The Visitor Centre at Riding Mountain National Park is open Friday to Monday from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.
At Riding Mountain National Park, the daily entrance fees are $9 for adults, $7.75 for seniors, and free for youth. A family/group pass is $17.50. Annual passes are $43.50 for adults, $38.25 for seniors, and $87.25 for a family/group.
By Car: From Winnipeg, take Highway 1 west to Brandon, then Hwy 10 north to Onanole (park entrance). By Bus: Regional buses to Dauphin or Brandon, then shuttle or taxi. By Air: Fly into Winnipeg (YWG) and rent a car, or use smaller airports in Brandon or Dauphin. By Train: Via Rail to Winnipeg, then car or bus to the park.
Riding Mountain National Park has eight parking areas for cars, RVs, and trailers, with no parking fees. Overnight parking is allowed. RVs up to 35 feet can park; larger RVs need prior approval. Motorcycles can also park in these areas.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Set in the heart of Manitoba, Riding Mountain National Park offers families a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. This stunning park features rolling hills, serene lakes, and diverse wildlife. Explore the vibrant town of Wasagaming, where cozy cabins and lakeside dining await. Hike the Boreal Trail for breathtaking forest views or head to Lake Audy to spot bison in their natural habitat. Horseback riding enthusiasts can saddle up at the Riding Mountain Ranch for a memorable trail ride. With lodging options ranging from rustic cabins to charming hotels, this park is ideal for creating lasting family memories. Book your getaway today on Lake.com!
- Area (km²)
- 1911.9
- Annual visitors
- 338 000
- Established year
- 1929
Top 3 Facts about Riding Mountain National Park
This protected area is home to approximately 3,000 moose and 800-1,000 black bears, with cougars, lynx, and wolves also inhabiting the region, highlighting its rich biodiversity.
Recognized as a Dark Sky Preserve by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, offering exceptional stargazing opportunities free from urban light.
A designated bison enclosure provides a safe haven for bison, allowing visitors to observe these iconic animals and learn about conservation efforts.
Family programs
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Research attractions and facilities; make campground or accommodation reservations in advance, especially during peak season.
Pack Appropriately
Bring sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent, sunscreen, hats, and rain gear appropriate for the season and activities.
Respect Wildlife
Carry bear spray, make noise while hiking to alert wildlife, store food securely, and keep a safe distance from animals.
Stay Informed
Drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen regularly, especially during hot and sunny days; be mindful of dehydration and sunburn risk.
Seasons
Spring brings mild weather, blooming wildflowers, and excellent wildlife viewing as animals emerge from hibernation.
Summer offers warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
Fall features crisp air, vibrant autumn foliage, and wildlife viewing opportunities, ideal for hiking and scenic drives.
Winter is ideal for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, winter hiking, ice fishing, skating, and enjoying snowy landscapes in tranquility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Riding Mountain National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the park is Brandon, located approximately 100 km to the south. Other nearby cities include Dauphin, which is just beyond the northern border of the park, and Winnipeg, which is about 3.5 hours east.
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The Boreal Trail is the most family-friendly, being an easy 1.1-1.4 km loop with a boardwalk, multiple streams, and colourful interpretive signs, making it ideal for families with young children. It is located on the main parkway and features tall trees and marshland, with opportunities to spot wildlife and birds. This trail is also suitable for strollers and young kids.
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Yes, you can take your pet on the trails, but they must be on a leash and you need to clean up after them. This rule helps keep both your pet and other park visitors safe.
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There are no specific mentions of parking fees for Riding Mountain National Park. However, a Park Pass is required to visit the park, which helps cover costs for various park services and amenities. Parking fees are not explicitly mentioned in the available information.
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Hike the Burls and Bittersweet Trail or the Bald Hill Trail for scenic views. Watch the sunset at Clear Lake Pier, a popular spot for its picturesque views. Rent a fat bike or go canoeing on Clear Lake for some adventure. Visit the Lake Audy Bison Enclosure to see wildlife up close. If you’re there at night, try to spot the northern lights. Relax in a Parks Canada oTENTik or find one of the red Adirondack chairs for a peaceful moment.