Kleskun Hill Natural Area
Last Review/Updated: May 10, 2002
© C. Wershler |
Kleskun Hill rises a hundred metres above the plains surrounding Grande Prairie. It is one of the most extensive areas of native upland grassland remaining in the Peace River parkland.
It is also the most northern occurrence of a badlands landscape in Alberta.
Northern saw-whet owls, American kestrels, black terns, Swainson's and gray-cheeked thrushes and sharp-tailed grouse are characteristic birds of the region.
D. Moore (AB Gov.) |
The 65-hectare natural area offers scenic vistas and opportunities for pleasant nature walks to examine the many species of prairie and badlands plants that are near their northern distribution limits, including prickly pear cactus. There is a picnic site at the south end.
Several "skeletonized" hills dot the area. Each is banded with alternating layers of clays, sands and narrow seams of coal which represent sediments deposited under prehistoric lakes and seas. Look for fossilized fragments of dinosaur bones and wood.
