Kinbrook Marsh Nature Trail

The Kinbrook Marsh is a managed wetland, with the land and water supplied by the EID. Being one of the driest regions in Alberta, the water diverted from the Bow River enables farmers to grow bountiful crops and has also transformed this desert-like landscape into a virtual oasis.

A very diversified ecology has resulted from this water, greatly increasing the variety of wildlife species found in this area. The district takes great pleasure in being able to provide Kinbrook Marsh Trail and other wildlife viewing opportunities within our boundaries for your pleasure.

The Trails

The trail system follows the shoreline around the north segment of the marsh complex. It was constructed by the EID with financial assistance through tourism grants from the Town of Brooks, and the County of Newell. The main trail head includes parking, washrooms, a covered kiosk, picnic tables and can be reached by turning north off of the Provincial Park access road. The secondary trail head is located within the Provincial Park, near such park facilities as the boat launch, swimming beach, campground, and concession stand. The trail system includes two developed sections (3.5km), a 1 km link left undeveloped and a number of observation points and structures. A complete loop around the marsh can be undertaken by tying the two trail heads together with a walk through the park and along the park access road. The full loop would take a minimum of 1.5 hours, but would likely take longer as there is such a variety of flora and fauna to observe.

Wildlife to Watch For

This arid, mixed grass prairie region is often overlooked by wildlife enthusiasts, but we believe you will be pleasantly surprised by the diversity of wildlife you will see in the marsh ecosystem. The marsh is home to an abundance of different waterfowl, wading birds, songbirds, and raptors. One is likely to see white pelicans, double-crested cormorants and great blue herons on a regular basis, but there are more than just birds. It is possible for the careful observer to see beaver, muskrat, mink, white-tailed and mule deer, pronghorn antelope and coyotes. The marsh is also home to a number of different reptiles and amphibians, plus a wide array of invertebrates.