The wild and rugged nature of Willmore Wilderness is an irresistible draw for many visitors.  Yet the dangers of Willmore can provide a challenge for even the most seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.  Visitors to Willmore must be fully prepared for wilderness travel.

• Only minimal trail maintenance occurs and there are no developed campsites in the park.
• Research the route you plan to take. To the uninformed, the 750 km network of trails and vast mountain ranges can be disorienting. 
• Good maps, a GPS and survival gear are necessary.  There is no cell phone service in Willmore.
• There are no bridges and river crossings can especially be dangerous at high water. Learn about cold water safety and tips for crossing streams and rivers.
• Check local weather forecasts before you go. Be prepared for sudden changes in mountain weather.  Snow is possible any month of the year. Hypothermia and wet cold conditions can turn a fun adventure into a life threatening emergency.
• Grizzly bears, black bears, and cougars live in the park.  Be familiar with safety around wildlife.
• Inform family or friends of your planned route, camping spots and estimated return time.

Emergencies

• To report an emergency in Willmore Wilderness Park once back in an area with cell service, call the Conservation Officer at 780-865-6972.  
• If you had to leave a hunting carcass due to a bear at your kill site, please report it to the Conservation Officer.

Camping, Cooking and Garbage Disposal

• There are no official campsites in Willmore.  Follow these rules and guidelines for random backcountry camping.
• Use a backpacking stove.  If a wood fire becomes necessary in an emergency, know how to have a campfire safely.
• Pack garbage out of the backcountry.  Check our garbage disposal tips.
• Never feed wildlife.

Safety around Wildlife

• There are grizzly and black bears in Willmore.  Follow these simple techniques to minimize the risk of a dangerous bear encounter. 
• Cougars also live in the area.  These large and powerful cats generally avoid encounters with humans. Refer to Preventing Conflict with Cougars for tips on staying safe.

Safety Around Water

Willmore’s waterways are very cold, even in mid-summer.  Crossing streams and rivers can be the most dangerous challenge that hikers confront.  Please read our safety info on

• Cold water immersion
• Crossing streams & rivers