Grasslands National Park is one of Canada’s hidden gems, offering two distinct sections to explore: the rugged badlands of the East Block and the rolling grasslands of the West Block. Whether you’re searching for solitude, stunning landscapes, or up-close encounters with wildlife like bison and prairie dogs, Grasslands has it all. With careful planning, you can immerse yourself in this remote and awe-inspiring prairie ecosystem, discovering its quiet beauty and rich history.
Here is my Grasslands National Park guide! The park is divided into two sections, the East Block and the West Block. While it’s tempting to visit both in one day, the two blocks are about a two-hour drive apart. If you’re aiming to explore the unique features of each, it’s best to plan for separate days.
As one of Canada’s least visited national parks, Grasslands offers a rare opportunity for solitude and immersion in untouched prairie landscapes. Whether you’re drawn by the park’s dramatic badlands, unique wildlife, or vast grasslands, Grasslands National Park promises a truly unique and rugged adventure.
Planning Required
Before heading to the park, use this Grasslands National Park guide to ensure you’re prepared for the remote location and limited services.
Gas
Small towns surrounding the park operate on limited hours, especially on weekends, and many gas stations use a cardlock system. This system requires a specific card, often not compatible with regular credit or debit cards. While a few stations may accept regular cards during business hours, these hours often don’t include weekends or evenings. So plan to fuel up in advance!
Locals told me, “If you run out of gas, head to a nearby farm, and they might help you out.” However, it’s better to avoid this situation with some forward planning. Services around the East Block are more scarce than in the West Block, so I recommend filling up at the last gas station on your route to the East Block and again before you head to the West Block.
Groceries
Stocking up on groceries before your trip is also crucial. The extreme temperatures and remote nature of the park mean food and water availability are limited. Park staff shared stories with me of visitors suffering from heatstroke due to dehydration and a lack of electrolytes. Ice is available at campground offices, so you can keep your food cool, but make sure you’re well-prepared with enough supplies to last your trip. Water is available at the campgrounds between mid May and the end of September. It is potable, unless there is a boil water advisory, watch for posted signs). Otherwise water in the park is scarce, and if found will be too salty to drink! So be sure to check if you will need to pack in water.
THe East Block
For those exploring the East Block, this Grasslands National Park guide highlights the must-see trails, including the Valley of 1000 Devils, where you can experience the unique blend of grasslands and badlands. Here, you’ll find a striking blend of rolling grasslands and dramatic badlands, making it a landscape like no other in Canada. The East Block is known for its rich geological history, with exposed layers of rock revealing fossils from millions of years ago. If you’re seeking solitude and a chance to connect with the park’s raw natural beauty, the East Block is the perfect destination.
Hiking in the East Block
Valley of 1000 Devils Trail
The Valley of 1000 Devils trail offers a unique opportunity to explore both the grasslands and badlands ecosystems in Grasslands National Park.
- Distance: 10 km loop
- Time: 3-4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
This trail has recently been updated, making for a more leisurely and meandering walk through the prairie grasslands. It provides plenty of time to absorb your surroundings before reaching the dramatic badlands. As you hike, keep an eye out for Pronghorn Antelope—I was lucky enough to spot one after seeing its tracks along the trail!
Upon reaching the valley, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of the badlands, which are truly a sight to behold.
Important: This trail has high sun exposure with essentially no shady areas, so it’s recommended to start your hike early in the morning to avoid the intense midday sun. Be sure to carry plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout your hike.
If you’re experienced in off-trail hiking and equipped with reliable navigation, you are allowed to “random hike” throughout the park. While wandering, be respectful of the fragile ground cover and stay alert for fossils—they’re often found here!
- Fossil Discovery Protocol: Should you stumble upon a fossil, do not touch or move it. Take photos, record the location with GPS coordinates, and report it to park staff at the visitor center. If it’s a new discovery, they might even name it after you!
Note: If you think you spot bison in the distance while hiking in the East Block, think again! They’re most likely cows.
West Block Adventures
The West Block is home to vast, traditional prairie grasslands and the park’s iconic bison population, offering a quintessential Canadian prairie experience. With its rolling plains and open skies, this section of the park is ideal for wildlife viewing, including the park’s well-known prairie dog colonies—a lively contrast to the ground squirrels and gophers commonly seen in the East Block. Whether you’re on foot or driving the scenic Ecotour, the West Block provides a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation amid the park’s stunning landscapes.
Timbergulch Trail
For those looking for a more challenging adventure, the Timbergulch Trail offers a rugged and rewarding experience through diverse prairie landscapes.
- Trailhead: Ecotour pull-off #3
- Distance: 15 km loop
- Time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Difficult
This longer, more demanding trail takes you through three prominent coulee bottoms that were shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago. These coulees have become a prime habitat for bison, so don’t be surprised if you encounter these majestic animals lingering along the trail. Maintain 100m distance from bison (length of a football field). To maintain a safe distance from the bison you can use the thumb trick: if your thumb can cover the width of a bison at arm’s length, you’re far enough away.
The Timbergulch Trail showcases some of the most dramatic and untouched prairie scenery in the West Block, making it well worth the effort for experienced hikers.
Top Dogtown Trail
If you’re looking for an easy, quick stroll with great wildlife-viewing opportunities, the Top Dogtown Trail is perfect for you.
- Trailhead: Ecotour pull-off #2
- Distance: 750 m loop
- Time: 20 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
This short loop trail is hard-surfaced and level, making it accessible for most visitors. As you walk, listen for the distinctive bark of Black-tailed Prairie Dogs – a rare and exciting sight in Canada! These prairie dogs are incredibly social and will alert their colony to your approach with their sharp calls. The Top Dogtown Trail takes you through one of the park’s active prairie dog colonies, giving you an up-close look at these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
With the trail being so short, it’s a great add-on to any visit, whether you’re stopping for a break from driving the West Block or tacking it on after a longer hike.
Driving the Ecotour Scenic Drive
One of the best ways to explore the West Block of Grasslands National Park is by taking the Ecotour Scenic Drive. This self-guided route offers a fantastic way to experience the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife from the comfort of your vehicle.
- Distance: 20 km round-trip loop (approximately 80 km round-trip to Val Marie)
- Time: 1-3 hours (depends how much you want to stop)
- Difficulty: Easy (Driving)
Along the Ecotour, you’ll pass several key stops, including trailheads for hikes like the Top Dogtown Trail and Timbergulch Trail. The route is well-marked with interpretive signs that provide insight into the natural and cultural history of the park. Keep your eyes peeled for bison, pronghorn antelope, and the black-tailed prairie dogs that call this landscape home. Maintain 100m distance from bison (length of a football field).
There are several pull-offs where you can stop, stretch your legs, and take in panoramic views of the grasslands. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of burrowing owls or ferruginous hawks soaring above the plains.
Whether you’re planning to hike one of the trails or simply enjoy the drive, the Ecotour offers a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the West Block.
East vs. West Block Comparison
In this Grasslands National Park guide, we’ve broken down the differences between the East and West Blocks to help you decide which to explore.
| Feature | East Block | West Block |
|---|---|---|
| Bison | No bison. If you see something large, it’s likely a cow. | Bison roam freely (400-500 plains bison). |
| Landscapes | Dramatic badlands combined with native grasslands. | Expansive native prairie grasslands. |
| Wildlife | Pronghorn antelope, mule deer, ground squirrels, and fossils. | Bison, prairie dogs, pronghorn antelope, burrowing owls, and hawks. |
| Prairie Dog Colonies | No prairie dogs, just ground squirrels. | Active prairie dog colonies, easily visible. |
| Accessibility | More remote, fewer services (limited gas, no nearby grocery stores). | Easier access to services, more developed visitor infrastructure. Still remote and requires planning. |
| Scenic Drives | Badlands Parkway Drive (scenic 11 km drive with stunning views of the badlands). | Ecotour Scenic Drive (20 km with interpretive stops). |
| Camping | Front-country – Rock Creek Campground. Backcountry camping available. 8 oTENTik units. | Front-country: Frenchman Valley Campground. Backcountry camping available. 4 oTENTik units. |
Final Thoughts
With this Grasslands National Park guide, you’ll be fully prepared to enjoy the beauty and adventure that the park has to offer. Grasslands National Park offers a uniquely remote and rugged experience, where both the East and West Blocks have their own charm. With proper planning, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in this beautiful Canadian landscape while staying safe and well-prepared. If you have time I highly suggest spending two nights in each block like I did. However, if you only have time for one of the two parks I would suggest the East block if you are looking for stunning landscapes, and the West block if you are hoping for unique wildlife sightings! If this is one stop on your drive across Canada be sure to check out my other posts for more tips and can’t miss stops.
