The Top 10 Hikes in Grasslands National Park

Welcome to my blog post about the Top 10 Hikes in Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan! Are you ready to strap on your hiking boots, grab your water bottle, and get lost in the prairie wilderness of grasslands national park? Well, put down that bag of chips, and let's dive into the world of hiking!

Now, I know what you're thinking: "Grasslands? Hiking? How exciting can that be?" But let me tell you, my friends, that hiking trails in Grasslands National Park is like discovering a hidden treasure chest full of surprises. And I'm not talking about the kind of surprises that make you jump out of your skin (unless you count the occasional prairie dog scurrying across the trail).

Picture this: a vast expanse of grasslands stretching out as far as the eye can see, dotted with hills, valleys, and even badlands. Yes, you heard that right, badlands in Canada! Who knew? But fear not, my fellow hikers, because I'm here to guide you through a few families of the badlands parkway's top 10 hikes in this hidden gem of a national park.

You'll be hiking to the highest point in the national park camping out, Eagle Butte, where you'll have views that will take your breath away (just don't forget to catch your breath on the way up). You'll be exploring the Valley of 1000 Devils, where you'll feel like you're walking on another planet. And you'll even get to hike through a prairie dog colony, where you'll witness the cutest little creatures doing their thing.

Now, I know that hiking can sometimes be a bit of a slog. But fear not, my fellow hikers, because I'm here to provide you with some humour and entertainment along the way. Think of me as your hiking buddy, cracking jokes and keeping the mood light as we navigate the trails together.

So grab your sunscreen, your hat, and your sense of adventure, because we're about to embark on a journey through the Top 10 Hikes in Grasslands National Park! And who knows, maybe we'll even discover a few hidden treasures along the way (just don't forget to leave the gold nuggets where you found them).

1. Valley of 1000 Devils Trail

First things first, let's talk about the name. Why 1000 devils, you ask? Well, it's because this trail takes you through a landscape that's otherworldly in its beauty. It's like hiking through a painting by Salvador Dali, if Salvador Dali was a landscape artist instead of a surrealist.

As you make your way down the trail, you'll start to see the strange and unique formations that give the valley its name. Hoodoos, spires, and canyons that look like they were carved by the hands of some divine artist. Or maybe it was just thousands of years of erosion. Who knows?

But don't let the beauty fool you. This trail is not for the faint of heart. It's a bit of a challenge, with steep inclines and declines that'll make you feel like you're on a rollercoaster. And let's not forget about the occasional loose rock that might make you lose your footing.

But fear not, my brave hikers, because the reward at the end of the trail is worth the effort. You'll reach a viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of the valley below, with its vibrant colours and unusual rock formations. And if you're lucky, you might even spot a herd of plains bison grazing in the distance.

As far west as for the "devils" in the valley, well, we didn't see any. But who knows? Maybe they were just hiding in the shadows, waiting to jump out and scare us. Or maybe they were just taking a nap. Who can blame them? It's hard work being a devil.

So if you're up for a hike that's equal parts beautiful and challenging, then the Valley of 1000 Devils Trail is worth checking out. Just don't forget to bring your sense of adventure (and maybe a few snacks to keep your energy up).

2. Eagle Butte Trail

Ah, the Eagle Butte Trail. It's the highest point in Grasslands National Park's west block, and boy oh boy, does it make you feel like you're on top of the world. Or at least on top of Canada.

As you start your ascent up the trail, you might start to feel a bit winded. And by "a bit", I mean you might feel like you're trying to breathe through a straw. But don't worry, my hiking friends, because the views at both the the east block and west blocks totally the top are worth the effort.

And speaking of views, let's talk about the wildlife you might encounter as far east as on the way up. Prairie dogs are scurrying around, popping up to say hello and then disappearing back into their burrows like whack-a-moles. Bison are grazing in the distance, their shaggy coats blowing in the wind like a rockstar's hair. And if you're really lucky, you might even spot a coyote or a fox darting across the trail.

But back to the hike. As you climb higher and higher, you might start to feel like you're in a stair-stepping competition. But don't worry, my fitness fanatic friends, because the trail eventually levels out a bit. And that's when the real fun begins.

You'll start to see the rock formations that give Eagle Butte its name. They look like giant stone eagles, perched on the edge of the cliffs and staring out at the prairie below. Or at least, that's what I like to imagine they look like.

And then, finally, you'll reach the top. You'll be standing on a rocky outcropping, with nothing but sky and prairie grasslands stretching out in every direction. It's the kind of view that makes you feel like you're in a perfume commercial, spinning around with your arms outstretched and your hair blowing in the wind.

And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even climb up to the highest point of national park, Eagle Butte. It's a bit precarious, but the view is even more incredible. Just don't look down. Seriously, don't look down.

3. Two Trees Trail

As you start your trek down the trail, you might notice the prairie grasses swaying in the breeze like they're trying to hypnotize you. And honestly, they might succeed. This trail is so peaceful and serene that you might feel like you're walking through a meditation app.

But don't let the tranquillity fool you. There are still challenges on this trail. Like the occasional slippery rock or the steep incline that'll make you feel like you're walking up a mountain. Or maybe that's just me and my weak thighs.

But fear not, my hiking buddies, because the trees at both the east block and end of the trail are worth the effort. They're not just any old trees, either. They're cottonwoods, the majestic giants of the prairie. And they're so big and beautiful that you might feel like you're in an enchanted forest. Or at least, that's what I like to tell myself.

And let's not forget about the wildlife you might encounter on this trail. Birds are singing sweetly in the trees, their melodies so lovely that they might make you want to burst into song. Or maybe that's just me and my terrible singing voice. There are also deer grazing in the distance, their big doe eyes staring back at you like they're trying to communicate telepathically.

But the real star of this trail, besides the trees, of course, is the view. As you stand beneath the cottonwoods and look out at the prairie below, you might feel like you're in a painting by Monet. Or maybe just a really good Instagram filter. The colours are so vibrant and the landscape so breathtaking that you might forget all about your sore feet and sweaty clothes.

4. 70 Mile Butte Trail

As you start your journey down the trail, you might notice that it's a bit...flat. Like, flat. But don't worry, my hiking friends, because things are about to get a lot more interesting.

You'll start to see the buttes in the distance, looming like giant mounds of dirt. And as you get closer, you'll realize that they're not just mounds of dirt. They're like sculptures, crafted by some sort of prairie Michelangelo. Or at least, that's what I like to imagine.

And speaking of sculptures, let's talk about the wildlife you might encounter on this trail. Prairie dogs are popping up like little meerkats, their tiny bodies swaying as they stand on their hind legs and survey their surroundings. There are also hawks circling in the sky, their sharp eyes scanning the ground for their next meal. And if you're really lucky, you might even spot a rattlesnake slithering across the trail. But don't worry, they're just as afraid of you as you are of them. Probably.

And then, finally, you'll reach the butte itself. You might feel like you're in a Choose Your Adventure book, trying to decide which path to take to the top. There are so many options, and they all look a bit...treacherous. But fear not, my intrepid explorers, because the view at the top is worth the risk.

As you stand on the summit of the butte, you'll be able to see for miles and miles. It's like standing on top of a giant hill made of Instagram likes. You'll feel like a king or queen of the prairie, surveying your kingdom below. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even pretend like you're Simba in The Lion King and yell "I'm on top of the world!" at the top of your lungs.

5. Battle Creek Trail

The Alley of Battle Creek Trail. It sounds like the kind of place where you'd expect to see Vikings battling it out with swords and shields. And while you might not find any Vikings on this trail, you'll still feel like you're in the midst of a fierce battle. Against the elements, that is.

As you start your hike, you might notice that the wind is blowing like a hair dryer on high. It's like Mother Nature is trying to give you a free blowout. And the sun...well, let's just say that it's hotter than a jalapeño's armpit. But don't worry, my fellow hikers, because things are about to get even more interesting.

You'll start to see the creek in the distance, and you might think to yourself, "Hey, that looks refreshing!" But don't be fooled, my friends. This is no ordinary creek. This rock creek is Battle Creek. And it's like the Hulk of creeks. It's so powerful and wild that you might feel like you're standing at the edge of a waterfall.

And speaking of the wild, let's talk about the wildlife you might encounter on this trail. Snakes are slithering through the grass, their beady eyes watching you like they're sizing you up for dinner. There are also cows grazing in the distance, their big, brown eyes staring at you like you're interrupting their lunch break. And if you're really lucky, you might even spot a coyote running through the prairie like it's auditioning for America's Next Top Model.

But the real battle on this trail is against the terrain itself. There are rocks and boulders and steep inclines that'll make you feel like you're in a game of Mario Kart. And let's not forget about the mud. Oh, the mud. It's like quicksand, but less glamorous. You might feel like you're in a game of "The Floor is Lava", trying to hop from one dry patch to the next without getting swallowed up.

But fear not, my brave adventurers, because the view at the end of the trail is worth the struggle. As you stand at the edge of Battle Creek, looking out at the prairie below, you'll feel like you've won your battle. You'll feel like a warrior, ready to take on whatever nature throws your way. And if you're feeling triumphant, you can even raise your arms in victory and yell "I am the champion!" at the top of your lungs.

6. Broken Hills Trail

The Alley of Broken Hills Trail. It's like a name straight out of a cowboy movie. You can almost hear the sound of spurs jingling as you step onto the dusty path. But don't be fooled, my friend, this trail is not for the faint of heart.

You'll notice the rugged landscape surrounding you. It's like you've stepped onto the set of a post-apocalyptic movie, except instead of zombies, you'll find rattlesnakes and prairie dogs. But fear not, because the real challenge on this trail is the hills. Oh, the hills. They're like a rollercoaster on steroids. You'll be huffing and puffing as you climb up the steep inclines, wondering if this is what climbing Mount Everest feels like. And just when you think you've conquered the last hill, another one appears, mocking you like a schoolyard bully.

But the real kicker is the broken terrain. It's like you're hiking on a giant game of Jenga, trying to navigate your way through the precarious towers of rocks and boulders. One false step and you'll be tumbling down like a human domino. It's like Mother Nature is testing your agility and balance, saying "Are you sure you're ready for this?"

But don't worry, my friend, because the view at the end of the trail is worth all the sweat and tears (and maybe a few scraped knees). As you stand at the top of the highest hill, looking out at the vast prairie below, you'll feel like you've conquered the Wild West. You'll feel like John Wayne, ready to take on any challenge that comes your way. And if you're feeling particularly bold, you can even shout "Yeehaw!" at the top of your lungs, just to let the prairie dogs know who's boss.

But before you saddle up and hit the trail, a word of caution: this trail is not for the faint of heart. It's like a battle against the terrain, with rocks and hills and broken ground at every turn. So if you're up for the challenge, then grab your boots and hat and get ready for a wild ride on the Alley of Broken Hills Trail. And remember, when in doubt, just keep climbing (and maybe pack some extra water and a first aid kit).

7. Prairie Dog Town Trail

Welcome to the Alley of Prairie Dog Town Trail, where the critters are cute but the trail is anything but tame. You'll start with a smile on your face as you walk past the adorable little prairie dog towns and homes, but don't let their cuteness fool you. These furry little creatures are like the tiny overlords of the trail, watching your every move with beady little eyes, plotting their next move.

The grasses tower over you like skyscrapers, and even the bugs look bigger than you. But that's just the beginning. The real challenge on this trail is the sand. Oh, the sand. It's like walking on a never-ending beach, except instead of a refreshing ocean breeze, you get a face full of dust. It's like Mother Nature decided to dump an entire sandbox on this trail just to test your fortitude.

And if that's not enough, the trail also has its fair share of surprise obstacles. You'll be walking along, admiring the cute little prairie dogs, when suddenly you'll hear a hissing sound. Is it a snake? A giant bug? No, it's just a grasshopper trying to scare you off its territory. And just when you think you've seen it all, a tumbleweed the size of a small car will come rolling towards you like a scene from a cartoon.

But don't let the challenges deter you, my friend. Because the view at the end of the trail is worth all the sand and surprises. As you reach the end rock creek trail, you'll see a panoramic view of the vast prairie stretching out before you, with the cute little prairie dog homes dotting the landscape like tiny castles. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a coyote or a deer in the distance.

8. Killdeer Badlands Trail

You'll start on a high note as you stroll through the picturesque prairie, taking in the stunning views of the hills and valleys. But as you reach the first badland, you'll start to realize that this trail is like a game of Chutes and Ladders, with every step taking you up or down, never on a flat surface.

And that's just the beginning. The real challenge on this trail is the sand. Oh, the sand. It's like walking on quicksand, with every step feeling like you're sinking deeper and deeper into the abyss. It's like Mother Nature decided to give you a leg workout, just for fun.

But the real kicker is the badlands themselves. They're like a twisted, sculpted version of the Grand Canyon, with jagged edges and steep drops waiting to trip you up at every turn. It's like Mother Nature got bored and decided to play a game of Jenga with the terrain. And if you're not careful, you'll be the one tumbling down like a stack of blocks.

But don't worry, my friend, because the view at the end of the trail is worth all the sand and slip-ups. As you stand at the top of the highest badland, looking out at the stunning, flat prairie landscapes below, you'll feel like you're on top of the world. You'll feel like you could conquer any challenge that comes your way, even if it involves sand and bad puns.

9. Rock Creek Trail

As you begin your journey along the banks of Rock Creek, you'll feel like you've stumbled upon a secret paradise. The lush greenery and crystal-clear water will have you feeling like you're in a scene from a movie but don't get too comfortable.

The trail is like a rollercoaster, with steep inclines and sudden drops that will leave your stomach in your throat. It's like Mother Nature decided to combine a hike with an amusement park ride.

And just when you think you've gotten the hang of it, the trail throws you a curveball. You'll be walking along, enjoying the peace, when suddenly you'll hear a loud splash. Is it a giant fish? A beaver? Nope, it's just your hiking buddy falling in the creek.

But don't worry, my friend, because the real challenge on this trail is the rocks. Oh, the rocks. They're like a minefield, waiting to trip you up at every turn. It's like Mother Nature decided to give you a little test of your balance and agility. And if you're not careful, you'll be doing the splits like a gymnast in training.

But the view at the end of the trail is worth all the rock-hopping and near misses. As you reach the end of the trail, you'll be rewarded with a stunning waterfall, cascading down the rocks like a work of art. It's like Mother Nature decided to save the best for last, just to remind you that even though the trail may be challenging, the reward is worth the journey.

10. Frenchman Valley Trail

As you set out on your journey, you'll feel like you've been transported to the French countryside, with fields of wildflowers and rolling hills that look like something straight out of a Monet painting. But don't let the tranquil scenery fool you, because this trail has some surprises in store such as the Frenchman river.

But the real challenge on this trail is the hills. Oh, the hills. They're like a never-ending rollercoaster, with steep inclines and switchbacks that will leave you gasping for air. It's like Mother Nature decided to turn the Frenchman Valley Campground and countryside into her own personal StairMaster.

And just when you think you've reached the summit, the trail throws you another curveball. You'll be walking along, enjoying the stunning vistas, when suddenly you'll hear a loud rumble. Is it an earthquake? A stampede? Nope, it's just your stomach growling, reminding you that you forgot to pack snacks.

But don't worry, my friend, because the view at the end of the trail is worth all the hills and stomach grumbles. As you stand atop the highest point on the trail, looking out at the breathtaking Frenchman Valley below, you'll feel like you're on top of the world. It's like Mother Nature decided to reward you for all your hard work, just to remind you that the journey is just as important as the destination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I can say with complete confidence that Grasslands National Park is truly a natural wonderland. With its vast and diverse landscape and hiking trails, it's no wonder that it has become a favourite destination for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers from around the world.

Whether you're an experienced hiker looking for a challenging climb or a beginner wanting to take in the scenery at a leisurely pace, there's a trail here that's perfect for you. The variety of hikes is truly remarkable, from the rugged and rocky terrain of the Alley of Two Trees Trail to the serene beauty of Broken Hills Trail.

But what sets Grasslands National Park apart from other national parks is its quirky and fascinating wildlife. Prairie dogs, bison, coyotes, and eagles are just a few of the creatures you may encounter on your journey while visiting grasslands national park. And let's be honest, who doesn't want to see a bison up close? Just make sure to keep a safe distance - they may look cute and cuddly, but they're wild animals after all.

So, pack your sense of adventure, your camera, and your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the best of what Grasslands National Park has to offer. The top 10 hikes are calling your name, and they're ready to take you on a journey you'll never forget. Just don't forget the bug spray and sunscreen, or you may come back looking like a tomato with wings.