If you live in Manitoba or are planning on visiting this area you will want to check out Riding Mountain National Park. Whether you prefer the experience on horseback, hiking or on a bike you will have an impressive selection of trails. Manitoba is well recognized for it’s prairie landscape but Riding Mountain provides an exceptional change to the flat terrain that is associated with the prairies. The Riding Mountain National Park makes up part of the Manitoba Escarpment and takes up 2973 square kilometers. Within the boundaries there is a wide variety of vegetation and a great range of animal wildlife as well. Riding Mountain officially became a National Park in 1929 at which time it became known as “an island of wilderness surrounded by a sea of farmland”.

The Natural Heritage of Riding Mountain is rich in boreal forest as well as marsh areas and wetlands. Several species of wildlife also call the park home including: elk, moose, black bears, wolves and a captive heard of bison. Riding Mountain is also a bird-lover’s paradise. There are over 100 bird species that thrive within the boundaries of the park. Currently the park is very active in research, which will allow the growth and encouragement of the eco system. The research is allowing park administration to devise a conservation plan that will allow the research of Clear Lake Basin, changes in vegetation, monitoring and researching of wolves and preservation of endangered species such as the cougar.

The Cultural Heritage of Riding Mountain tells a rich historical story as well. Visitors to the park will be enthralled in learning just how monumental the Park’s past is in history. The education program of the park offers a unique and informative learning experience for those interested.

If you are looking to visit the park area but would like to spend a couple of days you may want to look into the accommodations of Wasagaming. This is the nearest township to the Park and will offer a wide variety of ammenities. From restaurants, lodging, shopping and things to do, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Wasagaming. The location is convenient, just a short distance to Riding Mountain. Another option for those wishing to stay overnight is camping. This is available within the boundaries of the park as well as surrounding areas. The park also has cabins that are available seasonally for rental. Visitors wishing to rent a cabin should contact the Park well in advance to ensure availability.

Of course Riding Mountain National Park is well known for it’s hiking trails but if hitting the trails is not your thing, there are several other options that are available to you. Visitors can partake in sailing, fishing, horse drawn wagon rides, swimming, skiing, snowmobiling or simply picnicking on site. There is also a skate board park on the property. Skate boarding however, is restricted to the designated area. This is a great place to bring the family for a day out in the sheer beauty of nature at any time of the year. The landscapes are beautiful and the wilderness will take your breath away.