Riding Mountain National Park

Introducing Riding Mountain National Park

For one of Manitoba’s natural gems and practically a sure bet to see elk, moose, beaver, bear or even lynx, invite yourself to Riding Mountain National Park (204-848-7275; www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/mb/riding; Hwy 10). Topographically modeled as an escarpment rising above the plains and draped in brown fields, green forests and blue lakes, activities and nature can be found everywhere; heck Lake Audy even has bison.

Most of the park is wilderness; Wasagaming, on the south shore of Clear Lake, is an inconspicuously and sensitively designed resort town.

Just outside the park’s northern border off Hwy 10, summer fests dictate the scene. Country Fest (204-622-3700, 800-361-7300; www.countryfest.ca; late Jul) uses a gorgeous forested amphitheatre for four days of music, drinking, camping and a whole lotta yeehaw in Canada’s longest-running, arguably best, country music festival. Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival (877-747-2683; www.cnuf.ca; early Aug) features folk dancing, drinking, traditional costumes, cultural displays and the chance to stuff your face with pierogi, cabbage rolls and kielbasa.

The Visitors Centre (204-848-7275; Wasagaming Rd; 9:30am-5:30pm May & Sep–mid-Oct, to 8pm Jun-Aug) has impressive dioramas, the invaluable Visitor’s Guide and backcountry permits.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009