Grasslands National Park

National GeographicJul 24, 2026

Canada's most underrated national park rivals Brazil's Pantanal

Vast prairies, rare wildlife, Indigenous history, and some of the country's best stargazing make Grasslands National Park a surprising alternative to South America's most famous wetland.

9 things in this story

West BlockSightRich in wildlife, shaped by rolling hills, deep coulees, river flats.
East BlockSightDefined by rugged badlands and rich fossil beds.
Top Dogtown TrailTrailOverlooks colonies, boosts odds of observing burrowing owls.
Rock Creek TrailTrailOne-mile stretch where significant fossil finds have been unearthed.
oTentikHotelCustom-made, permanent camping shelter in the park.
Hi Horse AdventuresPlaceEmbrace frontier spirit by galloping across open fields.
70-Mile Butte TrailTrailPopular 1.25-mile trail, ideal for sunset views.
Valley of 1000 DevilsTrail6.2-mile trail in East Block for seasoned hikers.
Elsewhere
Hotel Fazenda das PedrasHotelPantanal, BrazilSustainable ranch offering Pantaneiro-led outings and conservation efforts.

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