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10th Annual Christmas Tree Harvest

Discover the enchanting side of Prince Albert National Park this holiday season and help reduce the risk of wildfire to Waskesiu at the 10th annual Christmas Tree Harvest.

Hours of Operation:

The Prince Albert National Park Visitor Centre is open year-round.

October 27, 2025 to May 1, 2026:

• Tuesday to Friday – 9:00 am to 3:30 pm
• Saturday – 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
• Sunday – 10:00 am to 3:30 pm
• Closed Mondays

See Full hours of operation

Canada Strong Pass is back! December 12 to January 15

As part of the Canada Strong Pass, from December 12 until January 15, admission is free to all national parks, national historic sites, and national marine conservation areas.

Haul out the holly!

Parks Canada is pleased to present the 10th annual Christmas Tree Harvest at Prince Albert National Park. From November 22 to December 23, 2025, visitors are invited to pick out a young spruce or pine tree in a designated area of the Waskesiu Community Fuel Break to help maintain it. A Christmas Tree Activity Pass and map must be picked up at the Visitor Centre prior to cutting your tree.

Prince Albert National Park looks forward to welcoming visitors again with the Canada Strong Pass from December 12 2025 to January 15 2026. A valid park pass from the Visitor Centre is required until December 12, 2025. Purchase your park pass at the Visitor Centre or entry gate Automated Payment Machine.

To make the best of your outing, be sure to pack the following before leaving home:

• handsaw or axe (chainsaws are not permitted)
• good winter boots, winter clothes extra socks and mittens
• snacks and a thermos with a hot drink
• a sled to pull your tree
• snowshoes (optional)

Parks Canada takes wildfire preparedness very seriously and works on projects to reduce wildfire risk year-round. The Waskesiu Community Fuel Break is an area around the townsite of Waskesiu where coniferous trees (trees with needles) like spruce, pine and fir are removed and woody debris is removed from the forest floor. This helps lower the intensity of approaching wildfires, and provides a valuable line of defense for fire crews. However, fuel breaks require on-going maintenance to remain effective. Parks Canada removes trees from the fuel break using FireSmart principles to ensure proper spacing between trees while maintaining the natural appearance of the area.

By taking home a Christmas Tree, you will be helping to keep Waskesiu safe from wildfire and get a fresh tree for the holidays.

Stay up to date with Prince Albert National Park

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Media inquiries
Prince Albert National Park
panp-pnpamedia@pc.gc.ca

Get rooted in adventure this autumn

Tips for a safe and cozy autumn outdoors – Parks Canada

Decompress after the hustle and bustle of summer with an autumn adventure.

Wildlife, wide skies, and leaves of red and gold – autumn is here!

Autumn is the perfect time to visit Prince Albert National Park and decompress after the hustle and bustle of summer.

Hours of Operation:

The Prince Albert National Park Visitor Centre is open year-round.

September 15, 2025 to October 14, 2025:

• Sunday to Thursday – 9:00 am to 4:30 pm
• Friday to Saturday – 8:00 am to 8:00 pm

See Full hours of operation

Campgrounds:

Beaver Glen and Red Deer reservations are available until October 13. There are also plenty of walk-up front-country and backcountry campgrounds to choose from that are first-come, first-served.

For up-to-date information on campgrounds open in the fall, please contact the Visitor Centre at 1-306-663-4522 or email princealbertinfo@pc.gc.ca.

For a list of amenities available in the Waskesiu townsite at this time of year, please visit the Waskesiu Lake Community website.

Planning a visit to the park?

Fall in love with Waskesiu all over again with these autumn adventuring tips:

Bundle up – it’s sweater weather! It’s that time of year when mornings and evenings are cold but afternoons can still be warm. Make sure to check the weather before leaving for your trip. Packing and wearing layers will help you stay comfortable and adjust to the changing temperatures throughout the day.

Plan for early sunsets. Did you know we lose one to three minutes of daylight every day in autumn? Make sure to start adventures earlier and bring the proper equipment in the event you are out past dusk. Be sure to consult the Prince Albert National Park website for trail maps and information.

Gear up for chilly waters. As autumn approaches, paddlers should prepare for chilly waters—while the serene lakes of Prince Albert National Park remain inviting, the crisp fall air brings noticeably colder water temperatures. Hypothermia can set in quickly. Pack required equipment and extra clothing in waterproof containers. Assess changing weather conditions and adjust your plans accordingly.

Be prepared for wherever adventure takes you. Plan ahead! Check the Important Bulletins page for up-to-date area closures and restricted activities. Pack essential items, share a trip plan with family or friends, and know how to use your equipment. Not sure what to include in a trip plan? Use the AdventureSmart trip planning app to get started.

Spot an elk during your visit? Give them space - It is rutting season!

Elk breed in the early fall until mid-October, also known as rutting season. It is important to be extra wary of elk during the rut in Prince Albert National Park. Male elk sometimes charge and damage vehicles on the roadside, so drive with caution and obey all posted speed limits. Avoid stopping to view elk along the roadside and do not linger, move along safely and quickly.
The opportunity to watch wildlife is a privilege that comes with responsibilities, so make sure to give them space! To avoid an encounter:

1. Give elk at least 30 meters of space. If the elk stops and stares, you are too close. Back away slowly and let it return to what it was doing.
2. Be aware of your surroundings. Remember to be alert on trails and roadways and watch for signs of elk. Be ready to change your route to avoid elk.
3. Drive with caution and obey all posted speed limits. Avoid stopping to view elk along the roadside and do not linger, move along safely and quickly.
4. Make noise to signal your presence. This gives wildlife an opportunity to leave the area.
5. Travel in groups and keep children within arm’s reach.
6. Carry a walking stick or something swishy like a coat or a plastic grocery bag that can be waved to scare an aggressive animal off. Items like an umbrella could also be used.
7. Keep pets on a leash and under control at all times.
8. Never stand or park your car between a male and females.
9. Do not entice the bull by imitating their call.

If an elk charges, get behind a solid object, like a tree or car, and report it to Parks Canada as soon as it is safe at 1-877-852-3100.

Stay up to date with Prince Albert National Park

Visit the park website. Sign up for our e-newsletter. Connect with us on social media (Facebook and X).

Observe without disturbing: Tips for safe wildlife viewing

Whether on a scenic drive or hiking on your favourite trail, seeing wild creatures in their natural environment is often the highlight of a visit to a national park.

For your safety, the safety of others and the safety of wildlife, please stay a respectful distance away from any wild animal.

Give animals their space. When in doubt, be generous!

Stay at least 30m away from elk, deer and moose. Stay at least 100m away from bears, wolves, bison and cougars. Know the signs when you are too close to wildlife – if an animal stops and stares, back away. Hiking with a friend or in a group will also help alert animals to your presence. A surprised animal might react aggressively to defend itself.

Buck-le up and enjoy the ride

When driving please obey posted speed limits and watch for wildlife on or near the roadway. Stay in your vehicle when viewing wildlife. If you must stop, pull off the road, put your hazards on, snap a quick photo and then move on. This prevents wildlife from becoming too comfortable near the roads.

Not everyone is ready for their close up…

Give animals the spotlight and stay out of their photos. Use a telephoto lens or your phone camera’s zoom when taking photos of wildlife. Be quiet and still so you don’t disturb or stress the wildlife. If you can get a selfie with wildlife, it means you are too close.
It is illegal to entice an animal with food or baiting for any reason, including for photos.

Explore together, not apart!

Pet owners should take extra care. For the safety of you and your pet, pets must be kept on leash at all times. Unleashed pets can provoke a defensive response in many species of wildlife, potentially harming your pet, wildlife, and even you.

By staying aware and respectful, you help protect wildlife and ensure your own safety on every adventure. Want to learn more? Visit the park website for more information.

Stay up to date with Prince Albert National Park
Visit the park website. Sign up for our e-newsletter. Connect with us on social media (Facebook and X).

Media inquiries
Prince Albert National Park
panp-pnpamedia@pc.gc.ca

Keeping wildlife wild is a shared responsibility – we all have a role to play – Parks Canada

Safety is a shared responsibility - we all have a role to play in keeping wildlife wild. Parks Canada would like to remind the public on how to keep themselves and wildlife safe.

Interactions between people and wildlife is influenced by a wide range of factors, including public awareness, the numbers and behaviours of both wildlife and people, availability of wildlife food sources and weather.

So far this summer, there have been several reports of human-bear encounters within Prince Albert National Park. Black bears are a natural part of Prince Albert National Park and are normally non-aggressive towards people. Some of these are simple sightings of curious bears going about their business, though unfortunately, there have been encounters and conflict between bears and people/pets within the Town of Waskesiu, on the Narrows Road and in the Kingsmere Lake area. Almost all the negative interactions between bears and humans within Prince Albert National Park are a direct result of intentional feeding or unsecured human food and garbage.

Only report serious incidents involving black bears or other wildlife to Prince Albert National Park staff in person or by calling: Parks Canada Dispatch at 1-877-852-3100 – otherwise, do your part to responsibility enjoy wildlife for their safety and yours.

Almost all human-bear conflicts are not a bear problem but rather an avoidable people problem. To lower the risk of having an encounter with a bear, visitors can follow a few simple, legally required, rules:

• Never feed wildlife. Wildlife do not need human food.
• Dispose of all garbage in wildlife-proof garbage bins or take it with you.
• Do not leave anything that smells like food unattended, even for a few minutes.
• Store all food, toiletries, coolers, pet food, and cookware inside a building, vehicle, or bear-proof locker (provided in some campgrounds).
• Respect all trail or area restrictions, warnings, and closures.
• Always keep pets on leash.

It is illegal to feed, entice, or disturb any wildlife in a national park. This is for your safety and theirs. Violators can be charged, required to appear in court, and could pay fines up to $25,000.

For more bear safety tips, bear behaviour and what to do in an encounter with a black bear, visit the “You are in Black Bear Country” page on the Prince Albert National Park website. We must all do our part to keep wildlife wild by ensuring all human food, garbage and other unnatural attractants are properly secured in a car, building, or bear-safe container.

Stay up to date with Prince Albert National Park

Visit the park website. Connect with us on social media (Facebook and X).

Media inquiries
Prince Albert National Park
panp-pnpamedia@pc.gc.ca

Beaver Glen and Red Deer campground reservations open January 31, 2025

Calling all outdoor aficionados! Parks Canada is pleased to announce the opening of campground reservations for Prince Albert National Park. Beginning January 31, 2025 at 8:00 am CST, visitors can secure their camping spots in Beaver Glen and Red Deer campgrounds for the 2025 camping season through the Parks Canada Reservation System.

Reservations can be made online or by calling 1-877-RESERVE (1-877-737-3783).

Make the most of your Parks Canada experience with these trip planning tips:

• Visit the park website and social media (Facebook and X) for trip planning ideas.
• Check out AdventureSmart for helpful camping safety tips.
• Read the Camping 101: What to know before staying the night article on the Parks Canada website. It provides advice on camping types, amenities and services to choose from Parks Canada-administered places. It also includes essentials for new campers, tips on how to book your campsite and some rules to keep in mind when you visit.

Booking in Beaver Glen Campground?

Daily fire permits are now automatically added to your cart when checking out on the #ParksCanada Reservation System. Walk up campers will be charged the fire permit when registering for their campsite in-person.

For more information on fire permits in Beaver Glen, please email the Visitor Centre or call 1-306-663-4522.

Parks Canada looks forward to welcoming visitors to Prince Albert National Park for “s'more” fun and memorable adventures during the 2025 camping season. For more information, please visit the Parks Canada website or call 1-877-RESERVE (1-877-737-3783).

Parks Canada careers: where passion meets purpose

Prince Albert National Park is hiring! Join our team for a rewarding and flexible career, located in Waskesiu Lake. Positions include full time, seasonal and student opportunities.

To apply, visit the Government of Canada jobs website, and choose search for government jobs. Create a new account or log into your account and update your profile. Then, you can modify your search to find all the Prince Albert National Park jobs available.

Are you interested in entry-level jobs (including student positions) with Parks Canada this summer? Apply in less than 15 minutes with the Parks Canada Summer Jobs Portal.

Stay up to date with Prince Albert National Park
Visit the park website. Connect with us on social media (Facebook and X).

Media inquiries
Prince Albert National Park
panp-pnpamedia@pc.gc.ca

9th Annual Christmas Tree Harvest – Parks Canada

November 22 2024

“Spruce” up your holidays with the 9th annual Christmas Tree Harvest. Discover the enchanting Prince Albert National Park this holiday season and experience the thrill of spotting wildlife, the beauty of snowy trails and the warmth of a crackling campfire.

Haul out the holly! Parks Canada is pleased to present the 9th annual Christmas Tree Harvest at Prince Albert National Park. From November 22 to December 23, 2024, visitors are invited to pick out a young spruce or pine tree in a designated area of the Waskesiu Community Fuel Break to help maintain it. The Waskesiu Community Fuel Break is an area around the townsite of Waskesiu where coniferous trees (trees with needles) like spruce, pine and fir are removed because they are more flammable than leafy trees such as aspen. In the event of a wildfire, this “green belt” around Waskesiu helps to slow the speed of an approaching wildfire and provides time to evacuate the population or defend the community, if required.

A Christmas Tree Activity Pass (free with a valid park entry pass) and map must be picked up at the Visitor Centre prior to cutting your tree.

By taking home a Christmas Tree, you will be helping to keep Waskesiu safe from wildfire and get a fresh tree for the holidays.

To make the best of your outing, be sure to pack the following before leaving home:

• handsaw or axe (chainsaws are not permitted)
• good winter boots, winter clothes extra socks and mittens
• snacks and a thermos with a hot drink
• a sled to pull your tree
• snowshoes (optional)

Planning a visit to the park?

Embrace the winter wonderland of Prince Albert National Park responsibly with these helpful tips:

• Check the weather forecast and Saskatchewan Highway Hotline before departure.
• Come with a full tank of fuel and emergency supplies. There are no gas stations open in Waskesiu during the winter months.
• Drive to conditions. Variable weather conditions cause roads in the park to be snowy or icy. If the weather is bad, slow down or pull over and put your hazard lights on.
• Do not feed or disturb wildlife in the park.
• Always check ice thickness and conditions. Use your senses and look for signs: water vapour above the ice or creaking and cracking noises are indications of weak or thin ice.
• Share a trip plan with friends or family, have a local towing company’s number on hand and bring an emergency kit and essential items.
• Dress in warm layers including a coat, hat, scarf, or mittens, if needed!
• Cell phone reception is not always available in Prince Albert National Park and cold weather can drain their batteries faster. Be prepared for emergencies or delays as help may not be near or immediately available.

Hours of Operation:

The Prince Albert National Park Visitor Centre is open year-round. Hours may vary. Call the Visitor Centre at 1-306-663-4522 or email princealbertinfo@pc.gc.ca for more information.

Join us for a porcupine quill earring workshop facilitated by local Cree artists.

• Saturday, December 14, 2024. 1:00pm to 4:00pm at the Visitor Centre.
• $48.50 per person. The materials, the expertise of the facilitators, and Bannock and wild tea are included in the cost of the program.

To register or for more information, please visit or contact the Visitor Centre at 306-663-4522. Spots are limited; please pre-register today!

For a list of amenities available in the townsite of Waskesiu at this time of year. https://www.waskesiu.org/

Stay up to date with Prince Albert National Park

Connect with us on social media (Facebook and X).

Media inquiries
Prince Albert National Park
panp-pnpamedia@pc.gc.ca

Autumn adventures await – Parks Canada

September 13, 2024

Bring out the warm drinks and bunnyhugs - autumn is here!

Autumn is the perfect time to visit Prince Albert National Park and decompress after the hustle and bustle of summer.

Hours of Operation:

The Prince Albert National Park Visitor Centre is open year-round

• September 3, 2024 to October 14, 2024: Sunday to Thursday, from 8 am to 6 pm. Friday to Saturday, from 8 am to 8 pm.

Nature Centre is open weekends until September 29, 2024

• September 7 to September 29, 2024: Open Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 am to 3 pm.
• The Nature Centre will reopen to welcome visitors in May 2025.

For a list of amenities available in the Waskesiu townsite at this time of year, please visit: https://www.waskesiu.org/

Planning a visit to the park?

Bundle up and fall in love with Waskesiu all over again with these top fall experiences:

1. Learn something new from a Parks Canada interpreter this September. Join a guided stargazing experience off of the Main Beach, or admire the fall colours during a guided hike along Boundary Bog Trail. Interpretive programs are available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays until October 6. The interpretive program schedule is available online.
2. Discover nature’s colour palette while exploring the hiking trails throughout the park. Be sure to consult the Prince Albert National Park website for trail maps and information. Daylight is shorter and the weather is cooler, so make sure to start hikes earlier and dress in layers!
3. Go camping amongst falling leaves.
   • Beaver Glen and Red Deer reservations are available until October 13. There are also plenty of walk-up front-country and backcountry campgrounds to choose from that are first-come, first-served.
   • For up-to-date information on campgrounds open in the fall, please contact the Visitor Centre at 1-306-663-4522 or email princealbertinfo@pc.gc.ca.
4. Dip your paddle in serene waters and watch closely for birds flying above or hiding in the trees. Canoeing, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding provides a unique perspective of the park.
   • As the temperatures cool down, make sure to pack and prepare ahead of time and be AdventureSmart. The water is cold at this time of year.

Looking for more trip inspiration? Visit our website for more information.

Spot an elk during your visit? Give them space - It is rutting season!

Elk breed in the early fall until mid-October, also known as rutting season. It is important to be extra wary of elk during the rut in Prince Albert National Park. Male elk sometimes charge and damage vehicles on the roadside, so drive with caution and obey all posted speed limits. Avoid stopping to view elk along the roadside and do not linger, move along safely and quickly.

The opportunity to watch wildlife is a privilege that comes with responsibilities, so make sure to give them space! To avoid an encounter:

1. Give elk at least 30 meters of space. If the elk stops and stares, you are too close. Back away slowly and let it return to what it was doing.
2. Be aware of your surroundings. Remember to be alert on trails and roadways and watch for signs of elk. Be ready to change your route to avoid elk.
3. Drive with caution and obey all posted speed limits. Avoid stopping to view elk along the roadside and do not linger, move along safely and quickly.
4. Make noise to signal your presence. This gives wildlife an opportunity to leave the area.
5. Travel in groups and keep children within arm’s reach.
6. Carry a walking stick or something swishy like a coat or a plastic grocery bag that can be waved to scare an aggressive animal off. Items like an umbrella could also be used.
7. Keep pets on a leash and under control at all times.
8. Never stand or park your car between a male and females.
9. Do not entice the bull by imitating their call.

If an elk charges, get behind a solid object, like a tree or car, and report it to Parks Canada as soon as it is safe at 1-877-852-3100.

Stay up to date with Prince Albert National Park
Connect with us on social media (Facebook and X).

Media inquiries
Prince Albert National Park
panp-pnpamedia@pc.gc.ca

Help keep aquatic invasive species out of Prince Albert National Park – Parks Canada

August 2, 2024

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) threaten freshwater ecosystems – lakes and rivers. Parks Canada needs your help to protect park waterways.

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are organisms that have spread outside of their natural, historic range. They can be plants, animals, fungi or bacteria that were introduced to a new body of water by human activity. Once established, aquatic invasive species are nearly impossible to get rid of. They reproduce quickly, have no natural predators, and outcompete native species for resources.

The spread of these species can have serious consequences. Aquatic invasive species:

• Damage critical infrastructure
• Impact lake, beach and fishing visitor experiences
• Alter lake ecosystems and biodiversity
• Threaten already vulnerable species at risk

If aquatic invasive species enter park waters, the consequences could be extremely damaging. Beaches could be covered in sharp shells, fish populations might decline which would impact fishing, drinking water infrastructure might become clogged, and the costs to repair damages could be high taking resources away from the visitor experience.

Preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species is a shared responsibility.

How can you help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species?

1. Make clean, drain, dry a habit everywhere you go!

   This includes watercraft such as motorboats, canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, windsurfers, rowboats, and inflatables. It also means any water-related gear: trailers, fishing gear, personal flotation devices (PFDs), wetsuits, paddles, and children’s toys.

   CLEAN

   Inspect and clean all mud, sand, plant and animal materials from your watercraft, trailer or water-related gear.

   DRAIN

   Drain all water from your watercraft and water-related gear. This includes bilges, livewells, buckets and other items or compartments that may hold water.

   Pull the plug on your boat every time your watercraft moves between waterbodies.

   DRY

   Dry all parts of your watercraft, trailer and water-related gear between trips to Prince Albert National Park. Leave compartments open and gear in the sun until dry. Use paper towel, rags or soft cloth to sponge out standing water.

2. Don’t let it loose. Aquarium pets and plants, live seafood, live bait and sport fish can all become invasive species when released or moved between waterbodies.

3. Know Before You Go. It is illegal to transport, possess or release aquatic invasive species.

   Know the regulations before you visit:
   Prince Albert National Park Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention
   Federal Aquatic Invasive Species Regulations
   Saskatchewan Aquatic Invasive Species Program

4. Report aquatic invasive species sightings. Take a picture, note the location, and report it to Parks Canada immediately at panpAIS-EAEpnap@pc.gc.ca or call Parks Canada Dispatch 1-877-852-3100.

   Sightings outside of the national park can be reported to the Saskatchewan Turn in Poachers and Polluters (TIPP) line: saskatchewan.ca/tipp or 1-800-667-7561.

Parks Canada has multiple strategies to prevent AIS, beginning with educating the public on how to avoid transporting AIS into Prince Albert National Park. In parallel, Parks Canada is working alongside Indigenous nations and other important partners to define mitigations moving forward. Parks Canada is also collaborating with the Government of Saskatchewan and other local water agencies to detect AIS early, monitoring water quality and AIS indicators and conducting environmental DNA testing.

When visiting Prince Albert National Park this summer you will notice increased signage and the presence of Park Interpreters sharing messages about the importance of AIS prevention. Parks Canada will continue to communicate publicly as it implements new and increasing mitigation strategies throughout 2024 and into 2025.

Media inquiries
Prince Albert National Park
panp-pnpamedia@pc.gc.ca

July 25 is World Drowning Prevention Day – Parks Canada

Parks Canada is deeply saddened by the tragic drowning in Waskesiu Lake on July 14, 2024. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the individual, and with those who responded to the incident. This is a somber reminder of the risks of drowning in open water.

Knowing how to prevent and prepare for emergencies on the water, and what to do if one occurs, may save your life. Plan ahead and get the most out of your next water adventure.

Do your part, be water smart:

• Take the essentials and share a trip plan with a trusted family member or friend. Make sure you match your adventure with your ability level, knowledge, equipment and the conditions that day.
• Complete a pre-departure checklist and take a boating safety course to learn how to avoid potential dangers and operate pleasure crafts safely.
• Always wear a certified life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) properly. Lifejackets are like seat belts – they only work if you wear them, and wear them properly.
• There are no lifeguards at Prince Albert National Park. Even in a boat, stay close to the shore. Children and weak swimmers must be supervised at all times when they are in or around water. If you are not "within arms' reach" of your children, you have gone too far.
• Check the weather before you leave and be prepared for sudden changes – strong winds can turn the water from serene to dangerous quickly.
• Be prepared to self-rescue should any boat, canoe or kayak capsize. Help may not be nearby.
• Transport Canada requires minimum safety equipment on all types of recreational watercraft – including boats, canoes, paddleboards and kayaks.
• Hypothermia happens quickly. Even in the summer, lakes can be cold. Watch for symptoms, including shivering, confusion, slurred speech, drowsiness and low energy.

Boating

• Do not drink and boat. Boating under the influence is illegal.
• Failure to comply with Transport Canada Small Vessel Regulations could result in penalties or being required to remove your vessel from the water until requirements are met.
• Ensure the vessel is registered with the registration numbers properly displayed. Only properly licensed persons may operate the vessel. Operate the vessel in a safe, lawful manner.
• Visit STARTboating for boat safety information in Mandarin, Cantonese, Hindi and Tagalog.

Stay up to date with Prince Albert National Park
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Media inquiries
Prince Albert National Park
panp-pnpamedia@pc.gc.ca

Know before you go – Parks Canada

Thank you for subscribing to the Prince Albert National Park newsletter. We look forward to sharing updates directly into your inbox. If you’re interested in updates on science and conservation or fire information don’t forget to subscribe.

Road closures

The north Spruce River bridge on Highway 263 is closed after sustaining damage due to high water levels from record rainfall in June 2024.

The closure is in effect between Spruce River Highlands Trailhead from the north, and Sandy (Halkett) Lake parking lot from the south.

There is a similar closure for the Sturgeon River Bridge and Westside Trail Access.

Prince Albert National Park remains open and is accessible via Highway 264 and Highway 2. Updates are available on social media (Facebook and X).

Freight Tait Springs Trailhead and parking lot are closed to public access.

• To access the Sandy (Halkett) Lake campground, Elk trail, Paspiwin and Hunters trail, enter the south of the park through the south gate on Highway 263.
• All other trails, campgrounds and amenities are accessible via Highway 264 and Highway 2. Some backcountry bridges may have experienced damage from flooding and may be impassable. Be vigilant on the trail and be prepared to turn around.

Spending the weekend in Prince Albert National Park? Here are 5 things to know before you go!

Whether you are a hiker, cyclist or beach lover (or all three!), there is always something fun to do in Prince Albert National Park. A great trip starts with being informed and prepared. Follow these 5 tips for a safe and enjoyable trip:

Tip #1: Plan ahead

Be prepared for wherever adventure takes you. Pack essential items, share a trip plan with family or friends, know how to use your equipment and check the weather before you leave. Not sure what to include in a trip plan? Use the AdventureSmart trip planning app to get started.

Visit the Prince Albert National Park website and follow us on social media for park updates (Facebook and X), trail conditions and trip inspiration.

Tip #2: Arrive early

When the lake calls, Saskatchewanians answer! Prince Albert National Park’s entry gates and campground kiosks can be busy on summer weekends. Avoid the lines and arrive Friday morning, or the night before, to beat the rush.

Note: Waskesiu is especially busy on Canada Day. If you are attending the parade on July 1, arrive before 10:00 am to avoid lineups at the gates and find a parking spot.

Tip #3: Protect park waters

Parks Canada needs your help to protect park waterways from aquatic invasive species! Make it a habit to Clean Drain Dry your watercrafts and water-related equipment before and after each visit to Prince Albert National Park. Yes, that includes life jackets, floaties and stand-up paddleboards! For boat users, remember to pull the plug every time you move your watercraft between waterbodies.

Tip #4: Be safe on the water

Planning to be on the water this weekend? Prepare for the unexpected! Safety on the water for you and your guests is your responsibility. Visitors should be self-reliant when visiting Prince Albert National Park, including on the water. Take the following steps to keep every lake adventure a safe one:

• Wear certified life jackets or personal flotation devices (PFD) when on water.
• In the event of any life-threatening (emergency) situation on the water, call Parks Canada Dispatch at 1-877-852-3100. Response times may vary.
• Keep recommended survival items and required safety equipment on board in case help cannot get to you immediately.
• Check the weather before and during your trip – watercraft operators are often stranded by storms, wind or waves.
• If your watercraft is motorized, always be sure it is full of fuel and has been properly serviced.

Tip #5: Be wild smart

Seeing wildlife in their natural habitat is a privilege that comes with responsibility. Help keep wildlife wild:

• Give them space! Wild animals can react if threatened, surprised or to protect their young. Stay alert and know what to do to avoid an encounter.
• Slow down, but do not stop. Wildlife that are comfortable around people and roadsides are at greater risk of being hit by cars. Be careful driving in the park and watch for wildlife crossing the road, especially at night.
• Keep pets on leash and under physical control at all times. This keeps you, your pet and wildlife safe. Off-leash pets can provoke wildlife, which could injure you, your pet, other visitors or wildlife.
• Do not feed wildlife. It is illegal to feed or disturb wildlife in national parks. This is for your safety and theirs.
• Keep picnic and campsites clean. Never leave scented items or food alone, even for a minute. Scented items include food (including pet food), toiletries, dirty dishes, garbage and even empty coolers. All these must be secured when not in use, in something like a vehicle, hard-sided trailer, bear-proof food locker, bear-resistant canister or elevated food cache.

Report wildlife encounters or dead animals to Parks Canada Dispatch 24-hours a day: 1-877-852-3100.

Media inquiries

Prince Albert National Park
panp-pnpamedia@pc.gc.ca

Prince Albert National Park Fire ban lifted – Parks Canada

The fire ban for Prince Albert National Park has been lifted, effective today, August 1, 2024.

The forecasted rain, high overnight relative humidity and lower temperatures later this week will reduce the fire threat level and the possibility of human-caused wildfire in the park.

Although the ban is lifted, it is still important to manage campfires responsibly. Remember to do the following before starting a campfire:
Purchase the proper campfire permit where required.

• Keep campfires in the fire pits provided.
• Use the wood piles near campfire areas.
• Keep fires small and never leave a fire alone.
• Extinguish fires fully before you leave or go to bed – pour water on it, stir the ashes and repeat until the ashes are cool to the touch.
• Check the Parks Canada website, visit Prince Albert National Park social media (Facebook, X) or contact the visitor centre for fire ban information, closures and other important updates before visiting.

While we cannot avoid lighting-caused wildfires, we can avoid human-caused fires. Please do your part to keep our communities and first responders safe. Always properly dispose of cigarettes and other combustible items.

If you see any wildfires or suspicious smoke, please report it to 911 or Parks Canada Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

Area closure update

The west side trail access in Prince Albert National Park was closed on June 18, 2024 after the Sturgeon River bridge sustained significant damage due to flooding from record rainfall in June 2024. The closure is in effect until further notice. We recognize this situation impacts neighboring residents and businesses in the area.

Safety is a top priority for Parks Canada. Bridge safety engineers assessed the bridge on June 27, 2024 and determined the structural integrity of the bridge has degraded due to the impacts of high water, making it unsafe to pass. Currently there is no timeline associated with repair or replacement.

For up to date information, please visit:
the Important Bulletins page ; Facebook or X

Inquiries
Prince Albert National Park
panp-pnpamedia@pc.gc.ca

Prince Albert National Park Fire ban issued – Parks Canada

A fire ban is in place for Prince Albert National Park due to the elevated fire danger. Lighting or having fires is strictly prohibited.

Why?

The decision to implement a fire ban is based on an assessment of local fire hazards, current and forecasted weather conditions, the amount of moisture in vegetation, the regional wildfire situation and the availability of responders and equipment.

This fire ban helps ensure the safety of visitors and residents, and for the protection of critical infrastructure.

Where?

The fire ban includes the townsite of Waskesiu, all front and backcountry campgrounds, and day-use areas.

When?

The fire ban will be lifted when conditions allow.

What?

This fire ban includes all open fires.

What is prohibited during the fire ban:

• Wood or briquette campfires
• Wood, charcoal or briquette barbecues
• Indoor fireplaces and outdoor wood-burning stoves (including cooking shelters and residences,)
• Turkey fryers
• Tiki torches and Other devices with a solid fuel (coal, wood pellets etc.)

What is permitted during the fire ban*:

• Portable propane fire pits (prohibited at overflow campgrounds)
• Gas or propane stoves and barbeques designed for cooking or heating
• Propane or gas-fueled lanterns (enclosed flame)

* provided all of the above are under direct supervision, have a valve to readily turn off the flame and certified by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

While we cannot avoid lighting-caused wildfires, we can avoid human-caused fires. Please do your part to keep our communities and first responders safe by not lighting fires during the fire ban. Always properly dispose of cigarettes and other combustible items.

If you see any wildfires, illegal campfires or suspicious smoke, please report it to 911 or Parks Canada Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

For up to date information, please visit the Important Bulletins page ; Facebook or X.

Inquiries
Prince Albert National Park
panp-fire@pc.gc.ca