Pukaskwa National Park of Canada

Visitor Safety

It's a hazardous place.....travel safely!

Wilderness by its very nature is hazardous. Being self-reliant is your key to a safe, enjoyable experience and is your responsibility. Here are some considerations and guidelines to help you to avoid mishaps in Pukaskwa's backcountry:

In General:

• Register-in and register-out for every overnight backcountry excursion.
• Receive a mandatory orientation from Park staff before entering backcountry.
• Never hike or paddle alone.
• Know your limits, your group's limits and the limits of your equipment.
• Carry a detailed map.
• Be aware that weather changes are often abrupt and dangerous.
• Dress for the adverse conditions, especially cold and wet.
• Recognize symptoms and treatment for hypothermia.
• Be careful of over-exposure to the sun; wear a hat and use sun screen.
• Be aware of over-exertion and dehydration; drink fluids regularly.
• Treat all surface water before consumption. There are two recommended methods of water treatment:
  - boiling for at least two minutes, or
  - filtration (with a one micron size filter, or smaller) followed by disinfection.
• Be prepared for biting insects, including both repellant and any necessary medication.
• Store food and scented products in bear-proof receptacles (i.e., "bear lockers"). Use bear lockers for daily storage only. No long-term storage of garbage or food caches in lockers is permitted. Never leave food items unattended at your campsite or elsewhere. Hang food from trees where lockers are not available.
• Read You are in Black Bear Country brochure.
• Remember that feeding animals jeopardizes your safety and their health.
• Keep fires small. Along the trail, make all fires in metal fire boxes provided. Always stay with your fire and make sure it is thoroughly out before leaving it.
• Ask park staff about any concerns you may have.

Additional Dangers and Considerations:

Coastal Hiking Trail

• Rugged route, lots of climbing; sturdy hiking boots and fitness required
• Slippery rocks and boardwalks when wet
• Remote: little chance of a quick rescue
• Wildfires
• Carry a detailed trail map
• Keep pets on a leash at all times for their own and other hikers' safety.

Lake Superior

• Unpredictable; high winds and waves; expect to be windbound on shore 1 of every 3 days
• Lake Superior's cold water kills quickly. Although water temperature near the shore may be warmer, the water temperature averages only 4 degrees Celsius year round. Hypothermia can set in within 5-10 minutes if you are without anti-exposure suits such as wetsuits or dry suits.
• Beware of straying an unsafe distance from shore.
• Fog is common. Be prepared to use a compass.
• Many exposed rocky headlands with no place to land. Be aware of reflection waves.
• Personal Floatation Devices (PFD's) should be worn at all times while on the lake.
• Carry detailed coastal / topographical maps.

The White and Pukaskwa Rivers

• Wilderness routes; watch maps closely for portages and to avoid dangerous rapids.
• Difficult rapids; always scout every rapid to be attempted. When in doubt, portage.
• Some portages are more difficult than others. Use caution.
• Carry detailed river maps including location of rapids and portages.

REMEMBER - YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY !

Planning a safe visit to a national park