Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park
A serene wetland park near Edmonton, perfect for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and enjoying nature on scenic boardwalks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bird migration & golden hour
Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park
Best Time
Peak bird migration & golden hour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene wetland park near Edmonton, perfect for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and enjoying nature on scenic boardwalks.
"Truly a hidden gem, this park offers incredible wildlife encounters and beautiful boardwalks minutes from the city."
Bring Binoculars! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting distant birds and wildlife. Enhance your nature observation experience.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Trails are paved or boardwalks, but comfortable footwear is key for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
John E. Poole Wetland Boardwalk
Wetland area
Explore the elevated boardwalks for immersive wildlife viewing and stunning marshland vistas.
Big Lake Viewpoint
Overlooking Big Lake
Enjoy panoramic views of Big Lake, a haven for diverse bird species and a picturesque spot for sunsets.
+1
Wildlife Encounters
Throughout the park
Spot various bird species, swans, snow geese, beavers, and marmots in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Birdwatching
Navigating the Boardwalks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Binoculars! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting distant birds and wildlife. Enhance your nature observation experience.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Trails are paved or boardwalks, but comfortable footwear is key for exploring.
Leash Your Pets :dog:
Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash to protect wildlife.
Check for Programs :calendar:
Look out for free summer programs, especially for kids.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Binoculars! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting distant birds and wildlife. Enhance your nature observation experience.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Trails are paved or boardwalks, but comfortable footwear is key for exploring.
Leash Your Pets :dog:
Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash to protect wildlife.
Check for Programs :calendar:
Look out for free summer programs, especially for kids.
Best for Photography :camera_with_flash:
Golden hour sunsets and diverse wildlife make it a photographer's paradise.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park as a hidden gem offering abundant wildlife, especially diverse bird species, and beautiful wetland scenery. The well-maintained boardwalks and trails provide excellent access for nature observation and photography, making it a peaceful escape just minutes from the city. Some visitors note that winter offers less to see compared to warmer months.
"It’s such a nice area! There’s tons of wildlife, especially different species of birds. There is a lot of parking and once you get inside the trail area, it’s a wetlands so there’s a boardwalk to walk across the water. Keep an eye out for different animals swimming and flying around, you never know what you’ll see! It’s pretty secluded for the most part and after the boardwalk the trail branches off to a paved road which takes you to different lake areas. I recommend going in spring-fall seasons, there’s not much to see in winter."
Lis Marie
"Walkways are set up in an excellent fashion to preserve wildlife. Ran into a ranger and he was very friendly. Amazing view of lake, marshland around the lake, ducks, starlings, and so much more. This area doesn't seem overrun with people, but the wildlife behaves very used to people."
Julie May
"Literally in my backyard and first time here. What a beautiful way to connect with nature. Excellent trail with wooden boardwalk and the information along the walk is very informative. Could spend all day out here and an awesome place to bring the kids and teach them about conservation and protecting the environment. Think il be spending alot of time here."
JRJ 2340
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is conveniently located just outside Edmonton. Driving is the most common method, with ample parking available. It's a short drive from West Edmonton and St. Albert amenities.
Information on public transportation options is limited, but driving is highly recommended for ease of access and flexibility.
The park offers a good amount of parking, making it accessible for visitors arriving by car.
The boardwalks are generally well-maintained and provide accessible routes for observing the wetlands.
While not explicitly mentioned, cycling routes may exist. It's best to check local cycling maps for dedicated paths.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park, making it a free destination for nature lovers.
The park is generally open year-round during daylight hours. Specific program times may vary.
No advance booking is required for general park entry. However, if attending specific programs, check with the organizers.
General park rules apply, including leash laws for pets and respecting wildlife.
Yes, the park is recommended for visits from spring through fall. Winter offers a different, quieter experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park features a network of trails, including paved paths and extensive wooden boardwalks that wind through the wetlands.
You can see a wide variety of bird species, including swans and snow geese, as well as beavers, marmots, and other wetland creatures.
Absolutely! It's a prime location for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons.
While specific facilities aren't detailed in all sources, the park is designed for nature exploration, so basic amenities might be available.
Yes, dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety of wildlife and other visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for landscape and wildlife photography.
Birdlife, wetland scenery, and sunset views over Big Lake are popular subjects.
A telephoto lens is recommended for capturing clear shots of birds and other wildlife from a distance.
The Big Lake viewpoint and the boardwalks offer excellent vantage points for capturing the park's natural beauty.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with Alberta Parks for current drone policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's an ideal spot for a picnic and a chance to teach children about conservation and the importance of protecting natural habitats. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes. The park's relatively secluded nature means you can often enjoy a peaceful outing without overwhelming crowds, making it a stress-free experience for parents.
📸 Nature Photographers
+1 The boardwalks offer unique angles for capturing the marsh ecosystem, while the open areas are perfect for wildlife photography. Golden hour is particularly magical here, casting a warm glow over the landscape and creating dramatic lighting for both wildlife and scenic shots.
Bringing a telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing detailed images of the abundant bird species. The park's accessibility and relatively low visitor numbers compared to other natural areas make it a great spot for focused photography sessions.🐶 Dog Owners
This ensures the safety of your pet and respects the park's wildlife. The open spaces and varied terrain offer a great opportunity for your dog to explore and enjoy the outdoors alongside you. Remember to bring water for your dog, especially during warmer months. The park's natural beauty provides a refreshing backdrop for a walk with your canine friend, making it a pleasant outing for both of you.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Birdwatching Paradise
To make the most of your birdwatching experience, binoculars are highly recommended. Early mornings and late afternoons often yield the most activity. The park's informative signage also aids in identifying different species, enhancing the educational aspect of your visit.
Beyond the birds, the park's wetlands are home to other fascinating wildlife, including beavers and marmots, adding to the rich biodiversity you can encounter.
Exploring the Boardwalks and Trails
Beyond the boardwalks, a network of nature trails extends from the main wetland area. These trails can lead to different sections of the park, including the shores of Big Lake. The trails are generally well-maintained, with some being paved, making them accessible for various fitness levels.
When exploring, comfortable footwear is essential. The combination of boardwalks and trails offers a varied walking experience, allowing visitors to spend hours discovering the park's natural beauty.
Conservation and Education
Informative signage throughout the park educates visitors about the local flora and fauna, as well as the importance of wetland conservation. This makes it an excellent destination for families looking to teach children about environmental stewardship and the interconnectedness of nature.
Programs, such as those held during the summer, further enhance the educational aspect, offering engaging activities that connect visitors with the park's natural heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit