From October to March, the snow falls and we settle into my favourite season — winter. And there is no shortage of Saskatchewan winter adventures.
There’s no better way to enjoy the outdoors than sliding and gliding through fluffy layers of snow. If dressed properly and with the right gear, it can be a lot of fun.
Here are some of the best winter experiences around Saskatchewan.
Kicksled the Meewasin Valley Trails for winter adventures
There are more than 80 kilometres of trails waiting to be explored along Saskatoon’s Meewasin Trails and the city’s scenic river valley. When covered in a fresh skiff of snow, it’s the perfect playground to rent a traditional Norwegian kicksled from Escape Sports. After kicking along the paved paths, pop into Drift Sidewalk Cafe to warm your hands around a turmeric tea latte and fill your belly with one of their tasty crepes. For the best views of downtown, book in to the Alt Hotel Saskatoon.
Snowshoe in Meadow Lake Provincial Park
A popular four-season park, Meadow Lake Provincial Park is the perfect spot to strap on a set of snowshoes. Join a tour at Grieg Lake guided by park staff or sign out a complimentary pair if staying at Waters Edge Eco Lodge. For those willing to wander on their own, a trip on the Gold Creek Trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding lakes set amongst the hearty pines of the forest.
Saskatchewan winter adventures: snowmobile “1000 miles of snow”
In northeast Saskatchewan, 12 communities have partnered to promote their “1000 Miles of Snow,” encouraging snowmobilers to experience a fun and unique way of travelling the trails between towns. To ensure you’re riding the best sled, stop in at Schrader‘s Motorsports in Yorkton. It’s the largest power sport dealer in the province and one of the best locations to get outfitted head to toe in FXR gear, the warmest high-performance winter clothing on the market. Warm up at night at the Carrot River Inn or Hudson Bay’s Jackpine Cabins where they have a heated shop for your sled.
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Skate, ski and sauna at Ness Creek
During the winter months, festival site Ness Creek turns into a winter wonderland. Cozy up with a hot cider in front of the wood-burning fireplace in one of eight tiny cabins or don your choice of skis, snowshoes or skates on the rink and groomed trails that wind through the Boreal forest. After the sun goes down, head to the sauna for a bit of relaxation.
Looking to bring the great outdoors indoors year-round? Consider Lakeland Log Homes and Timber Products for a sustainable and locally-made log home.
Ski the Don Allen Trails
Every March, the community of La Ronge holds their annual Saskaloppet with distances ranging from two to 77 kilometres (including an overnight camping option for the truly adventurous). Outside of competition days, the trails are open for public use and the views atop the hill from the Don Allen ski shelter are as rewarding as the exhilarating ski back down. The Harbour Inn makes a great waterfront location to spend the night.
Classic and skate-ski setups can be purchased or rented from Fresh Air Experience in Regina and Prince Albert or from Eb’s Source for Adventure in Saskatoon.
