Recreation | Summer Recreation | Winter Recreation | Water Sports

Summer activities are offered in abundance in Cypress Hills. Below are just a few suggestions of what you can do!

Birding

With more than 220 species of birds recorded in the park, it's one of the best bird watching locations in Canada.  An island of forest in a sea of grass, the unique environment of the Cypress Hills provides habitats for both typical prairie birds and for many species usually found in the foothills and forests far to the west and north.

Dusky Flycatchers, Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Yellow-rumped Warblers and many other birds are common in the Cypress Hills but far from their usual ranges. Ferruginous Hawks, Northern Shrikes and Baird’s Sparrows, all occasionally seen here, are threatened species.

Some birds very rarely seen in westernCanada, such as the Common Poorwill, have been recorded. Another unusual bird, the Wild Turkey, was introduced to the hills in the 1960’s. The perfect place for a bird watching tour while on vacation!

Download our bird checklist for more information on species. The Visitor Centre Staff will be able to give you some tips and tricks to bird watching in the Cypress Hills.

Boating

Boating opportunities are excellent! Elkwater Lake allows all types of boats— including motorized, jet ski and paddle.  This lake is also suitable for water-skiing. Reesor Lake and Spruce Coulee are excellent choices for those who wish to canoe or paddle. These lakes allow only non-motorized boats. The Elkwater Lake area also has a boat and bike rental open during peak seasons as well as marina stalls for rent, contact the Campground Operator.

Fishing

Elkwater Lake has naturally occurring perch and pike. Reesor Lake and Spruce Coulee are stocked annually with trout - Reesor with rainbow trout and Spruce with brook trout. Other popular fishing areas are Michelle and Bullshead Reservoir (located 20 min. from Elkwater Lake). Fishing licenses can be obtained at the Elkwater Service Station and Alberta Fishing Regulations apply.

• Golfing

  Nine holes of grass greens for golfing, contact the Elkwater Park golf club. Mini golf is available in Elkwater during the summer season.

  Hiking

  Over 50 kilometres of trails for hiking, biking, skiing. Take a look at our trail page for more information.

  Hunting

  Hunting is limited to the fall Elk hunt. For more information contact the Park Office.

  Interpretive Programs

  Scheduled programs are offered year round. The entire family will enjoy snowshoeing, guided walks, amphitheatre presentations, Dark Sky Preserve astronomy programs or campfire programs. Check out the events page for further information. Special programs are available for schools and groups to book. Call the Interpretation & Education Coordinator for additional information at (403) 893-8905.

  Mini Golf

  Lakeside mini golf is located near Elkwater Lake. More information can be obtained by calling the Campground Operator.

  Mountain Biking

  See Trails

  Off-Highway Vehicles

  Off-highway vehicles are prohibited within the park (including snowmobiles,
  dirt bikes, 3-wheelers etc.)

  Swimming

  Excellent swimming and beach time fun. Elkwater Lake has a large designated swimming and beach area. The lake is spring fed, clean and very refreshing. The beach is unsupervised, however, and visitors swim at their own risk. No swimming is allowed in either Spruce Coulee or Reesor Lake.

  Water-Skiing

  Water-skiing is a popular water sport on Elkwater Lake. Water-skiers launch from the West-end Day use area. This area is located approximately 1.5 kilometers from the main beach area.