Parks Canada is offering visitors a rare chance to step inside the native habitat of one of the prairies’ most misunderstood species, the Prairie Rattlesnake.
On Sept. 27 and 28, park staff and a herpetologist will lead small guided groups from the Frenchman Valley Campground into the West Block of Grasslands National Park. The hikes will take participants to a remote overwintering site used by rattlesnakes and other reptiles.
The event, called Rumble, Ramble and Rattle, runs from 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Participants will hike seven kilometres round-trip while learning about grasslands ecosystems, snake behaviour and the challenges reptiles face in the wild.
Along the way, visitors will have the chance to meet a snake specialist for a behind-the-scenes look at a snake den.
The program is open to ages 12 and up, with group sizes limited to 12 people. Pets are not allowed. Pre-registration is required by calling the Grasslands visitor centre at 1-877-345-2257.
Costs vary depending on admission type. Find more information HERE