Safety and guidelines

Fort Walsh National Historic Site

FIRE BAN - Effective July 26, 2024

Fire ban - Effective July 26, 2024 - The entirety of Fort Walsh and Cypress Hills Massacre National Historic Sites.

Use of drones

Use of drones at Parks Canada places

Visitor guidelines

Learn more about visitor guidelines in Fort Walsh National Historic Site

We rarely head out for an outdoor adventure with the expectation that something will go wrong, and most times everything will go right. However, sometimes the unexpected happens and when it does, it’s important that you are well informed and well prepared to minimise the negative impact of unfortunate circumstances.

For general information on how to stay safe when enjoying the outdoors visit adventuresmart.ca

For important information about staying safe while enjoying Fort Walsh National Historic Site please explore the topics below:

Weather

As a result of the high altitude of the Cypress Hills, weather may vary drastically from the surrounding lower elevation areas. Due to the unpredictability of the weather, we ask that you come prepared with clothing suitable for all weather conditions (hat, rain gear, all-terrain footwear), as well as bug spray, sun screen and a bottle of potable water. For information and weather details visit https://weather.gc.ca

Please ask at the Visitor Centre about trail conditions during and following a rainy period.

Wildlife

At Fort Walsh you can hear and see a variety of birds and wildlife such as deer, moose and elk. Give wildlife their space and respect. Do not approach or feed.

On occasion cougar sightings have been reported in the Cypress Hills area. For more information on cougars please visit adventuresmart.ca

You may also see horses grazing on the site. Although the horses are tame, please refrain from approaching them as their behaviour may be unpredictable.

Ticks

Ticks are found in tall grassy areas or wooded areas and drop from leaves or blades of grass onto animals and humans. They are tiny, brownish/red in colour and looks like a little beetle. They bite through the skin and attach themselves. Infection from ticks may be harmful.

Prevention:

  • Wear long sleeve shirts and pants. If wearing shorts and short-sleeve shirts check for ticks periodically.
  • Some insect repellents are labelled to repel ticks, however, it is not known how effective this is.
  • Keep out of tall grass and be aware when walking the trails.
  • Don't forget to check your pets. Ticks don't always attach themselves right away and could very easily jump from your pet to you or other members of your group.

Related Links

Fire Hazard

Fire is a primary concern at Fort Walsh National Historic Site, as it is for the adjacent Provincial Parks and local ranchers. Please observe all fire hazard postings and the smoking ban on the historic grounds.

Smoking is permitted in designated areas only and please insure all cigarettes are fully extinguished in the outdoor ashtrays provided.

Although camping and open fires are not permitted within the boundaries of Fort Walsh National Historic Site, camping amenities with outdoor cooking facilities are available as close as the West Block Ranger Station in Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.

Safety is everyone’s responsibility

At Parks Canada, we do our part to make sure you can have a safe visit by assessing the risks, managing hazards, and making sure that safety information is freely available to everyone. You can do your part as visitors by making sure you seek out the information you need to stay safe and make well informed decisions while enjoying these special places. Visit our websites and stop at a visitor center to speak with our employees for the most up to date information. Make sure you are fully prepared for whatever activities you choose to participate in so you can have a safe, enjoyable and memorable visit.

Emergency Services
RCMP and fire: 9-1-1
Fort Walsh Visitor Centre: 306-662-3590
Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park (SK) Park Office: 306-662-5411
Cell coverage is limited

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