Categories: Travel

There’s a provincial park in Alberta with over 3,000 years of history

Photo via Todamo/Shutterstock

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park in Alberta is a UNESCO World Heritage site within the province. The rock formations and sweeping views are reason enough to visit, but there’s something even more special waiting for those who explore.

“Writing-on-Stone/Áísínai’pi is a sacred site in a mixed grassland prairie region on the northern edge of the Great Plains,” according to Parks Canada.

“The Blackfoot people Nation (Siksikáítsitapi) has left engravings and paintings on the sandstone walls of the Milk River Valley, which bear witness to spirit messages. The landscape is considered to be sacred by the Blackfoot people, and centuries-old traditions are perpetuated today in various ceremonies and in the respect in which the place is held.”

Today, this rural community is sustained by ranching and farming. Featuring carvings that date back over 3,000 years, this particular park continues to be a popular place for traditional ceremonies, vision quests, and prayer, so while it’s worth a walk-through, it’s important to be respectful.

What to see in Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Located three and a half hours southeast of Calgary, Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is a place unlike any other. Beloved for its stunning views, unique rock formations, and towering hoodoos, it’s a great spot for hiking, camping, or swimming in the summer months. But that’s not all.

Writing-on-Stone is a place of deep cultural significance. As the name suggests, it’s home to a collection of important pictographs detailing the day-to-day activities, battles, and journeys of Indigenous Peoples.

There are hiking tours you can take to further learn more about the spot, not to mention view some of the Indigenous markings that have been there for decades.

You can also pick from three trails to explore, ranging in length for those who might want a shorter walk or those looking to take in everything they can. The Matapiiksi (Hoodoo) Trail is the longest trail, sitting at 2.5 kilometres one-way.

Things to know ahead of time

If you decide to explore the Matapiiksi (Hoodoo) Trail, note that it’s not stroller-friendly and can get pretty warm in the summer. There also isn’t a lot of shade. Parks Alberta recommends bringing a hat and water, and staying on the designated paths.

It’s also important to remember that Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park is a heritage site, so please be respectful when you visit. Please stick to the paths and do not write, carve, or leave any other marks on the rocks.

You’re going to love this little taste of history.