Travelling to Saskatchewan

Although not one of Canada’s major tourist provinces, travelling to Saskatchewan can be rewarding. The absolute flatness of the prairies allows for remarkable sunsets, sunrises, cloudy and night skies. In the Northern half of the province, visitors can canoe through the one hundred thousand lakes that dot the hills and farmland. Many interesting historical parks provide insight into various elements of Native culture.

When to Go
The weather in Saskatchewan is changeable and extreme. Winters are cold and serious thunder and hailstorms often occur in June. The summer months are therefore the best time to travel to Saskatchewan.

Where to Go
Major Attractions: Regina, Saskatoon and Surrounding Area, Qu’Appelle Valley

Regina, a small and quiet town, is the capital of the province. Despite its slow pace and calm atmosphere, it does boast some tourist attractions well worth visiting. These include:

Wascana Centre Park – This green area is eight times the size of the city centre. It adjoins Wascana Creek and prominently features Wascana Lake, which is its main attraction. Picnic areas, several green parks and sports fields can also be found here. A ferry to Willow Island can be taken from this park.

Saskatchewan Science Centre – The displays, exhibits and demonstrations (some of which are participatory) are worth a look. This centre also houses an IMAX theatre and an observatory. Other museums of note include the Royal Saskatchewan Museum and the Norman Mackenzie Art Gallery.

Saskatoon, like Regina, is a little and laid-back town. Partly due to the presence of the city’s University, Saskatoon is a cultural centre of the province with an active arts community. While there is little of interest to tourists in the city, its surrounding area boasts certain attractions. Among these are:

Wanuskewin Heritage Park – This is the primary attraction of the area. It is a hundred hectare area around the Opamihaw Valley, where two dozen archaeological sites and some active digs can be seen. The Park provides insight into the Northern Plains Indian culture. Beautiful vegetation and wildlife are also on site. From June to September, camping is available in the area. Visitors can take advantage of the organized day packages to practice tipi building, take guided walks or learn to cook Native foods.

Prince Albert National Park – Found to the North of Saskatoon, this park offers huge lakes, spruce bogs and forests to its visitors. In the summer, canoeing, fishing and camping are major draws. In the winter, pleasant cross-country ski trails are available. Lavallee Lake is home to the second largest white pelican colony in the country. The resort village of Waskesiu, with its lodgings, restaurants and beach is the centre of the park.

Qu’Appelle Valley – In this valley, a fur-trading post dating back to 1869 can be viewed at the Last Mountain House Provincial Historic Park. In mid-July, the Valley hosts the ‘Kinsmen Big Valley Jamboree’, a country music festival with camping, performances and beer gardens.

Other Highlights when Travelling to Saskatchewan include:

• The Mineral Spa in Moose Jaw
• Camping in Cypress Hills

Travel Insurance
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