Northern Saskatchewan is a land rich with outdoor adventures. Its world-class national and provincial parks provide opportunities for a wide array of recreational pursuits, from camping and hiking to canoeing and wildlife spotting. The prairie province is an underrated and under-the-radar destination for travelers looking for remote and wild adventures.
Paddling the Churchill River System
The Churchill River flows a 1600km east and northeast across the lowlands of northern Saskatchewan and Manitoba all the way to Hudson Bay. It’s actually a series of island-bespeckled lakes linked by whitewater rapids and waterfalls – paddling this forested river system is on most every canoeing enthusiast’s bucket list.
There are many paths suitable for novices and experts alike, several of which were voyager routes used during the days of fur trading. The most popular section starts at Otter Rapids in Missinipe, accessed by Highway 102, and flows along the northern edge of Lac La Ronge Provincial Park.
It’s a good idea to hire an outfitter to manage all the details for you. Churchill River Canoe Outfitters offers custom and pre-packaged tours that include guides, gear, food, and transportation. It also has cabin rentals and a hostel for your convenience. Navigating these waterways can be challenging, and some areas are so remote you won’t see another group for days; therefore, it’s crucial to understand what you’re getting into.
Highlights include the historic Holy Trinity Anglican Church at Stanley Mission, Nistowiak Falls, one of Saskatchewan’s highest waterfalls (10m), whitewater rapids, and the chance to see loons, pelicans, and eagles.
Fishing
The exquisite lakes and mellow waters of Saskatchewan contribute to its reputation as one of the world’s top fishing destinations. Its numerous options can make it tough for anglers to choose where to start and what to catch – from arctic grayling and trophy-sized pike at Reindeer Lake to exotic hybrids like splake and tiger trout at Gem Lakes in Narrow Hills Provincial Park.
The northern Saskatchewan region is home to walleye, pike, trout, perch, bass, whitefish, sauger, goldeye, and many more. Opting for a package with an outfitter like Arctic Lodges, Scott Lake Lodge, or Adventure Destinations International will provide the advantage and expertise of a local guide, as well as comfortable accommodations and gourmet meals.
If you prefer a more independent fishing trip, venture to the Jan Lake and Deschambault Lake area. Cabin accommodations are available, and you can enjoy fishing for walleye, northern pike, whitefish, and yellow perch there.
Hiking
People come from all over the world to hike the trails in northern Saskatchewan. The prairie province offers plenty of lake views, historic trails, wildlife, and endurance opportunities on its hiking trails. Whether you’re seeking something long and challenging or short and enjoyable, you’ll easily find the perfect trail.
A classic Saskatchewan hiking endeavor is the 40km out-and-back Grey Owl Trail leading to Grey Owl’s Cabin on Ajawaan Lake in Prince Albert National Park. Grey Owl, formerly known as Archibald Belaney, was a controversial wildlife conservationist and author who resided there with his wife Anahareo and their two pet beavers, Jellyroll and Rawhide. There are five backcountry campgrounds along the trail, allowing for overnight stays.
Prince Albert National Park boasts a high concentration of curated hikes, while Meadow Lake Provincial Park features the Boreal Trail, which at 135km is the longest hiking trail in Saskatchewan. Excellent backcountry campsites are also available on the trail.
Camping
Regardless of where your adventures take you in northern Saskatchewan, you’ll easily find drive-up and backcountry campsites. Many campgrounds in national and provincial parks remain open year-round. Although it’s not unreasonable to expect to find a spot at the last minute, it’s advisable to ensure your campsite in advance using the park’s reservation system.
Well-maintained facilities include washroom access, fire pits, and water refill stations. Some campgrounds may provide electrical hookups, laundry services, fish cleaning facilities, and amenities like kayak and canoe rentals.
Additionally, several parks offer Camp-Easy options, ideal for those traveling without their own camping equipment. By utilizing these, you’ll receive a tent or yurt with cots or bunk beds, picnic tables, camping chairs, a camp stove with propane, a fire pit, and an axe for chopping wood.
Aurora Borealis-viewing
Also known as the Northern Lights, the Aurora Borealis is an unpredictable astronomical phenomenon caused by geomagnetic activity. Due to Saskatchewan’s geographic position from the 49th to 60th parallel, the province is ideally situated for witnessing the Aurora Borealis. This ephemeral light show attracts stargazers globally, hoping to glimpse the stunning colors in the night sky.
There is an opportunity to see the Northern Lights in August and September in the towns of La Ronge and Melfort, both known for frequent sightings. Milton Lake Lodge provides immersive aurora experiences.
