Winter is one of the most beautiful times of the year for an outdoor adventure in northern Saskatchewan. The landscape transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland, with towering boreal forests and frozen lakes covered in a blanket of snow. The air is crisp, and with the snow muffling sounds, the forest takes on a quiet, otherworldly peace.

Winter hiking in the north offers a unique way to immerse yourself in this pristine environment. And while groomed cross-country ski trails are best enjoyed by skiers, northern Saskatchewan boasts plenty of ungroomed trails ideal for hiking, snowshoeing or fat biking. Here are four places to explore this winter. 

1. Kingsmere Lake Walk to Westwind Campsite, Prince Albert National Park

The Kingsmere Lake Walk is the first section of Grey Owl Trail (the 20-km trail to Grey Owl’s Cabin) and is 3.3 km one-way to Westwind Campsite. 

The national park is home to majestic wildlife, such as bison, black bears, elk, moose, white-tailed deer, wolves, foxes and even cougars.

2. Maymont Conservation Area, Glenburn Regional Park

Maymont Conservation Area is part of the aspen parkland ecoregion located on the south banks of the North Saskatchewan River, across from Glenburn Regional Park.

Catch a glimpse of a red fox or a great horned owl. Wander through ancient cottonwood tree groves and native grasslands.

3. Narrow Hills Trails, Narrow Hills Provincial Park

Immerse yourself in rugged beauty and hilly, wooded terrain while hiking in Narrow Hills Provincial Park. You’ll find breathtaking views of the boreal forest, Gem Lakes and a museum that was once a former park ranger station (circa 1938). 

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.

Watch for winter wildlife

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.

Follow trails dotted with the hoof and paw impressions of bison, deer, moose, foxes and rabbits. Catch a glimpse of a snowy owl or an American three-toed woodpecker.

 

Share your favourite trails and winter adventures with us by using the hashtag #ExploreSask on Instagram.