Saskatchewan has more roads than any other province in Canada. Many of them lead somewhere interesting. The 142-km stretch of Highway 11 between Saskatoon and Prince Albert, a section of the Louis Riel Trail, is no exception.

Louis Riel led the Métis people in their fight for representation and protection during the 1885 North West Resistance. The route named in his honour features distinctive trail markers, beautiful outdoor sculptures and points of interest.

Here are five historic and cultural gems to explore when you’re in the area.

1. Wanuskewin Heritage Park

Wanuskewin Heritage Park is located on the northern edge of Saskatoon in the picturesque Opimihaw Creek valley, adjacent to the South Saskatchewan River and east of the Louis Riel Trail. It is the longest continually operating archaeological dig site in Canada.

The work has uncovered evidence of human occupation dating back 6,400 years, along with traces of every cultural group that existed on the Northern Plains.

Wanuskewin’s galleries showcase Indigenous artists and perspectives. The interpretive exhibits are, like so many experiences in the park, transformative. The park’s restaurant offers a contemporary take on traditional Indigenous cuisine, and its menu is delicious.

2. Station Arts Centre

Station Arts Centre is a quaint gem in the community of Rosthern.

Housed in the town's original railroad station built in 1902, the centre features a gallery, performing arts theatre and tearoom. It’s an active space with many live music and theatre performances throughout the year. The food is excellent, the space is cosy and the atmosphere is welcoming.

Tip: If you plan on attending an event, don’t wait to book your tickets. Sellout shows are not uncommon.

3. Batoche National Historic Site

At Batoche National Historic Site, learn about the lives of Métis residents between 1860 and 1900.

Guided tours, trails and viewing areas help tell the story of the Battle of Batoche, the final armed conflict of the 1885 North West Resistance. Bullet holes are still visible in some of the architecture.

Discover the area on the Batoche shuttle, rent a bike and take to the trails, or wander through the site by foot. You can also follow the shorelines of the South Saskatchewan River by canoe or kayak, which are available to rent on site.

Tip: The stop at Batoche is a slight detour off Highway 11. Head east on Highway 312 for ten minutes, then north for another ten minutes on Highway 225.

4. Fort Carlton Provincial Park

Follow the trail from Batoche to Fort Carlton Provincial Park, where Treaty Six negotiations took place. Originally a Hudson’s Bay Company fur trade post, the fort accidentally burned down during the conflicts in 1885 and was partially rebuilt to its 1880’s stature.

Fort Carlton features a reconstructed palisade, fur and provisions store, trade store, clerk’s quarters, tipi encampment and hiking trails. Experience Canadian history though interpretive guides and the stories of those who stayed here over a century ago.

Tip: Take Highway 212 east at Duck Lake to reach the park.

5. Eb’s Trail

Eb’s Trail is an extensive cross-country ski trail system in the beautiful Nisbet Provincial Forest. Its 52-km of groomed trails offer lots of choice for skiers of all skill levels. Welcome amenities, such as warm up shelters and toilet facilities, are located throughout the system.

Not only are these trails great for cross-country skiing, but they are also ideal for hiking in warmer months.

Tip: Trail conditions can be found on the Saskatoon Nordic Ski Club website.

 

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