Elk Island National Park

Preserved Nature East of Edmonton

Located in northern Alberta just east of the Edmonton metropolitan area, Elk Island National Park spans 194 square kilometres. Established in 1913, this preserved island is reached by the Yellowhead Highway.

Pulling in over 220,000 annual visitors, Elk Island features an impressive array of wildlife – including plains and wood bison, elk, moose, and deer. Bird watchers are also in luck, as Elk Island NP is home to 250 species of bird.

Warm weather brings hikers, golfers, and boaters – be that by kayak, canoe, or even sailboat – to Elk Island. Trails across the island include Hayburger Trail, Simmons Trail, Shirley Lake Trail, Moss Lake Trail, and more.

Many visitors remain on Elk Island after sunset for stargazing, as the area is part of the Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve. Cooler temperatures bring incredible fall foliage to the island, while winter allows for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.