Visitor guidelines on cannabis

Cannabis is legalized and strictly regulated in Canada. It is your responsibility to understand federal, provincial, and municipal regulations for cannabis use while visiting Elk Island National Park.

Parks Canada may issue additional restrictions when needed to ensure public health and proper management of the protected area.

The safety and well-being of our visitors is a top priority for Parks Canada and we will continue to provide quality services and experiences for all our visitors. Please respect fellow visitors and the natural environment around them at all times.

Where cannabis can be used at Elk Island National Park

Campgrounds

Cannabis consumption will only be allowed at registered campsites.

• Registered Parks Canada campsites: Allowed
• Registered Oster Lake Backcountry campsites: Not allowed
• Campground common areas (buildings, washrooms, shelters, roads, etc): Not allowed
• Inside oTENTiks and Equipped Camping tents: No smoking or vaping
• Summer long weekends (Victoria Day through Labour Day): Not allowed
• Near buildings: No smoking or vaping within 5 metres of buildings

Trails and facilities

• Public use: Allowed
• Near buildings: No smoking or vaping within 5 metres of buildings
• Trails: Allowed on most trails
• Astotin Lake Recreation Area: Not allowed
• Lakeview Trail: Not allowed (within Astotin Lake Recreation Area)
• Living Waters Boardwalk: Not allowed (within Astotin Lake Recreation Area)
• Playgrounds: No smoking or vaping within 5 metres of playgrounds
• Visitor Centre Area: Not allowed
• Tawayik Lake Recreation Area: Not allowed

Learn more about cannabis regulations

• Government of Canada
• Other Parks Canada places
• Government of Alberta

Parks Canada will actively monitor and evaluate the impacts of the legalisation. Our current approach will be revisited and may be adjusted as issues arise and/or as new information becomes available.