Saskatchewan is often viewed as a place to pass through, especially if you’re travelling along the Trans-Canada highway. But for those who venture beyond the straight stretch of Highway 1, they discover that this prairie province is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. From charming small towns to scenic parks and fascinating historic sites, Saskatchewan has much more to offer than what you see from the road. If you’re willing to get off the beaten path, you will be rewarded with beautiful sights, unique attractions and a deeper connection to the province. So why not take a detour and uncover the beauty of Saskatchewan beyond the Trans-Canada?

From east to west, here are some must-visit places we recommend you take a small detour for during your journey across Saskatchewan.

Moose Mountain Provincial Park

Take a break from the open prairie and head out into the forests of Moose Mountain Provincial Park. Just 58 km off Highway 1, turn south on Highway 9 when you reach Whitewood. This park offers an extensive network of trails winding through scenic woodlands, lakes and rolling hills. Whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter, Moose Mountain will leave a lasting impression.

Scenic Drive Through Qu’Appelle Valley

Take the scenic route through the Qu’Appelle Valley. When you reach Whitewood, turn north on Highway 9 and drive 21.5 km until you reach Highway 247 where you will continue your journey west. One of the most picturesque routes in Saskatchewan, this scenic drive treats visitors to gorgeous views of rolling hills, lush greenery and tranquil lakes. It’s a refreshing contrast to the flatlands of Highway 1.

World’s Largest Red Paperclip

Looking for a quirky and memorable roadside attraction? Make a visit to the world’s largest red paper clip in the Town of Kipling. This 15-foot-tall paper clip celebrates the town’s connection to an extraordinary story of Kyle Macdonald who began an unlikely series of online trades that started with an ordinary red paper clip. By July 2006, Kyle’s sequence of trades materialized into trading for a house in Kipling. The house is still there and often referred to as “The Red Paper Clip House” or the “Paper Clip Cottage.”

Located 51 kilometers south of Highway 1, south from Whitewood on Highway 9 and then west on Highway 48, this fun stop is perfect for a quick photo op and a reminder of the power of imagination and determination.

Motherwell Homestead National Historic Site

Experience life as it was on the prairie in the early 1900s at Motherwell Homestead National Historic Site. Located 35 km north of Highway 1 from Sintaluta on gravel road 606. This carefully preserved homestead showcases the life and work of W.R. Motherwell who was one of Saskatchewan’s early agricultural pioneers. Wander through the old homestead, explore the grounds and learn about early settler life through immersive exhibits and live demonstrations.

Wolseley Swinging Bridge

Wolseley is known as the “town with the swinging bridge” and is located right off Highway 1. The 100-foot pedestrian suspension bridge was first built in 1905 and has since been restored over the years. This charming town is a perfect stop to stretch your legs with a walk over the bridge which spans across a scenic creek before you continue your journey. If you have extra time, we recommend taking a tour of the Town Hall/Opera House which is one of Saskatchewan’s last remaining turn-of-the-century designed multi-purpose buildings.

Indian Head Bakery & Deli

You just can’t pass by Indian Head without stopping in for the Indian Head Bakery & Deli. Located right off Highway 1, the Indian Head Bakery & Deli is a beloved institution locally famous for its fresh-baked goods and made-to-order sandwiches. Make sure you add this stop to your list for a delicious place to refuel during your journey. 

Lebret and the Qu’Appelle Valley

Lebret, located just 25 km north of Highway 1 via Highway 56 from India Head, offers visitors another glimpse into the beauty of the Qu’Appelle Valley. Follow the winding lake road as you make your way through the valley with views of Katepwa Lake and Mission Lake. The small, peaceful village of Lebret is a nice place to get out of the car and hike up the valley hill for stunning views of the community and surrounding valley.

Buffalo Pound Provincial Park

A short 23-km detour from Highway 1 is Buffalo Pound Provincial Park. Before entering the City of Moose Jaw, turn north on Highway 301 which will lead you to the park. Here you can observe one of the most iconic symbols of the prairies – the mighty bison. Beyond seeing these majestic animals, the park offers trails for hiking and biking alongside a beautiful lake.

Claybank Brick Plant National Historic Site

Claybank Brick Plant National Historic Site is a fascinating piece of Saskatchewan’s industrial heritage. Once a thriving brick manufacturing plant, visitors can tour the buildings and learn about the brick making process. Located 50 km off Highway 1, take Highway 39 southeast right before entering the City of Moose Jaw until you reach Highway 339 which will take you directly south to the historic site. 

Chaplin Nature Centre

Located directly off Highway 1, the Chaplin Nature Centre is a must-visit for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. Chaplin Lake is one of the largest saltwater lakes in Canada and serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds, including sandpipers and plovers among the 30 plus species of shorebirds that can be seen here. 

Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park

50 km north of Swift Current on Highway 4 is where you will find Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park. Straddling the South Saskatchewan River Valley at the west end of Lake Diefenbaker, Saskatchewan Landing is the site of the first historic crossing on the South Saskatchewan River. The park also offers great hiking, camping and fishing opportunities.

The Great Sand Hills

This extraordinary area of shifting sand dunes covers over 1,900 square kilometers and offers visitors a rare chance to experience a desert-like environment in the middle of the prairies. After driving through Swift Current, go northwest on Highway 32 until you reach the village of Sceptre where you can follow signs to take you south from the village to a parking lot with interpretive signage and your starting point of exploring the Great Sand Hills by foot.

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

For sweeping panoramic views that stretch across Saskatchewan and into Alberta, head to Bald Butte in Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park. Just 40 km south of Highway 1 via Highway 21 through Maple Creek, Cypress Hills is a year-round destination loved by locals. Retreating glaciers during the last ice age missed this part of the province, leaving towering hills and lush forest that will leave you forgetting you are surrounded by a prairie landscape.

Saskatchewan’s treasures go far beyond what’s visible from the Trans-Canada Highway. By exploring these scenic detours and charming communities, you’ll experience the true essence of the province – its rich history, diverse landscapes and welcoming spirit. Whether you're stopping to stretch your legs, snap a photo, or learn something new, taking the time to venture off Highway 1 will turn an ordinary drive into an extraordinary adventure.