Kayaking

Elk Island National Park

Blue-green Algae Advisory

Parks Canada is advising visitors that blue-green algae is currently present in the waters of Astotin Lake. You are advised to avoid contact with the water in the lake or near the shores of this lake at this time.

More Information

Water Safety is a shared responsibility

Please review the following water safety information to ensure each adventure near or on the lake is a safe one.

The calm waters of Astotin Lake are a great place to launch a kayak for the first time. To improve your chances of catching a glimpse of bison, elk, birds or other amazing animals in the park:
Plan your visit around dawn and dusk, times of day that may provide a better chance of sighting wildlife. Many animals shelter in the trees during the warmest parts of the day.

  • Parks Canada strongly recommends that a certified life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) be worn when recreating on any water body
  • Stay close to shore and use pleasure crafts at own risk as beaches and open water are not patrolled
  • Be self-reliant and prepare to self-rescue should any boat, canoe or kayak capsize as help may not be immediately available. This includes wearing an approved life jacket or personal floatation device (PFD)
  • Cellular telephone coverage varies and may not be available in all areas of Elk Island National Park
  • Float your own boat or rent a canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board at the Astotin Lake Recreation area;
  • The boat launch is located at the north end of the Astotin Lake Area;
  • Motorized boats are not permitted on Astotin Lake;

 Contact the Visitor Centre for up-to-date lake condition reports or to learn more about water safety.

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