Riding MountainOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt
Wild refuge of the Canadian Prairies
Welcome to Riding Mountain, a true natural gem where boreal forest meets the prairies, offering an idyllic setting for adventure and relaxation. If you're wondering what to do in Riding Mountain, know that the park is brimming with activities for all tastes. Beyond hiking the numerous trails that wind around Clear Lake or wildlife viewing along the Ominnik Marsh Trail, the region invites a more interactive exploration. Imagine yourself immersed in a unique experience with an outdoor escape game through the charming village of Wasagaming. It's a fantastic way to discover the surroundings by transforming your stroll into a real-life treasure hunt. Far from the beaten path, this scavenger hunt will lead you to solve puzzles while admiring the breathtaking landscapes and rustic architecture of the park. It's an unusual activity that promises laughter and discoveries, perfect for immersing yourself in the wild and peaceful spirit of Riding Mountain.
Unusual things to do in Riding Mountain
For an unusual activity in Riding Mountain, why not swap a traditional hike for an urban and natural adventure? Our outdoor escape game offers an original outing that merges the exploration of the charming village of Wasagaming with intellectual challenges. It's a unique opportunity to discover the hidden corners of the national park in a fun and interactive way, far from classic guided tours. Instead of just observing, you become the protagonist of your own story, solving puzzles inspired by Riding Mountain's natural and cultural environment. A memorable experience that combines the pleasure of discovery and the thrill of the game, perfect for those looking to experience something truly different.
Things to do in Riding Mountain with kids
Looking for what to do with family in Riding Mountain? Our outdoor escape game is the ideal activity to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Suitable for children aged 8-10 and up, and exciting for teens and adults, this treasure hunt transforms the park into a huge playground. It's an excellent way to stimulate teamwork and curiosity in the younger ones, who will love searching for clues and solving puzzles in the heart of nature. Away from screens, the whole family can enjoy a fun and educational adventure, where every member, from the youngest to the oldest, will find their role in the quest. An outing that promises laughter, sharing, and discovery of Riding Mountain's heritage.
Riding Mountain for couples
For a romantic getaway in Riding Mountain as a couple, imagine a stroll that's out of the ordinary. Our outdoor escape game offers a unique way to share a special moment, away from the crowds. Wander hand in hand through the charming village of Wasagaming, solving puzzles that will lead you to discover breathtaking views of Clear Lake or architectural details of the local heritage that you wouldn't have noticed otherwise. It's an intimate adventure where complicity is playfully tested, strengthening your bonds while exploring the natural beauty and history of Riding Mountain. A memorable experience for nature and challenge lovers, creating precious memories with every clue found.
What to do in Riding Mountain when it rains
If the weather turns and you're wondering what to do in Riding Mountain on a rainy day, it's important to note that our outdoor escape game primarily takes place outdoors. While the village of Wasagaming offers a few porches and temporary shelters, the core of the adventure is open-air. In case of heavy rain, we recommend postponing the activity to fully enjoy the landscapes. You can always explore the Visitor Centre or the charming local shops to find shelter and learn about the park's history while waiting for the weather to clear.
Where is Riding Mountain, and where do the routes start?
Starting points of our routes and the places they pass through.
Route starting points
Places in Riding Mountain
- Ukrainian village ruins near Clear Lake
- Svetlana historic site
- Old multinational cemetery
- Community school ruins
- Water mill remains
- Old medicinal garden
- Natural cave
- Secret clearing
The history of Riding Mountain
Indigenous Presence and Early European Contact
Riding Mountain has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, including the Cree, Assiniboine, and Ojibwe. The Keeseekoowenin Ojibway First Nation lived around the Clear Lake area, engaging in hunting and fishing. The region is within Treaty 2 Territory.
European presence began in the 18th century. The Hudson's Bay Company established a trading post on Lake Dauphin in 1741. Pierre de la Verendrye and his sons explored the region and traded with First Nations. The Ojibway participated in the fur trade at Riding Mountain House and Fort Ellice. In 1871, Chief Mekis, son of Chief Okanese, signed Treaty Number 2.
Park Establishment and Development
In 1895, 3,975 square kilometers of land in Riding Mountain were designated as a timber reserve. The Dominion Forest Reserve Act of 1906 and the Dominion Forest Reserve and Parks Act of 1911 provided early legal protection. Logging operations were initially monitored with permits issued to local settlers. By 1933, much of the valuable timber had been depleted due to fires and unrestricted cutting.
The forest reserve was officially designated Riding Mountain National Park on May 30, 1933, and opened to visitors on July 26 of the same year. The townsite of Clear Lake was designated Wasagaming. Much of the park's public infrastructure, including the Interpretive Centre built in 1933, was constructed during the 1930s by laborers from Canada's Great Depression relief programs. These programs were funded by the 1930 Unemployment Relief Act and the 1934 Public Works Construction Act. In 1935, land adjacent to Clear Lake, known as IR 61A, which had been given to the Keeseekoowenin Ojibway First Nation in 1896, was expropriated by the government for the park's creation, leading to the forced removal of Ojibway residents. This land was returned to the Keeseekoowenin Ojibway First Nation in 1991 after years of negotiations.
What to see in Riding Mountain
- Clear Lake — This lake is a central feature of the park, offering swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and boat cruises. Watercraft rentals are available at the Clear Lake Marina.
- Wasagaming Townsite — The main commercial center within the park. Wasagaming features shops, restaurants, bakeries, hotels, and cabins. It houses the Riding Mountain National Park Visitor Centre, providing information and permits.
- Lake Audy Bison Enclosure — Drive through this enclosure to see a captive herd of approximately 40 plains bison. These are descendants of a group introduced in the 1940s for conservation.
- Ominnik Marsh Trail — This trail, located behind the Visitor Centre, offers wildlife viewing and exploration of the marsh ecosystem.
- Riding Mountain National Park East Gate Registration Complex — Built in 1933 and 1934 as part of Depression relief work, this complex at the eastern entrance on Highway 19 is an example of the rustic architectural style of early national park development.
- The Park Theatre — Located in Wasagaming, this log cabin theatre, built in 1927, is still in operation.
When to visit Riding Mountain
Riding Mountain National Park is open year-round. Summer (June to August) is the busiest, with all restaurants and activities open, including swimming, fishing, and hiking. Accommodations should be booked in advance due to demand.
Fall (September to October) offers mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and autumn foliage. Wildlife, particularly bison, are more active. Many businesses close around Thanksgiving weekend.
Winter allows for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and fat biking on designated trails. The North Gate entrance may close in winter, and the South Gate has limited hours. Spring brings milder weather and fewer crowds.
To experience the widest range of activities and avoid closures, the period from late May to early October is generally the best time to visit.
Getting around Riding Mountain
Riding Mountain National Park is most easily accessed by car. It is about an hour north of Brandon, three hours west of Winnipeg, and four hours east of Regina. Highway 10 passes directly through the park, leading to the south entrance at Wasagaming, the main commercial center. Highway 19 also enters the park from the east. Car rentals are available at Winnipeg's airport and major cities.
Within the park, driving is the primary mode of transport to reach various areas and campgrounds. Wasagaming itself is walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops accessible on foot from the campground. Bicycles, including e-bikes and fat bikes, can be rented for exploring trails and the townsite. Parking areas are available throughout the park. A park entry permit is required and can be purchased at the park gateways.
Things you probably do not know about Riding Mountain
Verified details most visitors walk straight past.
- Clear Lake
- What makes Clear Lake's water so unusually transparent compared to other prairie lakes? Clear Lake is classified as oligotrophic, meaning it has very low levels of nutrients. This unique characteristic, combined with the surrounding forests acting as a natural filter, contributes to its exceptional clarity.
- Wasagaming
- Many of the buildings in Wasagaming have a distinctive architectural style. What's the story behind it? Much of the public infrastructure in Wasagaming, including the Interpretive Centre and other log buildings, was constructed in the 1930s by laborers from Canada's Great Depression relief programs, often featuring a rustic architectural style.
- Riding Mountain National Park East Gate Registration Complex
- Beyond its function as an entrance, what historical significance does the East Gate hold? The East Gate Complex, built in 1933-1934, is not just an entrance but a product of the Depression relief work, reflecting the early development philosophy of Canadian National Parks which focused on recreation and tourism.
- Whitewater Lake
- During World War II, a surprising type of camp was operated within Riding Mountain National Park. What was it? From 1943 to 1945, a labor camp for German prisoners of war was operated on the northeast shore of Whitewater Lake. It housed 440 to 450 prisoners who were employed to address a fuelwood shortage.
- IR 61A (Clear Lake)
- The land around Clear Lake has a complex history regarding Indigenous ownership. What happened to the Keeseekoowenin Ojibway First Nation's fishing station? A fishing station designated as IR 61A was established for the Keeseekoowenin Ojibway First Nation on Clear Lake in 1896. However, it was wrongfully included within the park boundaries in 1930, and residents were forcibly removed in 1936. The land was returned to the First Nation in 1991 after land claims negotiations.
Questions about visiting Riding Mountain
How do I get to Riding Mountain National Park?
Riding Mountain National Park is primarily accessed by car via Highway 10, which runs through the park. It's about a 3-hour drive west of Winnipeg and an hour north of Brandon. The nearest commercial airports are in Dauphin and Brandon.
How long should I plan to stay in Riding Mountain National Park?
You can spend anywhere from a few hours to several days or even weeks exploring the park. For a comprehensive experience, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying Clear Lake, a weekend or a few days is recommended.
What are the main areas or towns within Riding Mountain National Park?
The primary commercial center and hub of the park is Wasagaming, located at the south entrance on Clear Lake. It offers accommodations, restaurants, shops, and the Visitor Centre.
Is Riding Mountain National Park suitable for families with children?
Yes, the park is family-friendly. It offers activities like swimming at Clear Lake Beach, mini-golf in Wasagaming, easy hiking trails, and the Xplorer Program for kids at the Visitor Centre.
What is the typical budget for a visit to Riding Mountain National Park?
Costs will vary depending on your accommodation choices, activities, and dining preferences. Park entry permits are required. Summer is the busiest and most expensive time, so booking in advance can help manage costs.
Can I get around Riding Mountain National Park without a car?
While having a car is the easiest way to explore the park's various attractions, Wasagaming itself is walkable. You can rent bikes, including e-bikes, to get around the townsite and some trails. Bus services to nearby towns like Dauphin are also available.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outdoor escape game cost in Riding Mountain?
An outdoor escape game in Riding Mountain costs €12 per team, not per person! This is a really great value that allows you to share an unforgettable adventure with your friends or family without breaking the bank. Whether you are 2 or 6 players, the price remains the same for the entire team. This makes the activity very accessible and encourages groups to come and have fun together. Moreover, once the game is purchased, it's yours forever, allowing you to start it whenever you want, with no time constraints. An excellent option for a controlled budget and maximum entertainment!
Is it suitable for children / families?
Absolutely! Our outdoor escape games are designed to be a fantastic activity for the whole family. They are generally suitable for children aged 8-10 and up, but younger ones can also actively participate by helping to look for clues, under adult supervision. It's an excellent opportunity to stimulate everyone's logic, observation, and team spirit. The puzzles are varied and accessible, allowing all family members, from the youngest to teens and adults, to contribute to solving the investigation. A fun and educational outing guaranteed!
How long does an escape game last in Riding Mountain?
The duration of an outdoor escape game in Riding Mountain generally varies between 1h30 and 2h30. This, of course, depends on your pace of play, how quickly you solve the puzzles, and the time you take to admire the magnificent landscapes of the park. There is no imposed time limit; you are free to take breaks, stop to take photos, or even have lunch. The goal is to fully enjoy the experience at your leisure, without pressure, exploring the village of Wasagaming and its surroundings at your own pace.
Do I need to book in advance?
No, it is not necessary to book in advance for our outdoor escape games in Riding Mountain. This is one of the great advantages of our concept: you buy the game online and start it whenever you want, on the day and at the time that suits you best. No time constraints, no appointments to miss. You are completely flexible! All you need is your charged smartphone and an internet connection to launch the adventure. This freedom allows you to easily integrate the escape game into your Riding Mountain visit program, stress-free.
What to visit in Riding Mountain beyond escape games?
Beyond our exciting escape games, Riding Mountain is full of wonders to explore. Don't miss the beautiful Clear Lake, ideal for swimming, canoeing, or simply relaxing on its shores. The village of Wasagaming, with its artisan shops and restaurants, is perfect for a stroll. Nature lovers will appreciate the numerous hiking trails, such as the Ominnik Marsh Trail for birdwatching, or the bike paths. Keep an eye out, as the park is renowned for its wild fauna, including bison, elk, and black bears. A complete immersion in Canadian nature awaits you!
What is the best season to visit Riding Mountain?
Riding Mountain offers unique experiences in every season, but the best time depends on your preferences. Summer (June to August) is ideal for fully enjoying water activities on Clear Lake and hiking in warm weather. Spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October) offer breathtaking landscapes with blooming flowers or vibrant tree colors, and are perfect for wildlife viewing with fewer crowds. Winter offers activities like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, but access may be more limited. For an outdoor escape game, spring, summer, and early autumn are the most enjoyable.
More cities in Canada
Regina
Capital of the Canadian prairies
Vancouver
Pacific metropolis between mountains and ocean
Victoria
British charm on the Pacific coast
Toronto
Cosmopolitan metropolis of endless faces
Ottawa
Canada's capital of many faces
Montreal
Francophone metropolis of a thousand faces
Dawson City
Capital of the Klondike Gold Rush