Nestled in the heart of Saskatchewan, Prince Albert National Park offers an extraordinary escape into nature. The park spans over 3,800 sq. km where prairie fescue grasslands transition to lakes, wetlands and mixed wood boreal forest. The area is characterized by diverse landscapes and rich wildlife featuring lush forests, serene lakes, and winding rivers that create a stunning backdrop for your hiking adventures. Here are five trails that will take you on a path of discovery through bogs, forests and rivers, all while providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

 

1. Mud Creek Trail

Directions: Narrows Road, access at South Bay day-use area
Length: 2 km loop
Level of difficulty: easy

Mud Creek Trail follows part of the south shore of Waskesiu Lake, then heads along Mud Creek through spruce and aspen forests. An active beaver lodge and dam can be seen on the creek. Pack a picnic, bring your bathing suit and spend the rest of the day at the beach. Picnic tables, fire pits and a picnic shelter are available for public use

 

2. Boundary Bog Trail

Directions: Highway 264, just past the east entrance gate of the park
Length: 2 km loop
Level of difficulty: easy

Head through the boreal forest to a black spruce bog on the Boundary Bog Trail. As you approach the kettle lake through the golden tamaracks and dwarf birches, keep an eye out for the red-green cup-shaped leaves of the pitcher plant. This carnivorous plant lures, traps and digests insects and is just a small part of the amazingly diverse bog ecosystem.  

3. Narrows Peninsula Trail

Directions: Kingsmere Road
Length: 3 km loop
Level of difficulty: moderate

This rolling trail follows the peninsula that makes up the narrowest part of Waskesiu Lake. The Narrows Peninsula Trail has a few steep sections and moves through a variety of habitats, including a forest of balsam fir, jack pine and a large fern bed that peaks in the early summer. It also passes by a lookout where a busy trading post existed in the 1880s.

4. Spruce River Highlands Trail

Directions: Highway 263
Length: 8.5 km loop
Level of difficulty: difficult

Trek though aspen-covered hill tops that overlook the Spruce River in the southern part of the park. These hills were left behind by retreating glaciers and afford amazing panoramic views of the south end of the park, including Anglin Lake in neighbouring Great Blue Heron Provincial Park. A 10 m viewing tower offers an even more expansive view. The many slopes, exposed tree roots and rocks, along with the distance, make Spruce River Highlands Trail one of the more difficult trails in the park. Expect to spend 3 – 4 hours hiking.

5. Grey Owl Trail

Directions: Kingsmere Road
Length: 19.9 km one-way
Level of difficulty: difficult

Make your way along the eastern shore of Kingsmere Lake where the noteworthy naturalist, Grey Owl, paddled his canoe to his home on the shores of Ajaawan Lake. In 1931, Grey Owl was appointed “caretaker of the animals” for the park. He and his wife, Anahareo, lived in a log cabin with their two pet beavers Rawhide and Jellyroll. Tourists flocked to the cabin then to see the famous pair and that tradition continues today. Expect to spend at least one night on the Grey Owl Trail at one of the designated backcountry campgrounds. All campers must register at the Visitor Centre before heading out.

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a family looking for an outdoor adventure, Prince Albert National Park has a trail to suit you. From the easy strolls along Mud Creek Trail to the challenging terrain of Spruce River Highlands and Grey Owl Trail, each hike provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in Saskatchewan's stunning natural beauty. So lace up your hiking boots and get ready to create unforgettable memories in Saskatchewan’s boreal forest.

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