Riding Mountain National Park
Manitoba
•Est. 30 May 1933
Area
2,968 km² (1,146 sq mi)
Natural Region
Southern boreal plains & plateaux
Annual Visitors
336,560
Established
30 May 1933
About the Park
Part of the Riding Mountain Biosphere Reserve, the park features both boreal and aspen forests among the larger grassland prairie landscape, interspersed with pothole lakes and marshes. The park has an outdoor recreation focus and includes the community of Wasagaming, the East Gate National Historic Site, and formerly the Whitewater prisoners-of-war camp.
Park Location
History
Established in 1933, Riding Mountain National Park was created to protect the unique ecosystems atop the Manitoba Escarpment. The park has a complex history, including the displacement of Indigenous communities and serving as a site for a German prisoner-of-war camp during World War II.
Landscapes
The park encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, from rolling grasslands and mixed forests to clear lakes and wetlands. This variety supports rich biodiversity and offers picturesque scenery for visitors.
Wildlife
Riding Mountain is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, moose, elk, and a captive bison herd in the Lake Audy area. The park's diverse habitats support numerous bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.
Activities
Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, boating, and in the winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The townsite of Wasagaming offers amenities, cultural experiences, and serves as a hub for park activities.
Park Features
Natural Beauty
Pristine Wilderness
Wildlife
Native Species
Activities
Outdoor Adventures
Scenic Views
Photo Opportunities
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