Running the Fast-Paced Trails of Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park in Alberta/Saskatchewan
Running the Fast-Paced Trails of Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park in Alberta/Saskatchewan
Introductory Overview
Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, spanning Alberta and Saskatchewan, offers some of the best trail running opportunities in Canada. With its unique mix of dense forests, rolling grasslands, and rugged terrain, this park provides a challenging and scenic experience for runners of all levels. Cypress Hills is the highest point between the Rocky Mountains and Labrador, which means varying elevations, breathtaking viewpoints, and technical trails. Whether you’re looking for steep ascents, smooth pathways, or endurance-testing loops, this area delivers an unforgettable run with a mix of alpine beauty and prairie vistas.
Adventure Guide to Running the Fast-Paced Trails of Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park
Spruce Coulee Trail
- Distance: 9.2 km (loop)
- Terrain: Moderate to difficult, featuring rolling hills, forested sections, and lakeside views.
- Highlights: The trail circles Spruce Coulee Reservoir, providing a mix of fast-paced stretches and technical rocky sections.
- Local Insight: Runners can often spot moose or white-tailed deer near the lake at dawn or dusk.
Horseshoe Canyon Trail
- Distance: 5 km (loop)
- Terrain: Steep inclines, requiring strong footing and endurance.
- Highlights: This challenging trail takes runners along canyon ridges, offering spectacular views of the park’s rugged landscape.
- Local Insight: The elevation shifts make this a great spot for hill training, and historical points along the way detail Indigenous history and early European settlements.
Trans Canada Trail Connection
- Distance: Varies (connects to multiple park trails)
- Terrain: A mix of wide-open grasslands and tree-covered paths, suitable for distance training.
- Highlights: A section of the iconic Trans Canada Trail, known for its flowing single-track runs and occasional wildlife encounters.
- Local Insight: Runners who venture along this route may come across hidden viewpoints overlooking the Massold Clay Forest.
Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall for the best trail conditions.
- What to Bring: Trail running shoes with good grip, hydration packs, and bear spray due to frequent wildlife sightings.
- Driving Directions: Approx. 4.5-hour drive from Calgary or 4-hour drive from Regina, with easy access via Highway 1 and Highway 41.
Adventure Map
Reviews
Jason Schultz6 months ago
Hands down, this is our favourite Provincial Park in SK. It has incredible amenities and something for everyone. Glorious vistas abound. The campsites are quite open/very low privacy due to the pines, but if you book the sites on the outside edges of the loops, they're better. Weather can be unpredictable at these elevations. We had hail and cold temps in July. The observatory and dark sky preserve are also a real treat!
Carl4 months ago
Cypress Hills were as beautiful as ever. Very quiet as we went in Sept. If you want activities go in summer. Was a bit smokey when we were there so view from lookout wasn't as good as usual .
Angie Nikoleychuk5 months ago
Grew up coming here. It's changed a lot, but it's a nice spot for families. There's always something going on. A bit more commercialization than the Elkwater side, so be aware of that if you're looking for seclusion and time in the bush.
Max Lepage4 months ago
Excellent campground buuuuuuuut, there are lamppost everywhere making star gazing impossible from your campsite. Would get 5 stars if those were turned off... It's the first provincial park I've ever seen with those EVER! They are very annoying.
That being said, the bathrooms are clean with flushing toilets everywhere and there are lots, the wood for campfires is free and available and the campgrounds are very clean and quiet.
Vivian Friesen5 months ago
Only got to spend 1 night on my way to Alberta. The park is located south of the town of Maple Creek. You can refill gas and buy necessities in here or do it in the park as they have a store, restaurant, and gas pump within it. There are many trails around , beach and many modern amenities. The trails are full of deer, and where there is deer, there are ticks. There is a golf course as well. This is a park well worth visiting with the family and for more than 1 day.
