Saskatchewan: A Journey Through Lakes, Legends, and Northern Lights

Discovering Waskesiu Lake

The next morning began with a guided walk along the Mud Creek hiking trail, led by Bea, our Parks Canada interpreter. Saskatchewan is steeped in First Nation history, and Bea brought that heritage to life, sharing her deep knowledge of the land — from the trees and plants to their traditional medicinal and culinary uses. Her stories added meaning to every step we took, giving us a real sense of connection to the land.

After a quick lunch, we had some free time to explore Waskesiu Lake, and I quickly fell in love with its relaxed vibe. It’s one of those places that has something for everyone — families on the beach, couples kayaking across the calm water, and friends zipping around the town on scooters and quad cycles.

Of course, no sunny afternoon adventure is complete without ice cream, and Olaf’s Ice Cream Parlour delivered in style. The hardest part was choosing a flavour (they all looked incredible). I went for a scoop of sorbet in a homemade waffle cone, which was absolute perfection.

Our day ended with a three-hour drive north to Missinipe, a tiny community perched on the edge of Otter Lake. We checked into our cabins, enjoyed a hearty home-cooked meal, and settled in for the night, eager for the adventures ahead.

North to Missinipe – Canoeing and Campfires

After a hearty breakfast, we headed down to the dock for our canoeing trip. We got our life vests fitted, learned a few paddling basics, and then set off across the calm waters. The weather couldn’t have been better — clear skies, gentle breeze, and calm waters.

The 7-mile journey was peaceful and exhilarating, with a stop for lunch around a campfire where we enjoyed a simple yet delicious picnic.

That evening, we checked into new lodgings right on the lakefront and were treated to dinner by Chef Jenni Lessard, who leads culinary tours celebrating Saskatchewan’s Northern and Prairie foods. Each dish told a story of the region, from the ingredients to the traditions behind them.

The next morning brought a dramatic change in the weather— driving rain, and gusting wind, but that didn’t stop us from heading out for a morning of fishing. We were soaked but laughing the entire time. And the best part was we caught our lunch and cooked it over an open fire making the whole experience unforgettable.

Just when I thought the day couldn’t get any better, the clouds cleared that night and the Northern Lights made their grand appearance. Watching the sky dance in shades of green and purple was a breathtaking finale to a perfect day.

Countryside Charm, Bison, and Cider

We hit the road again for a long drive to Champetre County, a family-run venue offering a taste of Saskatchewan’s ranch life. The horse-drawn rides and quirky Corral Maze made for a fun and relaxed evening — and spotting a black bear along the roadside added a thrilling touch of wilderness to the journey.

The next morning, we continued to Wanuskewin Heritage Park, a remarkable place dedicated to preserving and celebrating First Nations culture. The exhibits were fascinating, especially with the recent reintroduction of bison to the area. We even participated in a teepee-building demonstration, learning about the spiritual meanings behind each supporting pole — an insightful experience.

A stop at the Crossmount Cider Company for a short tour and tasting added a refreshing break before arriving at the stylish Alt Hotel in Saskatoon for our final night.

Saying Goodbye to Saskatoon

Our last morning began with breakfast followed by a relaxing walk through the Meewasin Valley, right in the heart of Saskatoon. The valley stretches for over 90 kilometres, offering trails for walking, cycling, or even cross-country skiing in the winter, with stunning river views and peaceful green spaces.

Our last stop was the Remai Modern Art Gallery, just across from our hotel. The moment I walked in, I was captivated by Spinner Forest by Nick Cave —a dazzling installation of shimmering shapes spinning in the air. The gallery itself houses the world’s largest collection of Picasso linocuts; plus stunning contemporary works spread over four floors. It was the perfect final chapter to an already unforgettable journey.

Final Thoughts

For me, Saskatchewan is a province that truly rewards those who seek nature, space, and serenity. It’s a land of open skies, ancient stories, and unforgettable Northern Light displays. With its blend of wilderness, Indigenous heritage, and warm local hospitality, it’s the perfect escape for anyone looking to reconnect with the natural world. After this short but enriching taste, I know one thing for certain — I’ll be back to explore more of this beautiful province.