Explore Cypress Hills, Saskatchewan: Your Ultimate Summer Adventure

Posted on May 20, 2025 by Nerissa McNaughton

Imagine a place where rolling hills meet dense forests, where sunsets paint the sky, and where adventure is around every corner! This place exists at Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, an extraordinary destination that stretches across the Saskatchewan-Alberta border. Known for its natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor activities, this unique park is the perfect summer getaway. Let’s dig in and learn more.

Why Visit Cypress Hills?

Cypress Hills is truly a geographical marvel. At over 1,292 meters above sea level, it’s the highest point in Canada between the Rockies and Labrador, offering cooler temperatures and amazing views. Unlike the surrounding prairies, this lush haven is a perfect fusion of towering forests, rolling hills, and tranquil valleys.

Its diverse ecosystem supports a wide array of wildlife, rare plant species, and geological wonders. It’s also steeped in history, with deep ties to Indigenous cultures and early settlers.

Added to all this is the fact that Cypress Hills is Canada’s first interprovincial park, ensuring endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Summer Activities for Your To-Do List:

Whatever your idea of the perfect summer day is, chances are you’ll find it at Cypress Hills.

Hiking and Biking: Explore the park’s crisscrossing network of trails that wind through forests, grasslands, and picturesque viewpoints. Whether you’re hiking or biking, you’ll find paths suited to all skill levels. Key walks include the Spring Creek Trail, where you can stroll along a scenic waterway, and the Highlands Trail, which offers panoramic views of the park’s rolling landscapes.

Wildlife Viewing and Birdwatching: With its varied habitats, Cypress Hills is a paradise for nature lovers. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, moose, and over 200 bird species, including owls, hawks, and songbirds. Don’t forget your binoculars for an even closer look at this rich wildlife.

Camping Under the Stars: Step away from the hustle and bustle of city life and spend the night immersed in nature. Cypress Hills boasts a range of camping options, from backcountry sites for the adventurous to fully serviced sites for RVs.

Water Adventures: Cool off this summer at Loch Leven or Adams Lake, perfect for canoeing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. Anglers will enjoy fishing in the stocked trout ponds or quiet lakes.

Stargazing Like Never Before: Cypress Hills is home to a Dark Sky Preserve, making it one of the best places in Canada for stargazing. On clear nights, you can see everything from constellations to meteors and even the Milky Way.

Insider Tip

Check the Saskatchewan Parks website in advance to reserve campsites and see if there are any fun seasonal events or programs happening during your stay!

Fun Facts About Cypress Hills

Cypress Hills wasn’t glaciated during the last Ice Age, which is why it boasts unique geological features and rare plant species.
The park is home to the Conglomerate Cliffs, stunning natural rock formations perfect for an afternoon hike.
Aboriginal peoples have lived in and traveled through Cypress Hills for thousands of years, with the area holding significant cultural importance.
The park combines Alberta and Saskatchewan, making it a fantastic example of interprovincial collaboration.
Cypress Hills’ elevation allows for sightings of plants and animals not typically found in the surrounding prairies.

Get Set for Your Adventure

From lakes to trails, Cypress Hills calls with its countless summer activities and natural beauty. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or someone seeking a peaceful escape, this park promises an unforgettable experience. Pack your bags and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime! Which area should be explored first? Drop your pictures and comments below.

Nerissa McNaughton is a freelance writer and a contributor to Alberta Newspaper Group. This story was written for the Alberta Newspaper Groups Summer Escapes Guide advertising feature. Summer Escapes is a special feature about things to do in Alberta this summer. Activities like, staycations, road trips, camping, and other adventures including local attractions, events and food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.