Biking

Some trails here are suitable for mountain biking. Other trails are good with any bike.
Bike rental is available during peak season in the Elkwater Lake area.

Hiking

We have more than 50 kilometres of trails, ranging from natural to paved to boardwalk.
Download the trails guide or get a copy at the Visitor Centre.

Horseback Riding

Equestrian Users are permitted to ride anywhere outside of the excluded areas on the map (Elkwater Town site and campgrounds); Recommended trails are indicated on the map in the Equestrian Trail Guide with gate locations and access points. Check our Equestrian page for information on equestrian camping permit applications, recommended rides and safety tips.
Equestrian camping is available at Spring Creek Equestrian Campground.
Historic Reesor Ranch offers "Cowboy Comfort with Atmosphere and Western Hospitality". Horse-related activities include two-hour horseback riding excursions, buggy rides, and wagon rides. Day visitors are welcome but must book in advance at 306-662-3498.

Hunting

Hunting is limited to the fall elk hunt which is done for elk management purposes.
See the Elk Management Hunt document for details.
More info on hunting in Alberta's provincial parks is also available.

Golfing

Elkwater Park Golf Club
Mini Golf and Disc Golf

Mountain Biking

We have one of the longest mountain biking seasons in Alberta, from April to October (depending on weather).
Exploring the roads in Cypress Hills takes in gnarly climbs and elevation gain to reach some amazing viewpoints.
There are also over 60 km of trails to explore, ranging from paved easy ones to technical downhill trails. More trails are being completed every year. See our Summer Trails Guide.
Trails begin at an elevation of 1,234 m above sea level (the same as Banff) and rise 200 m to the highest point east of the Rockies.
Cypress Hills Provincial Park hosts several adventure race events including Conquer the Coulee, Mile High Tri and Battle Creek Showdown.
For information on E-Biking in Alberta parks, visit our FAQs.

Off-Highway Vehicles

Off-highway vehicles are NOT ALLOWED in the park. This includes snowmobiles, dirt bikes and 3-wheelers.

Sightseeing by Vehicle

Driving Routes Map
On the west driving route, visit Head of the Mountain viewpoint, the highest point in the Cypress Hill. Horseshoe Canyon Viewpoint has a spectacular view of the countryside to the north and northwest.
The east driving route is a 60-kilometre loop. Reesor Viewpoint has a panoramic view. You can continue to Fort Walsh National Historic Site on the Saskatchewan side of the interprovincial park.
Sightseeing by vehicle is dependent on road conditions. Occasionally, some roads are closed due to heavy rainfall, slumping, etc. To check on road conditions, please contact the Visitor Centre.

Water Activities

Boating

Elkwater Lake (located adjacent to Elkwater townsite)

Largest body of water in the park (4 kilometres long, 3 kilometres wide, maximum depth of 10 metres)
All types of boats allowed - including motorized boats, jet skis, paddle boats, sail boats, canoes
Suitable for water-skiing and wind surfing
Boat & bike rentals open during peak season in Elkwater Lake area
Marina stalls for rent on Elkwater Lake

Reesor Lake (20kms east of Elkwater)

Only non-motorized boats (canoes, kayaks, etc) and electric motor boats allowed
NO gas-powered motor boats permitted

Spruce Coulee Reservoir (located 14 km east of Elkwater)

Only non-motorized boats allowed (canoes, kayaks, etc)

Fishing

Elkwater Lake has naturally occurring perch and pike.
Reesor Lake and Spruce Coulee Reservoir are stocked annually - rainbow and tiger trout in Reesor Lake and brook trout, walleye and artic grayling in Spruce Coulee Reservoir.
Michelle Reservoir (located 28km from Elkwater) is other popular fishing area.
Check the Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations for details on regulations and restrictions.
Fishing licenses can be purchased at select locations in Medicine Hat. There is also internet access available at the Elkwater Visitor Centre to purchase licenses online.
Park staff cannot issue licenses.

Swimming/Beach

Elkwater Lake

Large designated swimming and beach area at Main Beach and West End Day Use
Unsupervised beach - Swim at your own risk!
Spring-fed lake, clean and very refreshing
Seasonal food concession at Main Beach

No beaches at Reesor Lake or Spruce Coulee Reservoir - swimming NOT recommended

Water Skiing