Val Marie Travel Guide

Val Marie is a hidden gem in Canada, waiting to be explored. Read our ultimate travel guide to find the best places to visit, things to do, and more!


Introduction to Val Marie

Val Marie is a picturesque village located in Southwestern Saskatchewan, in the Prairies region of Canada. Despite its small size, the town has a rich history and plenty of attractions that make it worth exploring. Val Marie is surrounded by the beautiful Grasslands National Park, where you can explore the vast prairies and see an abundance of wildlife. If you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path travel destination, Val Marie should definitely be on your list.

List of Places to Visit in Val Marie

Val Marie might be a small town, but there are plenty of places to explore and things to do here. The following are some of the must-visit attractions in Val Marie:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Val Marie Elevator National Historic Site: This historic elevator has been standing since 1909 and is now a National Historic Site of Canada. You can learn about the elevator’s significance in the history of Val Marie’s agriculture industry and take a guided tour to the top for stunning views of the surrounding prairies.

  • Val Marie Museum & Interpretive Centre: This museum features exhibits that explore the history of Val Marie and the surrounding Grasslands National Park. You can learn about the area’s Indigenous history, early settlers, and current conservation efforts.

Natural Attractions of Val Marie: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Grasslands National Park: Val Marie is located right next to the Grasslands National Park, which is a vast expanse of prairie grasslands and home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bison, pronghorns, prairie dogs, and rattlesnakes. You can explore the park on foot, horseback, or by car.

  • Val Marie Dark Sky Preserve: This is one of the darkest places in Canada and an excellent spot for stargazing. You can view the night sky and learn about astronomy from knowledgeable park guides.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Val Marie

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love the hiking and biking trails in Val Marie and the surrounding Grasslands National Park. Some of the best routes include:

  • Eagle Butte Trail: This 2.5-kilometer trail takes you to the top of Eagle Butte, which is the highest point in the Grasslands National Park. From the top, you get a panoramic view of the surrounding prairie.

  • Two Trees Trail: This 7-kilometer trail takes you through the heart of the Grasslands National Park, where you can see a wide range of wildlife and stunning scenic views.

Best Things to Do in Val Marie: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and exploring the Grasslands National Park, there are several other activities that you can enjoy in Val Marie. Some of the best things to do here include:

  • Horseback Riding: There are several ranches in and around Val Marie that offer guided horseback riding tours through the park.

  • Bird Watching: Val Marie is a bird lover’s paradise, with a wide range of species to observe. You can download the park’s birding checklist to keep track of which species you’ve seen.

  • Wildlife Watching: Besides birds, there are plenty of other animals to spot in the Grasslands National Park, including bison, pronghorns, coyotes, and rattlesnakes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Val Marie

If you’re planning to spend a week in Val Marie, here’s a sample itinerary that’ll help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Val Marie Museum & Interpretive Centre
Day 2 Horseback riding tour through the Grasslands National Park
Day 3 Hike the Eagle Butte Trail
Day 4 Stargazing in the Val Marie Dark Sky Preserve
Day 5 Visit the Val Marie Elevator National Historic Site
Day 6 Wildlife watching tour in the Grasslands National Park
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the local food scene

Food and Drink Scene of Val Marie

Val Marie might be a small town, but it has a vibrant food and drink scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Burger: Val Marie is located in the heart of Canada’s bison country, so it’s no surprise that the bison burger is a local favourite. You can enjoy this delicious dish at many local restaurants.

  • Saskatoon Berry Pie: Saskatoon berries are a local delicacy, and you’ll find them in many desserts, including pies, tarts, and even ice cream.

Local Beverages

  • Prairie Sun Brewery: This local brewery serves up a range of delicious craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and ales.

  • Prairie Bee Meadery: If you’re looking for something a little different, try the honey-based mead at this local meadery.

Where to Stay in Val Marie: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Val Marie might be a small town, but there are still plenty of accommodation options to choose from. Some of the best places to stay in Val Marie include:

  • The Val Marie Hotel: This historic hotel has been welcoming guests since 1911 and offers cozy rooms and a restaurant serving up delicious local cuisine.

  • The Crossing at Grasslands: This unique lodge is located in the heart of the Grasslands National Park and offers comfortable rooms and stunning scenic views.

What to Buy in Val Marie: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to take home some souvenirs or local products, here are a few options:

  • Bison Jerky: Take a taste of the prairie home with you with some locally made bison jerky.

  • Handmade Crafts: Val Marie has a vibrant arts and crafts scene, and you’ll find handcrafted items like pottery and jewelry at many local shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Val Marie

Val Marie is home to a mix of cultures, including Indigenous, settler, and ranching communities. Visitors can learn about the area’s history and culture at the Val Marie Museum & Interpretive Centre, where exhibits highlight the history of the Indigenous Peoples and European settlers who have called this area home.

Best Time to Visit Val Marie

The best time to visit Val Marie is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warm and the park is open for exploration. However, if you’re interested in stargazing, you might want to visit during the winter months (November to March), when the skies are darker and clearer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Val Marie

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Val Marie:

Do:

  • Do bring appropriate clothing and gear: The weather in Val Marie can be unpredictable, so make sure you’re prepared for all conditions.

  • Do respect the wildlife: While the Grasslands National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, it’s important to keep your distance and not disturb the animals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave trash or food behind: Help keep the park clean and healthy by packing out all trash and properly disposing of food waste.

  • Don’t disturb Aboriginal heritage sites: The park is home to important Aboriginal heritage sites, so be sure to respect these areas and not disturb them.

Safety and Health

Safety in Val Marie

Val Marie is a safe town, but it’s still important to take precautions when exploring the Grasslands National Park. Always be aware of your surroundings and watch out for wildlife, and be sure to follow all park rules and regulations.

Health in Val Marie

Val Marie has a small medical clinic, but for more serious medical issues, you may need to travel to a larger town or city. Make sure you have adequate medical insurance before your trip.

Getting to Val Marie: Transportation Options and Logistics

Val Marie is a remote town, and the best way to get here is by car. However, if driving isn’t an option, here are a few other transportation options:

Airports Near Val Marie

The nearest airports to Val Marie are the Medicine Hat Airport in Alberta and the Regina International Airport in Saskatchewan.

Bus Stations Near Val Marie

There are no major bus stations located in Val Marie, but some bus companies do stop in nearby towns like Swift Current and Gull Lake.

Other Options

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also explore the park on foot, horseback, or bike.

How to Get Around in Val Marie

Val Marie is a small town, and the best way to get around is on foot or by car. There are no public transportation options in the town, so be prepared to do some walking or driving.

Where to Go Next from Val Marie: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your Canadian adventure, there are plenty of nearby destinations to explore, including:

  • Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park: Located about two hours east of Val Marie, this park offers some of the best hiking and wildlife watching in Canada.

  • Waterton Lakes National Park: Located about four hours southwest of Val Marie, this park features stunning mountain scenery and a wide range of outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Val Marie might be a small town, but it’s packed with natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventure opportunities. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying some local cuisine, you’re sure to find something to love in Val Marie. Plan your trip today and discover this hidden gem for yourself.

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