Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Hay-Zama Lakes Wildland Park spans a unique complex of lakes, wetlands, and boreal forest landscapes in northwestern Alberta, near the border with British Columbia. This park protects one of the most significant wetland complexes in Canada, encompassing the Hay-Zama Lakes – a vast system of interconnected shallow lakes and marshes surrounded by boreal forest. It serves as a critical habitat for hundreds of species of migratory waterfowl and shorebirds, including rare and threatened species such as the Red-necked Phalarope and the Wood Bison, which have been reintroduced to the area. The park’s remote location and relatively undisturbed environment make it a prime destination for naturalists, bird watchers, and adventurous backcountry travelers seeking solitude and a chance to experience northern boreal wilderness. Visitors can explore the area by canoe or kayak during summer months, enabling close encounters with the abundant wildlife and expansive wetlands. The park is also significant for its cultural history, with indigenous peoples historically relying on the lakes and surrounding lands for sustenance and spiritual connection. Access is limited, requiring careful planning and sometimes the use of floatplanes or rugged off-road routes. Hay-Zama Lakes Wildland Park offers an exceptional opportunity to connect with a rare and fragile ecosystem, where the interplay of water, wildlife, and forest creates a living landscape crucial for biodiversity conservation and outdoor adventure.
