Events & Festivals
Medicine Hat Stampede Week
An annual tradition since 1887.
An annual tradition since 1887.
For over 130 years, the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede has been a community gathering place. The family-friendly, four-day event that originated in 1887. It’s a celebration of western culture and heritage with exciting rodeos, a pop-up amusement park, and a range of ticket-entry and free entertainment.
Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede continues to bring urban and rural communities together near the end of July, for thousands of people to enjoy their summer days and be entertained for as long as their hearts desire.
A day for the kids is planned, where they can enjoy hotdogs, popsicles, face painting, and bouncy castles. Games for different age groups are planned, like watermelon eating contests and scavenger hunts. This day is dedicated to bringing all the fun to your children during the Stampede.
The night shows are held at the Grandstand on the Stampede Grounds. Well-known bands perform their most popular and loved tunes, while community members and visitors live in the moment and dance to the live music underneath the stars. Continue making more memories to look back on into the evening after you’ve spent the day out in the sunshine. NIGHT SHOW TICKETS AT MHSTAMPEDE.COM
This is the heart of the Stampede. You’ll watch athletes participate in chuck wagons, bareback riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, saddle bronc riding, team roping, barrel racing, bull riding, steer roping, and more. This action packed rodeo will have your eyes wide open waiting for the next move.
There are several venue spaces on the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede land, one of which hosts rodeos from April to July. The Broncs & Honky Tonks Rodeo features Canadian Professional Rodeo and Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association contestants. It’s a popular event where people enjoy watching all rodeo-related activities. Be sure to check the Stampede’s events calendar for upcoming rodeo events.
Explore Medicine Hat’s Indigenous history with this self-guided tour, made by The Miywasin Friendship Centre and partners.
Police Point Park offered sheltered camping with an abundance of firewood available for First Nations, and it was a safe crossing place for the South Saskatchewan River. The chokecherry bushes and buffalo berries were harvested by First Nations for many years. During winter, an ice-free section of the river was referred to as a breathing hole for the water spirits, and the distinctive cottonwood trees had ceremonial uses. Anecdotal sources said Police Point Park was also used historically as a location for tree burials.
The Old Man Buffalo Stone, made by stone sculpture artist Stewart Steinhauer, was inspired by the Manitou Stone. This two-sided sculpture was crafted to be a guardian watching over the buffalo herds.
Explore the area: Police Point Park has an abundance of paved trails that bring beautiful views of the cliffs and South Saskatchewan River. Visit the Nature Centre to learn more about Indigenous history, the ecosystem, and wildlife in the park.
Located in the valley of Seven Persons Creek, this area was once used as a late winter, early spring buffalo meat processing site by early First Nations. The site dates back thousands of years, and archaeologists believe there are over 83 million artifacts buried in the valley. Visitors are reminded that no digging for artifacts is permitted at the Provincial Historic Site.
Explore the area: Follow the paved trail to stroll the natural area, and then head towards the Saamis Tepee — the World’s Tallest Tepee — to see the site from a bird’s eye view.
This space was a Métis community until the mid-2000s. It was designated a Historic Designation in 2020, and a plaque was unveiled in 2021 that shares more information about the space and photos.
Explore the area: Follow the paved trail to the plaque and where the Métis community was once located. Continue on to see cliff-side views. You can also paddle Seven Persons Creek that runs through the park. Find page xx for more details.
Located along the South Saskatchewan River, Strathcona Island Park was home to First Nations and Métis. The remains of some Métis homesteads are on the south side of the spray park and camp kitchen, although obscured now by time and foliage.
Explore the area: Strathcona Island Park also features a waterpark, playground, boat launch, paved trails, and picnic areas.
Thousands of Indigenous peoples have served in the Canadian Military, including all of the conflicts presented on Medicine Hat’s Cenotaph.
In some cases many members of the same family went overseas to serve, sacrificing much. Four Bliss brothers; Pat, Joe, Bill, and Tassie, served in the trenches of the First World War. Tassie was injured, having his forearm amputated, and Bill struggled in his return to civilian life. Bill enlisted in 1915 at the age of 19 with the third CMR. Bill was wounded at Ypres in 1916 by shell in the trenches. He contracted influenza in 1917 and was discharged in 1919 at the age of 23.
Explore the area: This park is located in Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown. Nearby is the Miywasin Friendship Centre, where gatherings are often hosted to the public like drum circles and bannock & tea.
Medicine Hat inherited its name from the Blackfoot word “Saamis” which is loosely translated as “medicine man’s hat.”
Several legends tell this story, one of which is beautifully depicted in a sculptured brick mural at City Hall. The legend tells of a winter with great famine and hardship for the Blackfoot nation. The elders of the Council chose a young man to save his tribe from starvation.
After many arduous days he made his way to the “breathing hole”, an opening in the ice of the South Saskatchewan River believed to be the place of the Great Spirit. The young hunter made camp and summoned the spirits who appeared in the form of a serpent.
The Great Spirit told the man to spend the night on the small island (Strathcona Island Park) and “in the morning when the sun lights the cut-banks, go to the base of the great cliffs and there you will find a bag containing medicines and a Saamis (holy bohnet)”. The hat, he was told, was to be worn only in war, and would ensure victory to the wearer.
Aided by the magic of his Saamis, the young hunter located the much-needed game, saved his people, and eventually became a great Medicine Man.
Thus, the first “medicine hat”; a symbol of leadership, prowess, and mysticism on the western plains, came into existence. The city which was destined to perpetuate with its name was founded at the location of the ancient legend.
In 1883, the Canadian Pacific Railway stopped to build a train bridge across the South Saskatchewan River. With the construction, a tent town was born taking the name from the numerous legends. A nearby hill was marked by the name Medicine Hat on a map of the Department of Interior the same year. In the CPR’s search for water, their drills accidentally struck natural gas west of town, heralding the exploration that mapped out one of the largest gas fields in North America, providing Medicine Hat with its moniker “The Gas City”.
Canoe, kayak, boat, or float the waterways in Medicine Hat.
Blue skies, a shining sun, and the feeling of the fresh river breeze while floating the South Saskatchewan River is how a day that ends in ‘y’ can be spent. Echo Dale Regional Park, surrounded by huge coulees, is a captivating start to this experiential river float.
Once you slide your boat onto the riverbend and spring to land on the top, a glance to the right can bring a handful of dogs running, walking, and sniffing the green shrubbery. As they enjoy their daily escapade, you’ll begin yours.
Minutes will melt away as you tan underneath the warm sun and visit with those who’ve joined this adventure. Cold water has never felt so refreshing and fresh air so soothing. Laughter fills the space as you notice friendly wildlife flying above and wandering the river banks throughout the day.
The shimmer of City Hall, and the glow of historic brick buildings pull you towards the downtown core. You’ll float underneath Medicine Hat’s Finlay Bridge, built in 1908, and the Railway Bridge, built in 1883.
As you near the end, and after you’ve taken all the photos your camera roll can handle, Strathcona Island Park welcomes you with fire pits and picnic tables to roast your hotdogs, hamburgers, buns, and marshmallows to end your day with good food, good people, and good memories to look back on.
Desert Blume (Heron Crt. SE) to Kin Coulee Park — best for beginners.
For a wild and adventurous day on the waterway, Seven Persons Creek is the place to be. Throughout an approximate three hour paddle, you may cross paths with deer, beavers, moose, blue herons, ducklings, and geese, while surrounded by large coulees and refreshing natural sights. Completely immersed in the quiet space, with only the neighbouring sounds of nature, this in-city creek isn’t far to find. Paddle the rapids and go with the flow on the winding streamline.
Desert Blume to South Saskatchewan River — best for experienced paddlers.
Paddle among the reeds, rapids, and culverts on the narrow and quick waterway. Ducks and geese may fly as you arrive at their floating spot, and kingfishers might happily hop ahead of you to lead the way. Deer, muskrats, and beavers are other wild creatures that have been seen while paddling this creek. Tall bluffs will tower over you, followed by a canopy of trees. There are many hop-off points once you reach the South Saskatchewan River, where you can join hundreds of seagulls and a few fishing blue herons living a life we often don’t think about in Police Point Park. If this is the paddle for you, make sure to scout the route beforehand — water level is always changing, and there is a short portage you need to be ready for.
“Paddling Seven Persons Creek is wild, adventurous, and you get such an adrenaline rush. Whereas, the South Saskatchewan River is very relaxing and calm. With both, you travel through the coulees and see so much wildlife. The two waterways are like no other; it’s honestly so stunning.” - Teresa Humphries, Medicine Hat local.
Outdoor Xcape Rentals
Floating Island, Stand-Up Paddle Board, Single Person Kayak, Two Person Tandem Kayak. Book online at outdoorxcaperentals.ca.
Yoga You4ia Paddle
Owner of Yoga You4ia Salli Siewert offers stand up paddle board rentals and private paddle board yoga classes. Beautiful outdoor locations include Echo Dale Regional Park, Rattlesnake Lake, and Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park. Groups of up to 12 people can rent both the paddle boards or a private paddle board yoga class.
To book, call or text: 587.289.3500.
“An activity like this brings people fully into the moment, connecting movement, water, and nature in a fun and empowering way. It’s less about perfection and more about balance, presence, and enjoying the experience.”
watch the South Saskatchewan River reel here
Join the free summer event Great Big Paddle
Discover the Medicine Hat mountain biking scene.
"The Medicine Hat region at first impression seems like a flat desert grassland, what could it offer in terms of fun and exciting riding? The reality is that here lies a mountain bike oasis when you look a little closer.
With the South Saskatchewan river cutting a deep valley through the region it created a blank canvas for trails to be developed. Then to the east of the city lies Cypress Hills Provincial Park only a short 65km drive away. Rising up in a striking fashion the provincial park is home to steep hills and thick forest.
From the steep coulee banks of the river to the forest trails of the park, locals have been busy cultivating a network of trails in this section of the Canadian Badlands region. I have had a chance in the past to get a quick feel for the riding in these two zones. Although on those visits I never got a chance to experience a fun full day in Medicine Hat mountain biking for myself."
Cross country skiing, snowshoeing, tobogganing, skating, crokicurl, and disc golf.
Police Point Park and Elkwater in the Cypress Hills are your winter cross-country ski spots. Cypress Hills offers rentals, while Police Point Park is not offering them at the moment.
Connect with the Nordic Ski Club for lessons
Follow the many natural and forested trails through Elkwater in the Cypress Hills for a snowshoe adventure. Find trails in Medicine Hat at Police Point Park.
Kin Coulee Park is a community favourite. The hill is lit up into the evening and always perfect on a snow day. Elkwater in the Cypress Hills builds a snow luge each year.
Find many community indoor and outdoor rinks around Medicine Hat. Check out Kiwanis Central Park for a small skating rink amongst 100+ year old Cottonwood trees.
Reach out to the Cypress Hills Visitor Centre for skate loop updates
All the things you need to play crokicurl are in Strathcona Island Park. Head out for a round or two for winter fun.
On a milder winter day, find five great courses in Medicine Hat, at Kiwanis Central Park, Leinweber Park, Gilwell Park, Kin Coulee Park, and Medicine Hat College Campus.
Hidden Valley Ski Resort is a winter wonderland snug in the prairies, approximately 45 minutes outside of Medicine Hat in Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park. With tall, snow-kissed lodgepole pine and aspen trees and rolling hills that act as mini mountains, this oasis is a must-see in the winter.
Ice fish at three locations in Cypress Hills, Elkwater Lake (pike and perch), Reesor Lake (rainbow trout), and Spruce Coulee Reservoir (brook trout). Please check the thickness of the ice before fishing to ensure safe play.
Camp in the winter with campgrounds and backcountry huts in Elkwater and Spruce Coulee. The sites are reservations only. Call ahead to book and to check road conditions for access.
Experience a good, old-fashioned family Christmas tradition by cutting down your own tree from December 1-24. Permits are required and available at albertaparks.ca. Call Cypress Hills Visitor Centre with any questions or need for additional information.
| Photos by The Connection/Our Village Creative
Make Medicine Hat your basecamp to outdoor experiences.
Sleep under the stars with campgrounds, cabins, and RV parks a short drive from the city. Whether it be rustic backcountry or comfort camping, Southern Alberta offers beautiful scenery, relaxing spaces, and full day adventures.
Wake up to the morning sunshine and bird song in this beautiful tree-filled setting. There are 12 secluded campgrounds spread across the Alberta side of Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park that allow you to enjoy the rolling hills and calm outdoors, with options for full hook-ups or completely disconnected.
Book a campsite in Elkwater, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park
Experience the peaceful atmosphere inside this regional park that’s surrounded by the familiar Southeast Alberta coulees. There are 10 unserviced campsites located near family activities.
Book a campsite in Echo Dale Regional Park
Perched high above the South Saskatchewan River, just minutes by foot from one of the best views of Medicine Hat’s river valley, is Gas City Campground. It is also the starting point for a path that tracks the bench above the South Saskatchewan River to Echo Dale Regional Park, an approximately two-hour bike ride for any family looking to spend a day together. Check out the newly-installed cabins if you’re looking for a comfy, indoor experience.
Book a campsite at Gas City Campground
40 Mile Park is set along a reservoir and has become one of Southern Alberta’s most popular boating, fishing, and RVing spots. The sites are big, the boat launch can handle dozens of vehicles, and the reservoir is big enough for everyone to get on the water.
Book a campsite at 40 Mile Park
The South Saskatchewan River valley at Sandy Point Park is the Canadian Badlands at its finest. You approach it after 100-kilometres of rolling Alberta prairie, which is hypnotic and remarkable in its own right. As you descend into the valley, you’ll see the riverbank is a little campground — a great place to spend the night.
Book a campsite at Sandy Point Park
For those looking for peace and quiet at what feels like their own private fishing hole, Cavan Lake is the place to be. Ideal for the fisherman or anyone looking to set up camp and relax, you can choose from large sites in a well-treed loop surrounding a playground and open park.
Book a campsite at Cavan Lake Recreational Campground
A remarkable setting for a stress-free stay, Redcliff Municipal Campground is two blocks from the town’s downtown, offering the opportunity to restock supplies. For convenience and price, few places can compete with this campground.
Book a campsite at Redcliff Municipal Campground
Check out the other three campgrounds in the city. Cottonwood Coulee Golf Course & Campground, Ross Creek RV Park, and Wildrose Campground.
The Cypress Hills gently rise 600 metres above the surrounding prairie landscape of Southeastern Alberta, making it the highest point between Newfoundland & Labrador and the Canadian Rockies.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or with friends and family, find which spots are perfect for you.
When on the trails, make sure to bring plenty of water, bug spray, and bear spray (there are no bears in the area but carrying bear spray is a good hiking practice).
Lakeview Trail
Bringing a complete view of Elkwater Lake, this flat pathway is paved and is the only wheelchair friendly trail in Elkwater, Alberta.
Firerock Trails
Near Firerock Campground, these family-friendly trails are encompassed in the forested rolling hills.
Horseshoe Canyon Trail
A slightly more adventurous trail with an incline to the viewpoint, this hike is approximately 2-3 hours with a family.
“The trail system never ends here. It’s a looped system, so you can hike as many trails as you’d like during one trip. You can start simple on the trails, and gradually get more and more difficult, while still being very close to the town site.” - Mike Ractliffe, Medicine Hat local.
Spruce Coulee Trail System
Going from Reesor Lake Viewpoint to Battle Creek Campground, this trail is about 25-kilometres one way.
Mystery Trail
A longer trail with more of an incline, this hike is close to the townsite.
Beaver Creek
Reach the viewpoint at the top, and then loop down on Horseshoe Canyon Trail, or another trail that connects downwards.
Spring Creek
A nice trail system that includes equestrian riding.
“While hiking, mountain biking, or equestrian riding, the biggest thing you’re going to find is the diversity of terrain. It feels like you’re in a mountain environment. You’d never know you’re in the middle of the prairies.” - Mike Ractliffe, Medicine Hat local.
Spruce Coulee Campground (walk in tenting only site)
Cypress Hills is one of those places where, because of the environment and climate and diversity in the campgrounds, trails, and wildlife, it’s the perfect place to develop your camping skills and enjoy time spent with friends and family.
“You can find walk-in tent sites, which are next to a lake with minimal cell service. They’re nice, quiet, and secluded. A complete escapism. And then there’s the sharing with friends and family-style, full-service campgrounds, with playgrounds, amenities, and washrooms.” - Mike Ractliffe, Medicine Hat local.
Find more specific information and book your campsite here.
Elkwater Lake
Elkwater Lake brings beautiful views of the rolling hills and open sky. It is located on the beach, where paddlers can float and swim the body of water. It’s an easy spot to hop off when you’re hungry, and hop back on when you’re ready for more. Swirls Ice Cream is located on a beach for a nice, cold sweet treat.
There are motorized boats who also use the lake, so be sure to wear a bright lifejacket and always sit up on your paddle board to increase visibility.
Elkwater is a busier space, used for beach lounging, swimming, boating, and paddling.
Spruce Coulee
Spruce Coulee is snug in the forest, with views of lodgepole pine and aspen trees and wildlife.
It’s a great spot for beginner paddlers, and is narrower than Elkwater Lake. Because the space is enclosed by forest, it brings protection from the wind.
This body of water is closed to motorized boats, so you will only see other paddlers and fisherpeople. Even when it gets busy, you can usually find your own corner where it’s just you, the water, the trees, and the hills.
Swimming is not recommended in this lake.
Safety Tips & Tricks
Always wear a bright lifejacket.
Bring a whistle for emergencies.
Wear sun protection. Cypress Hills feels cooler than Medicine Hat, but the sun rays are still strong.
Always let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
Put a phone in a waterproof case with a lanyard, so it’s always accessible and safe.
Paddling Rentals are available at the Cypress Hills Visitor Centre.
Call 403.893.3833 for more information.
“My favourite part about paddling Cypress Hills is the peace you feel. I have a three year old now, and this past summer we paddled together. Being able to share that with him and watch him be so excited about how nice it is out here is so amazing,” says Jen Maheux, Cypress Hills local and co-host of the Outdoor Mama Podcast. “One day we watched a mama duck feed her babies; Cypress Hills is a really special place.”
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