hat lies the Red Rock Coulee Natural Area, a sprawling destination filled with giant — you guessed it — red rocks.
The sandstone concretions in the natural area are home to the best examples of spheroid rock formations in the province, measuring up to 2.5 metres across. In fact, they very well might be among the largest rock formations in the world!
Along with the massive rocks, visitors can expect eroded steep-sided coulees, a small upland of fescue-needle grass, and the occasional hoodoo.
As far as wildlife goes, the place is bursting with it. Species inhabiting Red Rock Coulee include white-tailed jackrabbits, mule deer, pronghorn, western rattlesnakes, bull snakes, short-horned lizards, and even the occasional scorpion. Plants include gumbo primrose, sagebrush, juniper, prickly pear cactus, prairie crocus, and broomweed. Take that, Mars!
If crawling creatures aren’t your cup of tea, winter’s remaining weeks are your best visiting options. However, don’t let the wildlife deter you! Just be mindful of where you step and leave no trace.
Whether you’re checking out the area on a road trip detour or are making a specific journey, you won’t regret taking the time to see this Alberta wonder.
Red Rock Coulee Natural Area, Alberta
Where: Orion, Alta. — Directions
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