1 Day vs. 1 Week: Cross-Country Skiing in Saskatchewan
Come winter, the wild backcountries of Saskatchewan are rich with some of the best cross-country skiing trails in Canada. Whether relaxing on a weekend ski getaway or planning a more elaborate multi-day adventure, there are a wealth of national and provincial parks to explore with trails for both beginner and expert skiers. From Saskatoon, to Regina, to Prince Albert, here are some of the best places to experience cross-country skiing in Saskatchewan.
Cross-Country Skiing in Saskatoon
Those who want to try out cross-country skiing without venturing too far from civilization can enjoy great cross-country skiing in Saskatoon’s city limits. There are a number of parks and golf courses with cross-country ski trails spread along the South Saskatchewan River, which cuts through the centre of the city of Saskatoon.
More advanced skiers can take the journey an hour north of the city to hit the more diverse terrain of Eb’s Trails: featuring 52km of trails across forested hills. Blackstrap Provincial Park is located just south of the city, with 5km of cross-country ski trails that served as the competition grounds for the 1972 Jeux Canada Winter Games.
One Day: Located in the heart of the city by the South Saskatchewan River, Kinsmen Park is one of the best locations for a weekend of cross-country skiing in Saskatoon, especially for new skiers. Other good locations within the city include Diefenbaker Park, the Wildwood Golf Course and Upper Meewasin Park.
One Week: For those who just can’t get enough of cross-country skiing in Saskatchewan, the wide, expansive forest park of Eb’s Trails offers plenty to explore just a short distance from Saskatoon. The area features not only some great hilly trails for beginners, but also backcountry routes that will challenge and delight more experienced skiers.
Cross-Country Skiing in Regina
There are over a dozen kilometers of trails for cross-country skiing in Regina, many of which run along the shores of Wascana Lake in the heart of the city. The Science Centre trail runs through some of the city’s most beautiful parkland by the Wascana Centre while Douglas Park by the Canada Games Athletic Complex features a number of additional amenities.
Just outside the city of Regina, the White Butte Trails are great for cross-country skiers who want to stretch their legs, featuring frequently groomed trails and gentle terrain. Further north, the Qu’Appelle Valley Nordic features not just great cross-country ski trails but also the chance to try out Biathlon.
One Day: For a relaxed day of skiing in nature away from the noise of the city, the White Butte Trails offer a convenient, easily accessible escape.
One Week: Qu’Appelle Valley Nordic features not only diverse trails for all skill-levels, but also hosts training camps, races and biathlon events.
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Cross-Country Skiing in Prince Albert
Located north of the city of the same name, Prince Albert National Park features a dozen trails for cross-country skiing. The Beaver Glen route is a casual trail that takes skiers along the scenic shores of Waskesiu Lake while more advanced enthusiasts can explore the backcountry trail system on the Fisher Trail. The cross-country skiing trails in Prince Albert National Park also connect to the neighbouring Great Blue Heron Provincial Park, as well as the Spruce River Highlands along Anglin Lake.
One Day: For visitors who just want to relax and take in the sights on a day trip, we recommend hitting the Beaver Glen route at your own pace.
One Week: For those who want a true getaway cross-country skiing in Prince Albert, the 19km long Crean route takes skiers all the way from Waskesiu Lake, through the park’s backcountry, past the Hanging Heart Lakes, all the way to Crean Lake in the north.