Thousands of visitors drive through the gates of Prince Albert National Park each year. Its accessibility is not something that many can ignore. But that isn’t the only reason that they come, this the place to catch a glimpse of boreal woodland caribou, the plains bison and white pelicans among tall the aspen and the wetlands. Come on, see for yourself what’s got everyone talking:
1. Waskesiu Lake
What’s your idea of a perfect summer day? Is it enjoying the sun on your soft towel while watching the kids build sand castles? Or would you rather race your powerboat to a distant shore and then water-ski with your friends? Whatever you’d like to do, prepare to be impressed by this much-loved lake.
2. Mud Creek Trail
Prince Albert National Park boasts of easy and moderate trails that won’t make you sweat too hard. Mud Creek Trail is one that you shouldn’t miss. It will lead you through an aspen forest as you enjoy vistas of King Island and Mud Creek. You may even spot black bears feasting on spawning fish.
3. The Bagwa Paddling Route
You do not need to plan a multi-day hike in order to fully enjoy the Bagwa Channel. You can easily paddle this route that serves as a nesting area for a colony of red-necked grebes. What’s more, the route gives you all-rounded paddling experience that includes portaging and backcountry camping.
4. Prince Albert National Park Festivals
If you love a good party then you won’t want to miss any of this park’s festivals. Each year brings its own list of events. With the likes of Waskesiu Lakeside Music Festival and Waskesiu Children’s Festival in store for you it’s hard not to get excited.
5. Grey Owl’s Cabin
The man, his writing, lectures and films opened the eyes of the world to the need for conservation. Years after his death, his work continues to be celebrated as nature lovers make pilgrimages his cabin. You too can make this journey on foot or canoe and experience some of the park’s most beautiful views.
6. The Narrows on Waskesiu Lake
There is no shortage of birds in Prince Albert, you will see or hear them everywhere you go. If you are particularly interested in waterfowl then you should plan your visit for spring when they invade the Narrows on Waskesiu Lake to take a break from their journey north.
7. South Bay and Paignton Beach
When meteors start falling from the sky, you should be gazing at them from this park because they really do put on a show. And when the Northern Lights are dancing on a calm night you may see their reflections on the lake as you relax on South Bay or Paignton Beach.
8. Elk Trail
In summer you can spend 2 or 3 days enjoying the hills, meadows and mixed forests that make up this trail. Alternatively, you could bring your horse with you and watch the Sturgeon River plains bison herd grazing in a distance. Bring your snowshoes with you in winter and see how much the trail has changed with the dropping temperatures.
9. Town of Waskesiu
This is the hub of all things Prince Albert. It is a tantalizing mix of nature and modern conveniences. You could be enjoying a perfect mug of coffee one moment and heading into the boreal forest the next minute. And when you return you can go shopping for souvenirs before camping in an oTENTik or a stay at Elk Ridge Resort.
10. Prince Albert National Park Museums
Saskatchewan’s history is immortalised in its oldest park. Prince Albert National Park Nature Centre introduces you to the First Nations that once called the park home. And if you are curious about history of the Town of Waskesiu then all your questions will be answered at the Waskesiu Heritage Museum.
More about the Park
Hi, What is the best and safest way to get to Prince Albert National park from Alberta, north or south of Edmonton area? Thank you, lc