Camping in Medicine Hat and Region

Make Medicine Hat your basecamp to outdoor experiences.
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hiking & biking

in the cypress hills

A group hikes through the trees in Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.

hiking

Explore the hiking trails and see that 600m elevation gain for yourself. Not just in your legs, but when you reach the many viewpoints you will be rewarded with an incredible view of the surrounding area. It's not just about the viewpoint though, the trails themselves are incredibly diverse. Travel past babbling creeks, through lodgepole pine forest, across wildflower-filled meadows, and over cobblestone trails - all in one day! The trails here vary from easy to more complex to keep all the hikers happy!

biking

With easy paved Lakeside Trails, some gentle trails through the forest surrounding the campsites and some longer, more technical trails for the MTB enthusiast. The local Mountain Bike Club, The 670 Collective, are constantly developing more single tracks around Elkwater, for all abilities and even the best can find something to challenge them. With over 60km of trails to explore you will simply have a blast!

Biking through Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park at sunset.

Bike Guidelines

In the winter the trails are ready for Fat Bikes so you don’t have to stop riding - permitted on all groomed and track-set trails EXCEPT Spring Creek Ski Trail System. Bikes with regular mountain bike tires are not permitted. Tires must be 3.7 inches or wider. Tire pressure should be 10 psi or lower. Skiers have priority on trails. Give skiers lots of space to pass, both on hills and flats.

Safety on the trail

  • Inform family or friends of your route and your expected time of return.
  • Check weather conditions before you ride out. Be prepared for weather changes and carry appropriate clothing.
  • If someone in you party is injured or becomes lost, call for help immediately. DO NOT DELAY. IN the case of an emergency, Conservation Officers can be reached by dialing the HELP LINE at (403) 893-HELP.
  • Cell phone reception varies throughout the park. The best area to receive a strong signal is on the plateau but this varies with weather conditions. Do not rely on your phone to work at all times.
  • Know where you are at all times. Keep track of your location by carrying a map and compass, GPS, or both. Know how to use these items. Carry extra batteries.
  • Be alert for other park users and wildlife on the trail.

Close Encounters

Be aware that cougars live in the park. Watch for signs that tehy are in the immediate area, like covered kills. If you encounter a cougar on the trail:

  • Don’t panic.
  • The animal may leave the area on its own.
  • If the cat remains, back up, make yourself as large as possible. Maintain eye contact with the animal. Raise your arms and make noise.
  • Stay calm.
  • If the cougar attacks, FIGHT BACK with anything at hand.

Report cougar sightings by calling the Visitor Centre at (403) 893-3833. Remember that other wildlife, such as moose, can also be dangerous. Stay alert and aware to avoid dangerous close encounters.

contact

Visitor Centre
Open Year Round
(403) 893–3833 Ext. 5
cypresshills.com

Campsite Reservations
Toll Free: 1 (877) 537–2757
reserve.albertaparks.ca

Provincial Park Information
albertaparks.ca
Toll Free: 1 (866) 427–3582
(780) 427–3582

Fire Bans in Alberta
albertafirebans.ca

Emergency
Phone: 911

24 Hour Park Help Line
1 (780) 644-3880