If absolutely pristine landscape is what you're looking for, this park won't disappoint you. Shared by Alberta and the Northwest Territories, Wood Buffalo is Canada's largest national park and among the largest in the world. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Don't expect dramatic scenery—the topography is subtle and limited to low hills and marshlands. Do expect spectacular wildlife. The park was originally created to protect a herd of rare wood bison, and thousands of plains buffalo also roam there. It's an important breeding ground for wild whooping cranes and also has moose, lynx, wolves, black bears and eagles. Hiking trails and canoe routes provide access to some parts of the park, but facilities are minimal. Camping is the primary form of accommodation.
The park reception centers are located at Fort Chipewyan and Fort Smith, Northwest Territories. Road access is only available from the north (through Fort Smith, NWT). There is no road access from the Alberta side, but you can fly to the Native community of Fort Chipweyan and rent a vehicle to tour the park. 550 mi/885 km north of Calgary.
