This easily accessible National Park in Manitoba protects the Riding Mountain Biosphere. Summer draws crowds to the cool waters of Clear Lake while winter beckons snowshoers to remote corners of the park. In the fall hikers tread on golden foliage and spring is for all who need some serenity. Whenever you visit, this park will take your breath away.
Clear Lake
In Riding Mountain National Park, one name is synonymous with water, sand and fun: Clear Lake. Children’s laughter fills the air as they play in the water or build sand castles in on the beach. Canoers paddle off into the horizon as a group of tourist enjoys a guided boat tour.
Reeve’s Ravine
The prairies never looked as spellbinding as they do from this mountain biking trail on the Manitoba Escarpment. You will want to stop pedalling and take it all in before continuing with your climb. Moose can be seen grazing peacefully ignoring the attention that has been turned to them.
Gorge Creek
While mountain bikers tackle Reeve’s Ravine, hikers are invited to sample equally spectacular views along this trail. There are also a number of extras like a gorge whose origins can be traced back to centuries of erosion. And let’s not forget the contrasting vegetation that ranges from aspen/hazel forests to green ash.
North Escarpment Trail
If you are thinking of spending the day hiking or you’ve brought your horses with you on your trip then the North Escarpment Trail should be on your bucket list. Magical sunsets, phenomenal vistas and abundant wildlife will make your tour unforgettable. From here you can join other trails like Bald Hill and Packhorse intensifying your adventure.
Moon Lake
How about a leisurely stroll around a picturesque lake? The venue is Moon Lake where a gentle trail that covers about 9.2km will lead you to a lovely picnic site. So pack some lunch and share the Manitoba wilderness with someone special. And don’t forget to bring your binoculars and search for osprey and bald eagles.
Riding Mountain National Park’s Lakes and Creeks
Did you know that this park has more than two thousand water bodies? That can only spell one thing: lots and lots of fish! Armed with your Fishing Permit, you can confidently make your way Deep Lake, Edwards Lake or Scott Creek and take home an enviable catch of Northern Pike or Walleye.
Grasshopper Valley
Prairie grass may have disappeared from much of Canada but there is still some left in Riding Mountain National Park. You will find it in Grasshopper Valley where this 19km trail awaits you. Here’s your chance to experience this enchanting landscape as it once was.
Lake Audy Bison Enclosure
Speaking of disappearing, Plains Bison were on the verge of extinction by the late 1880s. Luckily, conservation efforts have seen them find safe havens like Lake Audy Bison Enclosure. About 40 animals call this 500 hectare enclosure home and you can get up close and personal with them as you drive through the sanctuary.
Winter Adventures
When the trees are bare and the days are shorter, the animals of Riding Mountain come out to play. Herds of moose patrol the Moon Lake area and lynx can be seen stalking hares off Highway 19. On Clear Lake you can take advantage of the strong winds and thick layer of snow to kite surf. And of course the park is yours to explore on snow shoes.
Wasagaming
Spend some time at this bustling centre of the park. See movies in the log theatre, play golf and pick up a few souvenirs for those you left at home. The town of Wasagaming has more than enough gift shops to meet your needs. You will also get to eat gourmet food and stay in a private cabin or cottage.