It begins at MacLennan Lake in the Thunder Hills[2] of the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District.

It then flows generally south-east out of the hills, through a section of Prince Albert National Park, and on to Montreal Lake.

It originates at the 12,550.7-hectare (31,013-acre) Crean Lake[6] south of MacLennan River's mainstem.

The park has six unserviced campsites, a picnic area, hiking trails, and access to the river for fishing.

The hiking trails follow the river upstream into Prince Albert National Park.