As we hit the midway point of the winter season. There is no better time to check out the many destinations and activities throughout the province. Andrew Hiltz, the Saskatchewanderer, shares his winter memories and his top five destinations for the season.
“Every winter, Hiltz’s father would turn their backyard into a tiny hockey rink,” he recalls. “That really made me love winter,” he says. “When the snow fell, that meant hockey season was here – in the backyard, with family. It was really special.” His love of winter fun has spread far beyond his family’s backyard. Hiltz now works for Tourism Saskatchewan as the current Saskatchewanderer and expert in all things Saskatchewan travel, especially when it comes to winter wonderland escapes. Here, he takes a break, long enough to share his top spots to visit this winter.
FOR RESORT FUN: Elkridge Resort, Northern Saskatchewan
“In the heart of the boreal forest, right on the edge of the national park, there’s literally a winter wonderland,” Hiltz says. “For anyone who hasn’t experienced a true winter holiday in Saskatchewan, this is it.” According to Hiltz, whether you’re a cross-country skier or snowshoer, or you love winter hiking, there are so many breathtaking options right on-site. The lodge has beautiful views of the lake, which the resort turns into a giant skating oval with two hockey rinks and free equipment rental. They even have their own toboggan hill and outdoor curling rink.
FOR SNOWSHOEING: Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, Southwest Saskatchewan
“It’s a shock when you pull into the park because you’re driving in the flatlands of southern Saskatchewan, and then, out of nowhere, there are these lodgepole pines, and one of the highest elevation points outside of the Rockies.” The park boasts breathtaking views and big hills and is perfect for folks and families looking for a winter-cabin stay. Hiltz’s “must” activity? Snowshoeing. He says the lodgepole pines and the hills – easily surmounted in your snowshoes – combine to create spectacular vistas.
FOR SNOWMOBILING: Hudson Bay, Northeast Saskatchewan
Nested between two provincial parks, this area features an incredible system of trails called “1,000 Miles of Snow Trail,” which connects many communities. “So, there’s plenty of warm-up shacks,” Hiltz says. It’s well set up for those who want to experience Saskatchewan on a snowmobile, including families. The Railway Avenue Pub, one of the most unique restaurants in Canada, was established in an old hardware store and is filled with cool antique railway signs and stoplights. It’s the perfect place to pull up your snowmobile and get a burger and beer after a long day on the trails.
FOR CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING: Duck Mountain Provincial Park, Eastern Saskatchewan
This is a bucket list spot for many cross-country skiers and snowmobilers. The park has a vast network of trails plus some warm-up shacks for overnight stays. Available via Madge Lake Developments are upscale, cozy townhouse and cabin rentals, complete with fireplaces.
FOR SOAKING UP SOME CULTURE: Wanuskewin Heritage Park, Central Saskatchewan
This sacred spot is on its way to becoming the first UNESCO World Heritage site in the province. “It’s been a gathering place for all nations of the Northern Plains Indigenous people for more than 6,400 years,” Hiltz explains. “And it’s the longest-running archaeological dig site in Canada.” There’s a ton to do here, whether viewing historical exhibits about the Northern Plains history or exploring a local gallery with an ever-changing roster of emerging Indigenous artists. Winter is an especially great time to visit, as guided snowshoe walks with park interpreters are available to guests interested in the historical significance of the valley.
Visit the Tourism Saskatchewan website to discover new and exciting destinations.
While enjoying any of these fantastic destinations, If you aren't already a Member, consider purchasing a CAA membership to ensure you have peace of mind on your adventures. A membership provides dependable and uninterrupted roadside assistance in case of any issues.
Remember to fuel up on your adventure at Shell gas stations and enjoy valuable savings. CAA members save 3¢/L every time you fuel up at a participating location. Plus, for those days when your vehicle needs a quick wash, get 10% off car washes and in-store purchases as well.
Visit, caask.ca/safety for winter safety advice.
Source: CAA Saskatchewan Magazine, Winter 2023 Issue.