Winter in Saskatchewan is a magical time when provincial and national parks transform into snowy winter wonderlands. While many visitors flock to these parks during the warmer months, fewer know about the incredible winter activities and cosy accommodations that await. Here are five parks that offer warm winter retreats, along with snowy adventures for your next winter getaway.

1. Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

The Resort at Cypress Hills

Warm up after a day in the snow at The Resort at Cypress Hills, where you’ll find a comfortable retreat with all the amenities you need. Located in the heart of the centre block, The Resort at Cypress Hills offers a variety of accommodation options including hotel rooms, cabins and townhouses. Head to Ivan’s Restaurant inside the hotel to warm up and fuel up for your next outing in a relaxing atmosphere. 

Enjoy cross-country skiing or snowshoeing through the forested hills during the day and take in the beauty of the park's Dark Sky Preserve for stargazing at night. Roast marshmallows over a campfire in between playing in the snow.

Historic Reesor Ranch

For a more rustic experience, Historic Reesor Ranch offers a blend of history and comfort, surrounded by the stunning Cypress Hills landscape just outside the west block of the park. This provincial heritage property offers packages for those looking to play in the snow or cuddle up in a cosy cabin equipped with a kitchenette to prepare your own meals.

Guided ATV tours with snow tracks are available throughout the winter months taking you to beautiful vistas and the Battle Creek Valley.

2. Meadow Lake Provincial Park

Waters Edge Eco Lodge

Tucked away on the shores of Greig Lake in Meadow Lake Provincial Park is where you will find the serene Waters Edge Eco Lodge. The lodge is dedicated to operating in an environmentally sustainable manner with contemporary rustic guest rooms and self-contained cottages with gorgeous lake views.

In addition to a fully equipped guest kitchen, the lodge proudly showcases the rich flavours of Indigenous cuisine using local ingredients to create authentic dishes. The chefs prepare freshly caught fish, wild berries and native herbs that will connect you to the land’s heritage and traditions.

Lake Time Rentals

Lake Time Rentals boasts two modern cabins featuring two spacious bedrooms with king-sized beds, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cozy living room with a pullout couch. After a day of exploring the snow-covered landscape, warm up in the private hot tub or unwind around the fire pit with a warm drink.

From snowmobiling through the park’s snowy trails to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing through tranquil forests, there is no shortage of ways to experience the breathtaking winter wonderland. Ice fishing on the park’s frozen lakes is another favorite winter activity, offering a chance to reel in your next big catch or dinner to take back to your cabin and prepare for you and your family.

3. Duck Mountain Provincial Park

Madge Lake Retreats

During the cold winter months, Duck Mountain Provincial Park transforms into a winter playground that winter enthusiasts rave about. Madge Lake Retreats, located in the heart of the park, offers year-round cabin and condo rentals with the comforts of home. Each rental is fully equipped and self-contained with a kitchen, linens and towels.

The perfect base for a winter getaway is filled with plenty of winter activities from cross-country skiing along the park’s impressive network of groomed trails, as well as a snowmobile trails for those looking for a bit more speed. The nearby ski hill and ice fishing on the frozen Madge Lake are both popular pastimes.

4. Blackstrap Provincial Park

Blackstrap Glamping Resort

In the heart of Blackstrap Provincial Park, just a short 25-minute drive from Saskatoon, the Blackstrap Glamping Resort offers a unique escape into nature that combines the best of the great outdoors with the comforts of a toasty warm accommodation. Imagine waking up in a luxurious dome surrounded by breathtaking views of Blackstrap Lake, where each morning you’re greeted to panoramic views right from your comfy king-sized bed. Sounds great right?

The domes sleep up to four people and sit lakefront on Blackstrap Lake. They are insulated and equipped with a kitchen and fireplace to keep you warm while you relax and unwind in this serene atmosphere with a park filled with winter adventures like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and more.

5. Prince Albert National Park

Elk Ridge Resort

Elk Ridge Resort is an enchanting all-season destination just outside the boundaries of Prince Albert National Park. Winter brings plenty of snowy activities including curling and ice skating right on the property, as well as cross country skiing and tobogganing.

Elk Ridge offers a variety of accommodations – from cozy cabins to spacious townhouses – ensuring a perfect fit for anyone looking to embrace winter adventures. And when the days wind down, you can unwind in the indoor pool, complete with a waterslide and relaxing hot tub.

Kick back at the Wyld, a casual pub-style atmosphere with a fusion menu of classics and soon-to-be favourites. Dine at Fredrich for a finer experience and gorgeous views of the sun setting over the boreal forest. 

Hawood Inn

Hawood Inn is the place for you if you’re looking for a hotel style accommodation right in the town of Waskesiu. Skis, snowshoes and kicksleds are available for guests to enjoy the national park’s trails and no wintery adventure is complete without ending the day soaking in an outdoor hot tub – a rooftop hot tub that is!

Lost Creek Resort

Found on the edge of the town of Waskesiu in Prince Albert National Park is Lost Creek Resort. Modern cabins for those looking for a more private experience while exploring what the boreal forest has to offer. Perfect for families, these cabins have everything you need, ranging from one-bedroom to three-bedroom options. Trails can be accessed directly behind the cabins, so you can ski right from your door.

Winter in Saskatchewan offers a unique opportunity to experience the province's provincial and national parks in a whole new way. Whether you're craving adventure or seeking a peaceful retreat, these parks provide the perfect mix of cosy accommodations and exciting winter activities. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next winter getaway today.