International Peace Garden

The garden was dedicated in 1932 on the argument that the long undefended border between the two countries deserved marking, and it sits physically astride the line - the formal gardens are bisected by it, with a cairn inscribed with a pledge and a floral clock planted each year. It occupies land in the Turtle Mountains, wooded and hilly in country that is otherwise flat. Two eleven-metre concrete towers stand at the centre. Twin structures include a chapel. Visitors can move freely within the garden itself but must clear customs on whichever side they exit, and passports are required for that even if you entered from the other one.

The main sights

• A garden bisected by the border - beds and paths crossing the line.
• The cairn and floral clock - at the centre, replanted yearly.
• The Turtle Mountains - wooded hills rising out of the flat prairie.
• Turtle Mountain woodland - hills in otherwise flat country.

When to go

June to September; the garden closes down in winter. Half a day.

Before you go

You must clear customs on exit and need a passport, whichever way you leave. The season is short. It is remote, with limited services. Winter effectively closes it.

Nearby

Bottineau is south; Boissevain is north in Manitoba.

Key facts