Emergency Contacts

Pay Phones

Available throughout the Park. Locations include: Elkwater beach, Elkwater campground, Reesor Lake campground

Cell Phone Service

Cell phone coverage is available in the Elkwater townsite area. In the more remote areas of the park, coverage is less reliable and dependant upon your service provider.

Winter Recreation Safety

During your winter visit to the Cypress Hills, there are a few things that can help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Winter conditions can change rapidly in the hills so preparation is a key. A warm sunny morning can quickly change into a raging blizzard especially at the higher elevations.

Bring along appropriate clothing and supplies that will help you adjust to the changing conditions. Check local weather reports before venturing out to help ensure you are not caught off guard.

Most backcountry roads in Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park are closed during the winter season. The roads that lead to Reesor Lake and Spruce Coulee Reservoir are kept open throughout the winter depending on road and weather conditions.

If you are traveling in these areas, a four-wheel drive vehicle or vehicles with chains are recommended. Updated reports are available from the park office.

If you are doing some ice fishing on one of the various lakes, it is extremely important to check out the ice conditions before walking on. Hazardous and thin sections can exist at any time during the winter. Vehicle travel on the lakes is not recommended at any time due to the unpredictability of winter ice.

Wildlife in the Cypress Hills

The Cypress Hills have a diversity of wildlife that will undoubtedly add to the overall experience for anyone visiting here. A few basic guidelines will help ensure the safety of both the visitor and the wildlife.

Safe wildlife viewing is possible provided visitors keep a safe distance away while observing or taking photographs. A distance of at least 30 metres (100 feet) is recommended for animals such as deer and moose.

The animals escape route or line of travel should not be hindered. If you notice any signs of aggression or behavioral changes, you should move away to a safe location. Wildlife should not be enticed by reaching out or simulating calls.

Pets should also be kept secure and away from wildlife as their actions can provoke an attack. Moose, deer and other wildlife may appear quite docile, however when they feel threatened their behavior can be quite dangerous to humans and to pets. Feeding of wildlife is prohibited within Provincial Parks.

Living with Cougars in the Cypress Hills

Historically cougars were found in the Cypress Hills. Today, occasional sightings of cougars are reported in the regional area including Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.

Although the chances of seeing cougars are rare, visitors to the Cypress Hills should note the following guidelines listed below. Alberta Parks staff are working to protect this species while minimizing the risk to campers and residents in the area.

• When children are outdoors encourage them to play in supervised groups, away from dense vegetation, and return inside before dusk.
• When walking or skiing in or near the wooded areas, travel in groups, consider carrying a walking stick and pepper spray, and make noise to alert wildlife of your presence.
• Cougars are opportunistic hunters. Free-roaming pets may attract and be attacked by cougars. Dogs and cats are easy prey for many predators and should never be allowed to ream freely. Bring your pets in at night.
• Do not leave out any attractants such as pet food and garbage. Always use the wildlife proof garbage bins.
• Avoid areas where carcasses have been left and be aware that cougars often cover their food with forest debris.

If you see a cougar.

• Never approach cougars and always leave plenty of room for them to easily escape.
• Face the cougar, and slowly back away. Do not run or play dead.
• Gather up small children and pets.
• Make yourself appear larger by raising your arms or holding an object above your head.
• Actions such as shouting, waving a stick, or throwing rocks may help prevent an attack; appear as though are another predator and not a prey.
• If a cougar attacks, fight back!

For more information contact staff at Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park - Alberta.