Despite the high water levels and fast-flowing current, Little Red River Park will reopen to the public on Friday, amid warnings from city officials. (Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

By paNOW Staff

Continued risks

Little Red River Park reopens Friday, officials warn of ongoing high-water hazards

May 20, 2026 | 2:52 PM

Little Red River Park in Prince Albert is set to reopen to the public Friday, May 22, but it comes with a warning from city officials.

The City of Prince Albert said the park will reopen in full, including services at the Cosmo Lodge/Knotty Pine Bistro. However, high water levels on the Spruce River and fast currents continue to pose serious risks.

“While we recognize residents are eager to return to Little Red River Park, current river conditions remain hazardous,” Fire Chief Kris Olsen said. “We strongly encourage all visitors to stay well back from the river’s edge and avoid entering the water, noting that water levels and flow rates will remain high for some time.”

The city said it continues to work with the Water Security Agency to monitor outflows from Anglin Lake and assess how those conditions could affect water levels in Little Red River Park. That information will be used to guide future decisions, including the possibility of additional closures if conditions worsen.

Despite the reopening, officials are emphasizing that the river remains dangerous due to ongoing spring melt and unstable conditions.

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Among the key hazards identified are strong and deceptive currents that can quickly sweep a person off their feet and make it difficult to return to shore. Fast-moving water can also trap feet or limbs between submerged rocks, branches or debris, increasing the risk of drowning.

Officials also warn that high water levels can hide underwater dangers such as logs, sharp rocks and sudden drop-offs. Floating debris adds another layer of risk for those near or in the water.

Even outside the river itself, conditions remain unstable. Cold water temperatures, despite warmer air, can cause cold water shock, including involuntary gasping and rapid loss of muscle control. Riverbanks may also be slippery or eroded, raising the risk of slips or collapses into the water.

Visitors are reminded to supervise children closely, keep pets on leashes near the river, stay on marked trails where possible and avoid any unnecessary contact with the water.

The Highway 55 entrance to the park will reopen Friday, while the West Park Gate, also known as the Pine Grove entrance, will remain closed for now as staff continue to assess conditions across the park.

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panews@pattisonmedia.com

by paNOW Staff

Little Red River Park reopens Friday, officials warn of ongoing high-water hazards

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