Like a vast green mountain island, the 400-meter-high plateau of Riding Mountain National Park rises from the flat prairie landscape in southwestern Manitoba, standing prominently atop the Pembina Escarpment.
With its expansive boreal forests, countless lakes, wetlands, and swamp areas, as well as rock formations that date back up to 65 million years, the park is a true haven for wildlife. Spanning around 3,000 square kilometres, it is home to not only moose, wolves, black bears, and elk, but also a rich diversity of other species. Why go far when such beauty is right here?
A herd of majestic bison also calls the park home. About 40 of these powerful animals live in a huge enclosure near Lake Audy, where they are frequently visible from the car. Be sure to have your camera ready—the opportunity to photograph bison and other wildlife is exceptional!
Riding Mountain National Park is situated approximately 250 kilometres (about a 3.5-hour drive) northwest of Winnipeg, the provincial capital, and is easily accessible via Highway No. 10. The vibrant heart of the park is the charming town of Wasagaming, located on the scenic shores of Clear Lake in the park’s southern section. Here, you’ll find the Parks Canada Visitor Centre, along with a variety of cozy restaurants. Choose from Italian at T.R. McKoy’s, tasty bar food at 1929 Dining and Lounge, or skip straight to dessert with a massive, soft, sweet cinnamon bun from Whitehouse Bakery. If you’re looking for shopping options, several boutiques in town carry everything from clothing to giftware and souvenirs like The Cove, The Sugar Shop and Clear Lake Trading Post.
Wasagaming is a favorite among locals, with large international tour groups being a rare sight. It's the residents who flock here to spend their summer days, immersing themselves in the park’s natural beauty through bike rides, hikes, and canoe trips. True Canadian vacation vibes!
Amidst all the excitement, a restful night’s sleep is just as important. Fortunately, Wasagaming and its surroundings offer a range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget, from the comforts of Elkhorn Resort just outside town to the boutique hotel The Lakehouse and the Arrowhead Family Resort, located right in Wasagaming.
For those seeking a more nature-immersed stay, the nearby Wasagaming campground—one of six in the park—offers a great option. Here, you can rent one of Parks Canada’s oTENTiks. Featuring a solid wooden floor and a waterproof tent-style roof, oTENTiks combine the best of both tent and cabin, providing a unique camping experience in nature without compromising on the comfort of a bed.
The cozy cabins of Turtle Village on the Wasagaming campground are also a very comfortable option. Their "Turtle Shells" are weatherproof, tiny-house-style accommodations that provide protection from wildlife and, like the shell of a turtle, offer the comfort of a snug home. Turtle Village is the first of its kind operated by Indigenous owners in the Treaty 2 area, and is located in the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe people of Riding Mountain. Whether or not visitors to the park stay at Turtle Village, they can book additional cultural and Indigenous experiences. For example, during a storytelling session around the campfire, participants gain deep insights into the history of the Fearless Falcon Bloodline and its connection to Clear Lake. Traditional fire-roasted bannock and tea are served as part of the experience.
But no matter which type of accommodation you choose, in the morning it’s time to rise and embrace the outdoor adventure that awaits! Whether by canoe, horseback, on foot, or on a fatbike, Riding Mountain National Park has something for every visitor. With over 400 kilometres of trails — ranging from easy-access paths to remote backcountry routes — there’s something to suit every fitness level. From leisurely strolls to challenging multi-day treks up to 70 kilometres long, the park offers options for all kinds of explorers. Golfers and anglers will also find plenty to enjoy, while those looking for relaxation can unwind on one of the stunning Clear Lake beaches and take a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the lake.
In the evening, you can set sail on a sunset cruise aboard the Martese, or simply relax at the brand-new Klar Sø Nordic Spa at Elkhorn Resort.
History enthusiasts will also find much to discover in Riding Mountain National Park. The Riding Mountain Historical Society & Pinewood Museum is located in a 1932 building, known as "Hall Cottage" or "Casa Loma." It is the park's only historical museum, featuring photographs and artifacts that tell the story of Clear Lake's past. At the Parks Canada Visitor Centre, visitors can also explore the rich Indigenous history of the region, including cultural connections that extend to the present day. This area is home to the oldest known traces of Indigenous peoples, dating back over 9,500 years to the post-Ice Age period!
Efforts to establish a nature reserve in what is now Riding Mountain National Park began as early as 1919. Ten years later, the area was designated as the Riding Mountain Forest Reserve, and in 1933, it was officially established as a national park. At the time, the provincial government chose Riding Mountain over the competing Whiteshell Park in southeastern Manitoba, which was ultimately designated a Provincial Park instead — though it is equally stunning. In 1986, Riding Mountain was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
The Historic East Gate on Highway 19, dating back to the early days of Riding Mountain National Park, is the last surviving national park entrance from the 1930s. Built by local craftsmen, its wooden beams and stone walls are a prime example of traditional Canadian architectural style.
Further information on Manitoba can be found at www.travelmanitoba.com and www.discoverclearlake.com.
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