Who Do the Hoodoo?

 

Even the most careful planning and extensive list making can't account for everything. Today, I left Saskatchewan and the Cypress Hills, and crossed the entire width of Alberta. I made one very important stop, which I was very excited about. Some of the most dramatic and beautiful views our province has to offer. 

And my camera battery was dead after two pictures. I forgot to charge it. 

Writing-On-Stone is a fantastic destination. They have a wonderful interpretive center at the top of the cliffs and a campground at the bottom, by the river. There isn't much in the way of services. At this time of year the Hoodoo Hut, the little store at the campground was closed. It's a bit of a drive, so packing food and water is a good idea. There is a guided bus tour through the area, for those who want to take part.

My time was limited to an hour or so because I still had a lot of driving to get to my next destination. I only did one short hike. The helpful attendant at the interpretive centre showed me the best place to go to get the most out of my brief time. I can only comment on that particular path. It was somewhat steep at places and the gravel required good shoes or boots. It had stairs in some spots and was a narrow path in others, strollers would not work here and it would be difficult for people with mobility problems.

Writing-on-Stone Provincial park is one of the most unique archeological and anthropological sites in Alberta. They aren't in caves, they are subject to everything the prairie winds can throw at them. All that's left is faint etchings that are becoming hard to see. I had been here, more than once, in my childhood, but this was my first time as an adult. It is a much different experience when you properly appreciate what a rare and unique place it is.

The Battle Scene Petroglyphs

The petroglyphs are protected by a steel fence with viewing windows

Not sure if this is more reminiscent of the Flintstones or Indiana Jones! Either way, when you stroll the paths between the hoodoos and cliffs, is easy to feel like you have gone back to prehistoric times. It has such a stark beauty, I could have easily sat for hours, absorbing the atmosphere. One of my favourite things about travelling off season, is that you often have a spot all to yourself. It was so quiet that I could hear the river tumbling over rocks below. I hope that it's not another 35 years before I get back here again. 

Next time I will make more time, to go back in time!