A reasonably undisturbed natural area which is best described as ‘wet’. Best visited in late fall or in winter when the southern portion is accessible.

Much of this natural area is wet. An east west right of way runs across its northern border. This trail follows some high ground south of Township Road 512 and interconnected wetlands which parallel this road.

One Dodgy Bit of this trail is where it dips down to a stream connecting the wet lands on either side of the trail. Two logs provided a foot bridge. Otherwise, a visit in early fall, 2023 kept me mostly on this trail as any attempts to head south would have been sodden.

Slight Detour South along the western portion of the trail. This is necessitated by the wet lands off the township road pushing into the corridor.

Trail Not Taken describes a route striking off to the southeast from Range Road 202 when I visited in October, 2023. Shots were heard when exploring the area so there may be duck blinds, etc in the area.

Bush Wacking to the Middle. A return visit in January 2024 did not find much of a trail although the snow cover may have masked the route. After much bush-wacking, the extent of the efforts to head south only yielded a point about the middle of the NA.

New Boundary Signs, suggests that this area is being actively managed. A drive around the West, East, and North borders showed not obvious ATV ingresses. With the undisturbed nature and wetlands, likely this is a favourite spot for birders and hunters alike.

Winter Destination is opens up more of the site, particularly to the south. There are no discernable trails however. The pothole depressions are interesting to explore but plan for a good day slogging or getting your snowshoes snagged.

Any maps and map views are for general information only. Do not rely on them for navigation or to determine legal boundaries.

The Fast Facts

• Winter Challenge Category:OFF THE BEATEN TRACK.
• Worth Visiting if in the area but not as a destination, at least not in the summer. Winter sojourns are likely a different matter.
• No Washrooms.
• Not particularly Kid Focused although there are amenities nearby such as a petty zoo.

Area Details

• Name/Owner: Provincial Order in Council.
• Is it Worth It and Why Go Here?:
  • 3/5: If in the area or a strong interest in wet lands. Best to visit late fall when dry or in the winter via snowshoes, etc.
  • Map Reference, Location and Wayne Gretzky Units: 47.03km
• Trail Classification: Rating: 12; Access: Granted; Develop: Limited Development. ; Maint: Serviceable; Season: Single Season: The northern track is accessible year round. Access into the NA proper is restricted to the winter..
• The Drive Out: Always a beautiful drive in the Beaverhills Biosphere.
• The Other Shoe: Birding, possibly hunting or some fishing, botanical pursuits.
• Frank’s Trip Notes
  • First done: 2023-10-08. Weather: Warm and sunny fall day.
  • Revisited 2024-01-21. Weather: cold and snowing, went with AMA and DA.

Notes and Reference

1. Parkland Natural Area, SAPAA.

Usage: This site is intended for my personal use only and very select invited guests. My recommendation is for you to stay in bed with the covers pulled firmly over your head.