Saskatchewan Travel Guide - Explore The Best City to Live in Canada

Next to Alberta, Saskatchewan is a province often overlooked by many tourists, but you are wrong. Those who take the time to explore it are rewarded with wide-open spaces, stunning natural landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage.

It is not the place for rushing in Saskatchewan. It's a spot to stretch out in a field and watch a herd of geese pierce the unending blue sky, or it's a location to hide from the throng in the city and enjoy a tranquil getaway on a large farm. 

With this extensive Saskatchewan travel guide to many activities, you'll be well-prepared to visit the province's cities, badlands, and all points in between!

Why Visit Saskatchewan?

Saskatchewan may not have the bustling metropolitan vibe of Toronto or the coastal charm of Vancouver, but its beauty lies in its expansiveness and diversity. The province is known for its endless prairies, tranquil lakes, and vibrant cities like Saskatoon and Regina that you can not find anywhere in Canada.

The slower pace of life, combined with some of the best fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities in Canada, makes it a hidden gem. With nearly 100,000 lakes, sprawling national parks, and significant Indigenous heritage, Saskatchewan offers a nice experience into Canada's heartland.

Saskatchewan Travel Guide - Top things to do in Saskatchewan, Canada

Explore Saskatoon: The City of Bridges

Saskatoon, the largest city in Saskatchewan, is often referred to as the "Paris of the Prairies" because of its numerous bridges and the South Saskatchewan River that winds through the city.

The South Saskatchewan River, the amazing Wanuskewin Heritage Centre, a hip atmosphere, a richness of Art Nouveau architecture, and Saskatoon's youngest demographics may all be found here. Saskatoon is an excellent place to go for food and drink because it has a ton of award-winning restaurants.

• Wanuskewin Heritage Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site in Canada that showcases the culture and history of the Northern Plains Indigenous peoples. Experience interactive exhibits, walking trails, and authentic teepee stays.
• Meewasin Valley: A nature lover’s paradise, the Meewasin Valley offers scenic walking trails along the riverbank, perfect for hiking, cycling, or simply taking in the views.
• Remai Modern: Art enthusiasts should not miss the Remai Modern, a contemporary art gallery that houses an impressive collection of Picasso linocuts.

Meewasin Valley

Prince Albert National Park

The next place in Saskatchewan travel guide is head to Prince Albert National Park. This enormous 3,875 square kilometer national park is home to many hiking paths, stunning Northern lakes, and a plenty of animals. Additionally, Grey Owl, a well-known naturalist, writer, and orator from the early 1900s, had a notable cabin there. Situated around 200 km north of Saskatoon, this location is ideal for spending time in the great outdoors.

Though it gets a lot of attention in the summer, it's also a great spot to go in the winter for exciting sports like cross-country skiing, ice fishing, dog sledding, and snowshoeing. If you do find yourself in Waskesiu during the winter, we heartily suggest lodging at Elk Ridge Resort's winter playground.

Prince Albert National Park

Grasslands National Park

Grasslands National Park has grown to be one of the best national parks in Canada despite its relatively small size. You will definitely return to this place every year because of its unique hiking options, uncommon fauna, and dark skies. A genuinely accessible "off-the-beaten-path" piece of amazing nature can be found in Grasslands National Park. It is so different from other Canadian parks and is home to some of the rarest fauna in the country.

This is a fantastic spot to explore if you want to get a true sense of what it's like to be in natural grasslands, badlands, and prairies. In addition, there are a ton of treks, breathtaking drives, and camping alternatives, including the chance to spend the night in a cozy oTENTik or a tipi. Grasslands National Park is an amazing location to view stars, planets, and the Milky Way because it is one of Canada's deepest Dark Sky Preserves.

Grasslands National Park

Climb the Great Sand Hills

In southern Saskatchewan, the Great Sandhills are home to a unique 1,900 sq. km expanse of active desert-like sand dunes. This place can not be missed in your Saskatchewan travel guide. Native grasses and small groups of trees such as aspen, willow and sagebrush thrive amongst the dune formations while mule deer and antelope frequent the area.

Before heading to the dunes, stop by the Great Sandhills Museum in Sceptre (open mid-May to Labor Day weekend) for an overview of the natural and human history of the area and to pick up a directions map.

The hanging Cowboy boots near the Great Sand Hills

Check out Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

The Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, Canada's first interprovincial park, has plenty to offer every kind of tourist. There are many amazing sights as you travel through fescue meadow, lush forest, and towering hills.

Several campgrounds are available in the park, one of which is for horseback riders in the rustic West Block wilderness region. The park's Center Block offers one of the biggest Dark Sky Preserves in the world, a lodge, a swimming pool, hiking paths, and ziplining for those seeking contemporary conveniences.

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

Before Traveling - Prepare Yourself A Saskatchewan Travel Guide

Where is Saskatchewan located?

Saskatchewan is located in the central part of Canada, within the Prairie Provinces. It is bordered by Alberta to the west, Manitoba to the east, and the U.S. states of Montana and North Dakota to the south.

How to get to Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan is accessible by air, road, and rail. Major airlines operate flights into Saskatoon's John G. Diefenbaker International Airport (YXE) and Regina International Airport (YQR). If you prefer driving, the province is well-connected by highways to Alberta, Manitoba, and the U.S. states of Montana and North Dakota.

• How to go to Saskatchewan from Toronto: To travel from Toronto to Saskatchewan, the most convenient option is to fly. Major airlines like Air Canada and WestJet offer direct flights from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Saskatoon (YXE) or Regina (YQR), with a flight time of about 3.5 to 4 hours.
• Manitoba to Saskatchewan: Drive from Winnipeg to Saskatchewan, which takes about 6 to 8 hours via the Trans-Canada Highway. Alternatively, you can take a bus, but it will take longer.
• Regina to Saskatchewan: Drive from Regina to other parts of Saskatchewan (e.g., Saskatoon takes about 2.5 hours), take a bus, or check VIA Rail for train services.

Travelers can easily travel to Saskatchewan

Best time to visit Saskatchewan

The best time to visit Saskatchewan is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping. During this time, temperatures typically range from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Fall (September to October) is also beautiful, showcasing stunning foliage and mild weather, while winter (November to March) attracts visitors for skiing and winter sports. Each season offers unique experiences, but summer and early fall are particularly popular for travelers.

Conclusion

Saskatchewan offers a unique blend of nature, history, and culture, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking for an authentic Canadian experience. Whether you're exploring the urban charms of Saskatoon and Regina or venturing into the wilds of the province's national parks, Saskatchewan has something to captivate every traveler.

Hope this Saskatchewan travel guide will help you in some way before traveling to this place. Ready to apply for Canada e-visa, we will help you to get your travel document in a few days. With its friendly locals, wide-open spaces, and unspoiled beauty, your journey through Saskatchewan is sure to be an unforgettable one.