Medicine Hat has 155 kilometres of trails that lead you around the coulees, up and down the hills, throughout the trees, and along the South Saskatchewan River. A trail can be found in every neighbourhood in Medicine Hat. Whether you’re taking a stroll, biking, rollerblading, or skateboarding, you’re able to explore the city solely on the paved trails.

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McCutcheon Trail

Atop a northside coulee in the neighbourhood of Crescent Heights, there is a trail that brings panoramic views of Medicine Hat — its Historic Downtown and the other natural scenes in the city. In the far distance, you will see the rolling hills in Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.

Local Tip: Stop by one of Medicine Hat’s newest coffee shops, Ooh la la! Coffee Shop for a drink and freshly-baked snack!

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Police Point Park Trails

Police Point Park is located on the north side of the city and is known for its Northwest Mounted Police and Indigenous histories. While you walk the paved loop, enjoy the view of old cottonwood trees — some being 200 to 300 years old.

Local Tip: Check the Nature Centre to learn more about the area!

Police Point West Trail

Connected to the main trail in Police Point Park, this off-leash dog trail has a beautiful view of the South Saskatchewan River — it’s seriously right beside you. Pet some puppies along the way, or bring your own for some fresh air, and watch the bright sunlight reflect off the water and onto the trees. 

Local Tip: Stroll this trail during sunrise or sunset to see colours clearly in the sky, and their soft reflection on the river water!

Devonian Trail

This paved trail features the South Saskatchewan River, Historic Finlay Bridge, and Historic Railway Bridge. If you find yourself in Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown, this trail is only a few blocks away. A starting point could be behind the Medicine Hat Public Library.

Local Tip: Stop by the World’s Largest Chess Set and GIANT King Piece before heading onto this trail!

Saratoga Trail

Between Kin Coulee Park and Strathcona Island Park, this paved trail makes for a nice, long outing and the perfect bike ride. It connects with so many other trails; the whole experience is in your hands. 

Local Tip: What is now Saratoga Park, Métis people called home for over a century — the space was announced a Municipal Historic Resource in 2021.

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Saamis Archaeological Site

Downhill from Saamis Tepee, this Indigenous space dates back thousands of years ago. Nature surrounds you as you walk around and hear the calming sounds of Seven Persons Creek. Go through the tunnel underneath Trans-Canada Highway, and you’re in Kin Coulee Park.

Local Tip: Take the uphill trail to see the Saamis Tepee up close and view Saamis Archaeological Site from a new perspective!

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Ross Creek Coulee Trail

This quiet paved trail will lead you in and shortly after, you’ll be met by a fork in the road. You can’t go wrong, either way you’ll have a clear view of the coulees and little hamlet, Veinerville. The left turn will take you towards Scholten Hill, with a view of the city. Turn right, you’ll become lost in the prairies with the train tracks beside you.

Local Tip: Bring your camera, because these photos are picture perfect!

Echo Dale Regional Park

This beautiful park invites you in with a sunshine glow and the most breathtaking view of coulees and bluffs. This park has paved, unpaved, and mountain biking trails, and an off-leash dog trail. Read everything you need to know about this park on pages xx-xx.

Local Tip: Stop at Homestead Market Inc. for a coffee and a treat on your way in or out of the park!

TransCanada Trail

The TransCanada Trail is a part of The Great Trail in Canada. The entire length is 27,000 kilometres and connects the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic oceans. The Strathcona Island Park Pavilion, found in Strathcona Island Park, lists the individuals who played a crucial role in making the trail happen. 

The TransCanada Trail in Medicine Hat passes many great spots in the city. It begins or ends in the Ross Glen neighbourhood or near Trans-Canada Highway. For a leisure stroll or bike ride, you can start this trail in two spots.

Strathcona Island Park: A trail that features playgrounds, wildlife, and up-close views of the South Saskatchewan River. Deer often roam and relax with their families in this space, so be sure to keep any four-legged pets on a leash.

Riverside: Connected to Police Point West Trail, become encompassed in trees, leaves, and feel the warmth of the shaded sunlight while you explore this tunnel of nature. In the open peeks, you’ll have a shiny view of City Hall, and if you look up at Finlay Bridge, you’ll be enlightened to know the truss bridge was built in 1908. 

Local Tip: Rent a bike from Gravity Sports to explore these trails!

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watch a Trails reel here, in the summer | in the fall

Explore Medicine Hat's Heritage Trail Map.

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| Cactus in the City

Plains Prickly Pear is the biggest and most common cactus in Medicine Hat. Pincushion is the smallest of the three, resembling a pincushion, and Brittle Prickly Pear, thumb-like shape, is the most fragile. All bloom yellow, pink, and orange flowers and survive the weather year-round. They’re often spotted along the trails.

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| Deer in the Parks

Deer are resilient and adaptable animals who’ve lived in Medicine Hat for thousands of years. Two types are found in the city: Mule, white tail with a black tip, and White Tail, brown and white tail. Deer can run up to 50 km/h and jump up to 10 feet.