Wood Bison Trail
A difficult long loop through the southern aspen forest where wood bison may be present.
Route overview
Wood Bison Trail in Elk Island National Park, Alberta.
Wood Bison Trail is the longest route in this wave and the only selected trail explicitly associated with the park’s wood-bison range south of Highway 16. Its name is not a sighting guarantee. Hikers must maintain the full 100-metre minimum distance and turn around when animals prevent safe passage.
Trail facts
- Country
- Canada
- Region
- Elk Island National Park, Alberta
- Distance
- 15.6 km
- Typical duration
- 240-300 minutes
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- Not published by official source
- Best season
- Check current official seasonal access and conditions
- Trail type
- Loop
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- normal park admission
Safety context
wood bison habitat, long distance, forest sightline limits, ticks, mud, weather and delayed response Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
wood bison habitat, long distance, forest sightline limits, ticks, mud, weather and delayed response
Why find a buddy
intended for experienced, endurance-matched partners with a conservative bison encounter protocol
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.