This Southern Alberta Trail Will Make You Feel Like You’re Hiking On Mars

If you’re looking for a hike that feels like you’ve stepped into another world, the Matapiiski (Hoodoo) Trail in Southern Alberta is a must-do adventure. Imagine standing on a surreal landscape that could be mistaken for another planet. That’s exactly the feeling you get when you set foot on the Matapiikis (Hoodoo) Trail in Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park. Nestled in the heart of the Milk River Valley, this trail takes you on a journey through wildly unique terrain filled with fascinating rock formations, breathtaking views, and ancient stories carved deep into stone. Let’s explore what makes this trail so special and why you should go. Seriously, you need to go!

Walking along the Matapiikis (Hoodoo) Trail, you might find yourself doing a double-take. The landscape here is dominated by hoodoos–towering sandstone pillars shaped by thousands of years of erosion. The hoodoos stand tall and proud, with their layered rock tops balancing high, creating a unique sight, almost like a cityscape against the bright blue Alberta sky. As you wander through the formations, you’ll see red, orange, and brown hues combined with rugged rock.

The hoodoos aren’t just visually striking; they’re a history or geology buff’s dream come true. Natural forces have sculpted these masterpieces for millions of years. Wind, water, and time have created a landscape that is pretty hard to believe has occurred naturally. Their unusual shapes and sizes make them postcard-worthy, to say the least.

The Matapiikis Trail is more than just a cool place. It’s a sacred space with deep historical roots and cultural significance. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, known as Aisinai’pi to the Blackfoot people, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its outstanding collection of Indigenous rock art. This area holds some of the largest concentrations of rock art on the Great Plains, with carvings (called petroglyphs) and paintings (pictographs) telling stories that have been passed down for thousands of years.

As you walk the trail, you walk through a piece of history. The rock art found here is a testament to the stories, beliefs, and way of life of the Indigenous peoples who have called this special place home for centuries, where they camped along the Milk River and found wood, water, and shelter deep in the coulees. The trail’s name, “Matapiikis,” is a Blackfoot word highlighting the area’s deep connection to the Blackfoot way of life, beliefs, and history. Exploring the trail, you’ll see why it’s so much more than just a hike; it’s an experience that connects you to the past.

What sets the Matapiikis Trail apart from other hikes is its ability to transport you to another world while keeping you deeply grounded in the history and culture of Southern Alberta. The interpretive trail is roughly 5 km round-trip of moderate terrain, making it accessible for most hikers and families looking for adventure. The route is well-marked, and while it does include some uneven terrain and short inclines, it is suitable for nearly all ages and abilities. The landscape changes as you venture along the trail, revealing different aspects of the park’s natural beauty at every turn.

Along the way, you’ll marvel at the hoodoos up close, take in sweeping views of the Milk River, and be in awe of the valley’s beauty. It’s an experience that is both humbling and inspiring.

While Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is beautiful year-round, there’s something magical about visiting the trail before the season changes. In the late summer and early fall, the park’s landscape comes alive with vibrant colours. The tall grasses turn a beautiful shade of golden and red, the wildflowers still bloom in shades of purple and yellow, and the trees along the Milk River begin to take on a hint of autumn.

The milder temperature makes this time of year a perfect time to explore the area without the mid-summer heat. As fall makes its way, the park becomes quieter, allowing you to soak in the serenity of this remarkable landscape fully. With fewer crowds, it feels like you have the entire park to yourself!

Don’t miss the incredible opportunity to check out Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park and the Matapiiksi Trail. It’s a journey through time, culture, and some of Alberta's most interesting landscapes. Get out there, Alberta!

Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Great West Media & Southern Alberta Newspapers Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.