Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park with our comprehensive travel guide which includes information on places to visit, hiking and biking routes, activities, accommodations, food and drinks, local culture and customs, and more.


Introduction to Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is a hidden gem located in Southern Alberta, Canada. This unique park is known for its stunning combination of natural beauty and cultural significance. The park is home to a collection of rock formations that have been eroded over time by the Milk River, creating a breathtaking landscape that is unlike anything you’ve seen before. The park is also home to the largest concentration of petroglyphs (rock carvings) and pictographs (rock paintings) on the Great Plains of North America, which makes it a must-visit destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

When planning your trip to Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, there are many places worth visiting within the park.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the main attractions at Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is its cultural significance. The park is home to the largest concentration of petroglyphs and pictographs in North America. Visitors can explore these ancient rock carvings and paintings by taking a guided tour or walking through the park’s interpretive trails.

Another must-see attraction in the park is the interpretive center, which provides information about the park’s history, natural and cultural significance, as well as the traditional way of life of the indigenous people who once lived in the area.

Natural Attractions of Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

In addition to its cultural significance, Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park also boasts stunning natural beauty and a wide range of outdoor adventures.

The park is home to several hiking and biking trails that vary in difficulty, allowing visitors of all levels to explore the park’s rugged terrain. Some of the popular trails include the Battle Scene Trail, the Hoodoo Trail, and the Confluence Trail, which takes visitors to the point where the Milk River and the sandstone cliffs meet.

There are also several scenic viewpoints within the park that offer breathtaking views of the rock formations, the river valley, and the prairies beyond. The park is also home to a number of camping grounds, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is a popular destination for hikers and bikers. The park boasts several trails that vary in difficulty, allowing visitors of all levels to explore the park’s rugged terrain.

Battle Scene Trail

The Battle Scene Trail is an easy 1.4-kilometer trail that takes visitors through a beautiful cottonwood forest and ends at a stunning viewpoint of the Milk River and the sandstone cliffs.

Hoodoo Trail

The Hoodoo Trail is a moderate 2.1-kilometer trail that takes visitors through a landscape of hoodoos, eroded sandstone formations in fantastical shapes.

Confluence Trail

The Confluence Trail is a challenging 7-kilometer trail that takes visitors to the point where the Milk River and the sandstone cliffs meet.

Best Things to Do in Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park: Activities and Tours

There are several activities and tours to do in Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Guided Tours

The park offers guided tours that are led by knowledgeable interpreters that can teach visitors about the park’s history, natural and cultural significance, as well as the traditional way of life of the indigenous people who once lived in the area.

Rock Climbing

Rock climbing enthusiasts will be happy to know that there are several climbing routes available in the park, ranging from beginner to advanced levels.

Stargazing

The park is also home to a designated dark sky preserve, making it an ideal spot for stargazing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Here is a week-long itinerary for those looking to spend an extended amount of time at Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park:

Day 1-2: Explore the Cultural Significance of the Park

Take a guided tour of the petroglyphs and pictographs, and explore the interpretive center to learn about the park’s history and cultural significance.

Day 3-4: Hiking and Biking

Explore the park’s hiking and biking trails, taking in the stunning views of the rock formations and the Milk River Valley.

Day 5: Rock Climbing

Try your hand at rock climbing on one of the designated routes within the park.

Day 6: Stargazing

Spend an evening stargazing in the park’s designated dark sky preserve.

Day 7: Relax and Unwind

Spend your last day relaxing in the park’s natural beauty, perhaps enjoying a picnic at one of the scenic viewpoints.

Food and Drink Scene of Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

No trip to Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is complete without experiencing the local food and drink scene.

Must-Try Dishes

Be sure to try the local Alberta beef, which is known for its tenderness and flavor. The park is also located near several local farms, providing access to fresh produce and meats.

Local Beverages

Alberta is known for its craft beer scene, and Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is no exception. Be sure to try some of the local brews, and enjoy a glass of wine from one of the nearby wineries.

Where to Stay in Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options available for visitors to Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park. Whether you are looking for a hotel, hostel, or guesthouse, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Camping

For those looking to get close to nature, the park offers several camping sites that range from backcountry camping to fully-serviced RV sites.

Hotels

There are several hotels available nearby, making it easy to find a comfortable place to stay.

What to Buy in Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For those looking to bring home a piece of Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, there are several options available.

Be sure to check out the local arts and crafts, including pottery, textiles, and beadwork, which are all created by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is an important site for the Blackfoot people, whose cultural and spiritual traditions have been tied to the area for thousands of years. Visitors are encouraged to respect the park’s cultural significance and to learn about the traditional way of life of the indigenous people.

Best Time to Visit Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

The best time to visit Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is during the summertime when the park’s hiking trails are open and the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you are interested in stargazing, plan your trip for the fall or winter when the skies are clearer, and the park’s designated dark sky preserve is at its best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Do:

  • Respect the park’s cultural significance
  • Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the sensitive geological formations
  • Pack out all garbage and waste
  • Be aware of potential wildlife encounters and take appropriate precautions

Don’t:

  • Remove or touch any of the petroglyphs or pictographs
  • Light fires outside of designated fire pits
  • Bring pets into the park

Safety and Health

Safety in Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

The park’s hiking trails can be challenging, so it’s important to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water and snacks. Hikers should also be aware of the potential for wildlife encounters.

Health in Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Visitors to Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park should be prepared for the remote location by bringing all necessary medications and first aid supplies.

Getting to Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

The closest major airport to Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is Calgary International Airport, which is approximately a three-hour drive away.

Bus Stations Near Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Greyhound buses and other long-distance buses make stops in nearby cities such as Lethbridge and Medicine Hat.

Other Options

Many visitors choose to drive to Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, and there are several car rental companies located nearby.

How to Get Around in Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

The best way to get around Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is by hiking or biking on the park’s designated trails. For those with mobility issues, some of the viewpoints can be accessed by car, but be sure to check with park rangers before driving on any unpaved roads.

Where to Go Next from Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring after your trip to Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park.

Waterton Lakes National Park

Located just a short drive from Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, Waterton Lakes National Park is a stunning destination that offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife watching.

Dinosaur Provincial Park

For those interested in paleontology, Dinosaur Provincial Park is an ideal destination. This park is home to some of the world’s most significant dinosaur fossils.

Conclusion

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is a unique destination that offers a rare combination of natural beauty and cultural significance. Whether you’re interested in hiking, biking, stargazing, or experiencing local culture, there is something for everyone in this beautiful park. Plan your trip today and discover all that Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park has to offer!

Rock carvings in the park Rock carvings in the park