4 Reasons to Explore Saskatchewan Trails in the Winter
Imagine exploring your favourite park, lake, river or valley after the snow falls. Nothing is as peaceful as a winter walk.
The trail network in Saskatchewan is vast, while the number of new forest trails is expanding. Winter recreation organizations are experiencing unprecedented growth.
Some parks offer snow tubing hills with lifts and even flood campgrounds to create ice skating rinks. More and more people are eager to embrace the season.
Hike, bike, snowshoe, toboggan or ski through forested valleys and around tree-lined lakes. They’re magical places to embrace the beauty of winter.
1. Nature in the wintertime is stunning
“I do love the winter… to get out there and see a fox and how it pops with the snow. You’re taking pictures in a different light, so you never know.” –Duane Larson, Wildlife Photographer
Winter is a beautiful time of the year for an outdoor Saskatchewan adventure. Watch snowflakes crystalize and glisten in the sun. Discover pure white landscapes with snowcapped trees and frozen water. Photograph natural attractions from a snowy new perspective.
2. Winter trails make great day trips
“…and in winter this means fun cross-county skiing, snowshoeing, tobogganing and wildlife viewing experiences.” –CypressHills.com
Many of Saskatchewan’s hiking trails become cross-country skiing, fat tire biking and snowshoeing trails when the snow falls.
While walking on skiing trails is discouraged, hiking, biking and snowshoeing trails are perfect for exploring some of the province’s most beautiful places blanketed in snow.
3. You’ll see wildlife everywhere, except for bugs
“It seemed every 10 steps I took I was spooking some animal in the thick brush.” –Jay Brown, SaskHiker.com
Winter is an excellent season to view wildlife, too. Creatures are more visible against a white background and trees have less foliage to camouflage birds.
Even river otters don’t hibernate – they remain active under frozen water by breathing through breaks in the ice. They’re fun to watch on Waskesiu Lake at Narrows Campground in Prince Albert National Park.
Follow trails dotted with the hoof and paw impressions of bison, deer, moose, foxes and rabbits. Catch a glimpse of a snowy owl or a bohemian waxwing.
4. It’s easy to stay warm
Coniferous trees provide natural protection from the wind. With appropriate lightweight layers of wool, silk or synthetic clothing, hiking is a simple, warm way to explore nature. Physical activity generates ample warmth, too. The three-layer system is designed for fluctuating body temperatures.
Remember… step carefully
Snow conceals tripping hazards. Some trails aren't groomed so there are places trip and fall or roll an ankle. Also, be cautious around frozen lakes and rivers. The ice may be thinner than it appears - especially in the early spring.
Now all you need is a trail:
What do you love about winter? Share your winter adventure stories and photos using #ExploreSask on Facebook and Instagram.