Best trails in Elk Island National Park
Elk Island National Park of Canada protects the wilderness of the aspen parkland, one of the most endangered habitats in Canada. Plains provide habitat for bison, wood bison, moose, deer, and elk. The park is also renowned for its birdwatching opportunities, with over 250 species of birds.
Top trails
Visitor info
Elk Island National Park charges a fee to enter.
Guides
Trail reviews for Elk Island National Park
Cold hike along the trail and then walk on the ice and snow to the island at Elk Island National Park.
Pit toilet at the end. Trail is all the way asphalt so good for road bikes, but the short offshoots to elk island and beaver valley are gravel.
Just did the "moderate" shorter loop of the trail, took me about 1.5 hrs in a calm, wandering pace! (Just under 5km). This is my favourite trail at elk island, I think! Perfect mix of walking through the thick forest, as well as open spaces with gorgeous views right by the lake. Saw a bison hanging out by the lake. Wonderful! There is a bathroom at the trailhead as well as 2 or 3 campfire rings and picnic tables (no wood though)
Completed this trail on September 08, 2024. This is one of the longer hikes at Elk Island Park, but definitely worth it. Trail is mostly flat with the odd little hill, but overall barely any elevation gain. You’re in the trees for quite a bit of the trail, but there are many little field areas along the trail for potential bison spotting. We didn’t see any bison on the trail this time though. Trail also had a good mix of sun and shade. Definitely start early as it’s a longer trail to avoid the heat. Bring bug spray as well because there were a lot of mosquitoes. All I wore for this hike was my regular hiking shoes, but any pair of runners would work on this trail. No poles or fancy hiking equipment needed! There is a bear warning, and we saw bear scat along the trail but no actual bears. Also some coyote scat as well. Overall I really liked this trail and I’d have to say it’s going to be one of my new favorites at elk island park and will be returning
3hrs almost 13km trail. Not epic view but still decent and easy but long little bit boring. Saw a bison near Oster lake. Nothing more. But frequently spot bison poops (fresh and old) along the trial, and some black poops (suspect black bear)? I’m not sure. Haven’t met anyone in the middle of trail, only saw couples more people coming when I close to the exit. I suggest when do those long trails even though in elk island, for safety bring bear spray if you’re solo.