Elk Island National Park
Free admission and discounted overnight stays
The Canada Strong Pass is back! Enjoy free admission and 25% off camping and overnight stays with Parks Canada from June 19 to September 7, 2026.
Experience the rolling hills, glassy lakes, and star-filled skies of Elk Island National Park, a UNESCO designated Biosphere Reserve just 48 kilometers east of Edmonton’s city centre. Located within Treaty 6 territory and the Métis homeland, this landscape has been and continues to be used by Indigenous Peoples for sustenance, ceremony, trade and travel. Wander more than 80 km of trails, or paddle the park’s lakes while watching for herds of bison, elk and over 250 bird species. While summer days can be lively, early mornings, weekdays and off seasons offer a more peaceful way to experience the park and its wildlife.
Beaver, Bison, and People: Our Promise to Wahkotowin
Elk Island National Park, Métis Crossing, and Talking Rock Tours have collaborated to deliver an immersive, educational, and entertaining travel experience that will create memories to last a lifetime.
Visiting Elk Island National Park
Activities and experiences
Things to do, trails, tours, programs, volunteering, camping, wildlife watching and more.
Plan your visit
How to get here, local attractions, hours of operation, museum, facilities and services.
Fees
Free admission and discounted camping fees, program fees, and more.
Camping and overnight accommodations
Types of accommodations, oTENTiks and nearby accommodations.
Be bison wise
Follow these tips to enjoy each bison encounter safely at Elk Island National Park.
Tours and programs
Guided tours, programs, workshops, and learning experiences.
Permits and licences
Business licences, special event permits, commercial film and travel media, and more.
Safety and guidelines
Important bulletins, trail conditions, weather, seasonal safety, and park regulations.
Use of drones
All Parks Canada places are ‘no drone zones’ for recreational use
About Elk Island National Park
Culture and history
History, culture, cultural landscape, designation information.
Stewardship and management
Jobs, contact us, partners, permits and licenses, public consultations, plans, and policies.
Nature and science
Conservation and science, animals, plants, the environment, and research.
Contact Elk Island National Park
General inquiries:
1-780-922-5790
1-888-773-8888 (toll free)
pnelkisland-elkislandnp@pc.gc.ca
For emergencies within the park:
1-877-852-3100
Hours of operation
Elk Island National Park is open daily all year round. Some services and facilities are open only during the summer season.
See all hours
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