Elk Island Park:
Located less than an hour away from Edmonton, Elk Island National Park of Canada protects the wilderness of the aspen parkland, one of the most endangered habitats in Canada. This beautiful oasis is home to herds of free roaming plains bison, wood bison, moose, deer, and elk. Also boasting over 250 species of birds, the park is a bird watcher's paradise. Be it for wildlife viewing, hiking, cross-country skiing, picnicking or overnight camping, there is something for everyone at Elk Island National Park.
Elk Park was first established in 1906 as a federal game preserve to protect the declining elk populations of the Beaver Hills. Some of the last Plains Bison in the world were reintroduced to Elk Park in 1907. In 1913 Elk Park joined the Parks Canada family. Since that time Elk Island National Park has been Canada’s source of disease free bison for re-introduction and conservation initiatives throughout its former range.
Self Guided Trails:
Elk Island National Park offers 11 self-guided trails that vary in length from a short leisurely stroll across the Living Waters Boardwalk to the scenic 18.6 km Wood Bison Trail. Three short hikes are accessible from the Astotin Lake Area where the campground is located. Amisk Wuche Trail and Lakeview Trail take about one hour to complete. Shoreline Trail is paved and wheelchair accessible. See the map of the park for trail locations and the walking and hiking link for the length and description of each trail.
Facilities:
Scenic parkways wind through the park and trails lead hikers to lakes and beaver ponds. Meandering through the park offers excellent opportunities for viewing wildlife and most people will not leave the park without at least seeing bison. Semi-serviced camping facilities are available in the park, as are canoeing, golf, cross-country skiing and hiking.
Quick Facts:
- This “island of conservation” is located 35 km east of Edmonton, Alberta along the Yellowhead Highway, which nearly bisects the park. It is Canada's 8th smallest in area, but largest fully enclosed national park, with an area of 194 km² (47,938 Acres).
- Also boasting over 250 species of birds, the park is a bird watcher’s oasis.
- The park is fenced and protects a large herd of buffalo, as well as wapiti, deer, and moose.
