Wood Buffalo National Park wilderness guide
National Park · AB, NT

Wood Buffalo National Park

Wood Buffalo National Park is one of the largest national parks in the world, offering vast landscapes of boreal forest and unique ecosystems, including the largest inland delta and free-roaming wood bison population.

National Park17,363,2713+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

17,363,271

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Wood Buffalo National Park

Wood Buffalo National Park is one of the largest national parks in the world, offering vast landscapes of boreal forest and unique ecosystems, including the largest inland delta and free-roaming wood bison population.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Established in 1922, Wood Buffalo National Park spans over 17,363,271 acres across northeastern Alberta and southern Northwest Territories in Canada. As one of the largest national parks globally, it preserves a rich diversity of habitats including wetlands, salt plains, and expansive boreal forests. The park is renowned for housing the last remaining natural nesting area of the whooping crane and one of the largest herds of free-roaming wood bison. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique blend of ecological importance and outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy hiking through serene forests, canoeing along tranquil waterways, and observing wildlife in their natural habitats. The park also features the remarkable Peace-Athabasca Delta, which is one of the world's largest freshwater deltas. Despite its remote location, Wood Buffalo’s rugged beauty and significant ecological features draw nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Wood Buffalo National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

Peace-Athabasca DeltaWhooping crane nesting groundsSalt plainsThebacha Trail
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Wood Buffalo National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Wood Buffalo National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Wood Buffalo National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Wood Buffalo National Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Wood Buffalo National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Wood Buffalo National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Wood Buffalo National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees, but permits required for certain activities.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Wood Buffalo National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Wood Buffalo National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Fort Smith, Northwest Territories
57.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fort Smith, Northwest Territories

Fort Smith is your gateway to northern adventure and vast natural landscapes. Explore Wood Buffalo National Park, tackle the Slave River, and witness auroras galore.