Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary

Located 33 km southwest of Edmonton’s city centre, the Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary protects 348 acres of marshland, open meadow, aspen parkland, and pine forest. The varied habitats of the Sanctuary attract a diversity of animals, including more than one hundred bird species, and provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. The boardwalk and connected upland trails are easily navigated in summer by all skill levels, but they are not considered wheelchair accessible.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE: The demolition of the boardwalk at Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary is now complete. While the boardwalk reconstruction project will be ongoing, we’re pleased to announce that the non-boardwalk areas of the park have reopened to visitors.

Thank you for your patience during this process. For your safety, please respect all posted signage. To help protect the delicate wetland ecosystem, please stay on designated trails and avoid walking over the former boardwalk area or through the wetland. These habitats are home to sensitive plant and wildlife species that can be easily disturbed. By keeping to the trails, you’re helping to preserve this special space for both nature and future visitors.

We understand this partial closure may inconvenience visitors, but ensuring safety during the project is essential.

NOTE: All trails in brown are currently closed and will not reopen until construction of the new boardwalk is completed. Please please stay on designated trails and do not walk over the former boardwalk area or through the wetland.

Trails that are currently open are: Woodland Flower Trail 1.9 km, Pine Knoll Loop 0.6km and Aspen Ridge Trail 0.5km. When using Aspen Trail you will be required to walk back the same way.

Please consider supporting upgrades to the sanctuary and DUC’s habitat conservation efforts by donating today. Every contribution helps ensure the Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary remains a thriving ecosystem and beloved destination for years to come.

Please click here for additional information.

Check the Visiting Guidelines page for information about responsible site use. Note: The Clifford E Lee Nature Sanctuary has grown in popularity over the past few years. To ensure everyone’s health and safety please note that:

– If the parking lot is full the site is considered full, so please return on another day or time.

– It is illegal to park along the road. Vehicles may be ticketed as they could impede access by emergency vehicles.

– The site is not a county or provincial park and it is maintained by volunteers. Please do your part by taking home any garbage you generate – pack out what you pack in.

– If you enjoy using this site, consider supporting it by making a donation or volunteering your time – see this website for details.

Please do not leave birdseed on the picnic tables and viewing platforms of the Sanctuary. The picnic tables are for guests to sit, relax, and have lunch — please keep them clean.

Check out some of the wildlife and flowers you may see on your visit:

Animal Identification | Bird Identification | Plant Identification

Want a sneak peek? Here are some sounds of spring at the Sanctuary!

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Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary

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Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary

Please consider supporting upgrades to the sanctuary and DUC’s habitat conservation efforts by donating today. Every contribution helps ensure the Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary remains a thriving ecosystem and beloved destination for years to come.

Please click here for additional information.

Check the Visiting Guidelines page for information about responsible site use. Note: The Clifford E Lee Nature Sanctuary has grown in popularity over the past few years. To ensure everyone’s health and safety please note that:

Want a sneak peek? Here are some sounds of spring at the Sanctuary!

The Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary is a protected area in Parkland County with four hiking trails that are perfect for all ages to enjoy wildlife watching.