Safety and guidelines

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.

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

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 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

• Tick ID
• canada.ca/LymeDisease

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.