Riding Mountain National Park is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including approximately 60 species of mammals. Large mammals include black bears, moose, elk, white-tailed deer, and one of Manitoba's largest protected populations of American black bears. The park maintains a captive bison herd in the Lake Audy area. Over 260 bird species have been recorded in the park, including great gray owls, pileated woodpeckers, and various waterfowl. The park's waters contain numerous fish species, including northern pike and walleye. Several endangered species find refuge here, including the little brown bat.
The park boasts a diverse array of plant life with over 1,000 species of plants. The boreal forest is dominated by white spruce, black spruce, and jack pine, while the aspen parkland features trembling aspen and bur oak. The fescue prairie areas contain native grasses and wildflowers, including rough fescue and prairie crocus. Unique plant communities exist in the park's wetlands and around Clear Lake. Several rare orchid species can be found, including the yellow lady's slipper. The park also contains important stands of old-growth forest, some containing trees over 200 years old.
The park sits atop the Manitoba Escarpment, rising dramatically 457 meters (1,500 feet) above the surrounding plains. This unique geological feature was formed during the last ice age when glaciers carved out the landscape. The park encompasses three distinct ecosystems: boreal forest, aspen parkland, and fescue prairie. The area features numerous glacial features including kettle lakes, moraines, and erratics. The park's bedrock consists of Cretaceous shale overlain by glacial deposits, creating a diverse topographical landscape with rolling hills, deep valleys, and numerous lakes.
Established in 1933, Riding Mountain National Park has a rich cultural heritage dating back thousands of years. The area was traditionally inhabited by Indigenous peoples, particularly the Anishinaabe and Cree nations, who used the region for hunting and gathering. European settlers arrived in the late 1800s, and the park was later created during the Great Depression as part of a government employment project. The historic Clear Lake site features the iconic Clear Lake Golf Course and Wasagaming townsite, developed in the 1930s. The park's distinctive architecture reflects the rustic design philosophy of Canada's national parks during that era.
Clear Lake is the park's crown jewel, offering pristine waters and popular recreational activities. The Wasagaming townsite serves as the park's main visitor center, featuring historic buildings and modern amenities. The park contains over 400 kilometers of hiking trails, including the iconic Escarpment Trail offering spectacular views. The East Gate Registration Complex, a National Historic Site, represents one of the last remaining early park gates in Canada. The Bald Hill lookout provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The park also features numerous lakes, beaches, and camping facilities, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Riding Mountain National Park experiences a continental climate with distinct seasonal variations. Summers (June-August) are warm with average highs around 23°C (73°F), while winters (December-February) are cold with temperatures often dropping below -20°C (-4°F). Spring and fall are transitional seasons with mild temperatures. The park receives approximately 450-500mm of rainfall annually, with June being the wettest month. Winter brings significant snowfall, making it ideal for winter activities. The park's elevation creates a unique microclimate, often resulting in conditions different from the surrounding prairie lands.
Canada
50.8620°, -100.0340°
1933
2969
Riding Mountain National Park sits atop the Manitoba Escarpment, featuring a unique mix of boreal forest, aspen parkland, and fescue prairie. The park is home to a captive bison herd and diverse wildlife including elk, moose, and black bears. It offers year-round recreational activities and preserves the region's natural and cultural heritage.