Lake Diefenbaker Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hike, bike, eat, stay, and buy souvenirs in Lake Diefenbaker. Learn about the local culture, customs, and safety tips.


Introduction to Lake Diefenbaker

Lake Diefenbaker is a beautiful, man-made lake located in Southwestern Saskatchewan, Canada. The lake was created in the 1960s when the Gardiner Dam was built on the South Saskatchewan River. The lake spans 225 km and has a shoreline of 800 km. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who come to enjoy its warm waters, sandy beaches, scenic views, and excellent boating and fishing opportunities.

List of Places to Visit in Lake Diefenbaker

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Western Development Museum in Saskatoon gives visitors a glimpse into the life of early settlers and pioneers who came to Saskatchewan in the late 19th century.
  • The Grasslands National Park is a preserved area of prairie grasslands in Southern Saskatchewan and is home to many endangered species of wildlife.
  • Fort Walsh National Historic Site is a restored 19th-century fort that tells the story of the Mounties who helped to settle the Canadian West.

Natural Attractions of Lake Diefenbaker: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Douglas Provincial Park is a popular spot for camping, hiking, and water sports. It has over 5 km of sandy beaches and stunning views of the lake.
  • Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park has 131 campsites and offers opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife watching.
  • The Palliser Regional Park is a great place for a picnic, with plenty of picnic tables, fire pits, and a playground for children.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lake Diefenbaker

  • The Great Trail of Canada runs through Lake Diefenbaker, offering an incredible opportunity to hike or bike across the country.
  • The Trans Canada Trail is a 25 km trail that runs through Saskatoon and is an excellent opportunity for cyclists and hikers of all levels.

Best Things to Do in Lake Diefenbaker: Activities and Tours

  • Rent a boat or kayak and explore the lake’s many coves and bays.
  • Go fishing for walleye, northern pike, and other species that are in abundance in the lake.
  • Take a helicopter tour of the lake and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lake Diefenbaker

Day 1: Visit Grasslands National Park and take a guided tour to see some of the rarest animals in Canada.

Day 2: Take a horseback riding tour of the surrounding countryside and enjoy the stunning views of the lake.

Day 3: Go to Douglas Provincial Park and spend the day swimming, boating, or walking along the beach.

Day 4: Take a kayak tour of the lake and explore some of the hidden coves and bays.

Day 5: Visit Fort Walsh National Historic Site and learn about the early settlers and pioneers who came to Saskatchewan in the late 19th century.

Day 6: Go fishing for walleye, northern pike, and other species that are abundant in the lake.

Day 7: Relax on one of the sandy beaches of Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Food and Drink Scene of Lake Diefenbaker

Must-Try Dishes

  • Saskatoon berry pie is a local specialty that can be found in many of the restaurants around the lake.
  • Perogies, a traditional Ukrainian dish, are popular in many of the local restaurants around the lake.

Local Beverages

  • Local breweries like Paddock Wood and Great Western Brewing are popular spots for craft beer lovers.
  • Wine lovers can indulge in the award-winning wines produced by Cypress Hills Winery in nearby Maple Creek.

Where to Stay in Lake Diefenbaker: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Rafter R Ranch is a beautiful lodge located in the heart of the Cypress Hills and offers guests an all-inclusive stay, complete with horseback riding, fishing, and more.
  • The Saskatoon Inn is a popular hotel located in downtown Saskatoon and features a pool, hot tub, and fitness center.

What to Buy in Lake Diefenbaker: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Saskatoon berry jam and syrup are popular local products that can be found in many of the gift shops around the lake.
  • Handmade pottery and ceramics can be found at the many local art galleries and studios in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Lake Diefenbaker

The local culture in Lake Diefenbaker is heavily influenced by the farming and ranching communities that surround the lake. The people of the area are proud of their heritage and are often hospitable and friendly towards visitors.

Best Time to Visit Lake Diefenbaker

The best time to visit Lake Diefenbaker is during the summer months when the weather is warm, and the lake is perfect for swimming and other water sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lake Diefenbaker

Do:

  • Watch for wildlife when driving in the area.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the area.
  • Trespass on private land.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lake Diefenbaker

  • Always wear sunscreen and a hat when spending time in the sun.
  • Use caution when swimming and boating in the lake and be aware of potential weather hazards like thunderstorms and high winds.

Health in Lake Diefenbaker

  • Drink plenty of water, especially during hot weather or when engaging in physical activity.
  • Be prepared for insect bites and use insect repellent when necessary.

Getting to Lake Diefenbaker: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lake Diefenbaker

  • Saskatoon International Airport is located approximately 127 km northeast of Lake Diefenbaker.

Bus Stations Near Lake Diefenbaker

  • Greyhound Canada offers service to Saskatoon, which is the closest city to Lake Diefenbaker.

Other Options

  • Car rental companies are available in Saskatoon for visitors who want to explore the area on their own.

How to Get Around in Lake Diefenbaker

A car is the best way to get around Lake Diefenbaker, especially if you want to explore the surrounding countryside and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Lake Diefenbaker: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Saskatoon is a vibrant city located approximately 127 km northeast of Lake Diefenbaker and is a great place to explore local culture, art, and food.
  • Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, located approximately 111 km west of Lake Diefenbaker, offers visitors the opportunity to explore one of the last remaining stretches of unbroken grassland in North America.

Conclusion

Lake Diefenbaker offers visitors an exciting opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of Saskatchewan and to experience the local culture and customs of the area. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, or horseback riding, there is something for everyone in Lake Diefenbaker.

Lake Diefenbaker Lake Diefenbaker Palliser Regional Park near Riverhurst Palliser Regional Park near Riverhurst