Grand Rapids Wildland Provincial Park

Alberta Parks

Information & Facilities

Grand Rapids Wildland Provincial Park is located approximately 16 km upstream from Fort McMurray on the Athabasca River, preserving the nationally significant Rapids Reach. The river is deeply incised for the entire length of the park, in places exceeding 150 metres. The incised meanders that have eroded into the bedrock are a significant feature of the park. Camping in the park is random backcountry. There is a natural clearing campsite with a firepit, toilet and bear-proof containers at The Historical Grand Rapids Portage Trail. The trail was upgraded to facilitate canoe users to portage around the rapids. Power boating and canoeing allow access in the summer months with snowmobiling access in the winter. 

Location: located along the Athabasca River, beginning approximately 20 km west of Ft. McMurray


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Hunting in Grand Rapids Wildland Provincial Park

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Park Management

Classification Wildland Provincial Park
Legislation Provincial Parks Act
Park Size 65064.60 Acres / 26331.64 Ha
Legal Boundary O.C. 429/04
Administration / Information 780-743-7437
Regional Office North Regional Office
District Fort McMurray
Natural Region Boreal Forest - Central Mixedwood
Natural Region Description

This park preserves the nationally significant Rapids Reach of the Athabasca River upstream from Ft. McMurray. Forested valley slopes are critical moose wintering range. Important fish species in this stretch of the river include walleye, lake whitefish, mountain whitefish, Arctic grayling, pike and goldeye. The Rapids Reach is very scenic, with numerous rapids, rock outcrops and slump blocks. The river is deeply incised for the entire length of the park, in places exceeding 150 metres. The incised meanders that have eroded into the bedrock are a significant feature of the park.

Land Use Framework Region Lower Athabasca
Updated: Sep 4, 2025