In the heart of Saskatchewan beats a verdant paradise known as Prince Albert National Park. With 3,875 square kilometres of boreal forest and aspen parkland, it is home to abundant wildlife—from elk, moose and wolves to one of the last remaining herds of free-range plains bison in the world. The westernmost side of the park is where the bison usually hang out, but other animals can be spotted from the park’s most popular recreation spot—Waskesiu Lake.
Located roughly in the centre of the park, Waskesiu Lake offers easy access to over 950 square kilometres of Prussian blue water. There are six boat launches and beaches on Waskesiu Lake and the small resort town of Waskesiu has all the amenities. One could easily spend a weekend (or an entire week) swimming, wakesurfing and touring Waskesiu Lake, then explore nearby Crean, Sandy and Hanging Hearts lakes. Boats are also permitted on Kingsmere Lake if they are under 40 horsepower. All of these lakes offer abundant fishing opportunities as well.
If jet skiing is more your thing, you’ll want to head south of the park to Emma and Christopher lakes, as personal watercraft are not permitted in Prince Albert National Park.
Tourism info
- Waskesiu & Area Wilderness Region
- Waskesiu Community Council
- Waskesiu Chamber of Commerce
- Prince Albert National Park
- Great Blue Heron Provincial Park (Christopher Lake)
Waskesiu Lake and area boat and PWC rentals
Why 2017 is the best year to visit Waskesiu Lake
In celebration of Canada’s 150th, Parks Canada is offering free admission to all its national treasures. Visitors can pick up a 2017 Discovery Pass at the Visitor Centre in Waskesiu or order one online from the Parks Canada website.