Discover Wood Buffalo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with our travel guide. Explore its vast wilderness, from the unique Salt Plains to the Peace-Athabasca Delta, and experience diverse wildlife, including the largest herd of free-roaming wood bison.
Wood Buffalo National Park, located in northeastern Alberta and southern Northwest Territories, Canada, is one of the largest national parks in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers a unique wilderness experience with its diverse landscape and wildlife.
Getting There
By Air: The nearest airports are in Fort McMurray, Alberta, and Fort Smith, Northwest Territories. Both towns serve as gateways to the park.
By Road: Accessible by road from Fort Smith and Fort Chipewyan, Alberta. The drive involves traveling on remote highways.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June to August): Ideal for wildlife viewing, hiking, and canoeing. The weather is warm, and the park’s facilities are fully operational.
Winter (December to March): Offers a different experience with snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and aurora viewing. Services are limited.
Major Attractions
Salt Plains: Unique geological features accessible by a short trail. The area is also great for bird watching.
Pine Lake: A popular spot for camping, swimming, and picnicking.
Peace-Athabasca Delta: One of the world's largest freshwater deltas, offering stunning landscapes and wildlife viewing.
Dark Sky Preserve: The park is a designated Dark Sky Preserve, making it an excellent spot for stargazing and Northern Lights viewing.
Activities
Wildlife Viewing: Home to the largest free-roaming herd of wood bison, along with black bears, wolves, and whooping cranes.
Hiking: Various trails ranging from short walks to longer, more challenging hikes.
Canoeing and Kayaking: The park offers numerous lakes and rivers for paddling.
Cultural Sites: Visit Aboriginal cultural sites within the park to learn about the rich history of the First Nations and Métis people.
Accommodations
Camping: The park offers several campgrounds with varying levels of facilities, from backcountry camping to sites with basic amenities.
Nearby Towns: Fort Smith and Fort Chipewyan provide additional lodging options, including hotels and B&Bs.
Facilities and Services
Visitor Centers: Located in Fort Smith and Fort Chipewyan, offering exhibits, information, and maps.
Limited Services: There are limited services within the park, so visitors should come prepared with supplies.
Travel Tips
Prepare for the Wilderness: The park is remote and wild. Be prepared for self-sufficient travel, especially if venturing into the backcountry.
Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from animals and follow park regulations to protect both wildlife and yourself.
Bug Protection: In summer, mosquitoes and other insects can be abundant, so bring insect repellent and protective clothing.
Check out the Official Parks Canada Website and the Wood Buffalo National Park - UNESCO World Heritage Centre to find out more information.
Visiting Wood Buffalo National Park is an opportunity to immerse yourself in one of North America’s last great wilderness areas. It’s a place of immense ecological importance, offering breathtaking natural beauty and a chance to reconnect with the natural world.
