In the winter months, Saskatchewan is bathed in sunshine under a big blue sky and covered in sparkling snow. Cross-country skiing is a perfect family-friendly activity for all ages and skill levels to get outside and explore the province. Glide through serene forests, wind along peaceful rivers and take in the beauty of snow-covered hills. From the boreal forest in the north to the vast prairie of the south, here is a list of some of the best cross-country ski trails across Saskatchewan to get you started.

1. Lac La Ronge Provincial Park

Lac La Ronge Provincial Park is a northern gem offering a rich cross-country skiing experience, with over 60 km of groomed ski trails, including the popular Don Allen Trails. Meander through the boreal forest and over Precambrian rock outcrops. For those looking to extend their skiing into the evening, the five-km trail at Nut Point Campground is illuminated, offering a magical night-skiing experience under the stars.

2. Prince Albert National Park

Prince Albert National Park is a paradise for cross-country skiers with over 50 km of groomed trails. The seven trails vary in length and difficulty, and each explore the park’s pristine wilderness from tranquil lakeshores to thickly wooded areas. Red Deer and Fisher are popular trails that start at the Waskesiu townsite.

3. Meadow Lake Provincial Park

Meadow Lake Provincial Park is one of the largest provincial parks in Canada spanning over 1,600 sq. km. Groomed ski trails can be found on the Haymeadow Trail at Greig Lake, offering skiers a quite route through a forested landscape. Parking is conveniently available at the trailhead just north of the Greig Lake campground entrance gate.

4. Great Blue Heron Provincial Park

Located just east of Prince Albert National Park, Great Blue Heron Provincial Park boasts 20 km of groomed cross-country ski trails. The park's trails are also connected to the Spruce River Highlands Trail in Prince Albert National Park, offering an extended skiing adventure. Scenic warm-up shelters are available along the way.

5. Little Red River Park

Located in the city of Prince Albert, Little Red River Park features over 30 km of cross-country skiing trails, with an additional 15 km in the adjacent Nisbet Provincial Forest. This 500-hectare forested park is well-known for its accessibility and variety, offering options for skiers of all levels. Warm-up shelters are scattered along the routes, providing cosy spots to rest and refuel. For those interested in night-skiing, the River Trail is lighted, creating a magical winter environment after the sun sets.

6. Eb’s Cross-Country Ski Trail

Eb's Cross-Country Ski Trail, named after Eberhard Fass (Eb), is a favorite among Saskatchewan's cross-country skiing community. Single and double track trails covering over 50 km were developed by Eb starting in 1976. The trails, located just north of Duck Lake on Hwy 11, run through a forested area, providing spectacular scenery along the way. Warm-up shelters, with outhouses, are located at each of the two entrances to the trails on the west side of the highway.

7. Duck Mountain Provincial Park

Duck Mountain Provincial Park, located in east-central Saskatchewan, is home to more than 50 km of groomed cross-country skiing trails, many of which are equipped with warm-up shelters. These trails wind through the park’s rugged hills and forested areas with options of varying difficulty. 

8. White Butte Trails Recreation Site

White Butte Trails Recreation Site is located 20 minutes east of Regina and features 12 km of groomed skate and classic cross-country ski trails. Trails are groomed on a regular basis through rolling hills and treed landscape. A popular area for skies due to its convenient access from the southwest parking lot and close proximity to the city of Regina.

9. Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

Nestled in the scenic Cypress Hills, this interprovincial park offers 15 km of groomed trails, with additional ungroomed routes for a more rugged adventure. Moose Trail features a warm-up shelter, making it a great spot for a mid-ski break. Skiing through the lodgepole pine forest in the Centre Block is a memorable experience for every level of skier.

10. Moose Mountain Provincial Park

Pass through beautiful stands of aspen, birch, green ash and Manitoba maple that characterize this unique southern Saskatchewan forest. Moose Mountain Provincial Park has an extensive trail system of over 50 km of groomed cross-country ski trails. Their Candle-Lit Ski event is a must for anyone interested in skiing along a magical trail lined with hundreds of real candles illuminating the path.

If you're eager to experience Saskatchewan's natural beauty in a whole new way, grab your skis, and discover where your next snowy adventure awaits! Each destination provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, stay active and embrace the serenity of the snow-covered landscape. Plan your next cross-country ski adventure today.