Elk Island National Park

Elk Island National Park protects aspen parkland, boreal forest, lakes, and wetlands on the Beaver Hills east of Edmonton, Alberta. A year-round wildlife sanctuary, it is renowned for free-roaming herds of plains bison and wood bison (managed in separate areas), along with elk, moose, beaver, and abundant birdlife. The park contributes bison to conservation projects across North America and beyond.

At a glance — Elk Island National Park

Location	Beaver Hills, ~35–45 minutes east of Edmonton along Hwy 16 (Yellowhead)
Province	Alberta
Established	1906 (as Elk Park reserve); 1913 (national park status)
Area (approx.)	≈ 194 km²
Notable features	Astotin Lake & islands; aspen parkland and kettle lakes; fenced conservation herds of plains and wood bison; elk, moose & beaver; dark-sky viewing within the Beaver Hills Biosphere
Nearby communities	Edmonton, Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Lamont, Ardrossan

Overview

Rolling glacial hills, mixed forest, and wetland chains make Elk Island a classic aspen-parkland landscape. The entire park is fenced to manage wildlife and protect neighbouring farmland, and internal fences separate the plains and wood bison ranges to conserve both lineages. The Astotin Lake area is the main day-use hub with trails, beach and picnic sites, and lake views at sunset.

Landscapes and ecosystems

Aspen parkland & boreal fringe: Trembling aspen, balsam poplar, white spruce, and open meadows rich in wildflowers and berries.
Lakes & wetlands: Shallow kettle lakes, beaver ponds, and marshes host waterfowl, shorebirds, and amphibians; Astotin Lake features small wooded islands.
Wildlife (highlights): Plains and wood bison, elk, moose, white-tailed deer, coyote, beaver, muskrat, porcupine, owls, loons, and migrating geese—observe only and give space.

Things to do

Wildlife viewing & scenic drives: Spot bison from pullouts along the Elk Island Parkway and the seasonal Bison Loop Road; dawn/dusk offer the best chances.
Trails & cycling: Easy lakeside and forest loops (e.g., Shoreline, Beaver Pond, Astotin Lake) plus longer routes across meadows and aspen ridges; cycling permitted on selected trails and roads.
Paddling & beaches: Canoe, kayak, or SUP on Astotin Lake (rentals may operate seasonally); swim at the day-use beach and enjoy lakeside picnics.
Camping & roofed stays: Astotin Lake Campground offers drive-in sites and oTENTik units; basic backcountry at Oster Lake (check current status).
Winter: Groomed cross-country ski trails (conditions permitting), snowshoeing, and skating on prepared rinks when ice is safe; excellent night-sky viewing.

Access and visitor services

Main access from Hwy 16 (south boundary) with the Elk Island Parkway running north–south through the park; additional access near the north boundary.
The Astotin Lake Area (north end) provides information, parking, picnic shelters, beach, amphitheatre, docks, and trailheads.
Reservations recommended for camping and oTENTik in peak season; day-use is first-come. A valid Parks Canada pass is required.

Safety and low-impact travel

Bison & elk are powerful. Stay in your vehicle when animals are roadside; keep well back (at least 100 m from bison, 30 m from elk/deer). Never approach for photos or block traffic.
Lakes & cold water: Always wear PFDs; winds can build waves quickly.
Ticks & insects: Perform tick checks after hikes; carry repellent in bug-season.
Road & night hazards: Wildlife often cross roads at dusk/dark—drive slowly.
Respect closures and speed limits, secure food and garbage, and practice Leave No Trace.

External links (official)

Parks Canada — Elk Island National Park: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/elkisland
Parks Canada — Visit (Astotin Lake, activities & access): https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/elkisland/visit
Parks Canada — Reservations (camping / oTENTik): https://reservation.pc.gc.ca
Parks Canada — Important bulletins (closures, wildlife, fire bans): https://parks.canada.ca/amnc-nmca/imp