When the glaciers retreated, they missed a spot in the southwestern corner of the province, leaving a forested plateau towering high above the plains below at Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park. The unexpected mountain-like oasis on the border between Saskatchewan and Alberta reaches an elevation of 1,392 m above sea level, marking the province’s highest geographical point.
Views
The mix of landscapes – towering hills, lush lodgepole pine and white spruce forests, and fescue prairie and wildflowers – provides breathtaking views. Take a driving tour to some of the park’s most scenic spots, including Lookout Point and Bald Butte in the Centre Block. In the West Block, experience a Saskatchewan sunset from the Conglomerate Cliffs.
In this wilderness area, pack your tent, supplies and your horse. In addition to two quiet, rustic campgrounds with few amenities, there is an equestrian campground with corrals. On horseback, witness spectacular vistas as you explore a portion of the Trans Canada Trail to see the Hidden Conglomerate Cliffs.
Trails
The Trans Canada Trail transects the park. In the Centre Block, this trail covers over 16 km of rugged countryside and will challenge the seasoned hiker. With an extensive network of trails in this area of the park, visitors can hike the backcountry to see nature untamed or navigate relaxing self-guided trails with interpretive signage. Paved trails provide quick access between the campgrounds and the beach, resort and swimming pool in the core area.
Camping
Wake up to the heady aroma of the lodgepole pine forest in one of the park’s seven front-country campgrounds that range from basic to full-service. For a fully equipped camping experience, stay in one of the two Camp-Easy tents. After a full day of swimming at the pool or beach and stand-up paddleboarding or canoeing on Loch Leven, swap stories and make s'more-filled memories with your family around a crackling evening campfire.
Dark Skies
The brilliance of the night sky will amaze you if conditions are right for stargazing in this designated Dark Sky Preserve. Public programs and special astronomy events are held at the Dark Sky Observatory each summer.
Ziplining
For those feeling adventurous, one of the popular attractions in the park allows you to experience its beauty (and the forest canopy) by zipline. Treeosix Adventure Parks also offers an outdoor climbing wall, treetop drop, 18-hole disc golf course, electric fat bike rentals, slackline course and mini-zips for the little ones.
History
At Fort Walsh National Historic Site, find out what life was like in a working fort during a time that shaped the history of Western Canada. The fort was a North West Mounted Police (NWMP) post established in 1875 and played a key role in imposing law and order in the West. Staff in period costume relay stories about the lawless days of rotgut whiskey runners and Canada’s role in the aftermath of the Battle of the Little Bighorn.
Further information can be found at www.tourismsaskatchewan.com.