Winter Safety
Prince Albert National Park
Thin ice may exist anywhere on water bodies, at any time, in the winter season. Assess ice thickness and never go onto ice alone. The Canadian Red Cross recommends an ice thickness of at least 15 cm for walking and skating safely; the thicker the ice, the better.
Exploring Prince Albert National Park is an adventure no matter what the time of year!
When visiting Prince Albert National Park during the winter be prepared for winter’s special hazards: cold temperatures, storms, challenging travel conditions in deep snow, uncertain ice conditions, and short days. Be sure to check and prepare for the weather before you depart, file a trip plan, bring the right gear and clothing, and be sure to bring the essential items you should have when meeting winter on its own terms.
To learn more about staying safe while exploring Prince Albert National Park during the winter visit AdventureSmart.
Ice Safety
Due to warmer than average fall temperatures, lake ice thickness may be unsafe or variable in Prince Albert National Park. Please refer to the Adventure Smart Ice Safety Guidelines before venturing out onto lakes, creeks and rivers.
For more information about winter safety and activities, contact the Visitor Centre.
Check the Prince Albert National Park Important Bulletins for updates.
Skiing/Snowshoeing/Hiking
Winter is a wonderful time to explore Prince Albert National Park, and discover the tracks of the wild animals that live there. Check the park trail condition report before your departure or call the park’s visitor centre for current conditions and recent grooming of the park’s cross-country ski trails. Exercise caution and watch for ice, deep snow, or fallen trees.
Saskatchewan weather can change quickly. Plan for the weather and be alert to changes in weather conditions.
Use caution when skiing / snowshoeing on lakes or ponds. Areas of thin ice exist on water bodies throughout the park even in the depths of winter.
For tips on preparing for a winter adventure visit AdventureSmart.
Winter Driving
Saskatchewan weather can affect road and travel conditions, particularly during the winter months. Before you leave, check the weather and road conditions reports.
Winter driving conditions exist on all park roadways during the winter months. Drive at speeds appropriate to road conditions. Roads are not regularly patrolled. File a trip plan and have a local towing company’s contact information on hand.
When driving please observe posted speed limits and watch for wildlife on or near the roadway. When watching wildlife from your vehicle, remain in your vehicle, pull over onto the road side as far as possible and engage your hazard lights. For your safety and the safety of wildlife, it is unlawful to feed or attempt to lure a wild animal with food.
Kite Boarding
Winter kite boarding is a new and popular activity. Prince Albert National Park’s lakes offer excellent conditions for this activity. Be safe while kite boarding, know your limits, your skill level and be familiar with your equipment.
Wind conditions can change quickly, be prepared for extreme winds or the loss of wind. You may need to walk back to your vehicle if winds die down.
Keep in mind that thin ice may exist on water bodies throughout the park even during cold winters.
Spring and Fall Activities
Spring and fall are a great time to enjoy many of the activities you might enjoy during the summer in Prince Albert National Park. However special consideration should be made for the often drastic changes in temperature that can occur throughout the day.
Warm days can quickly become very cold evenings during the spring and fall. Not being prepared for changes in temperature can put you at risk of hypothermia. Staying dry and dressing in layers will be helpful in regulating your body temperature.
Being prepared by bringing the essential items and filing a trip plan will also help you deal with seasonal challenges. To learn more visit AdventureSmart.
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