Elk Island National Park
National Park (Parks Canada) / Beaver Hills Biosphere / Dark Sky Preserve · Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta
Elk Island National Park is a fenced island of aspen forest, lakes and meadows about 35 km east of Edmonton, Alberta, protected since 1906 and now best known for its bison. Two kinds live here, plains bison and the larger wood bison, kept apart by Highway 16, which cuts across the park. Animals from this park have helped restore herds across Canada and beyond. Driving the Bison Loop Road often means stopping for a herd on the tarmac. The park also shelters elk, moose, deer, beavers and many bird species. Astotin Lake has a beach, trails, canoe launch and campground, and the park sits within the Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve, with good stargazing on clear nights. A Parks Canada pass is needed (confirm current rates). Bison are wild and fast, so stay in your vehicle or at least 100 m away, and never approach for a photograph. It is an easy day trip from Edmonton, and a half day is enough for the wildlife drive.
54401 Range Road 203, Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, T8L 0V3, Canada
The park is open year round, and the main roads are generally accessible at all hours, though winter snow can limit side roads and facilities. The Astotin Lake recreation area, campground, concession and visitor services run seasonally, roughly May to October, with exact dates changing by year. Parks Canada passes are checked at the gate or by self-serve, depending on the entry. Dawn and dusk are the best times for wildlife, and after dark the park is a recognised Dark Sky Preserve. Confirm fees, season dates, event times and any road closures with Parks Canada before you drive out.
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