WILLMORE WILDERNESS PARK

If you’re searching for true wild, Willmore Wilderness Park is where the road ends and the adventure begins. Located north of Hinton along Highway 40, this vast 4,600 km² protected area is the largest wilderness park in Alberta—offering a rare chance to explore some of the last untouched habitats for wildlife like elk, mountain goats, and even grizzly bears.

This is backcountry in its purest form. There are no roads beyond the staging area and no cell service—just alpine meadows, glacier-fed rivers, and endless horizon lines. Visitors should come prepared and experienced: this rugged, remote area is best suited to seasoned hikers and horseback riders who are self-sufficient and ready to navigate the wild.

The park features three main staging areas accessible from Highway 40 North, including the popular Rock Lake access point. While Rock Lake offers scenic lakeside camping, paddling, and fishing, it also serves as the gateway to Willmore’s interior—a world of high-country trails, traditional pack routes, and raw beauty untouched by time.

A Short Walk with a Big Reward

Not ready to head deep into the wilderness? You don’t have to go far to experience the magic of Willmore. Just a short, 15-minute walk from the staging area parking lot takes you to one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the Northern Rockies. The trail is easy, family-friendly, and incredibly rewarding—offering sweeping views of rugged peaks and the vast wilderness beyond. It’s the perfect stop for those looking to stretch their legs, take photos, and soak in the grandeur without a full-day hike.

Whether you're setting out on a multi-day trek, riding with a local outfitter, or simply catching the sunset from this hidden gem of a lookout, Willmore rewards those who venture with solitude, wonder, and a deep connection to Alberta’s frontier spirit.