Regina 
There is much to be said about travel in Saskatchewan, not least of all the fact that the province has some of the best scenic settings that you will ever come across.
Credit: Saskatchewan Parks
Wide open spaces, big expanses of blue sky, beautiful lakes, lush boreal forests, and fresh air accompany you as you travel through some stunningly diverse areas.
Lacking the high mountains of the western provinces, many travellers don’t even give Saskatchewan a passing thought when it comes to spending time outdoors, but that proves to be a benefit to those who want to venture out, as it means fewer chances of being caught up in crowds. This is a province where you can easily lose yourself, and find yourself, as you experience the best of the outdoor life.
Narrow Hills Scenic Drive is one such place – a unique route that takes you through 19 kilometers of wilderness along the top ridges of the Narrow Hills. Located in the provincial park of the same name, you will find a variety of interpretive signage taking you through the story of the push moraine that created this dramatic landscape about 10,000 years ago.
Open yearly from May 15th to October 31st, it takes some effort to get here, but you will not be disappointed. Located northwest of Prince Albert, this provincial park is about a three-hour drive from Saskatoon. Home to some great fishing, hiking trails, and camping areas, this is easily one of the best parks in the province.
It is best to check with the Parks office for road conditions before heading out on the scenic drive, as the road can be rough (make sure your vehicle is in good condition) and dependent on weather, sometimes impassible. Cell phone coverage is spotty here, so preparing before heading out is best. You will need to purchase a Park Pass anyway, so it is a good opportunity to check in with staff to see current conditions.
This round-trip drive could take up a good part of your day, so pack a lunch and your camera, and be prepared to enjoy the views. This out-and-back road offers excellent viewpoints, interpretive signs, and a few walking trails, not to mention a couple of great fishing spots, so there is more to do than just sit in your vehicle.
Within the provincial park, the road is well-signed, with the turn-off just before you hit the middle of the park. Just follow the signs to Lower Fishing Lake off Hwy 106, the Hanson Lake Road, and you can’t miss the turn off. The road will quickly turn into a single lane, so stick to the speed limit and be aware of any vehicle potentially approaching from the other direction.
This is the land of thick forests of spruce, jack pine, aspen, birch, willow, and tamarack, and it isn’t until you come across a break in the trees that the reality of where you are comes to light – the road travels across the tops of the hills, with dramatic downward drops on both sides.
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If you are a photo junkie, then the incredible views of the expanse of forest or the views of small ponds and sparkling lakes will encourage you to pull off when you can. If you need to stretch your legs or perhaps have brought a fishing pole (and your fishing license) with you, then take the opportunity to hike the steep trail down to Mackie Lake, stocked with trout.
Along the route, you will find a variety of interpretive panels, which provide interesting information on the natural surrounding and history of the area. Another stop to potentially make is the trailhead for the Old P.A. Hiking Trail, where you can venture even deeper into the wooded lake lands.
At the very end of the road, you will come across a gorgeous view of Grace Lakes, and an open area which provides washroom facilities and a picnic table – the perfect place to partake of your packed lunch.
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This area is phenomenally beautiful at any time of year, but if you happen to be travelling in the fall, this just so happens to be one of the best places to enjoy the autumn colours.
If you are looking to stay in the area, Narrow Hills Provincial Park offers camping at the park’s wilderness campsites located at Jade, Diamond and Opal Lakes, along with regular camping sites with both full services and no services. For a stay away with minimal effort and preparation, two Camp-Easy sites are also available for booking. You can book your campsite online on the website.
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Narrow Hills Scenic Drive
Where: Narrow Hills Provincial Park, Access from Hwy 106 N of Smeaton or Hwy 120 N of Meath Park, Smeaton, SK S0J 2J0
3 hours north of Saskatoon and 1 hour and 45 minutes from Prince Albert
When: May 15th to October 31st
