Prince Albert National Park

A sprawling 3,874-square-kilometre park combining boreal forest, pristine lakes, and wildlife habitats. Ideal for hiking, camping, canoeing, and wildlife observation including moose, elk, and bison.

Things to do

• Waskesiu Lake Swimming & Beach — The park's largest lake offers a sandy beach, swimming area, and scenic shoreline walks perfect for cooling off after hiking.
• Crean Lake Canoe Route — A popular multi-day backcountry paddling route through pristine boreal lakes with portages connecting scenic campsites.
• Loon Lake Trail Hiking — A moderate day hike offering views of the park's northern lakes and opportunities to spot moose, elk, and waterfowl.
• Ajawaan Lake Cabin Visit — Historic cabin site of Grey Owl, the famous conservationist, accessible via scenic trail with interpretive signs about his legacy.
• Bison Paddock Viewing — A fenced area near the park entrance where visitors can observe a herd of wood bison in their natural habitat.
• Waskesiu River Fishing — Licensed fly-fishing and spin-casting for northern pike, walleye, and lake trout in designated park waters.
• Hanging Garden Trail — A short scenic walk featuring wildflowers, ferns, and a small waterfall cascading over a natural rock garden.

Food to try

• Saskatchewan Bison Steak — Locally-sourced grilled bison meat available at park lodge restaurants, leaner and richer than beef with a distinctive flavor.
• Wild Pike & Walleye — Fresh-caught fish from park lakes prepared pan-fried or smoked at the Waskesiu Lake lodge dining facilities.
• Saskatoon Berry Desserts — Pies and jams made from wild saskatoon berries harvested locally, available at park gift shops and visitor center cafes.
• Moose Stew — Traditional northern Saskatchewan comfort food featuring locally-hunted game served at heritage lodges and park restaurants.
• Fireside Bannock Bread — Fried or baked traditional Indigenous flatbread served warm at park campfire programs and interpretive events.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Wildlife Distance — Always maintain at least 100 metres from moose and bison; these animals are unpredictable and potentially dangerous during mating season.
• Indigenous Land Acknowledgment — The park sits on traditional territory of the Dene, Cree, and Métis peoples; interpretive programs highlight their enduring connection to this land.
• Leave No Trace Camping — Pack out all waste, use established fire rings only, and follow strict backcountry protocols to preserve the pristine boreal ecosystem.
• Peak Season Planning — Visit in July-August for warmest weather and all facilities open, but expect crowds; shoulder seasons (May-June, September) offer solitude and excellent wildlife viewing.