PRINCE ALBERT NATIONAL PARK

Track Wolves in the Snow

The prairies meet the boreal forests in Prince Albert National Park, bordered by dense forests of birch, aspen and spruce, a beautiful panorama that hosts one of the most elusive creatures in Canada’s wildlife pantheon – the grey wolf. It’s always a gamble when it comes to wildlife, but this is one of the best places to encounter the wolf, especially in winter. Watch them chase prey across frozen lakes, or join the summer wolf howl – when park interpreters lead a caravan of cars to the forest edge for a man-beast conversation.

Length of Trip : 2-4 days to explore the park. Sun Dogs runs half, full and multi-day dogsledding excursions into the park.

Cost : Click here for sledding rates. There is a nominal park fee to enter Prince Albert National Park.

Best time to go : The best time to see wolves is in winter. Sun Dogs is a dogsledding tour operator who can take you into the park, and even let you track wolves. Winter roads are accessible by 4×4. Wolf Howls take place Saturdays in August

Wheelchair friendly : Call ahead to see if you can be accommodated.

Family friendly : Yes

Where to eat : Click here for a list of places to eat in Waskeisu. Bear in mind that some places are closed over the winter.

Official Site : Visit Parks Canada’s official site for Prince Albert National Park

Where to Stay : The Elk Ridge Resort offers luxury rooms, cabins and townhouses. Other accommodation options available in the resort community of Waskeisu, located inside Prince Albert National Park

Getting There : Prince Albert National Park is located about 2 and half hours drive from Saskatoon, 60 kilometres north of the city of Prince Albert. You’ll be travelling on Highways #2 and #264 or the Scenic Route (Highway #263), all of which are paved, year-round roads.

Note from Robin : As with all wildlife viewing, there’s no guarantee you’ll actually see wolves. Better to enjoy the remoteness and beauty of the park, which includes the last herd of plains bison roaming in their natural range.

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