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Geological site · Fort Smith, Northwest Territories
Salt Plains
Plain in Wood Buffalo Park where saline springs emerge and leave crusts and mounds of salt on the ground, with a viewpoint and trail down to the floor.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Salt Plains
The salt plains are in the park’s northeast, west of Fort Smith. Beneath the park are layers of salt left by an ancient sea. Groundwater dissolves this salt and rises through springs, spreading across the plain and evaporating.
The result is a rare landscape: white salt crusts, small cone-shaped mounds around the springs, salty streams and muddy areas, bordered by grasses and forests. Salt-tolerant plants grow at the edges, and bison, bears and birds come to lick the salt.
A viewpoint on the plateau’s edge shows the plain from above. A short, steep trail descends to the floor, where you can walk among the springs—preferably wearing sandals, because the mud is salty.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours.
Best time
June to September, in dry weather. After rain, the mud on the plain becomes deeper.
How to get there
Along Highway 5 and Parsons Lake Road, both unpaved, about 35 km west of Fort Smith.
Tip
Bring sandals and a towel: on the plain floor, the salty mud sticks to feet and shoes.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Salt Plains
Where does the salt in the salt plains come from?
From layers of salt laid down by an ancient sea, dissolved by groundwater that rises through springs.
Can you go down to the salt plains?
Yes, by a short, steep trail from the viewpoint.
How far is Fort Smith from the salt plains?
About 35 km, partly on a gravel road.