Explore the Year-Round Beauty of Riding Mountain National Park: Manitoba’s Hidden Wilderness Gem
Riding Mountain National Park, nestled in the heart of Manitoba, spans over 1,100 square miles of rolling hills, dense forests, and tranquil lakes. Located just a few hours’ drive from Winnipeg, this diverse park is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s landscape transitions from the prairies of central Canada to the rugged terrain of the Manitoba Escarpment, creating a unique blend of ecosystems that support a rich variety of wildlife, including bison, moose, and black bears. The charming town of Wasagaming, situated on the shores of Clear Lake, serves as the park’s main hub, offering visitors a range of amenities, from cozy cabins and campsites to inviting cafes and local shops.
Riding Mountain is a haven for those seeking adventure in nature. In the summer, the park’s extensive network of hiking and biking trails, such as the popular Grey Owl Trail, invites visitors to explore its scenic beauty. Clear Lake, the park’s centerpiece, is perfect for boating, kayaking, and swimming, while avid anglers can cast their lines in search of the park’s abundant fish species. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, including the Wasagaming Chamber Music Festival and the Clear Lake Chamber Music Festival, drawing visitors with a mix of culture and natural splendor. Wildlife enthusiasts should head to the Lake Audy Bison Enclosure, where they can witness a majestic herd of bison roaming freely in their natural habitat.
In winter, Riding Mountain transforms into a snowy wonderland, with opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even ice fishing. The park’s well-maintained trails, such as the Moon Lake Trail, are perfect for those looking to experience the serene beauty of the Manitoba wilderness under a blanket of snow. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant fall foliage, enjoying a summer swim in Clear Lake, or experiencing the quiet beauty of a winter landscape, Riding Mountain National Park offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Canada’s wild prairies.
Top 3 Facts About Riding Mountain National Park
01
Indigenous Heritage
Riding Mountain National Park is situated on Treaty 2 Territory and is home to the Anishinaabe, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples. The park’s landscape holds significant cultural and historical importance, with evidence of Indigenous presence dating back thousands of years.
02
Dark Sky Preserve
Recognized as a Dark Sky Preserve by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Riding Mountain National Park offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. Visitors can marvel at the Milky Way and countless stars illuminating the night sky, free from the glare of urban lights.
03
Bison Enclosure
Within the park, a designated bison enclosure provides a safe haven for these iconic animals. Once on the brink of extinction, Bison roamed freely in this protected area, offering visitors a rare chance to observe them in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts.
Camping and transportation in Riding Mountain National Park
Backcountry camping permits required for wilderness camping opportunities.
How to Get to Riding Mountain National Park
Getting to Riding Mountain National Park is relatively straightforward, and there are several options available:
- By Car: The most common way to reach the park is by car. From Winnipeg, Manitoba’s capital city, take Highway 1 westbound towards Brandon. From Brandon, you can either continue west on Highway 1 and then head north on Highway 10, or take Highway 10 north directly from Brandon. Follow Highway 10 until you reach the town of Onanole, where you’ll find the park’s main entrance.
- By Bus: Some bus companies offer service to towns near Riding Mountain National Park, such as Dauphin or Brandon. You can arrange a shuttle service or taxi from these towns to take you to the park.
- By Air: Winnipeg is the closest major airport to Riding Mountain National Park. From there, you can rent a car and drive to the park, or you may find smaller regional airports closer to the park, such as Brandon or Dauphin.
- By Train: Via Rail Canada operates a train service to Winnipeg and other nearby cities. From Winnipeg, you can proceed by car or bus to Riding Mountain National Park.
Places to Stay Near Riding Mountain National Park
There are several accommodation options available near Riding Mountain National Park to suit various preferences and budgets:
- Wasagaming Campground: Located within the park, Wasagaming Campground offers a convenient and scenic camping experience. With over 600 campsites, including serviced and unserviced sites and oTENTiks (a cross between a tent and a cabin), this campground provides showers, washrooms, and fire pits. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
- Riding Mountain National Park Townsite: The townsite of Wasagaming within the park features various accommodations, including hotels, cabins, and cottages. Whether you prefer the comforts of a hotel room or the coziness of a rustic cabin, options are available to suit your needs.
- Private Campgrounds: Several private campgrounds are located near Riding Mountain National Park, offering additional camping options with varying amenities. These campgrounds may include playgrounds, laundry facilities, and convenience stores.
Driving
The park features a network of well-maintained roads that allow visitors to explore its various attractions and natural wonders by car.
Public
Public transportation within Riding Mountain National Park is limited. While some shuttle services or tour operators may provide transportation to specific attractions or trailheads during the peak season, regular public transit options such as buses or trains are not available within the park itself.
Parking
The park provides parking areas at various trailheads, scenic viewpoints, picnic areas, campgrounds, and other points of interest throughout the park.
Best Time to Go to Riding Mountain National Park
Summer
Summer in Riding Mountain National Park is characterized by warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and bustling activity. This season offers a plethora of outdoor adventures, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding on the park’s extensive trail network. Water enthusiasts can cool off with swimming, kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding in Clear Lake or one of the park’s other pristine water bodies. Wildlife viewing remains excellent, with opportunities to spot black bears, moose, deer, and various bird species.
Winter
Winter casts a serene blanket of snow over Riding Mountain National Park, transforming it into a winter wonderland. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking along groomed trails. The park’s frozen lakes provide opportunities for ice fishing, skating, and even ice climbing for the more adventurous. Wildlife sightings are still possible, with animals such as elk, wolves, and snowshoe hares leaving tracks in the snow, creating a magical winter landscape for visitors to explore.
Spring
Spring brings a vibrant burst of life to Riding Mountain National Park as the landscape awakens from its winter slumber. During this season, the park’s forests come alive with budding foliage, wildflowers carpet the meadows, and migratory birds return to their breeding grounds. Spring is an ideal time for hiking and wildlife viewing, as animals emerge from hibernation and the park’s trails offer peaceful solitude. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the park’s lakes and rivers, with opportunities to catch species such as trout and northern pike.
Fall
Fall transforms Riding Mountain National Park into a breathtaking tapestry of colors as the foliage transitions to vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. This season offers ideal conditions for hiking and scenic drives, with the park’s diverse landscapes bathed in the warm glow of autumn sunlight. Photography enthusiasts flock to the park to capture the stunning fall foliage and wildlife in their natural habitat. Fishing remains popular, with anglers taking advantage of the cooler temperatures and abundant fish populations in the park’s lakes and streams.
Must-See Attractions
Helpful Tips: Making the Most of Your Adventure to Riding Mountain National Park
Plan Ahead
Research the park’s attractions, activities, and facilities before your visit. Consider making campground or accommodation reservations in advance, especially during peak season.
Pack Appropriately
Bring appropriate clothing and gear for the season and activities you plan to engage in. This may include sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent, sunscreen, hats, and rain gear.
Be Bear Aware
Riding Mountain National Park is home to black bears. Be prepared for bear encounters by carrying bear spray, making noise while hiking to alert bears of your presence, and storing food properly to prevent attracting bears to your campsite.
Stay Hydrated and Sun Protected
Drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen regularly, especially during hot and sunny days. The park’s high elevation and outdoor activities can increase the risk of dehydration and sunburn.
Frequently Asked Questions about Riding Mountain National Park
Yes, there is an entrance fee to access Riding Mountain National Park. Fees vary depending on the pass type (daily, annual, or Discovery Pass) and the visitor’s age and residency status. Passes can be purchased online, at park entrance gates, or visitor centers.
The park offers a variety of camping options, including front country campgrounds, backcountry campsites, and oTENTiks (a cross between a tent and a cabin). Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season, and can be made online or by phone.
Yes, Riding Mountain National Park boasts an extensive network of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Trails range from short interpretive loops to multi-day backcountry routes. Trail maps are available at visitor centers and online.
Fishing is permitted in Riding Mountain National Park; however, anglers must possess a valid fishing license and adhere to provincial fishing regulations. The park offers opportunities for fishing in lakes, rivers, and streams, with species such as trout, northern pike, and walleye.
Riding Mountain National Park offers a variety of winter activities, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and winter hiking. The park’s groomed trails allow outdoor enthusiasts to explore the winter wonderland and enjoy the tranquility of the snowy landscape.
Yes, swimming is permitted in designated areas of Riding Mountain National Park’s lakes. Clear Lake, in particular, offers sandy beaches and clear, refreshing water for swimming during the summer months. Lifeguards are not on duty, so swim at your own risk and supervise children at all times.