Prince Albert National Park is ready to welcome back seasonal residents and campers!

To maintain a family-friendly environment, there is a liquor and cannabis restriction in effect in all campgrounds on the Victoria long weekend.

Note: A fire ban is now in effect for Prince Albert National Park. All open fires are prohibited. The current fire danger is extreme. For a full list of prohibited and exempt devices, visit: https://parks.canada.ca/…/pri…/securite-safety/bulletins

Waskesiu Townsite

Victoria Day long weekend is the opening period for the majority of Waskesiu-based businesses. After a day on the trails, stroll through town to have a bite to eat or pick up a local gift. You’re sure to find something special in the town of Waskesiu. For more information on the businesses available, visit waskesiu.org/explore-waskesiu.

Fishing

The fishing season in the park opens Saturday, May 20. Pick up your fishing license in advance at the Visitor Centre or one of the three marinas.

Wildlife Safety

Opportunities for wildlife watching are great at this time of year. Days are longer and wildlife is active, especially in the mornings and evenings. It is important to remember to:

· Give wildlife space. The animals in the park are fun to see but they are wild, so give them at least 100m.

· Stay alert and know what to do if you encounter wildlife. Wild animals can react if threatened, surprised or to protect their young. If an animal stops and stares, back away slowly.

· Always keep pets on a 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.

· Keep campsites and picnic areas clean. It is illegal to feed or disturb wildlife in national parks. This is for your safety and theirs. To prevent this, keep scented items, including food, toiletries, dirty dishes, garbage and empty coolers in a vehicle, hard-sided trailer or bear proof food locker or cache.

· Drive carefully and obey speed limits – wildlife stands near or on roads.

Trail Conditions

For the most up to date trail conditions visit the Prince Albert National Park website or call the Visitor Centre at (306) 663-4522.

· Note: Boundary Bog trail is closed for construction from April 17 2023 to December 2023. To view Boundary Bog trail closure information and map, please visit the Important Bulletins page of the Prince Albert National Park website.

Visit the Nature Centre!

With interactive displays and exhibits, the Nature Centre is a great destination for families and visitors to learn about nature and wildlife!

Nature Centre hours from May 20 to June 25 2023

Saturdays and Sundays only: 10:00am to 5:00pm

Nature Centre hours from June 30 to August 31 2023

Open daily: 10:00am to 5:00pm

Attend a spring program with a knowledgeable Parks Canada interpreter

Make the most of your visit to the park this spring and on the Victoria Day long weekend. Attend a public program:

· The Early Riser Bird Walk is back! Discover the four keys to identifying birds along this 2km hike. Meet at the Fisher Trail at 7:00am on Saturday, May 20 or Sunday, May 21;

· Join a Parks Canada guide at the Curiosi-tent every Saturday and Sunday from May 20 to June 25, near the Main Beach in Waskesiu. This program will be hosted from 10:00am to 12:00pm on May 20 and 21, then 9:00am to 11:00am every weekend until June 25.

Watch for the summer program schedule coming soon.

Spring Safety

Enjoy boating and paddling in Prince Albert National Park this spring. Despite the warmer weather, the lakes are still at a cold temperature with risk of hypothermia. Take precautions to stay safe:

· Share a trip plan with a trusted family member or friend;

· Take the essential items for the appropriate activity;

o For boating, always wear an approved personal flotation device and stay close to shore. Be prepared to self-rescue if needed;

o For backcountry camping, pack extra clothing and warm gear for spring weather conditions;

· Adventures in national parks have risks. Come ready to experience all nature has to offer and mitigate risk by planning and preparing carefully. Beaches and open water are not patrolled;

· Never downplay weather. Check the weather before leaving for the park and starting activities, but be prepared for anything. Weather can be different from minute to minute and place to place. Beware of the strong winds and waves on lakes.

Prince Albert National Park Visitor Centre

Visitor Centre Hours from May 13 2023 to September 4 2023

Open daily: 7:00am to 8:00pm

For pre-planning your trip, contact the friendly and knowledgeable Parks Canada staff by phone at 306-663-4522 or email: princealbertinfo@pc.gc.ca.

by Prince Albert National Park

Prince Albert National Park is ready to welcome back seasonal residents and campers!

What's Trending