Prince Albert National Park protects lakes, rivers, wetlands, and mixed boreal forest on the Waskesiu–Kingsmere uplands of central Saskatchewan. Centred on the lakeside townsite of Waskesiu Lake, the park is known for classic canoe routes, sandy beaches, wildlife viewing, and the historic trek to Grey Owl’s Cabin on Ajawaan Lake.
| Location | Central Saskatchewan, north of the city of Prince Albert (around Waskesiu, Kingsmere & Crean lakes) |
|---|---|
| Province | Saskatchewan |
| Established | 1927 |
| Area (approx.) | ≈ 3,875 km² |
| Notable features | Waskesiu townsite & beaches; canoe chains (Waskesiu–Kingsmere–Ajawaan); Grey Owl’s Cabin; Kingsmere River rail portage for canoes; plains bison on the park’s SW fringe |
| Nearby communities | Waskesiu Lake (in-park), Elk Ridge area (south gate), city of Prince Albert (gateway) |
Overview
On the southern edge of the boreal forest, Prince Albert National Park blends big lakes, quiet rivers, muskeg and jack pine ridges with accessible services at Waskesiu. It’s a four-season destination: paddling and beach days in summer, golden aspen in fall, and groomed ski/snowshoe trails in winter. The storied route to Grey Owl’s Cabin—honouring writer-conservationist Archibald Belaney (“Grey Owl”)—is one of the park’s signature experiences.
Lands and relationships
The park lies within the homelands and travel routes of Cree, Dene, and Métis peoples. Indigenous partners contribute to stewardship, research, and interpretation. The free-ranging Sturgeon River plains bison herd uses the park’s southwest and adjacent Crown lands; bison are managed cooperatively with local communities and the province.
Landscapes and ecosystems
- Lakes, rivers & wetlands: Waskesiu, Kingsmere, Crean and dozens of smaller lakes linked by streams and portages; cattail marshes, beaver meadows, and muskeg.
- Boreal forest mosaic: Jack pine, black spruce, white spruce, trembling aspen, birch and stands of white spruce/hemlock in cooler pockets.
- Sand beaches & dunes: Long, sandy shorelines on Waskesiu and Crean with classic prairie-boreal sunsets.
- Wildlife (highlights): Black bear, moose, elk, wolf, fox, beaver, loon, pelican, and—on the SW fringe—plains bison. Observe only; give all wildlife space.
Things to do
- Canoeing & portaging: Paddling chains on Waskesiu–Kingsmere–Ajawaan; the Kingsmere River rail portage helps bypass rapids near the outlet.
- Grey Owl’s Cabin (Ajawaan Lake): Reach by canoe/portage via Kingsmere or by a long hike/bike–hike combination on signed routes; backcountry campsites en route.
- Hiking & cycling: Short interpretive loops (e.g., Boundary Bog) and half-day trails to lookouts, dunes and beaver wetlands; multi-use paths around Waskesiu.
- Beaches & day-use: Family-friendly swimming and picnicking at Waskesiu; quieter beaches at Namekus/Crean (seasonal facilities).
- Camping & roofed stays: Frontcountry at Beaver Glen (Waskesiu) and outlying lakes (e.g., Namekus/Sandy Lake, seasonal), plus oTENTik/roofed options; designated backcountry sites on lakes and canoe routes.
- Winter: Groomed cross-country ski networks, snowshoe trails, and occasional dark-sky events; limited services—check seasonal operations.
Access and visitor services
- From the city of Prince Albert, follow Hwy 2 north; turn west to Hwy 264 for the main entrance to Waskesiu. Hwy 263 connects additional access points and lakes on the park’s south/west side.
- The Visitor Centre in Waskesiu offers trip planning, permits, and exhibits. The townsite has groceries, fuel, rentals, lodging, and restaurants (seasonal variability).
- Reservations are recommended for frontcountry/backcountry camping and popular roofed stays in peak months.
Safety and low-impact travel
- Water & weather: Large lakes build waves quickly; water is cold even in summer—wear PFDs and watch the forecast.
- Wildlife: Store food/scented items securely; give bears, elk, and bison (outside SW area) plenty of space; keep dogs leashed.
- Navigation & remoteness: Backcountry routes involve portages, beaver dams, and limited cell coverage—carry maps, repair kits, and satellite comms where possible.
- Trail & dune care: Stay on signed routes, avoid trampling sensitive dunes and wet meadows, and pack out all waste. Follow fire bans and Parks Canada bulletins.
See also
- Grasslands National Park • Riding Mountain National Park • Elk Island National Park
- National parks of Canada • Travel in Canada • Geography of Canada
External links (official)
- Parks Canada — Prince Albert National Park: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/sk/princealbert
- Parks Canada — Reservations (camping/backcountry/roofed): https://reservation.pc.gc.ca
- Parks Canada — Important bulletins (closures, wildlife, fire bans): https://parks.canada.ca/amnc-nmca/imp