Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Last Mountain Lake National Wildlife Area (NWA) is located on the eastern shore of Last Mountain Lake, Saskatchewan’s longest natural lake, covering a significant wetland complex recognized internationally under the Ramsar Convention. Established in 1959, it is Canada’s first migratory bird sanctuary and a haven for a vast variety of waterfowl, shorebirds, and other migratory bird species. The area encompasses extensive marshes, shallow water zones, and grasslands that create critical breeding and feeding grounds, especially for species such as the American white pelican, trumpeter swan, and numerous duck species. Besides birding, the NWA is an important stopover for migratory birds traveling along the Central Flyway. The gently rolling prairie landscape and the lake’s shallow littoral zones also support abundant amphibians, mammals, and plants adapted to wetland environments. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore several walking trails, scenic viewing platforms, and access points for canoeing and kayaking on calm waters. While camping is generally restricted within the NWA to protect sensitive habitats, nearby provincial parks offer accommodations. Visitors are drawn to the site’s peaceful atmosphere and the diversity of wildlife sightings it facilitates throughout the seasons. Educational programs and interpretive signage help enhance understanding of wetland ecology and conservation efforts. Its designation as a National Wildlife Area ensures ongoing protection of this important ecological region and offers a unique outdoor experience centered on observing nature in one of Canada’s most extensive freshwater marshlands.
