Drives Saskatchewan Calgary, Edmonton and the Prairies
Prince Albert Park: Highway 263
Lakeview Drive · Christopher Lake → Waskesiu Lake
The drive
Highway 263 is the scenic route into Prince Albert National Park, a paved, year-round two-lane road. This drive runs it north from Highway 2 at Christopher Lake, past the lakeshore beaches there and the edge of Emma Lake, then into the park near Tweedsmuir.
Inside the park the highway heads west through woodland, crosses the Spruce River, winds past Halkett Lake, and moves through the Waskesiu Hills. It ends at Waskesiu Lake, following Lakeview Drive along the shoreline and through the townsite. The park sits where prairie grassland meets boreal forest and wetlands.
Along the way
- Christopher Lake (Highway 2)
- Emma Lake
- Halkett Lake
- Waskesiu Hills
- Waskesiu Lake
Good to know
- Prince Albert National Park charges daily admission and sells annual passes; check Parks Canada for what applies to you.
- Parks Canada lists bear safety guidance for the park, so watch for wildlife.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check Parks Canada: Prince Albert National Park bulletins.
Questions about this drive
How long does Highway 263 through Prince Albert National Park take?
Highway 263 from Christopher Lake to Waskesiu Lake is 40.8 miles and takes about 1 hour.
Is Highway 263 open in winter?
Parks Canada describes Highway 263 as a paved, year-round road, though the park lists seasonal services.
Is there a restriction on Highway 263?
Bridge repairs have brought single-lane traffic between the Freight Tait Springs and Spruce River Highlands trailheads. Check Parks Canada before driving.
What you get in the app
Free on iPhone and Android. CarPlay and Android Auto come with Apex.
More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.