Saskatchewan Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Saskatchewan, Canada.


Introduction to Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan is a province in western Canada, situated in the central part of the country. Known as the land of the living skies, Saskatchewan is a beautiful destination with abundant natural beauty and cultural attractions. The province is home to vast prairies, rugged landscapes, and diverse wildlife, making it a popular tourist destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Saskatchewan has a rich cultural history, and visitors can explore its indigenous heritage and colonial past through its many museums and historical sites.

List of Places to Visit in Saskatchewan

To make the most of your trip to Saskatchewan, here’s a list of must-visit places that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Royal Saskatchewan Museum: The museum features exhibits on the province’s geology, Aboriginal heritage, and natural history.
  2. Western Development Museum: This open-air museum showcases the province’s agricultural and industrial history.
  3. Wanuskewin Heritage Park: Exploring the First Nations’ culture and history through art, dance, music, and storytelling.

Natural Attractions of Saskatchewan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Grasslands National Park: Explore the rocky buttes, prairie grasslands, and unique wildlife of this park.
  2. Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park: This park offers hiking trails, stunning views, and many outdoor adventure opportunities.
  3. Waskesiu Lake: This tranquil lake is perfect for swimming, boating, or fishing.
  4. Prince Albert National Park: Hike through towering boreal forests, and enjoy the clear blue waters of Kingsmere Lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan has numerous hiking and biking routes that travelers should not miss. The following are a few of the most popular ones:

  1. Meewasin Valley Trail: This 80-kilometer trail runs along the scenic South Saskatchewan River and offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and bird watching.
  2. Grey Owl’s Cabin Trail: A hiking trail that leads to the cabin of the legendary naturalist, Grey Owl.
  3. Beaver Creek Conservation Area: Discover this unique natural area and its scenic hiking trails.
  4. Trans Canada Trail: Stretching from coast to coast, this trail passes through Saskatchewan and offers stunning views of diverse landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Saskatchewan: Activities and Tours

  1. Visit a farm or ranch to experience the Saskatchewan agricultural scene.
  2. Take a scenic drive along the highways and byways of the province.
  3. Attend a cultural event or festival like The Saskatoon Folk Fest or The Regina International Fringe Theatre Festival.
  4. Explore the art and galleries in Saskatoon and Regina.

Week-Long Itinerary for Saskatchewan

Here’s an ideal itinerary that spans a week and covers most of Saskatchewan’s stunning attractions.

Day Activity
1 Arrival/Regina Museum and Gallery tour/ visit Wascana Park
2 Explore Moose Jaw’s history and hop on a trolley tour
3 Hike and sightsee in Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park
4 Visit Royal Saskatchewan Museum in Regina and Grasslands National Park
5 Discover Prince Albert National Park
6 Enjoy a drive to Wanuskewin Heritage Park followed by a Saskatoon Museum and Gallery tour
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan has a booming food and drink scene, with fresh local farm-to-table produce, regional specialties, and craft beers. Here are a few dishes and drinks to try out when in Saskatchewan.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Perogies with bacon and onions
  2. Ukrainian sausage and sauerkraut
  3. Fish and Chips in Regina or Saskatoon’s best pizza restaurant

Local Beverages

  1. Saskatoon berry jam and wine
  2. Unibroue
  3. Molson Beer

Where to Stay in Saskatchewan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Saskatchewan has a wide range of accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. Here are a few recommendations:

  1. The Hotel Saskatchewan, Autograph Collection in Regina
  2. Delta Hotels by Marriott Regina
  3. The James Hotel in Saskatoon
  4. Motel 6 in Moose Jaw

What to Buy in Saskatchewan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Saskatchewan craft beer
  2. Saskatoon berry jam
  3. Indigenous art and crafts
  4. Saskatchewan Wine

Local Culture and Customs of Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan has a distinctive culture and customs that reflect the province’s diverse heritage. Visitors should respect the indigenous and colonial cultural traditions.

Best Time to Visit Saskatchewan

The best time to visit Saskatchewan is from late May through September, when the weather is pleasant, and the natural attractions and outdoor activities are accessible.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saskatchewan

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Saskatchewan.

Do:

  1. Try local cuisine and craft beer.
  2. Explore outdoor attractions and enjoy an adventure.
  3. Learn about the culture and history of the region.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or disturb flora and fauna.
  2. Ignore traffic rules and road safety.
  3. Skip exploring the small-town attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan is known for its vast wilderness and outdoor activity opportunities, so visitors should take necessary precautions.

Health in Saskatchewan

Mosquitoes and ticks are prevalent during the summer months in Saskatchewan, so take extra precautions when outdoors. Familiarize yourself with the centers for disease control or your local health office for the most pertinent information.

Getting to Saskatchewan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors to Saskatchewan should choose from one of the following transportation options to access the province.

Airports Near Saskatchewan

  1. Regina airport
  2. Saskatoon airport

Bus Stations Near Saskatchewan

  1. Regina Bus Depot
  2. Moose Jaw Bus Terminal

Other Options

There are also several train and car rental options available.

How to Get Around in Saskatchewan

Visitors can rent cars, buses, or book a guided tour to travel around Saskatchewan.

Where to Go Next from Saskatchewan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After visiting Saskatchewan, you can discover other nearby destinations in Canada, including:

  1. Manitoba
  2. Alberta
  3. Vancouver

Conclusion

Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or want to try delicious local cuisine, Saskatchewan has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive tour guide helped you plan your Saskatchewan adventure and inspired you to explore this beautiful prairie province.