Local Tours – Wanuskewin Heritage Park

Archaeology Walk

Join one of the Wanuskewin archaeology guides for a walking tour in the valley to learn more about the archaeological efforts made at Wanuskewin, with information from artifacts and oral history.

Participants will explore the Trail of Discovery, learn about the formation of the opimihāw Valley, the history and science behind archaeology, and see some former dig site locations. You will also get to see some of the most notable artifacts on display in our exhibits and interact with some bones and stones used for many things by the Indigenous Peoples of the Northern Plains.

Art Tour

Wanuskewin is home to some beautiful pieces of art created by Indigenous artists. From larger than life outdoor sculptures to tiny, intricate beading patterns, on this tour participants will learn about the pieces and some of the key features that Indigenous artists use in their work.

This tour takes you through time as you explore artwork from thousands of years ago—such as the Wanuskewin Petroglyphs—to the artists of today featured in our galleries.

We will also have an artist on site to chat with, and see some of their beautiful beadwork and contemporary art.

Bison Walk

Nearly 150 years ago, Plains Bison had all but disappeared from the Northern Plains due to overhunting and colonization. These animals, which are intrinsically tied to the Northern Plains Indigenous Peoples, had been wiped away by Settlers.

In December 2019, Wanuskewin partnered with Parks Canada to bring bison back to their original prairie home as a conservation herd. In 2019 the first bison were brought on the property, and the herd has grown to over 30 (with 4 new babies since June 2023).

In this experience, learn about bison as a keystone species to the grassland ecosystem, as a cultural and spiritual keystone to Northern Plains Indigenous peoples, and how the Wanuskewin bison herd is revitalizing culture and the environment.

Native Plant Walk

On this tour, guests will walk the trails on Wanuskewin’s property whilst learning about the medicinal and edible plants in the opimihāw Valley that Indigenous peoples use for sustenance, shelter and tools.

This program emphasizes the relationship between Indigenous peoples and the land, our role as stewards of the ecosystems we live in, and past and present resource use and survival.

Step Back in Time

Wanuskewin’s uniqueness not only lies in its evidence of ancient peoples, but in the composition of many different aspects of habitation, hunting and gathering, and spirituality – all in one place. A place they are striving to preserve and protect.

In this tour, walk the opimihāw Valley and see the land from the perspective of Northern Plains Indigenous peoples.

With a focus on the bison jump method of hunting, and tipis as an ideal home on the plains, participants can explore the interdependence between the people of the plains and the environment around them.

Tipi Teachings

The tipi is the perfect home for life on the plains.

Join us as guides share the Plains Cree style tipi teachings gifted to Wanuskewin by Elder Mary Lee and the life lessons that go along with each of these fifteen poles.

Participants will be able to gain a deeper understanding of the holistic nature of Plains Cree well-being and health, as well as social roles, worldview, and women’s teachings, through this hands-on program setting up an 8-foot tipi.