Bigelow Reservoir July 2021

Bigelow Reservoir July 2021

Bigelow Reservoir Provincial Recreation Park - #43 in Alberta Discovery Guide and 68 km from Red Deer. To reach this area from Red Deer head south on Queen Elizabeth Highway II until Innisfail and turn east onto Highway 590 until Highway 805 where you turn heading south until Highway 587 where you turn east until Range Road 254 head south then turn east onto Township Road 340 for 2.2 km turning north onto an unnamed road which leads directly to a parking lot with a Bigelow Reservoir Sign. If you Google Maps 'Bigelow Reservoir' it will come up and lead you straight there.

This natural area is a birders paradise a vast array of waterfowl and wetland birds call this place home over the summer months. Plus a great diversity of other birds with 41 bird species noted while I was there. This natural area doesn't have any trails other than a short gravel road but there are game trails that wander along the edge of the Reservoir. With this area stretching 1,018 acres there are no shortage of areas to explore.

There are thick bunches of cargana along the edge of the Reservoir making them the perfect place for mule deer to hide during the day. But can make it tricky to move around.

Partners that manage this natural area are Alberta Conservation Association and Alberta Environment and Parks.

Be cautious around open water, watch for wildlife in the area and changing weather conditions. 

Happy Exploring!