Wood Buffalo National Park is offering some family-friendly programming to get folks outside over the winter break.
Christmas Bird Count — December 22nd, 2022
The Annual Christmas Bird Count will take place on Thursday, December 22nd, 2022 at 10 a.m. By participating in the Christmas Bird Count, visitors to Wood Buffalo National Park have the chance to join people in more than 2,000 locations globally and contribute to one of the world’s largest sets of wildlife survey data. This data is used by Parks Canada, the National Audubon Society and Birds Canada to learn how climate change is affecting birds, as well as identify population trends and distribution of birds. Participants do not need to have any previous experience with birding, and children are encouraged to attend.
To participate in the Christmas Bird Count, sign up for a route in advance by emailing Amber Erasmus, Resource Management Officer, at [email protected] or by calling 867-872-0625. Volunteers can pick up their participation packages at the Wood Buffalo Visitor Centre front desk prior to the event.
Guided Snowshoe Hikes at Salt River Meadows — December 19th & December 30th, 2022
In addition to the Christmas Bird Count, Wood Buffalo National Park is also hosting guided snowshoe hikes at Salt River Meadows. Two dates for the snowshoe hike are being offered on Monday, December 19th & Friday, December 30th, 2022, beginning at 2:00 p.m. Participants can meet at the Dëldël Kuę́ Day Use Shelter at the Salt River Day Use Area, where Parks Canada staff will greet them. Snowshoes are provided free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis by the park, and participants are encouraged to arrive early enough that they can have their complimentary snowshoes fitted properly in advance of the hike. Please note that while every effort is made to accommodate participants, there is a limited supply of snowshoes — visitors with their own are encouraged to bring theirs along.
Dress warm, bring the kids and bring a travel mug for complimentary hot chocolate at sunset following the hike.
For further information regarding the snowshoe hikes, please reach out to Interpretation Officer, Luke James, by calling 867-872-7960.
By encouraging Canadians to visit national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas, and providing them with the information and means to enjoy them, Parks Canada enables more Canadians to learn about our shared heritage and experience the outdoors.
