Getting to Wood Buffalo National Park
Wood Buffalo National Park sits in AB / NT, Canada, with Fort Smith the nearest town of any size — about 92.6 km (57.5 mi) out, or roughly 1 hr 49 min of driving.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Smith | 92.6 km (57.5 mi) | 1 hr 49 min |
| Hay River | 223 km (139 mi) | 3 hr 44 min |
| La Crête | 238 km (148 mi) | 3 hr 57 min |
| High Level | 257 km (160 mi) | 4 hr 14 min |
| Fort McMurray | 310 km (192 mi) | 5 hr |
| Yellowknife | 350 km (217 mi) | 5 hr 36 min |
| Wabasca-Desmarais | 383 km (238 mi) | 6 hr 5 min |
| Manning | 386 km (240 mi) | 6 hr 8 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Wood Buffalo National Park?
Fort Smith, about 92.6 km (57.5 mi) away — roughly 1 hr 49 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Wood Buffalo National Park?
The practical bases are Fort Smith, Hay River, and La Crête — all within a reasonable drive of the park.