Canoeing
Elk Island National Park
Parks Canada is advising visitors that blue-green algae is currently present in the waters of Astotin Lake. You are advised to avoid contact with the water in the lake or near the shores of this lake at this time.Blue-green Algae Advisory
Please review the following water safety information to ensure each adventure near or on the lake is a safe one.Water Safety is a shared responsibility
The serene surface of Astotin Lake is the perfect place to canoe. See the park like you've never seen it before! Canoe around one of the many islands on Astotin Lake or stop by Beaver Bay for a picnic.
- Parks Canada strongly recommends that a certified life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) be worn when recreating on any water body
- Stay close to shore and use pleasure crafts at own risk as beaches and open water are not patrolled
- Be self-reliant and prepare to self-rescue should any boat, canoe or kayak capsize as help may not be immediately available. This includes wearing an approved life jacket or personal floatation device (PFD)
- Cellular telephone coverage varies and may not be available in all areas of Elk Island National Park
- Plan appropriately - choose a trip suitable for your level of experience and current conditions, such as weather and water levels. Go in groups of two or more canoes;
- Return with all your garbage to be disposed of appropriately;
- Float your own boat or rent a canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board at the Astotin Lake Recreation area
- The boat launch is located at the north end of the Astotin Lake Area
Contact the Visitor Centre for up-to-date lake condition reports or to learn more about water safety.
Blue-green algae advisory
Like many lakes in Alberta, Astotin Lake experiences periodic blooms of blue-green algae. Blue-green algae are naturally occurring organisms found in shallow, muddy-bottomed lakes. Some forms of blue-green algae can be toxic if ingested. Watch for important bulletins and signs posted around the main beach in the Astotin Lake Recreation Area.
Blue-green algae produces a toxin (poison) that can cause serious illness to animals or humans who drink or have skin contact with water containing this toxin.
Do not swim or wade or allow your pets to swim or wade in water containing visible blooms.
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