In contrast to the South, Northern Saskatchewan has many lakes and rugged boreal forests. Northern Saskatchewan, known for its abundant fishing, is a perfect destination for Anglers. Outdoor enthusiasts are lured by the wilderness of Northern Saskatchewan that are easily accessible. From the abundant monster-sized fishes to the sparkling lakes, rugged trails and rapids, Northern Saskatchewan calls the adventurists in you.
Here are 35+Northern Saskatchewan Summer Adventures for your bucket list.
The Oldest Building in the Province
The Holy Trinity Anglican Church at Stanley Mission, constructed between 1854-1860 stands proudly on the banks of the Churchill River. It is the oldest known existing building in Saskatchewan, which makes in itself makes it pretty amazing. If that’s not enough of a reason to go on an adventure to see it, come for the incredible architecture!
Camp Out
Summer is all about camping. Few things are better than heading to the pristine north for an outdoor adventure. With almost a hundred lakes and a ton of canoe routes, Lac La Ronge Provincial Park should definitely be on your camping wish list. Pack up the whole family or come by yourself, the canoeing, hiking, and fishing are out of this world.
Hand Made Goods
If you’re a lover of art and craft, be sure to check out the Robertson Trading Ltd in La Ronge. Reminiscent of the days of old, Robertson Trading is a real trading post where furs are bought and sold, but also a place where you can go to buy incredible art by local artisans. Whether it’s a painting or a print or a new pair of hand beaded moccasins you’re looking for, the store is a must see!
A Whole Lot of Land
One of the largest provincial parks in the whole country, Meadow Lake Provincial Park extends for over sixteen hundred kilometers. That’s a whole lot of land and a whole lot of adventure. With over twenty bodies of water, the park is perfect for fishing, water sports, canoeing and kayaking, and also features many different trails. With over eight hundred campsites, it’s the perfect place to bring the RV or pitch a tent and enjoy nature at its finest!
The Boreal Trail
Hikers rejoice! Located in Meadow Lake Provincial Park, the Boreal Trail is one of the most beautiful and exciting trails in all of the country and we’ve got it right here in Saskatchewan. Spanning over one hundred and twenty kilometers, it’s the perfect destination for days of backcountry camping or just a day long hike. There are multiple start and end points so that you can get out and experience the beauty of nature, the boreal forest, and many unspoiled bodies of water.
A Town with a Unique History
Creighton, near Flin Flon, is a vibrant town with a unique history. Visit this small community this summer to learn all about how one prospector, Thomas Creighton, staked a claim that went on to become the original mine for the Hudson Bay Mining and Smelting Company. You can see the monument on Main Street dedicated to this incredible man and even see one of the spikes that was used in his claim, and learn a whole lot more about the area’s early history at the beautifully constructed Creighton Northwest Mounted Police Post Museum. With tons of things to do and see in this area, it’s worth planning a vacation around. Be sure to stop in nearby Flin Flon and check out the Flin Flon Station Museum to see all the incredible mining exhibits.
Soar Like a Bird
At Treeosix Adventure Parks, you can soar like a bird through the treetops and get a spectacular view of the wondrous scenery. There’s also a climbing wall and lots of other activities, so be sure to come for an entire fun filled, adventure packed day. Located at the Elk Ridge Resort, only a short distance from the Prince Albert National Park, make it a day long adventure or come for a week of other outdoor fun.
Carnivorous Plants
Take on the beautiful two kilometer Boundary Bog Trail at the Prince Albert National Park. You’ll be able to see the black spruce bog, complete with carnivorous plants, which lure in insects to eat. The trail is complete with a boardwalk and can be completed in about an hour.
Giddy Up!
Horseback riding is an adventure that people of all ages can enjoy. Be sure to visit the Sturgeon River Ranch for a unique experience of a lifetime. Located on the west side of the Prince Albert National Park, nothing beats riding through the beautiful Boreal forest. With many different rides to choose from, you’ll be sure to find something for you.
Ride with the Buffalo
While horseback riding is already listed, this adventure definitely deserves its own category. This isn’t an hour long trail ride. Sturgeon River Ranch offers the chance of a lifetime- a chance to ride into areas where buffalo still live in their natural habitat in the Prince Albert National Park. Different rides are offered, ranging from three hours to five hours, all the way to an overnight stay in a tipi. You’ll not only have the chance to see buffalo, but also the incredible northern forests, and crystal clear waters, making it one of those truly unforgettable experiences.
Treasure Trails
There might not be any buried treasure on these trails, but Elk Ridge Resort, located just east of the Prince Albert National Park, boasts over four hundred kilometers of groomed trails perfect for your next outdoor adventure. Whether you want to bring your ATV’s, your bike, or go for a hike, the trail system is just right for getting back to nature.
A Remote Paradise
If you’re into more remote exploring or you’re just dying to have that once in a lifetime fishing experience, Stony Rapids might just be your dream destination. The town, located on the edge of Lake Athabasca, is close to some pretty amazing lodges that are any angler’s paradise. The area is incredibly beautiful, so if you’re looking for a remote getaway, check out a few of the inns and lodges, some of them located right on the lake.
Sandy Dunes
Stretching for nearly one hundred kilometers along the south shore of Lake Athabasca, the Athabasca Sand Dunes is the most northerly active sand dunes in the world. If you’re a more experienced wilderness enthusiast, the park is available by air only. You can take guided tours through outfitters in the area, or the area is pack out what you pack in, if you want to adventure up and do some authentic wilderness camping.
The Last Battle
Make the journey to see the location of the last battle ever fought on Canadian soil. Located fifteen kilometers from Loon Lake, Steele Narrows Provincial Park is the location of the battle of Loon Lake, the conclusion to the Northwest Resistance. There is signage throughout the park so you can learn all about the historic site. There is also a boat launch at the park and the fishing is great, so come enjoy a full day at the park and on the water.
Spot a Lake Monster
Deep Bay, located at the southwestern tip of Reindeer Lake, has long been a fascinating part of the lake. The round crater is the deepest body of water in the province, at two hundred and twenty meters deep. The thirteen kilometer wide bay was formed millions of years ago by a meteor strike. Of course, there has been plenty of speculation about a mythical creature who lives below the water’s surface. Come check it out for yourself!
Pristine Northern Beauty
Located fifty kilometers west of La Ronge, Besnard Lake is a beautiful, pristine northern lake. If you’re a wilderness lover, it won’t disappoint. Made up of Canadian Shield and Boreal forest, the lake boasts over two hundred and fifty islands. The fishing is excellent, and there are several lodges on the lake to ensure your stay will be perfect.
A Getaway That has Everything
If you’re looking for a getaway that has a little bit of everything, Elk Ridge Resort definitely has you covered. From spectacular golfing to beautiful accommodations, dining options to horseback riding, a tremendous trail system to zip lining, Elk Ridge has everything the whole family needs to enjoy one heck of a summer getaway.
Sandy Adventures
Located only eighty kilometers from Prince Albert and boasting excellent fishing, pristine waters, a beautiful shallow beach, biking, and scenic camping, Candle Lake Provincial Park is jam packed with summer adventure potential. The park even has a hike on the boardwalk to see the wondrous Minowukaw Sand Dunes. The Park is located close to Candle Lake.
Brush Up on Your History
Brush up on your history this summer at the Prince Albert Historical Museum. The museum, located in the historic Central Fire Hall building, the museum contains artifacts from early settler life, the NorthWest Rebellion, and much more! The building alone is incredibly beautiful, so be sure to stop by if you’re in the area.
Diefenbaker’s House
Located in Prince Albert, the Diefenbaker House Museum is the site of Diefenbaker’s actual house right before he became Prince Minister. Decorated with artifacts that are period correct and boasting photos and other information about Diefenbaker, there are also staff onsite to help make your visit an informative one.
Out of This World Angling
You haven’t really fished Saskatchewan if you haven’t fished the north. The northern waters of the province are clear and cold and produce some monster sized fish. Even though it’s a bit of a hike up there, fishing Reindeer lake is definitely worth it for the quality of fish. Try your hand at catching the elusive Arctic Grayling.
A Rare Gem
Skirting the Narrow Hills Provincial Park, is a collection of lakes aptly named the Gem Lakes for their sparkling surfaces and their gem like reflections of blues and greens. The lakes are deep with sandy bottoms and feature some pretty spectacular fishing, water sport potential, and hiking. You might even want to try your hand at fly fishing.
An Angler’s Dream
Northern Saskatchewan, with its many deep, clear lakes, is often referred to as the unspoiled north for a reason. The scenery, away from dense population, is absolutely breathtaking. The Boreal forest and the Canadian Shield are both featured in all their glory. The potential for a trophy sized fish is excellent. Northern Pike, Walleye, Lake Trout (and other species of Trout), Perch, Arctic Grayling and other species can all be found in the northern lakes. Come for the amazing angling. You’ll probably be back for the natural beauty!
Rustic Camping
There isn’t any better place for some rustic camping than the north. Located one hundred and fifty kilometers north of Prince Albert is the Clarence-Steepbank Lakes Provincial Park. The beautiful park is serene and is a preservation area for parts of the Boreal forest. There really are only basic amenities available, including five rustic campsites. The camping is free and is pack in, pack out.
Paddle the Rapids
Sixty kilometers north of La Loche is the Clearwater River Provincial Park. The park includes a large portion of the Clearwater River which features rapids that range from class 2 to class 4 and even a waterfall. Canoers and kayakers rejoice, the river is an incredible adventure just waiting! The park is for recommended for experienced campers, pack in, pack out and camping is free.
Canoeing for All Ages
Learn how to canoe this summer, brush up on your skills, or take your game to the next level with the Churchill River Canoe Outfitters. Located in Missinipe on the Churchill River, they offer guided canoe trips, canoe lessons, clinics, courses, and even white water training. Whether you’re just starting out or are more experienced, there’s training for everyone.
The Oldest Permanent Settlement in the Province
If you’re in the mood for adventure, and a bit of a history buff, then this one is right for you! Located in the Village of Cumberland House, Cumberland House Provincial Park is the site of the first inland HBC fur trading post. It’s the oldest permanent settlement in the province. The remnants of the stone walled powder house and the steamboat, the Northcote, can be seen at the park.
Pinehouse Lake
If you’re looking for that perfect northern lake getaway this summer, one you haven’t tried before, don’t overlook Pinehouse. Pinehouse Lake boasts beautiful scenery and spectacular fishing. Booking with a lodge is a great way to ensure your summer adventure is the best it can be.
The Town That Has it All
That perfect summer adventure awaits you at Waskesui, located in the Prince Albert National Park. If it’s not enough that the beautiful town is has sprawling sandy beaches, playgrounds, amazing shopping, cafes and dining options, boardwalks, trails, and shimmering waters, it’s also close to Elk Ridge Resort, which has hiking, horseback riding, golfing, and zip lining.
Stay in a Yurt
At the Great Blue Heron Provincial Park, you can stay in a newly constructed Yurt! That’s right! A real yurt. Located near Prince Albert Provincial Park, Great Blue Heron offers a real outdoors escape including pristine waters perfect for boating and fishing and hiking trails.
Trout Paradise
If you want to truly experience the great wide wilderness this summer, Narrow Hills Provincial Park is the perfect place for you. If you’re not a well-seasoned outdoor enthusiast, give the easy camping a try. It comes complete with a sandy beach. More the more advanced outdoor lover, there are wilderness campsites located on some of the lakes. With over twenty-five bodies of water, many stocked with different species of trout, (as well as other naturally occurring species) the area truly is an angler’s paradise. The terrain is also varied and beautiful in the park, so be sure to bring your hiking boots.
Back Country at its Finest
If you’re looking for extreme outdoor adventures this summer, Wildcat Hill Provincial Park has exactly what you need. The park has steep canyons, hilly terrain, beautiful forests, rushing rivers, and is teeming with wildlife. The area is pack in, pack out and has no services available and is recommended for those already experienced with outdoor, backcountry camping and hiking.
Adventure to Grey Owl’s Cabin
Located in the Prince Albert National Park, Grey Owl’s Cabin is a must see. It can be reached by land or by canoe or kayak. Both routes are just over thirty kilometers from Waskesui. The routes are truly incredible and the historic log cabin will impress more than just history buffs.
Tee Up
If you’re a golf enthusiast, whether you fall on the pro end of the spectrum or are just starting out and want to have some fun, the courses in Northern Saskatchewan have everything you’re looking for. Surrounded by some of the most spectacular landscape the province has to offer, you’ll be sure to find the course that’s just right for you.
Wet and Wild Adventures
Looking to experience Northern Saskatchewan’s lakes this summer? Lake Athabasca should definitely be on the bucket list. Saskatchewan’s largest and deepest lake, there are plenty of species of fish, with the real potential for a trophy sized catch. The lake is huge and diverse, surrounded by incredible terrain. With many different lodges offering accommodations and tons of things to see and do, including sand dunes, it’s definitely a must visit.
White Sand Beaches
Buffalo Narrows, located four hundred and twenty-five kilometers north of Prince Albert is truly one of the most beautiful norther destinations. With white sand beaches that extend for kilometers, amazing fishing and gorgeous lakes, if you’re up for a trek, the area definitely won’t disappoint.
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