The Trans-Canada Highway cuts through the southwest corner of central Canadian province, Manitoba. Bordering Saskatchewan to the west and North Dakota to the south, this region encompasses the beauties of Riding Mountain National Park and the amenities of cultural hub, the "Wheat City", Brandon.

Find urban entertainment and fine dining in Brandon, or enjoy the stretch of Assiniboine River that cuts through the city, showcased at the Riverbank Discover Center. Stop for a bit of local lore at the Daly House Museum, or take a gander at Canadian military equipment from yore at the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum or the Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery.

Explore Manitoba's unexpected side at the Spruce Woods Provincial Park. Here, shifting sand dunes and prickly cacti offer a drastic contrast to the sweeping wheat fields this region is known for.

Riding Mountain National Park is located at the upper end of this region. If you're not planning to rough it in the wilderness, book a night or two in small town Wasagaming. Get park information at the Visitor's Center here before setting out on foot or astride a bicycle to explore expansive preserve, watching for elk and bear at play in a natural habitat. Summer visitors can enjoy fishing or sailing in the lakes, or saddle up for a trail ride with local outfitters. Should you happen upon winter snows, snap into a pair of cross-country skis and enjoy solitude along with fresh powder.

Brandon is 134 miles west of Winnipeg, Manitoba, and 59 miles south of Wasagaming.