You might not know this, but Wood Buffalo National Park is actually the largest national park in Canada. This place spans 44,741 km² and crosses the Alberta-Northwest Territories border. To give you an idea of just how massive this park is, it is larger in area than Switzerland. Yes, the country! It’s the second-largest National Park in the world and the largest in the country, so you can only imagine how vast it really is.
While you will have to get yourself to the tip top of the province to experience it for yourself, it is so very worth it. Some notable features of this area are the facts that it has one of the largest herds of wood bison in the world, it’s a vital whooping crane habitat, and it is the world’s largest Dark Sky Reserve. If you love stargazing or catching glimpses of the Northern lights, there is literally no better place.
So, what else can you do at Wood Buffalo National Park? Good question! Let’s talk about camping.
There are several options for camping in this region, both background and front. One great option is Pine Lake Campground, where there are also cabin rentals. Another option is Kettle Point Group Campsite. If you love camping, this is a great place to pitch your tent because gorgeous sights and endless activities surround you. Pine Lake Beach is an exquisite beach that is typically thawed and good for swimming by the end of June. It’s great for paddling, swimming, or just reading a book on the sand.
The extensive trail system throughout the park has tons of options if you want to hike, ranging from multi-day adventures to short day hikes. There are countless short little loops that we know you’ll love and that can be completed in just a short afternoon. If we had to recommend one, we’d suggest checking out Salt River Day Use Area Trails or the Salt Plains. The Salt Plains are breathtaking, a view you won’t soon forget.
So, what else can you do? Honestly, the list goes on forever. There is fishing, paddling, picnicking, wildlife viewing, boating, guided experiences, and so much more. The park is home to bears, wolves, moose, lynxes, marten, wolverines, foxes, beavers, hawks, eagles, cranes, owls, and more.
If you’re looking to unplug and immerse yourself in nature, look no further. This place is breathtaking in every way imaginable.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the 2023 Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
