Hiking

Batoche National Historic Site

Trails have existed on site for many years and is still used by wildlife in the area. Tracks and scat are often found along the trail. We also find many types of berries that are not only yummy for humans; big and little creatures enjoy them as well.

Traditionally, many Métis relied on hunting to provide food and materials for clothing and tools. Although the bison hunts provided the majority of their sustenance, the Métis would also spend time hunting and trapping other animals like moose, deer, coyotes, rabbits, and porcupine.

Women would gather berries and medicinal plants to sustain them for the winter. Saskatoon berries were often used in pemmican, which was sold to travelers and newcomers to the area as a “go to” meal during hunting, trapping and travelling.

To hunt and trap animals other than bison, the Métis needed to be skilled in tracking these animals. Identifying their scat was a great way to know what animals were in the vicinity and what foods they may have been eating. Identifying scat was also a way to avoid any dangerous or unwanted confrontation.

Li pchi shmayn walking trail

A FAMILY LOOKING OUT OVER A RIVER

Li pchi shmayn walking trail is a 700 m hiking trail, winds its way along the ridge overlooking the South Saskatchewan River and valley. Along the way you will find fun interactive activity and informational panels.

Due to severe riverbank erosion, portions of the trail have been altered or closed. Please respect barriers, fencing and safety signs. Review the safety procedures to be on the safe side!

Accessible near the cemetery and along the route to the Caron home.

Download the guided tour on the Parks Canada app.

Distance: 700 M

Mission Ridge Walking Trail

The Mission Ridge Walking Trail is bordered by the lasting markers of the river lot system. Imagine yourself in the battle as you walk through the open plains. This is where Louis Riel, Gabriel Dumont and many other Métis soldiers made their last stand.

Distance: 444 m

Carlton Trail (via Rectory path)

Visitors walking along the Carlton Trail.

To this day there is a remaining section of the historic red river cart trail that was once a main trade route linking Fort Garry to Fort Edmonton. The trail straddles the East Village of Batoche on its journey towards the ferry crossing of the South Saskatchewan River. This trail begins west of the rectory.

Distance: 1.4 km

Black bears, along with many other mammals, inhabit the South Saskatchewan River Valley at this site. Please stay on the trail, and keep your eyes and ears open for these cohabitants of Batoche. If you see a bear along the trail, slowly and quietly leave the area and give the bear its space.

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