Find it all in Fort Walsh

Fort Walsh in Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park has a wealth of things to see and do

Straddling the southeast corner of Alberta, and the southwest corner of Saskatchewan, you will find Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park. RV campers can tell you that this is a top destination for those seeking outdoor recreation, historical knowledge and family fun.

The south side of this expansive outdoor playground is home to the National Heritage Site of Fort Walsh. This location was once an early North West Mounted Police (NWMP) post, which served as their headquarters between 1878 and 1882. It played an important role in Canada's history, going back to the Battle of Little Bighorn, when Lakota people fled to Canada for sanctuary. It was destroyed in 1886, but the Royal Canadian Mounted Police built a remount station in the mid-20th century, and used the site for breeding and raising horses. During that time, they built 10 log buildings to pay homage to the original fort's architecture. Fort Walsh is now operated by Parks Canada as a historic site, and it is open to the public.

Guests at Fort Walsh can enjoy a selection of programs and tours for one reasonable entrance fee. There is a theatre where films teach viewers about the Cypress Hills massacre of 1873 and other events. Staff dressed in period costume tell stories of Sitting Bull and the Lakota refugees, and audiences of all ages can see a re-enacted NWMP trial, and visit a trading post.

If you're planning your trip ahead, schedule your visit to check out the range of events held here throughout the year, including the RCMP Musical Ride, Trades Day and other festivities.