Riding Mountain National Park was the first stop on our southern Manitoba road trip and it’s a great introduction to this beautiful part of Canada. It’s home to so many gorgeous lakes which you can explore by kayak, bike or hiking and there are some of the best opportunities to get up close to iconic Canadian wildlife we’ve experienced! Here’s a few of our favourite Riding Mountain National Park activities.
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Best things to do in Riding Mountain National Park
Deep Bay
Deep Bay is one of the coolest spots to see just a short distance from downtown Wasagaming. In the height of summer, locals swarm to this hot spot on Clear Lake. As the name suggests, the water goes from a depth of 2 feet to 20 feet deep in just a few steps. Deep Bay is home to eight artists in residence during summer, each staying for one week in the rustic log cabin to be inspired and create an art piece to showcase later in the season.
Bald Hill
If you’re up for a real challenge, then look no further than Bald Hill. This 8.8 km trail is one of the most difficult to hike in the park and park staff say that many never even find it’s peak, as it is unmarked. But, here’s our insider tip on reaching this breathtaking view: as you’re hiking the trail, about 4 kms in you will see a sign pointing to Bald Hill Trail in one direction and Reeve’s Ravine in the other. Behind the sign is actually your destination, where you’ll see a visible path leading into the forest. Follow this for about 10 minutes and emerge to the glorious view.
North Escarpment Trail
If you are thinking of spending the day hiking or you’ve brought your horses with you on your trip then the North Escarpment Trail should be on your bucket list. Magical sunsets, phenomenal vistas, and abundant wildlife will make your tour unforgettable. From here you can join other trails like Bald Hill and Packhorse intensifying your adventure.
Camp in comfort
Toting a tent along on your vacation up north isn’t always ideal, so we’re a fan of unique outdoor accommodation instead. If you want something a bit more rustic than a lodge, try out the park’s one yurt or one of many oTENTiks canvas A-frame cabins. For a nightly fee, you can post up in one of these unique accommodations that will keep you off the ground, but still immersed in nature. Plus, this park includes a townsite that serves up some very tasty eats. Start your morning off with a unique cinnamon bun at Whitehouse Bakery (just be sure to get there early!), chow down on an ice cream cookie sandwich at Lakehouse Ice Cream Parlour on a sunny afternoon, or reward yourself after a long day of hiking with a wood-fired pizza at FoxTail.
Explore The Town Of Wasagaming
One of the things that really surprised us about the attractions in Riding Mountain National Park was that there was a town, complete with restaurants, accommodations, and more right inside the park borders. Growing up with the National Parks in Ontario, my family wasn’t accustomed to seeing so many amenities in a National Park. But the town of Wasagaming in Riding Mountain park is a treat to explore, especially for families.
Wasagaming, also known as Clear Lake, is home to the Riding Mountain Visitor Centre, cafes and restaurants, and a pretty awesome ice cream spot. The town offers a full-service Riding Mountain camping ground with campsites, private cabins, and cottages. It’s also the first stop for most of the 300,000 annual visitors to Riding Mountain National Park.
Breathe In The Flowers Of The Wishing Well
On The East End of Clear Lake near the Clear Lake Golf course is a wonderful garden that makes for a perfect spot to relax. There is a small selection of walking paths winding through the flowers and a stream and waterfall to explore. It’s a very small area, and only takes about 5-10 minutes to explore completely, but it’s a great place to kill some time before taking in the Riding Mountain National Park sunset.
You’ll find a small parking lot right beside the garden that will give you access to the golf course, the wishing well garden, and the Clear Lake pier.
