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7-Day Saskatchewan Road Trip Itinerary (Saskatchewan Travel Guide)

sitting at the Parks Canada red adirondack chairs at Ta Sunka Watogla in Grasslands National Park East Block along Badlands Parkway in Saskatchewan

Looking for a Saskatchewan road trip itinerary to help you plan an epic visit to this highly underrated Canadian province? We got you. After spending a week exploring the cities of Regina, Saskatoon, the gorgeous Grasslands National Park, and stops along the way we came back from our trip in awe at the beauty and unspoiled landscapes.

Scenic drives in Saskatchewan include traversing across its stunning prairies and grasslands. Grasslands happen to be one of the most endangered ecosystems on the planet and are home to one of the largest dark sky preserves in the world for those interested in star gazing.

In this Saskatchewan road trip itinerary, we are going to cover Grasslands National Park, which should absolutely be included on your visit and does require a little extra planning as you will be in the more remote areas of the province and will need to bring some of your own meals (more on that later) and potentially camping gear.

In addition, we are including stops in the cities of Regina and Saskatoon along with a few interesting Saskatchewan landmarks and stops along the way including unforgettable and unique stays.

Disclaimer: This post was done in collaboration with Tourism Saskatchewan, as always all opinions expressed are our own. This post also contains affiliate links.

Saskatchewan Road Trip Tips:

Megan and Scott taking a photo along the road in Saskatchewan with yellow canola fields

Some of the most scenic drives in Saskatchewan and cool places to visit in Saskatchewan are in remote areas, which require a little planning in advance to ensure you have a great visit (that’s where our guide comes in handy!).

While you may pass through towns, not all have restaurants, grocery stores, or even gas stations. So it’s wise to do a little extra planning ahead to make sure you have the supplies and fuel you need! Also, you will encounter spots with no cell phone service, although depending on your provider you will cross pockets of service frequently on the Saskatchewan road trip we suggest.

If you plan on staying in the oTENTik accommodation option in Grasslands National Park , you’ll want to check availability and book these first and plan your Saskatchewan road trip around that availability. Also, be sure to plan for what to bring if you do this option as they do have beds, a grill, fire pit, table, and other amenities but you’ll need to bring your own bedding. We used a sleeping bag.

Based on our guide and places to visit in Saskatchewan, here are our top travel tips to be aware of:

  • When driving through Saskatchewan always have at least a half tank of gas and fill it up every opportunity you have . Gas stations are few and far between AND some are a bit tricky to get fuel if you’re not used to driving here.
  • Many gas stations are not full service , so someone will assist you in filling up your gas. There are gas stations in remote towns that don’t have an attendant on site and require you to call someone who will come and fill you up. We avoided this as we stopped in gas the next town, but you’ll want to check on your Google Maps to see where the next gas station is. This is why you always want to have over a half tank of gas to avoid any emergencies!
  • Be sure to preload your Google Maps with the locations you want to visit saved so it’s easy to navigate when there’s no service. We didn’t have any issues getting directions with TMobile as we always were driving in and out of service pockets.
  • Invest and pack a travel cooler . You’ll need one for when you are visiting Grasslands National Park whether you are camping in your own tent, staying in an oTENTik, or staying at a hotel. There aren’t food options in or around the park and you will need to bring food for this portion of the trip including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Get your groceries in the city before taking off to Grasslands National Park. We planned our meals and got all of our groceries in Regina including any adult beverages we wanted as well as large gallons of water (there are water filling stations at the park).
  • If you’re staying at the campgrounds in Grasslands National Park, be sure to plan your arrival before the offices close at the campsites in both the East Block and West Block! During our visit, they were open until 7 PM. However, when you make your reservation you will want to check and confirm the time for the date of your visit. (PS these offices sell ice if you need to refill your coolers).
  • Bring bug spray with DEET and if you want to hike through the prairies and trails, you’ll want long pants as there are ticks here that hang out in the tall grass, we didn’t encounter any but they are common.
  • If you do plan on stopping at a restaurant outside of the cities, be sure to double-check the restaurants are open the day you are visiting as many are closed on Sundays or only open on certain days of the week! This happened to us and thankfully we packed enough food to cover this meal.

7 Day Saskatchewan Road Trip Itinerary

Saskatchewan road trip day 1: arrive & explore regina.

Megan walking through Wascana Park with a view of the Legislative Building in the background in Regina Saskatchewan

Before we started our scenic drive in Saskatchewan, we spent a day in Regina, the capital city of the province.

We arrived in the afternoon and only had a little time for exploring. We recommend taking a scenic walk around Wascana Park which surrounds Wascana Lake and offers great views of the Saskatchewan Legislative Building, one of the most famous Saskatchewan landmarks here in Regina.

Our two favorite spots for views were the Wascana Observation Deck that overlooks Willow Island and Trafalgar Overlook Fountain.

This was an easy 10-15 minute walk from our hotel at Hotel Saskatchewan . On your way to or from Wascana Park, be sure to stop in Central Park . This small, manicured park has a cool tribute to Mary Baker, a local who played professional baseball in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during World War II.

I am personally a fan of the film A League of Their Own , so this was a fun little gem to stumble upon while exploring Regina.

Be sure to plan a dinner at Avenue Restaurant and Bar downtown. This is one of the best restaurants in Regina and offers a menu with a French and global influence using local ingredients. They also have excellent cocktails like their tableside martinis.

Since we arrived in the afternoon, this was all we had time for on our visit. However, if you have more time to explore Regina we encourage you to check out MacKenzie Art Gallery , Saskatchewan’s oldest art gallery that features modern and abstract artworks from local and international artists.

Another great museum includes the Royal Saskatchewan Museum featuring collections that showcase the natural and cultural heritage of the province including the world’s largest T Rex that was found in the province named Scotty! Be sure to also check out the First Nations Gallery featuring a display of artwork that highlights the history and traditions of Indigenous societies that live in Saskatchewan.

*You also have the option in the evening to get your supplies for the next leg of your Saskatchewan itinerary.

Where to Stay in Regina

inside the room at Hotel Saskatchewan in Regina

We stayed in the beautiful Hotel Saskatchewan , an Autograph Collection property in the heart of downtown. This luxury hotel is one of Canada’s historic grand railway hotels built by the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1926, the same project that built the famous Château Frontenac in Quebec City .

The hotel offers elegant rooms and has a beautiful lobby and bar area. Grab breakfast and coffee in the morning from Cafe Royale in the morning. There’s also a parking lot here for guests to use for a small fee. Book here.

Saskatchewan Road Trip Day 2: Fun Stops on the Way to Grasslands National Park East Block

horses just outside of Castle Butte in the Big Muddy Badlands of Saskatchewan

Get ready for one of the most scenic drives in Saskatchewan! We loved the route from Regina toward Grasslands National Park’s East Block. Along the way, you’ll pass Saskatchewan landmarks like endless scenes of yellow canola fields, gorgeous barns, silos, and sprawling farmland.

We recommend getting an early start as during our visit we needed to get checked in to our campsite before 7 PM and there are a few cool places in Saskatchewan to visit along the way including the town of Ogema, natural wonders like Castle Butte, and the small community of Willow Bunch.

If you didn’t get your groceries and provisions for this portion of the trip in advance, you’ll want to do this first thing in the morning at hit the road.

Stop in Ogema

Southern Prairie Railway in Ogema Saskatchewan

About an hour into your Saskatchewan road trip is the charming and quaint prairie town of Ogema. If you like historic and scenic train rides, you may want to plan a visit to Southern Prairie Railway which offers 2.5-hour train rides on select weekends.

We didn’t end up doing this as we wanted to make other stops and make it to our campsite in time. If you do plan on doing one of their train rides, you may want to skip the other stops included on this guide. They offer heritage train rides as well as specialty-themed train rides including a craft beer train ride!

We were able to take a look at the historic prairie locomotive before it took off on one of its journeys during our quick stop in Ogema.

Another great reason to stop in Ogema is that this can be one of your last hot meals before camping or staying in Grasslands National Park! Solo Italia Fine Pasta (open Wednesdays through Saturdays only) offers their famous wood-fired pizzas along a menu of other Italian dishes.

If barbecue is more your style, you can also dine at Bud’s Barbecue (open Tuesdays through Saturdays).

Check out Castle Butte

View of the Big Muddy Badlands from the top of Castle Butte in Saskatchewan Canada

Around a 45-minute drive away from Ogema continuing on your Saskatchewan road trip itinerary is the unique formation of Castle Butte in the Big Muddy Badlands. This striking geological wonder is a massive sandstone butte that rises dramatically from the surrounding prairie landscape.

This Saskatchewan landmark is a testament to the millions of years of erosion that sculpted this castle-like natural wonder.

Visitors are welcome to climb Castle Butte, although if you’re not a confident climber you may have to scoot down on your bottom on the way back down. From the top you get sweeping views of the nearby landscape.

Around the base of Castle Butte, you can explore the labyrinth of crevices and trail around the base of the butte which offers a glimpse at the years of erosion in interesting patterns. Plan at least an hour for this stop on your road trip, it’s really one of the most unique places to visit in Saskatchewan!

See the Giant of Willow Bunch

The-giant-of-willow-bunch-in-Saskatchewan-Canada

If time is still on your side, another one of the most interesting places in Saskatchewan to visit on a road trip is the town of Willow Bunch (~1 hour drive from Castle Butte & another ~1 hour to Rock Creek Campground in Grasslands National Park East Block).

This rural community is home to the legendary “Giant of Willow Bunch.” The town celebrates the memory of Edouard Beaupré, who was a circus performer that traveled with Barnum and Bailey due to his exceptional height of 8’3″.

You can pay a visit to the Willow Bunch Museum & Heritage Society which is housed in a former convent to see exhibits that chronicle the history of this community as well as artifacts and belongings that were owned by Edouard Beaupré in his lifetime.

When you’re walking up to the museum you’ll spot a statue of Edouard Beaupré as well as his tombstone as his remains were returned to Willow Bunch and this is his final resting place. Even the local motel and pub named themselves after him at the Jolly Giant Pub & Motel. A local told us the stone erected outside the motel is said to be the same height as Edouard so you can get an idea of his height.

This is also a great place to fuel up before continuing on your Saskatchewan road trip to Grasslands National Park.

Just be careful, there are two pumps here and while one does say diesel fuel, it’s not as obvious as other pumps (or so we thought) and we accidentally put diesel fuel in our car! OOPS! This was obviously a tragic mistake and we were lucky that a local went and found the local mechanic who was able to drain our tank and fuel lines for us. (We all make mistakes from time to time!) Learn from ours!

Most gas stations in Saskatchewan have someone pump the gas for you, but this one didn’t and we just happened to make that mistake. Anyway, that likely won’t happen to you! But a special thank you to the kind folks in Willow Bunch for helping us get back on the road!

Arrive to Grasslands National Park East Block

oTENTIKs at Rock Creek Campground with lightning at Grasslands National Park East Block in Saskatchewan Canada

You will want to carefully plan out all of your activities for the day and journey to the Grasslands National Park East Block to arrive to Rock Creek Campground before 7 PM to check in to your campsite. And make sure to have a full tank of gas .

Rock Creek Campground has campsites for RVs, campers, and tents, along with 8 oTENTik sites which are basically a tent and an A-Frame cabin combined. We stayed in an oTENTik tent at both the East Block and West Block and recommend doing the same and planning your trip around their availability.

These structures are a step above camping and provide a shelter with beds with mattresses that can sleep up to 6 people (you need to bring your own pillow and sleeping bag), table and chairs, electricity, small heater & fan, a front deck with Adirondack chairs, picnic table, fire pit, and grill.

These were incredibly comfortable if you come prepared with food and sleeping supplies. There is no plumbing at these sites, but you can use the campground’s restroom and water station.

If you plan on enjoying the firepit, you will need to secure a fire permit from the ranger station for a small fee. Pay attention to the wind as it typically dies down at night and is safe to have a fire. You can also buy ice here if you need more to keep your food cool.

When shopping for supplies, you may want to pick up a firestarter to help you get your fire going if you plan on using the fire pit along with matches or a lighter.

The Parks Canada ranger at the campsite check-in spot will be able to tell you if it is safe or not to have a fire or when the wind is scheduled to slow down.

During our visit, the ranger station was open 11 AM until 7 PM. However, when making a reservation please confirm when the window is you can check in to make sure you get there on time! If the ranger leaves for the day, you won’t be able to get the key to your oTENTik.

Once you’re settled in, you can enjoy the beauty of the prairies and pop out late at night to see the Milky Way and stars as you’re in one of the largest dark sky preserves in the world ! Also, this can be a great spot for Aurora Borealis too, if you’re lucky you might get to see the Northern Lights!

If you’re here early, consider doing the short and quick hikes around the ranger station , both the Rock Creek Trail (1km loop) and the Creek to Peak Trail (1.5 trail out and back) start right at the green gates at the visitor center. Both are relatively short hikes that offer sweeping views of the prairie landscapes.

Also, since Grasslands National Park is in two sections, the East Block and West Block, make sure you pay careful attention to arrive to the correct side for your reservation as they are about a +2 hour drive from one another!

Another tip: Grasslands National Park can get very windy! Bring a windbreaker and leave the hat at the campsite unless you have a way to secure it to your head. This is a place of extremes it also can get VERY hot, make sure to bring sunscreen and apply it generously and frequently. It also can get cold! Pack accordingly.

Saskatchewan Road Trip Day 3: Grasslands National Park East Block

couple enjoying the Parks Canada red chairs at Ta Sunka Watogla along the Badlands Parkway in Grasslands National Park East Block in Saskatchewan

Enjoy waking up to the serenity of the prairies! If you stayed up late stargazing you may want to sleep in before embarking on the Badlands Parkway, a scenic 11 kilometers (~ 6.8 miles) of paved road that takes you to 6 scenic stops and overlooks the popular Valley of 1000 Devils hiking trail that takes you through the badlands and where many fossils and dinosaurs have been found!

The East Block is more known for its stunning landscapes and views, along with being one of the richest resources in Canada for finding dinosaur fossils. But you may also encounter some wildlife here.

If you want to do the Valley of 1000 Devils hike , plan for 3-4 hours and try to do this one earlier in the day as it can be 10 degrees hotter on this trail than other areas of Grasslands National Park. The entire trail is 10 kilometers and it passes through the dramatic views of the valley and grass prairies, which you’ll see from above at the overlooks along the Badlands Parkway.

Along the Badlands Parkway , you also have more opportunities for leisurely walking along interpretive trails and enjoy stunning views from the vistas overlooking the valley as well as stops that have the famous red Adirondack chairs found across iconic scenes throughout all of the Parks Canada parks.

Each of the 6 stops offers a stunning vantage point of geological formations and the unique prairie landscape here. The landscape here does remind us of the American Southwest with the buttes and geological shapes, except that these formations and landscapes are covered in grass.

We recommend taking your time to slowly enjoy each of these stops and if you’re wanting to freely roam and explore more, at stop #2 called Crackerjack, the Parks Canada ranger informed us of an interpretive trail here where you can explore the valley down a path (you’ll spot it off the main path that leads to the lookout) and you can wander around looking for fossils (if you find one don’t move it, get its location with GPS and report it to a ranger), quicksand, and see the badlands from another vantage point and perspective.

Each of the stops also has informational signs that teach you more about the grasslands and prairie landscapes of Saskatchewan.

Here are the highlights of each of the 6 stops:

  • Stop 1 – Gateway to the Grasslands: This is a short walk through swaying tall grass takes you to two red Parks Canada Adirondack chairs overlooking the rolling grassland and prairie landscape below. There are also two tower viewer binoculars here to get a closer look too and maybe spot wildlife!
  • Stop 2 – Crackerjack: Another short walk overlooking the badlands of the East Block. This is where you can find the trail that leads down to the valley and do some interpretive exploring looking for fossils, and quicksand, and take your time admiring all of the geological and archeological wonders of the Grasslands National Park.
  • Stop 3 – Zahursky Point: A brief walk will bring you to two more Parks Canada Adirondack chairs, there are more stunning views here as well as a sign explaining how the Zahursky family lived at this point for a period of time in these nearly uninhabitable conditions in 1912.
  • Stop 4 – Kapêsiwin: Another incredible vista and place to take in the view in prairie silence as you look out over the same views as the Indigenous peoples of the Astina, Nakoda, Nêhiyawak, Siksika, Dakota, and Lakota peoples had for centuries.
  • Stop 5 – Mauvais Terres: An incredible viewpoint of the grassy buttes below.
  • Stop 6 – Ta Sunka Watógla: Our favorite scenic vista on the Badlands Parkway and one of the most stunning places in Saskatchewan for views! You’re actually incredibly close to the Western Montana border from here. There are two Parks Canada red Adirondack chairs here to take in the view and this is an excellent place to see the sunset.

Saskatchewan Road Trip Day 4: Grasslands National Park West Block

View from the Ecotour Scenic Drive in Grasslands National Park West Block in Saskatchewan

We recommend getting an early start to your day 4 on your Saskatchewan road trip itinerary so you have plenty of time to take in all there is to see and do at Grasslands National Park at the West Block. This is just over a 2-hour drive from Rock Creek Campground through farmland and prairie landscapes. Make sure to fill up your gas tank again!

The Grasslands National Park Visitor Centre in Val Marie is open from 9 AM to 5 PM and is a great place to stop if you want to pick up maps. From 11 AM to 7 PM at Frenchman Valley Campground you can check in to an oTENTik or campsite (although double check and confirm this before your visit).

If the East Block is known for the badlands and stunning vistas, the West Block of Grasslands National Park is better known for wildlife spotting. Another one of the most scenic drives in Saskatchewan can be found here as well along the Ecotour Scenic Drive . This is a 20-kilometer (~12.4 miles) paved road and driving tour through the Frenchman River Valley with 7 pull-offs and interpretive signs.

Not only will you find sprawling views of the grasslands and prairies, but you’ll encounter the black-tailed prairie dog colonies known as dog towns, opportunities to spot wildlife like the burrowing owl, coyotes, and bison, but also archeological sites like ancient tipi rings which are evidence of life used by Indigenous peoples for shelter and cultural practices, just look for stones that are in a circular arrangement (some of these sites are marked).

The Ecotour Scenic Drive is a bit different than the Badlands Parkway in the East Block. Each stop has an interpretive sign and some stops require more time than others. A few of the stops also offer trailheads too. It takes the average visitor anywhere from 1-3 hours to do the drive, although we took much longer as we also decided to drive part of the Back Country Loop after the 7th stop on the Ecotour Scenic Drive (more on that later).

Here’s a breakdown of the stops on the Ecotour Scenic Drive:

  • Stop 1 – Welcome to the Grasslands National Park: A brief stop at the beginning of the Ecotour Scenic Drive with an interpretive sign.
  • Stop 2 – Top Dogtown Trail: This short loop takes you through a trail in one of the black-tailed prairie dog colonies. We spent alot of time here observing the prairie dogs! During dawn and dusk look out for burrowing owls in some of the burrows too! We saw some across the road from here.
  • Stop 3 – Grasses Reign Supreme: This is where you can find the trailheads for the Bearpaw Sea Trail (10 km in-and-out) that traverses through the prairie landscape passing through more prairie dog colonies (*exercise caution as part of this trail passes through a rattlesnake hibernating spot) and the Timbergulch Trail (15 km loop) traverses through a gulch which a chance to encounter a bison. This is more of an advanced trail as bison do knock over the trail markers and it helps to be savvy with navigational equipment.
  • Stop 4- Coming Full Circle: You can read the interpretive sign here and look for historic tipi rings at this stop.
  • Stop 5 – Ranch Corrals: This is a cool stop, you can see a glimpse into Saskatchewan’s wild west history here. Remnants from an old ranching corral from the 76 Ranch remain here.
  • Belza: This is a day-use picnic area that offers beautiful views of the valley and prairie below along with restrooms and two Parks Canada red Adirondack chairs.
  • Frenchman Valley Campground: Campsite and where the oTENTiks campsite is. There is a small trail here that leads to a tipi ring and a bench that offers views of the creek below.
  • Stop 6 – A Cowboy of Mystery: This stop gives visitors a glimpse into ranching life here as there are still buildings left behind where the Larson family lived as ranchers from the 1920s until 1984. You can walk around the buildings and see where he built shelter for his animals in the hill bank. There is a picnic table here and also the Larson Trail hike (1.5 km loop) starts here.
  • Stop 7 – A Prairie Hot Spot: Between stop 6 and 7 is when you’ll start noticing a long stretch of black-tailed prairie dog burrows and colonies. This is where you might see alot of wildlife activity, we saw a coyote hunting for prairie dogs here.

Once you’re done with the Ecotour Scenic Drive you have the option to also continue driving along the Back Country Loop, a dirt road that takes you through rolling pastures with ranching cattle through lands of transition.

The park ranger told us about the Borderlands Lookout point you can stop at that is very close to the US border of Montana. This is a more rugged area of the park and it’s only open when the conditions are dry. You can also access the Otter Basin Trail hike (15 km loop) which is for more skilled wilderness explorers.

Megan and Scott enjoying camping at an oTENTik campsite in Grasslands National Park in Saskatchewan Canada

You have the option of reserving an oTENTik at Frenchman Valley Campground or you can stay in one of the few accommodation options in the town of Val Marie. Unlike the East Block, the town of Val Marie offers more options as it’s around a 20-minute drive to the entrance of the West Block of Grasslands National Park.

Convent Inn in Val Marie Saskatchewan near the entrance of Grasslands National Park West Block

We also stayed at the Convent Inn one night during our Saskatchewan road trip, which is a really unique hotel set in a former convent. They have shared restrooms and serve breakfast in the morning. It’s a great place to sleep if you need a break from camping.

Saskatchewan Road Trip Day 5: Swift Current & Overnight in a Luxury Grain Bin Stay

view of the fields at Alive Sky Lodge in Rosetown Saskatchewan

Continuing your road trip itinerary and cool places in Saskatchewan to visit, we will encounter a few more small towns and end the day pampering yourself in a grain bin on a farm that’s been converted to a luxurious stay.

Take your time in the morning at Grasslands National Park at the West Block, whether you spent the night stargazing again or want to wake up early for another hike before hitting the road. There is no rush to leave in the morning.

We actually woke up early just to go see if we could spot more burrowing owls and wildlife since the wildlife is most active in the mornings and evenings in the prairie. We weren’t disappointed as we saw a whole family of burrowing owls and the coyote hunting prairie dogs as we mentioned earlier.

It was fascinating watching the prairie dogs communicate to one another letting their colony know that there was a predator in the area.

Have Lunch & Explore in Swift Current

street view of Swift Current Saskatchewan Canada

Enjoy more of the scenic drives in Saskatchewan on your way to Swift Current (~ 1.25 hours from Val Marie). This small southwestern city was one of our favorites as we were delightfully surprised to find cool shops and restaurants here.

We ate lunch at Nightjar Diner Co. which offers a farm-fresh, seasonal menu that’s always changing along with a nice selection of craft beer. The food here was incredible and we highly recommend it!

Take some time to mosey down Central Avenue and explore the cool shops . A few that really caught our eye were The Fill , a sustainable goods and refill station for beauty and home products, Sunny Side Up , a cute stationary store, Fusion a boutique carrying higher-end clothing and beauty products, Farmer’s Daughter Homestead carried a nice selection of home goods, and Bre’s Boutique for more women’s clothing.

And for hockey fans, did you know that Saskatchewan has the highest NHL hockey players per capita from here?! If that’s your thing, you’ll want to check out another cultural Saskatchewan landmark here in Swift Current, the Ted Knight Saskatchewan Hockey Hall of Fame .

Spend the Night at Alive Sky Lodge & BINcredible

Alive Sky Lodge in Rosetown Saskatchewan a luxury grain bin hotel

Scenic drives in Saskatchewan include miles and miles of driving past farmland, so what better way to spend a night during your Saskatchewan road trip than on a working farm in a grain bin that’s been transformed into a luxe stay?!

Located outside of the town of Rosetown, Alive Sky Lodge & BINcredible offers guests a Bed and Breakfast experience in their main lodge or in one of their converted grain bins. We stayed in the Bohemian Grain Bin which has its own front porch, balcony with table and chairs overlooking the fields, and hot tub.

Inside you’ll find a full kitchen, luxury bathroom with heated floors, living area with a small electric fireplace and tv, and then the ladder that goes up to the bedroom which has a queen size bed (that was REALLY comfortable) and a bunk bed if you’re traveling with kids or a group of friends.

Not only do you get a really unique place to stay, but April, the owner goes above and beyond to make you feel at home. We had homemade dessert delivered to our grain bin and in the morning a homemade breakfast is delivered to your door.

There are also a few friendly farm critters too, we really loved Jinxie the cat who followed us around and joined us for a campfire at night.

Saskatchewan Road Trip Days 6 & 7

Delta Hotels Bessborough in Saskatoon Saskatchewan Canada

To end your Saskatchewan road trip itinerary, you will spend your last full day in Saskatoon (~1 hour drive from Rosetown) before leaving the following day. We returned the rental car that we picked up in Regina at Saskatoon Airport for an afternoon flight.

Check Out Riversdale

pretty mural in Riversdale District in Saskatoon

If you spent a leisurely morning getting to Saskatoon, the first stop you will want to make for lunch and wandering around is Riversdale. This artsy neighborhood is full of trendy restaurants, cool murals, and fun shops to check out that really showcase the city’s creative spirit.

We actually came to Riversdale more than once and recommend having lunch at Odd Couple , an incredible Asian fusion restaurant that has a mix of Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. Then come back to Riversdale for the tasting menu for dinner at Primal, an Italian eatery sourced with local ingredients along with organic wines.

Beyond the incredible culinary scene here, there are tons of fun shops too. Nefelibata Arts & Crafts is a really fun shop to explore, they have vintage arts and crafts supplies plus other fun nostalgic finds. If you love stationery stores, check out Soul Paper for fun gifts and paper goods. If you love indie bookstores as much as we do, head to Peryton Books who have a great collection of used books. Hazelwood is another exceptional store to check out. They carry a nice curated selection of vintage clothing.

Don’t leave Riversdale without stopping in Hardpressed Print Studio which carries the COOLEST clothing and accessories all themed around Saskatchewan that they make in-house. They definitely have a lot of talent here as I have never wanted to buy so many graphic tees, sweatshirts, and shorts in my life branded with a destination. We actually both walked out with a shirt and I also got a sweatshirt, so we both will be repping the “Land of Living Skies” everywhere.

Browse the Galleries at Remai Modern

Remai Modern Gallery in Saskatoon Saskatchewan

Another place in Saskatchewan you’ll want to spend a few hours at during your time in Saskatoon is the Remai Modern Gallery. This renowned contemporary art gallery is known for its impressive collection of modern and indigenous artworks.

As a cultural hub, it showcases world-class exhibitions from artists, both Canadian and international, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts. It’s worth checking out what their current exhibits are during your visit and join one of their guided tours.

With its stunning architecture nestled along the South Saskatchewan River, the gallery offers breathtaking views of the city.

Its commitment to inclusivity, diverse programming, and innovative art experiences make it one of the best places to explore Saskatoon’s dynamic art scene and embrace the spirit of creativity that defines the city.

Also, it’s worth checking out their restaurant on site, Hearth which has won several accolades including being named one of Canada’s top 100 restaurants, and has excellent cocktails.

If you’re still thirsty, walk over to the Shelter Brewing Company nearby for some great local craft beer.

Remai Modern is closed on Mondays & Tuesdays .

Wander Around The Broadway District

view-of-the-Broadway-District-in-Saskatoon-Saskatchewan-Canada

Exploring Saskatoon on your Saskatchewan road trip must include checking out the Broadway District. Not only are there great restaurants here but you’ll also find nice shops and nightlife here as well.

This district is known for its bohemian and artistic vibe. This is actually where Joni Mitchell started her career in the 1960s, she did her first performance at what was once the Louis Riel Coffee House (where the restaurant Calories is today). You can stop by and see a plaque dedicated to her here as she was also from Saskatoon.

You’ll want to plan a meal at Odla , an incredible farm-to-table restaurant that sources all of its food and ingredients from 50 farms within a 2-hour radius of Saskatoon.

Some of the cool shops in the area include The Better Good which sells sustainable products from home goods to beauty products, McQuarrie’s Tea & Coffee Merchants is a haven for tea lovers, Outter Limits sells outdoor and adventure apparel and gear, and be sure to stop in Vinyl Diner CD’s & Records to browse their collection and find that next vinyl you’ve been searching for.

Be sure to pay a visit to Wanuskewin Collective and Wanuskewin Gift Shop , both shops neighbor one another and carry products from the Northern Plains Indigenous peoples along with an art gallery. There were so many beautifully hand-crafted items from jewelry to clothing and artwork here along with product lines that are indigenous-owned.

And two hidden gems off of Broadway on Main Street are Turning the Tide Bookstore , an independent alternative bookstore and Alt Haus Interior Design which carries a mix of new and vintage interior decor and furniture plus really fun clothes! I found the most fun leopard jumpsuit here that I can’t wait to wear.

Drive to Black Fox Farm & Distillery

cocktail tasting flight from Black Fox Farm and Distillery in Saskatoon Saskatchewan

To do a little exploring beyond the heart of Saskatoon, drive to Black Fox Farm & Distillery for seasonal flower picking and tasting their premium award-winning Canadian gin and whiskey.

Founded by a renowned fifth-generation farmer Saskatchewan couple celebrated for their agricultural philosophy and practices, this distillery emerged from their transition from grain farming to crafting fine spirits. With the same unwavering passion that fueled their farming success, they now apply their expertise to produce exceptional spirits, embodying the essence of their heritage and dedication.

They offer great cocktail-tasting flights, which is something I’ve always said I’ve wanted to try when there’s a good selection of cocktails at a place and you can’t quite decide which one to order. Most bartenders would scoff at the idea of having to make tons of mini drinks for one customer, but this is something that Black Fox specializes in and each cocktail I tried on my seasonal flight was phenomenal.

Beyond the seasonal u-pick flowers, they do offer tours of the distillery and farm as well as the occasional cocktail making class .

Shop Around 33rd Street

cool mural at 33rd street in Saskatoon in Saskatchewan Canada

If you find that you still have more time in Saskatoon on your Saskatchewan itinerary, head over to 33rd Street for a few more interesting hidden gems!

Glitch Gifts & Novelties has a fun store full of novelty gifts and quirky items whether you’re trying to find something unique for a friend or loved one or just love browsing random fun finds for yourself like we do. The real hidden treasure is in the back of the shop though where you can find Glitchy’s Oddities , a small museum housing a collection of bizarre and random finds from a haunted doll to weird taxidermy (including a two-headed cow), and mummified mermaids?!

And if you like antique shopping as much as we do, it’s worth doing a lap around Vintage Mall YXE here too!

Where to Stay in Saskatoon

view of the South Saskatchewan River in Saskatoon

End your Saskatchewan itinerary with a bang by staying at The James Hotel in Saskatoon. This is one of the best hotels in the city located along the South Saskatchewan River and provides stunning views.

Not only are you within walking distance to all the Saskatchewan landmarks mentioned in the Saskatoon section of this itinerary, but the hotel offers modern and luxurious rooms. Before staying here everyone told us about how soft the sheets were, and they were not wrong. After a week with camping, it was really nice to have a more luxurious and comfortable stay. Book here.

We also spent the night in Alt Hotel Saskatoon , which is another excellent hotel option located directly across from Remai Modern and within walking distance to just about everything we mentioned in the Saskatoon portion of this guide.

The hotel pairs nicely with the Remai Modern as it’s a contemporary space with a modern design throughout the property and rooms. We also had a cool view of the city from our room that I regrettably didn’t capture. This is definitely another stylish option for where to stay to end off your Saskatchewan road trip itinerary. Book here.

Saskatchewan’s special allure lies in its vast and untamed landscapes, showcasing the beauty of the Canadian prairies. From stunning national parks and dark sky preserves to warm hospitality it offers a captivating blend of nature, heritage, and a rich cultural scene.

Saskatchewan is best known for its expansive prairies, abundant natural beauty, friendly locals, and rich indigenous heritage.

The best time of year to visit Saskatchewan for a road trip is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is generally pleasant, and the roads are clear for easy exploration of the province’s stunning landscapes and attractions.

The most scenic drive in Saskatchewan is the Grasslands National Park’s Ecotour Road, offering breathtaking views of the prairies, wildlife, and unique geological formations.

Enjoyed this guide for an epic 7-day Saskatchewan road trip visiting the best places in Saskatchewan to visit from the prairies to natural landmarks, hidden gems, small towns, and cool cities? Bookmark for later and share the love below on Pinterest!

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Admire Saskatchewan’s stunning landscape on this National Parks road trip

Aug 9, 2021 • 6 min read

Grasslands National Park

Grasslands National Park is just one of the natural wonders to be found in Saskatchewan © Chris Hendrickson Photography / Tourism Saskatchewan

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Visiting Canada’s parks has become more popular than ever. With a leisurely, meandering north-to-south road trip through Saskatchewan’s stunning landscape you can see many of the province’s best, from Prince Albert National Park to Grasslands National Park.

Saskatchewan_Waskesiu_Lake.jpg

Prince Albert National Park

Begin your journey in the heart of Saskatchewan at Prince Albert National Park, where you’ll find a bounty of trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. Make the small resort town of Waskesiu Lake , located within the park, your base camp – the park features numerous multi-use trails for all skill levels and a range of amenities and accommodation all year round. All campgrounds and operation seasons are dependent on weather.

Highway 263 is a favorite among road cyclists, who love the scenic 48km route between Wakesiu and the park’s southern boundary; but there are lots of shorter paved paths too. Other adventures include canoeing, kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding at Hanging Heart Lakes, hiking the northern boreal forest, horseback riding in the warmer months, and cross-country skiing or snowshoeing during winter.     

Bring your camera and be on the lookout for bison, moose, wolves, foxes, elk, deer, beavers, otters, coyotes, and black bears – but don’t forget to look up occasionally, or you might miss one of the more than 200 species of birds, including eagles, osprey, and herons.

If you’re a pasta fan, make time to dine at Restaurant Pietro in Waskesiu Lake, where the pasta is hand-made in-house. For something more relaxed with vegetarian and kid-friendly options, try Pete’s Terrace, where pub fare such as pizza and burgers is a specialty. 

Saskatchewan_Batoche.jpg

Batoche National Historic Site

From Prince Albert National Park, head south through the city of Prince Albert and – if it's between May and October – make a stop at the Batoche National Historic Site . This is where the Battle of Batoche took place in 1885 during the Northwest Resistance.

In the museum, you can take an interactive digital journey, check out dioramas and see the unique collection of artifacts from the Métis (mixed European and Indigenous ancestry) and First Nations.

After you’re done exploring the museum, take a ride on the open-sided Batoche Shuttle , which takes visitors on a tour of the former Métis settlement on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River and has Parks Canada staff in authentic historic dress ready to answer questions. Before getting back on the road, stretch your legs along the Li pchi shmayn walking trail to forage for edible berries and gain views of the aspen forest and prairies.  

Treat yourself to an overnight stay in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan’s largest city, and enjoy the views of the South Saskatchewan River. For dinner, try Odd Couple , which serves creative Asian fusion dishes like vegan kung pao and maple thai basil pork ribs.

Saskatchewan_Landing_PP.jpg

Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park

After brunch, input Saskatchewan Landing to your GPS and continue on your southward journey. This is where the first historic crossing of the South Saskatchewan River took place. Today, it’s known for its hiking trails, beaches, fishing and golf.

There are three interpretive hiking trails: “Rings, Ruts, and Remnants,” an easy 2.75km loop trail that features tipi rings and remnants of early homesteaders; the “Ridges and Ravines Trail,” a moderate 1.2km loop trail with lake views and interesting geological characteristics; and the “Prairie Vista Trail,” a moderate 3.5km out-and-back trail with a hill climb that leads to majestic views.

Watch for ferruginous hawks, piping plovers, prairie falcons, burrowing owls, golden eagles, and loggerhead shrikes as well as antelope, mule deer, and bobcats. The park is also home to the Goodwin House, which is a historic home built by the first known settlers, the Goodwin Family.

After you’ve had your fix of hiking, watersports, and sunbathing at Saskatchewan Landing, check out the nearby La Reata Ranch , or head to the town of Swift Current for dinner at Nightjar Diner. It’s not your average small town prairie diner – the restaurant and grocery store works with local food producers to offer homegrown fare. Don’t miss the cornbread waffles and gourmet salads. If you’re not the one driving, try the Shiso Julep or the Nokomis Kettle Sour Beer.

Saskatchewan_Cypress_Hills.jpg

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

Instead of heading directly south on Highway 4, take a detour on the Trans-Canada Highway 1 to Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park . Go camping here to enjoy one of the world’s largest Dark Sky Preserves. There are a half-dozen tent and RV campgrounds with close access to water stations and washrooms with showers. Campsite reservations can be made online or by phone.

From horseback riding to golfing, hiking, and canoeing, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to choose from. You’ll find a few unexpected adventures at Cypress Hills that you won’t find at most provincial parks, such as Segway tours, axe throwing, ziplining, climbing, and geocaching. Keep your wildlife checklist out for elk, moose, wild turkeys, mule deer, pine martens, and cougars.

Saskatchewan_Grasslands_Chairs.jpg

Grasslands National Park

On your way from Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park to Grasslands National Park , grab a bite to eat and snacks for the road at Harvest Eatery and Fresh Market in Shaunavon. Feast on a family-size serving of barbeque or enjoy some of the lighter fare, like the nicoise salad.

When you get to the National Park, you’ll be greeted with rolling grassy hills and wide open plains. Start your tour with a self-guided 20km driving tour through the Frenchman River Valley. Grab the brochure from the visitor center and stop at the information panels along the way for more education. On this drive you may see prairie dog colonies, bison, and prairie birds. If you do encounter wildlife, be sure to give them their space. 

Look for the seven red chair locations around the park that not only make a fun bucket list adventure for park exploration but are also great photo spots in every Canadian National Park. Have a seat in the red Adirondack chairs and take in the views.

For something more active, take a hike on one of the dozen hiking trails that range from easy to difficult. If you’re up for the challenge and hoping to see bison, take the 16km  Timbergulch Trail, which has three prominent, glacially created coulee bottoms you’ll have to traverse. For an easy nature walk, take the half-mile Top Dogtown loop trail and scout for black-tailed prairie dogs. Beware of rattlesnakes and quicksand while you’re adventuring in the park.

If you want to go kayaking on the Frenchman River, the easiest launch access is via the Belza bridge area. If you prefer a guided kayak tour, you can set one up with the parks office .

To end your journey with a unique experience, spend the night at the nearby Convent Inn at Val Marie. The restored former convent has nine rooms and stays include a home-cooked breakfast. The hardwood floors, historical records, and claw foot bathtubs make this place as quaint as can be.

Sponsored by Tourism Saskatchewan

As a travel entertainment and inspirational media outlet, we sometimes incorporate brand sponsors into our efforts. This activity is clearly labeled across our platforms.

This story was crafted collaboratively between Tourism Saskatchewan and Lonely Planet. Both parties provided research and curated content to produce this story. We disclose when information isn’t ours.

With sponsored content, both Lonely Planet and our brand partners have specific responsibilities:

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The Ultimate Guide to Road Trips from Saskatoon

saskatoon driving tour

Saskatoon has some of the hottest summers and coldest winters in Canada — it can climb above 40 and dip below -45 degrees. It could be because people often lend a hand in extreme weather conditions or simply due to Canadian politeness, but Saskatoon is home to some of the most neighbourly people in the country. For those visiting in the warmer months, make sure you rent a bike to explore the city and everything it has to offer.

All of these day trips are conveniently mapped out from the Co-op Gas Bar in Saskatoon . After you fuel up with TOP TIER™ gas or diesel, check your fluid levels and tire pressure . Ask any of Co-op’s experts to lend a hand getting your vehicle road-trip ready.

saskatoon driving tour

Wanuskewin Heritage Park and the Batoche National Historic Site

Only a 20 minute drive, the Wanuskewin Heritage Park is a First Nations historical centre. In Cree, ᐋᐧᓇᐢᑫᐃᐧᐣ or wânaskêwin means being at peace with oneself. The site represents 6,000 years of First Nation history, focusing on the Northern Plains Cree people. There are over six kilometres of trails to explore, an art gallery and daily public events like tipi raisings, medicine walks, as well as First Nations technologies and archaeology walks.

After you’ve explored Wanuskewin, journey on to Batoche for more Canadian history and beautiful Saskatchewan scenery. Here, you can learn about Métis settlers in the 19th century and the Northwest Resistance of 1885. Explore trails, take guided tours, or rent a canoe, bike or kayak to explore the lush river valley.

saskatoon driving tour

Little Manitou Lake

Little Manitou Lake ’s mineral content is three-to-five times saltier than that of the ocean. Much like the Dead Sea, swimmers can float effortlessly on their backs. Fed by underground springs, the lake waters are high in minerals – including sodium, magnesium and potassium salts – that have long been rumoured to have curative properties. Oils, salts and mud from the lake are used in lotions and skin-care products.

Indigenous people have long believed in Little Manitou Lake’s healing properties, and the name translates to ‘good spirit’ in Algonquin.

Insider tip: You can top off your gas tank at the Co-op Gas Bar in Watrous, a seven minute drive from the main beach.

Fort Battleford

Fort Battleford is steeped in Canadian history, having played a central role in the North-West Resistance of 1885. During this time, tensions and fears were high between the North-West Mounted Police, First Nations people, settlers and Métis people — some say the fort is still haunted by those involved.

Now, Fort Battleford is a National Historic Site where you and your family can hear stories about the North-West Mounted Police and the arrival of the Canadian Militia. There are still five original buildings standing, ready for you to explore. The site also offers a disc golf course, picnic tables and a self-guided audio tour.

Blue Mountain Adventure Park

If you’re in the mood for some adrenaline-pumping fun, Blue Mountain Adventure Park should be your next destination. Here, the activities are almost endless, including zip lines, paintball, archery, axe throwing, aerial courses, obstacle courses, canoe and kayak rentals and more.

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Lake Diefenbaker

The man-made wonder Lake Diefenbaker has 800 kilometres of shoreline to explore. For those with a boat, bring your wakeboards, water skis and fishing rods! If you’re looking for a longer stay at the lake, Diefenbaker has three provincial campgrounds, three regional campgrounds, private campgrounds, cabins and hotels for the whole family.

Insider tip: Bring a paper map along or load your directions before you leave the city. Mobile service is spotty along the highway from Saskatoon to the lake and sometimes cuts out completely.

If you’re looking for more lakes in Saskatchewan, check out our list of the best boating destinations !

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11 Road Trip Worthy Things to Do While Driving Across Saskatchewan

Updated: Oct 27, 2023

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Driving across the prairies can be, well, less than exciting for lack of a better phrase. Despite the seemingly endless flat, there are lot's of fun and exciting things to see and do. Check out these attractions to help break up the drive and infuse a little adventure!

driving tours saskatchewan scotty t-rex discovery centre

T-Rex Discovery Centre, Eastend

Take a gander at Scotty, the massive T-Rex skeleton who just edged out Sue as the world's largest (and by 'just edged out' we mean by 400 kgs). You can also check out the rest of the specimens and even hone your inner paleontologist at the outdoor 'dig pit'!

http://www.visitcypresshills.ca/attractions/t-rex-discovery-centre/

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Mac the Moose, Moose Jaw

We might as well continue with the 'World's Largest' theme. Enter Mac, who at the time of writing, is currently undergoing an 'antlerectomy' (antler enlargement) to reclaim his throne from 'The Big Elk' in Norway as the world's largest moose. No matter what you do, you MUST stop and get a picture with Mac!

https://www.tourismmoosejaw.com/

saskatchewan science centre driving tours road trip

Saskatchewan Science Centre, Regina

Located just off the highway, the interactive science centre is the perfect stop. And that, is a scientific FACT! Anchorman references aside, it really is a great place to bust out your beakers and get your science on. Aside from the regular exhibits, there's always something else going on so be sure to check out the website first.

https://www.sasksciencecentre.com/

Kenosee Superslides driving tour things to do saskatchewan

Kenosee Superslides, Moose Mountain Provincial Park

This one is definitely worth the 30 minute drive from the highway! Slip, slide and lazy river away your day at the waterpark, a great way to beat the prairie heat. While you're there, check out some nature at Moose Mountain Provincial Park, or better yet, pitch a tent!

http://www.kenoseesuperslides.ca/

little chicago entertainment escape room driving tour saskatchewan

Little Chicago Entertainment, Moose Jaw

Al Capone was a pretty tough dude, wouldn't you say? If you were trapped in his office, think you could escape? This Moose Jaw escape room is a perfect way to, well, escape, from the drive across Saskatchewan. There's also ax throwing and board game room!

https://littlechicagoentertainment.com/

Fort walsh saskatchewan driving tour things to do

Fort Walsh National Historic Site, Maple Creek

Transform your car into a time travelling Delorean and discover what life was like in the lawless time of cowboys and whiskey runners. Experience the Northwest Mounted Police marching on parade and uncover the history of Canada’s part in the aftermath of the Battle of Little Big Horn. Guess you were right mom, history can be fun!

http://www.visitcypresshills.ca/attractions/fort-walsh-national-historic-site/

wascana lake regina driving tour things to see

Wascana Place, Regina

Breaking up a long drive to stretch and get some physical activity is essential, and this is the absolute best place to accomplish that. Take an hour and stroll around the beautiful lake, you'll see the parliament building and gardens, speakers corner and the Albert street bridge (complete with buffalo head decorations), which holds the Guinness world record for longest bridge over the shortest span of water!

prairie storm paintball moose jaw driving tour saskatchewan

Prairie Storm Paintball, Moose Jaw

Speaking of exercise, why not run around a field diving, ducking, dipping and dodging flying paintballs!? Prairie Storm Paintball has a variety of themed fields and also offers less intense nerf gun battles for the youngsters. Nothing like injecting a family road trip with a little fire by shooting each other with hard balls of paint!

https://www.prairiestormpaintball.com/

rcmp heritage centre regina road trip saskatchewan

RCMP Heritage Centre, Regina

The Mounties have a played an integral role in the development of our fine country, a couple hours learning about that role is a couple hours well spent! Regina is the home to the RCMP 'Depot Division' and has been training cadets since 1885. Exhibits and interactive displays cater to all ages, making the heritage centre an ideal pit stop!

cypress hills park saskatchewan things to see driving

Cypress Hills Inter-Provincial Park, SW Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan is pretty flat right? A quick 30 minute detour South of the highway (or taking a look at the picture above) might change your mind! The park is partially in Alberta too (hence the name Inter-Provincial) and is home to some of the highest elevations in Saskatchewan. Camping, day use, trails, swimming, interpretive centres, educational and interactive programs, you name it, they have it!

http://www.visitcypresshills.ca/accommodations/campgrounds/chippsk/

tunnels of moose jaw saskatchewan things to see

Tunnels of Moose Jaw, Moose Jaw

Two theatrical tours (and we mean that, it's like a live play in front of you) would be a super fun break pretty much right in the middle of the drive across Saskatchewan. See what life was like for early Chinese immigrants to Canada or experience the days of bootlegging and Al Capone. Better yet, do both!

https://www.tunnelsofmoosejaw.com/

There you have it, 11 road trip worthy things to see while driving across Saskatchewan! We'll let you in on a little hint though, there's a lot more than 11! Get out and explore what Saskatchewan has to offer! On you're drive, check out our free driving tour app as well. There's a tour from Moose Jaw to Alberta , and one from Moose Jaw to Manitoba (direction of travel doesn't matter). There's also walking tours in Regina , Moose Jaw , Whitewood and Maple Creek (so far), with more to come!

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Discover Southwest Saskatchewan

Travel Guide

Driving Tours

Cypress Hills Elevation Tour

Cypress Hills Elevation Tour

A giant plateau, once surrounded by glaciers, Cypress Hills Elevation Tour takes you through a mixed forest ecosystem which includes the highest point in Saskatchewan.

Forgotten Highway

Forgotten Highway

Forgotten Highway takes you through Grasslands National Park and some of the most iconic landscapes of Southwest Saskatchewan.

Red Coat Trail T rex Discovery

Red Coat Trail

Follow the historic trail of the North-West Mounted Police, cross a continental divide, and discover the home of Scotty, the world’s largest T-Rex.

Sandhills and River Routes

Sandhills & River Routes

Follow the South Saskatchewan River for breathtaking scenery and the awe-inspiring views of the Great Sandhills, one of Canada’s largest set of active sand dunes.

Shores of Diefenbaker

Shores of Diefenbaker

Lake Diefenbaker is known for world class fishing and 800 km of shore line with resorts, campgrounds and full service marinas on every side of the lake.

Stories from Southwest Saskatchewan

Stories from the Southwest

Short stories and feature documentaries about people and places in Southwest Saskatchewan.

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Some Saskatoon public libraries change hours in response to assault on workers

'we can't be health care, we can't be a shelter, but we can be a public library, says ceo beth côté.

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Saskatoon Public Library has announced changes to the hours at some locations after police say two teenage girls assaulted an employee Monday at the Carlyle King Library on Laurier Drive in Saskatoon.

The Frances Morrison Central Library, Dr. Freda Ahenakew Library, Mayfair Library and Carlyle King Library branches will now be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST on Monday to Saturday, with Sunday hours staying the same as before, 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. CST.

"We cannot fill the gaps caused by our community's lack of critical social and health infrastructure," stated a release from Saskatoon Public Library on the changing hours.

"We can't be a place to sleep, to store large amounts of personal belongings or to use drugs and alcohol. We can't be the primary access to washrooms or climate-controlled environments during evening hours."

  • Workers raise concerns as Saskatoon Public Library temporarily closes 2 branches to public

Officers responded to the library just before 9 p.m. and found that the teens had fled the scene, police say. Officers located the suspects at a bus mall in the 300 block of Confederation Drive.

Two girls aged 14 and 16 were charged with assault. Police say they believe the girls were intoxicated when they did the assault.

Kent Peterson, president of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Saskatchewan, which represents library employees, said he was familiar with the incident.

"A couple of patrons attacked and punched one of our members who works in the library and then when the security guard intervened, he also got physically assaulted, and the library closed the branch temporarily as a result of that violence," Peterson said.

He said attacks on library employees in Saskatchewan have been increasing in number and intensity. He mentioned another incident earlier this year where a library worker reported being sexually assaulted while working by herself.

"It is not an exaggeration for me to say that if something is not fixed meaningfully, someone is going to get killed in a Saskatchewan library as a result of workplace violence. It is routine for our library worker members to get punched, kicked and shoved, spit on, sworn at," he said. 

  • Regina Public Library anticipating $340,000 in additional security costs in 2024 as violent incidents rise

Peterson said people are drawn to libraries by essential services like computers, phones, skills training, and help applying for jobs and schools, but a lot of visitors are living in poverty, addiction and mental health issues. 

"People can't find treatment or places to go, and so they end up at the local library and [employees] are dealing with addiction issues and homelessness and those types of social ailments. That's not their job," he said. 

Saskatoon library CEO responds to assault

Beth Côté, the interim CEO at Saskatoon Public Library, said a library employee and a security guard were assaulted, but that libraries in the city are generally safe.

"For us at the public library, even one incident of violence against an employee, against any of our contractors, against the public, is completely unacceptable," said Côté on CBC's  Saskatoon Morning Show .

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Côté added that she believes the increasing number of incidents at public libraries is due to a "marked increase in the community of frustration of people who need services" that they not able to access elsewhere.

Library employees are "deeply empathetic" toward everyone who comes into their buildings, according to Côté, but she said they have to stop welcoming everyone when employees are having to deal with addictions, administering naloxone or helping people find a place to sleep.

"We can't be health care, we can't be a shelter, but we can be a public Library," she said.

Côté admitted she doesn't know what the answer is, but said it will have to involve everyone.

"These are our friends and our community members. These are our neighbours, and although this is a very big and complex problem, I believe that with all level of government and our entire community working together, this is not a problem that's too big for Saskatoon to find answers to."

  • Saskatoon teen recovering from multiple stab wounds after daytime downtown assault

Library employee survey results

CUPE released a report  in March last year that surveyed 101 public library employees. Most respondents were from Saskatoon Public Library (44 per cent) and Regina Public Library (29 per cent). Seventy-eight per cent of participants said they had experienced verbal abuse, 44 per cent said they experienced sexual harassment and half of them said they had experienced workplace violence.

Peterson called for more training for workers on de-escalation and trauma-informed approaches to violent incidents.

He also said drug use is very prevalent in libraries across the country, including here in Saskatchewan.

"If libraries become chaotic, violent places, then families, people new to this country trying to access services, and just anyone, will be less likely to go there, meaning they can't access those services," he said.

  • Family relies on library for third party sex ed because of school ban

Peterson also called for violent offenders to be banned from specific libraries permanently.

"We need to end understaffing in our libraries. This is one of the main issues that allows violence to take place. In the recent example that one of our members faced a sexual assault at work, it was because she was by herself," he said.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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Aishwarya Dudha is a reporter for CBC Saskatchewan based in Saskatoon. She has previously worked for Global News and the Times of India. She specializes in social justice issues and elevating voices of vulnerable people. She can be reached at [email protected]

With files from the Saskatoon Morning Show

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Great Birdwatching Day Tours and Bird Photography Day Tours from Saskatoon Custom Bird Tours in 2023 – 2024

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Wonder where are the best hot spots to go birding on day tours from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada?

We offer private and group guided birdwatching day tours out of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. Some of our special tours include viewing dancing grouse (spring), prairie birds (summer), Whooping Cranes (fall), Snowy Owls (winter). Custom tours and zoom-based bird ID workshops available.

Saskatoon is located where two major North American bird flyways meet making it ideal for birdwatching tours. During the breeding season in June and July about 150 bird species occur within grassland, wetland and woodland habitats. This list is augmented during the migration months of May, August and September when boreal and arctic nesting warblers, flycatchers, vireos and shorebirds are plentiful.

Elegant and endangered Whooping Cranes, North America’s tallest bird, are regularly seen from mid-September through mid-October.

Our birdwatching day tours and workshops are excellent Mother’s Day gifts; Father’s Day gifts; birthday gifts, graduation gifts, anniversary gifts and special gifts for birders, birdwatchers or anyone interested in birds and nature.

If you are only interested in half-day tours, click here .

If you are interested in our  multi-day tours, click here .

Tour Guide:  Stan Shadick.  Click  for more information about your tour guide.

Buffalo Park Birding Tour

2023 – 2024 Canada Birding Tours Schedule

CLICK THE FOLLOWING SASKATOON CUSTOM BIRD TOURS FOR DETAILS. Dates of Group Tours are listed. Private tours available on other dates.

December – March

  • Great Gray Owl & Hawk Owl Photography Tours Private Tours: January – March Special Group Tours: February 3, 2024
  • Prince Albert National Park Birding Tour Private Tours: January – December Special Group Tour: March 10, 2024
  • Snowy Owl Tours  (November- February) Private Tours: February – March

April – May

Private tours available on most dates. Dates of any special group tours are noted.

  • Chaplin Shorebirds Tour Special Group Tour:  May 11, 2024
  • Eagle Creek and Hills Birding Tour  (May – July) Special Group Tour: May 27, 2024
  • Goose Lake Bird Tour Private Tours available
  • Prairie Grasslands Birding Tour Special Group Tour: May 23, 2024
  • Prince Albert National Park Birding Tour Private Tours available
  • Quill Lakes Birding Tour  – 8 hours Special Group Tour: May 16, 2024
  • Redberry Lake Bird Sanctuary Tour Private Tour available
  • Van Scoy Lakes Birding Tour  (May) Private Tour available
  • Custom Bird Photography Tour  (May – September) Private Tour available
  • Buffalo Pound Park Birding Tour Private Tours available
  • Chaplin Shorebirds Tour Private Tours available
  • Custom Bird Photography Tour Private Tour available
  • Duck Lake and Nisbet Forest Birding Tour  – 6 hours (June – July) Special Group Tour: June 23, 2024
  • Eagle Creek and Hills Birding Tour  (June – July) Private Tour available
  • Gardiner Dam – Anerley Lakes Birding Tour Private Tour available
  • Goose Lake Birding and Bird Photography Tours Private Tour available
  • Last Mountain Lake Bird Sanctuary Tour  – 8 hours Special Group Tour: June 8, 2024
  • Prairie Grasslands Birding Tour Private Tour available
  • Prince Albert National Park Birding Tour Private Tour available
  • Quill Lakes Birding Tour Private Tour Available
  • Redberry Lake Bird Sanctuary Tour  – 8 hours Special Group Tour: June 7, 2024
  • Saskatoon Birdwatching Tour Private Tours available

Eagle Creek Tour

July – August Birdwatching Tours & Bird Photography Tours

  • Birding by Houseboat Tour TBA
  • Buffalo Pound Park Birding Tour Special Group Tour: July 8, 2024
  • Chaplin Shorebirds Tour Special Group Tours: July 9, August 19, 2024
  • Duck Lake and Nisbet Forest Birding Tour  – 6 hours (June – July) Special Group Tour:  July 29, 2024
  • Eagle Creek and Hills Birding Tour  (June – July) Special Group Tour: July 22, 2024
  • Gardiner Dam – Anerley Lakes Birding Tour Special Group Tour: July 17, 2024
  • Last Mountain Lake Bird Sanctuary Tour  – 8 hours Special Group Tour: July 24 & August 9, 2024
  • Pelican Photography and Viewing Tour Private Tours available
  • Redberry Lake Bird Sanctuary Tour  – 8 hours Private Tour available
  • Van Scoy Lakes Birding Tour July 26, August 14, 2024

September – October

  • Whooping Crane and Sandhill Crane Birding Tours Private Tours: Daily September 21 – October 28
  • Last Mountain Lake Bird Sanctuary Tour Special Group Tour: September 1, 2024
  • Pelican Photography and Viewing Tour Private Tour Available
  • Prince Albert National Park Birding Tour0 Private Tour Available
  • Redberry Lake Bird Sanctuary Private Tour Available

https://youtube.com/shorts/x4ZhIswJC04?feature=share

Chaplin Shorebirds Tour

Testimonials about our Birdwatching Day Tours

CLICK  to listen to Calgary Naturalist Brian Keating on CBC Calgary Radio giving an on-air review of a day tour he booked with us.

Canadian Geographic Article. Click Here .

Global TV News Report: Click Here.

“I drove to Saskatoon and met Stan Shadick who arranged for me to observe lekking Sharp-tailed Grouse. Stan set up a blind for me, enabling me to take photos in the early morning hours (04:10 to 08:00, Wednesday, May 5). It was a birding thrill for the year. ” (L. Corkum)

That was such a great trip!  Thanks so much for the use of the blind and sharing your general knowledge and expertise. (J. Lee)

“Was in a private tour with Stan this spring. The best one I have ever had. Highly recommended!” (J. Deng)

“We really appreciated your tour last Wednesday; [Our young grandson] loved it!! He also told us he learned alot.  I believe you have inspired him to continue his passion of birding.  Thanks again for the wonderful guiding! (D. Dear)

Gift Certificates Available Now

This tour makes an excellent birthday gift, anniversary gift, graduation gift or special gift for a birder, birdwatcher or anyone interested in nature.

Click here for information about gift certificates for any of our 2023 birding and bird photography tours.

Birdwatching tours

Multiple Tours Discount

Can’t decide which tour to take?

Check out our multiple tours discount described here .

EMAIL  [email protected] to book a birdwatching tour, to order a gift certificate or with any questions. Please include your name and a contact phone number and other pertinent information.

Birding Tour Gift Certificates

How to get to Saskatoon

Air: Saskatoon International Airport (YXE) is served by Air Canada, Westjet, and their partners United and Delta.

Train: Saskatoon’s  Train Station is served by Via Rail’s Canadian train serving Toronto, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Jasper and Vancouver.

Bus: Saskatoon – Edmonton and Saskatoon – Regina bus service

Car: Saskatoon is located on Canada’s Yellowhead cross-country highway plus 6 other major highways connecting with all cities in Canada and USA. If you drive, you do not need to rent a car for our tours.

Entering Canada

CLICK HERE  for government regulations for entering Canada. My recent fully vaccinated international clients tell me there are no significant delays at the border provided they have fully completed the ArriveCan app in advance.

Covid Safety Policy on Tours

  • Your tour leader is fully vaccinated.
  • Clients must normally drive themselves in their own personal or rented vehicle. The leader will usually drive in a separate vehicle. We will use cell phones to communicate between each other during the tour.
  • This policy may change when public health orders change or when Covid case numbers decrease.
  • Please contact us before booking tour if you have any special requests with regard to this policy. In certain cases, if requested, leader may be willing to ride in client’s vehicle or drive client’s vehicle.

Other Bird Photography Sessions

  • Dancing Grouse Photography Sessions April – May
  • Great Gray Owl and Northern Hawk Owl Photography Sessions January – early March
  • Goose Lake Photography Tour Private Tours available
  • Sandhill Crane Photography Sessions
  • Sandhill Crane Photography Workshop October 12 – 14, 2024
  • Snowy Owl Photography Sessions January – March

Complete List of Birding Tours

Scroll Down to view our full list of upcoming dau tours including our popular fall Whooping Crane tour and custom tours. All proceeds support the work of Living Sky Wildlife Rehabilitation.

Tour Suggestions Request Form

Send us your possible tour dates and we will get back to you with the best tour suggestions for that time period.

  • Birding / Birdwatching
  • Bird Photography
  • Persons with Low Mobility

If you do not hear back from us within 24 hours, then please email: [email protected] or phone 306-652-5975.

Whooping and Sandhill Crane Viewing Tours

See Canada’s most majestic bird. In recent years, the grain fields near Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada have become the best dependable viewing location in the world during fall migration to view rare Whooping Cranes, the tallest bird in North America. 1-day and 2-day tours available.

In 2018, we found a single flock in excess of 150 whoopers! During more recent tours we have observed several flocks totaling over 50 individuals. As local birders, we know the best historical places to take our birdwatching tours in search of these spectacular birds.

Driving Distance: 300 – 400 km per day. Fees: from $490 per person or $590 for your party of 2 – 4 persons in a single vehicle.

Mid September – Late October

Full day tours, multi-day tours.

Budget Group Tour: October 1, 2023

saskatoon driving tour

See our Whooping and Sandhill Crane Tour page for booking and tour details.

Snowy Owl Tour

See the white ghosts of winter!

Join our experienced local birding guide for a drive through a rural farming district reputed by owl experts to have the highest concentration of wintering Snowy Owls in the world!

We may also choose to visit the best hangout for wintering ducks and geese and Bald Eagles in the province.

Other possible birds to be seen during our birdwatching tour include Golden Eagle, Gyrfalcon, Prairie Falcon, Sharp-tailed Grouse, Gray Partridge, Snow Bunting, Common Redpoll, Common Raven, Bohemian Waxwing, Black-billed Magpie.

Half-Day Private Tours Total Driving Distance: 150 km Fees: $390 for your party of 1 – 4 persons.

Full-Day Private Tours Total Driving Distance: 400 km Fees: $690 for your party of 1 – 4 persons

December, January, February and March.

Half-day tours, full-day tours.

saskatoon driving tour

Forest Winter Private Birding Tour

Extended Full Day Private Birdwatching Tour to Prince Albert National Park and Area.

Good opportunities for bird photography!

Join our experienced local birding guide for an Extended Full Day Drive to Boreal Forest habitat in Prince Albert National Park and adjacent areas. Visit best areas for finding and observing majestic Great Gray Owls and fearless Northern Hawk Owls. See Pine Grosbeaks, Redpolls and other winter finches. 1-day and 2-day tours available.

Total Driving Distance: 500 km (1-day tour) Fees: from $590 for your party of 1 – 4 persons.

November through April

saskatoon driving tour

Saskatoon Birdwatching Tour

Hike through the best bird-rich city parks with our experienced local guide looking for summer’s colourful songbirds such as woodpeckers, nuthatches, chickadees, jays, crossbills, finches and Cedar Waxwings (winter).

Visit best hangouts for ducks and geese during this birdwatching tour.

Optional visits to Zoo, Museum of Natural Sciences and Diefenbaker Canada Centre .

Half Day and Full Day Private Tours available.

Driving Distance: 30 – 80 km Fees: $190 – $340 for your party of 1 – 4 persons in a single vehicle.

January through December

saskatoon driving tour

See our Saskatoon Birdwatching Tour page for booking and tour details.

Custom Bird Photography Tour

Use our special 1-person professional Tragopan Hokki Version 3 photographic blind to obtain close up images and videos of birds at a wetland near Saskatoon.

3-hour custom tour from Saskatoon.

Driving Distance: 100 km Fee: $250

May to September

saskatoon driving tour

See our Custom Bird Photography Tour page for booking and tour details.

Pike Lake Birding Tour

Guided Self-Drive Birdwatching Tour

Let our experienced birding guide show you the best bird-rich locations between Saskatoon and Pike Lake Provincial Park.  During this 4-hour Pike Lake birding tour, we will walk some trails and visit a variety of bird habitats.

During spring and summer months from April through early September over 200 species have been found at this location. Additional migrating songbirds may be seen in late August / early September.

Driving Distance: 50 km Fees: $390 for your party of 1 – 4 persons.

January to Early September

Half-day tour.

saskatoon driving tour

See our Pike Lake Tour page for booking and tour details .

Prairie Grasslands Birding Tour

Listen to the sweet songs of Western Meadowlark, Sprague’s Pipit and Baird’s Sparrow. Watch for Long-billed Curlew and Swainson’s Hawk. Join our experienced local birding guide for a 8 hour self-drive birdwatching tour visiting the best prairie grassland birding habitats in the Saskatoon region.

Driving Distance: 500 km Fees: $890 for your party of 1 – 4 persons in 1 vehicle.

Late April – July

Full-day tour.

saskatoon driving tour

Last Mountain Lake Bird Sanctuary Tour

Visit the First National Bird Sanctuary to be established in North America!

Ducks galore! Watch the mating antics of male ducks in spring or cute families of ducklings later in summer. Join our experienced local birding guide for a full day (8-hour) drive to visit the birding hotspots at Last Mountain Lake.  An optional 3-hour evening extension is possible.

See unique grassland and wetland birds during this birdwatching tour. Visit deep lakes for diving ducks and pelicans. Also visit shallow ponds for viewing dabbling ducks and grebes. Listen to the varied musical offerings of wetland sparrows, rails and other marsh songbirds.

Driving Distance: 450 km Fees: From $490 for your party of 1 – 4 persons in a single vehicle.

Mid-April to October Full-Day Tour

saskatoon driving tour

See our Last Mountain Lake Bird Sanctuary Tour page for booking and tour details.

Eagle Creek and Eagle Hills Birding Tour

Visit the dense woodlands in Eagle Hills and drive along Eagle Creek Valley in search of native songbirds!

Join our experienced local birding guide for a full day (8-hour) drive to visit the birding hotspots in Eagle Hills and Eagle Creek valley.

See unique grassland and wetland birds during this birdwatching tour. Also visit shallow ponds for viewing dabbling ducks and grebes. Listen to the varied musical offerings of woodland warblers, sparrows, rails and other songbirds.

Driving Distance: 200 km Fees: $590 for your party of 1 – 4 persons in a single vehicle.

Mid-May to July Full-Day Tours

Eagle Creek and Eagle Hills Birding Tour

Van Scoy Lakes Birding Tour

Join our experienced local birding guide for a 6-hour driving tour to visit the Van Scoy Lakes birding hotspots and adjacent prairie ponds and grasslands.

See unique marsh, grassland and wetland birds during this birdwatching tour. Also visit shallow ponds for viewing dabbling ducks and grebes. Listen to the varied musical offerings of woodland warblers, sparrows, rails and other songbirds.

Driving Distance: 160 km Fees: $490 for your party of 1 – 4 persons in a single vehicle.

Mid-May to August Full-Day Tour

Watch for avocet during Chaplin Shorebirds Tour

Chaplin Shorebirds Tour

Shorebirds galore! Extended 12 hour birdwatching tour from Saskatoon visiting the best shorebird habitats in Saskatchewan at Chaplin Shorebird Reserve and other nearby hotspots.

Endangered Piping Plovers are often found here. Other shorebirds often include Red Knot, Sanderling, Wilson’s Phalarope, Red-necked Phalarope, American Avocet, Black-necked Stilt, Marbled Godwit, Hudsonian Godwit, Stilt Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper, Baird’s Sandpiper, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Short-billed Dowitcher, Lesser Yellowlegs, Willet, Solitary Sandpiper, Spotted Sandpiper, Black-bellied Plover, Semipalmated Plover, Killdeer.

Driving Distance: 650 km Fees: From $690 for your party of 1 – 4 persons in a single vehicle.

mid May – August Full-Day Tour

saskatoon driving tour

Quill Lakes Birding Tour

Visit the multitude of birds at Canada’s largest salt water lake on this birdwatching tour.

Birds galore! The Quill Lakes region is the best place in Saskatchewan for observing Great Egrets, Great Blue Herons and Black-crowned Night Herons.

During the peak of the shorebird migration, about 200 thousand individuals have been counted in a single day! During this time, several percent of the world populations of White-rumped, Baird’s, Least and Stilt Sandpipers occur here along with significant numbers of Hudsonian Godwits, dowitchers and American Avocets.

Driving Distance: 500 km Fees: From $490 – $690 for your party of 1 – 4 persons.

Mid-April to August Full-Day Tours

Pelican photography and viewing tour.

Watch flying pelicans, which have the greatest wingspan of any Saskatchewan bird. Join Stan Shadick for a 7-hour self-driving birdwatching tour to view a location where hundreds of pelicans congregate before migrating south. We should also see many other kinds of ducks and other water birds. Round-trip driving distance about 300 km. This trip is ideal for photography of pelicans in flight.

Fees: $590 for your party of 1 – 4 persons.

August 15 – September 15

saskatoon driving tour

Bald Eagle Viewing Tour

See eagles perching in a  tree like Christmas decorations! Join Stan Shadick for a 5-hour private self-driving birdwatching tour from Saskatoon to view a location where many Bald Eagles congregate before migrating south.  We should also see many kinds of ducks and other water birds.

Fees: $490 for your party of 1 – 4 persons.

November 10 – 25

saskatoon driving tour

See our Bald Eagle Tour page for booking and tour details.

Custom Private Birding Day Tour

Want a guide for birding in Saskatchewan localities?

Have a list of birds that you would like to see?

Hire Stan Shadick for your private escorted birdwatching day tour. Rates are just $65 per hour and 70 cents per km.

Email your special requests to [email protected] and provide your name, contact information and preferred dates.

Year round Birdwatching Tours

saskatoon driving tour

  • United States
  • New Zealand

Acadia Adventure | Atlantic Canada Road Trip Lunenburg

Acadia Adventure | Atlantic Canada Road Trip

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INTRODUCTION

Enjoy a leisurely Atlantic Canada road trip around Nova Scotia and Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island.

Following a circular route from halifax, you'll encounter picturesque fishing villages, scenic hiking trails, fabulous seafood and remote lighthouses., see the unesco world heritage site of lunenburg, enjoy a whale watching excursion and marvel at the world’s highest tides in the bay of fundy. , then, explore prince edward island's sandy beaches and rolling farmland before ending the trip with a drive on cape breton’s cabot trail. .

Itinerary at a Glance

saskatoon driving tour

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1 Halifax to Annapolis Royal | 322 km/200 mi Head south to Lunenburg, visiting Peggy’s Cove along the way. Peggy’s Cove is a small village with houses built right into the granite rock and a lighthouse overlooking the Atlantic. Old Town Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a lovingly restored Victorian town that begs you to wander and explore. Make a stop at Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, renowned for its hiking trails and incredible canoeing on wilderness lakes and rivers. Arrive in Annapolis Royal, a quaint settlement housing Victorian mansions on the banks of the Bay of Fundy.

Day 2 Whale Watching Fishing Villages Exploring | 206 km/128 mi Today drive 65 km along the Digby Neck to experience a whale watching excursion (operates 03 Jun - 09 Oct) in the nutrient rich waters of the Bay of Fundy. You will likely see finback and Minkes, humpbacks or even the rare North Atlantic right whale. Spend the afternoon exploring Annapolis Royal and Fort Anne. (breakfast included)

Day 3 Annapolis Royal to Charlottetown | 475 km/295 mi Bound for Prince Edward Island today via the Confederation Bridge, follow the curvature of the Bay of Fundy and stop for lunch at ‘the Library’ in the university town of Wolfville. Make time to stop at the Grand-Pré National Historic Site, commemorating the Grand-Pré area as a centre of Acadian settlement from 1682 to 1755 and the Deportation of the Acadians, which began in 1755 and continued until 1762. Overnight in Charlottetown and enjoy a night on the town! (breakfast included)

Day 4 Tour PEI - The Land of Anne | 100 km/63 mi Explore Charlottetown, the site of Canada’s birthplace - Province House National Historic Site was the scene of meetings that led to the formation of Canada as a country in 1867. You can explore picturesque Prince Edward Island National Park on the island’s north shore - see sand dunes, beaches and Green Gables, fictional home of Anne, the character created by Canadian writer Lucy Maud Montgomery and beloved by millions worldwide. (breakfast included)

Day 5 Charlottetown to Cape Breton Island | 274 km/171 mi + Ferry Depart Charlottetown stopping at the Orwell Corner Historic Village 30 km to the east. Orwell, an early Scottish settlement, contains a historic graveyard and a cluster of buildings which have been restored to create a sense of life in the 19th century. Continue to the ferry crossing at Wood Islands to Caribou, Nova Scotia then make your way east to Cape Breton Island, a little piece of Scotland in North America. Ar-rive in Baddeck. (breakfast included)

Day 6 Cabot Trail | 300 km/187 km Explore the fabulous Cabot Trail around Cape Breton Island for awe- inspiring views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The route winds through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. There are 28 beautiful hiking trails in the National Park between Cheticamp and Ingonish - the most recommended would be the Skyline Trail located about 15 minutes drive from park entrance. Along the way visit the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre, Glenora Distillery, Acadian Cultural Center & Museum (Les Trois Pignons ), or St. Ann’s Gaelic College of Arts & Crafts.

Day 7 Louisbourg | 220 km/137 mi This morning drive north to discover the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site. This incredible “living museum” largest historical reconstruction in North America; is an impressive restoration of a French garrison town dating from the 1700s, complete with costumed interpreters who re-enact daily life from the French colonial period. You can even sample period food in the restaurant, or take part in a mock battle. Also, don’t miss a visit to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site in the village of Baddeck, a museum dedicated to the life and inventions of this fascinating man - who spent his summers here on the shores of the Bras d’Or. You may also want to visit the Highland Village Museum in Iona.

Day 8 Baddeck to Halifax | 357 km/222 mi A full day for the return trip to Halifax along the scenic Bras d’Or Lakes Drive to the Canso Causeway to enter mainland Nova Scotia. At the community of Antigonish, travel southwest along Marine Drive to Halifax.

Package Includes:

  • 2 nights accommodation in Annapolis Royal
  • 2 nights accommodation in Charlottetown
  • 3 nights accommodation in Baddeck
  • Brier Island Whale Watching | Operates 03 Jun - 09 Oct
  • Bay Ferry Tolls - Wood Islands to Caribou
  • Historic Sites admission to the following:
  • Alexander Graham Bell
  • Halifax Citadel
  • Fortress of Louisbourg
  • Kejimkujik (Day Use only)
  • Green Gables House
  • Prince Edward Island National Park

Hotel Information | Superior Grade

  • Annapolis Royal - Hillsdale House | Standard Room | Breakfast Included
  • Charlottetown - The Great George | Classic Room | Continental Breakfast Included
  • Baddeck - Inverary Resort | Traditional Room

Not included:

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Arrange a call with a Canada Travel Designer and bring your vacation one step closer!

DATES & PRICING

Departs from Halifax: Daily (Tour Code: SD36S)

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They not only tailored my itinerary to include activities I liked, but also made my car and hotel reservations, making it no-fuss for me. Because it was a loose itinerary, it left plenty of room to explore on my own, finding my own unique experiences and sleeping in when I wanted!

Annette California, United States

Paulina booked a week long self drive tour of Nova Scotia for my family. This was so easy to arrange. I just told her what we wanted to do and the time frame we had. She got back to me within a day with an outline of what she had arranged and shortly after that, I had a finalized tour. The hotels were outstanding and she also included maps and a guide book that helped us while we were in Nova Scotia. The price was very reasonable for the tour. This was an A++ experience and I'll definitely use Canada by Design for our next trip to Canada.

Kathleen Texas, United States

My clients requested a self drive travel itinerary in Halifax with many different stops and Canada By Design offered a great itinerary and great rate! My clients and myself most definitely benefited from working with Canada By Design!

Amanda Central Travel

Start planning your tailor-made vacation to Canada or Alaska by contacting our travel specialists

Michele MacDonald

Michele MacDonald

Travel Designer

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Julia Moioli

Julia Moioli

Customer Experience Manager

Victor Ma

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Lisa Wigmore

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By the numbers: Statistics confirm Scottie Scheffler's historical dominance

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Is impending fatherhood the only thing stopping Scottie Scheffler? Quite possibly.

His historic run continued Monday when he completed his victory at the RBC Heritage. It was his fourth win in his past five starts, a run that also included victories at the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard, THE PLAYERS Championship and the Masters. The only exception was a runner-up finish at the Texas Children’s Houston Open, where he missed a 6-footer to join Stephan Jaeger in a playoff.

Scottie Scheffler’s Round 4 highlights From RBC Heritage

Scheffler has seemed invincible lately, and the statistics confirm that. Here’s a closer look at some of the key stats that put Scheffler’s historic play into perspective:

  • By winning at Harbour Town Golf Links, Scheffler became the first player since Bernhard Langer in 1985 to win the RBC Heritage one week after winning the Masters .
  • Scheffler is the first player since Tiger Woods in 2006 to win the week after winning a major .
  • With four wins and a runner-up in his past five starts, Scheffler is the first player since Woods in 2007-08 to have five consecutive top-two finishes . Vijay Singh is the only other player to have such a run in the past 30 years (2004).
  • This was Scheffler’s 10th PGA TOUR victory, coming in just his 51st start since he earned his first win at the 2022 WM Phoenix Open. Only David Duval has needed fewer starts after his first win to reach victory No. 10. Duval did it in 33 starts. Tiger Woods is third on the list with 59 starts.
  • In his 51 starts since the 2022 WM Phoenix Open, Scheffler also has 23 top-three finishes (45%) and 35 top-10s (68.6%).
  • All 10 of Scheffler’s wins have come since the start of the 2021-22 season. He is the first player to win 10 (or more) times on the PGA TOUR in the span of three seasons since Dustin Johnson won 10 titles between 2015-16 and 2017-18.
  • This is Scheffler’s fourth win of the season, matching his career-high from 2022. He is the fourth player with multiple four-win seasons since the start of 2000 , joining Woods (10), Singh, (3) and Phil Mickelson (2).
  • Scheffler has now recorded 40 consecutive TOUR rounds at par or better , a streak that began in the final round of the 2023 TOUR Championship. He’s 12 back of Woods’ all-time TOUR mark of 52 straight rounds at par or better (set across 2000-01).
  • In each of Scheffler’s last seven victories, eight or more of the top 10 players in the Official World Golf Ranking have been in the field . His most recent run of four wins in five starts has included two Signature Events (Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard, RBC Heritage), THE PLAYERS and the Masters.
  • Scheffler is averaging 5.38 birdies per round this season, on pace to set the all-time TOUR record for single-season birdie average (since the statistic was first tracked in 1980) . Woods set the current record (4.92) in 2020.
  • In his 39 rounds this season, he has outperformed the field average 35 times . He’s been at least a shot better than the field 30 times, at least two shots better 26 times and at least three shots better 19 times.
  • Scheffler leads the TOUR in Strokes Gained: Tee-to-Green by nearly a shot per round this season , after finishing atop the category by more than two-thirds of a stroke per round last season. No player had previously led the category by more than four-tenths of a stroke per round since Woods in 2009.

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    Saskatoon. Treat yourself to an overnight stay in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan's largest city, and enjoy the views of the South Saskatchewan River. ... Start your tour with a self-guided 20km driving tour through the Frenchman River Valley. Grab the brochure from the visitor center and stop at the information panels along the way for more ...

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    The Ultimate Guide to Road Trips from Saskatoon. Saskatoon has some of the hottest summers and coldest winters in Canada — it can climb above 40 and dip below -45 degrees. It could be because people often lend a hand in extreme weather conditions or simply due to Canadian politeness, but Saskatoon is home to some of the most neighbourly ...

  10. Plan Your Trip to Saskatoon

    Plan Your Trip. Saskatoon has so much to offer, from its vibrant farm-to-table food scene to year-round opportunities for outdoor adventure. Explore the city's diverse neighbourhoods, get the inside scoop on can't-miss seasonal programming, and find inspiration for your next visit. Let us be your guide to unforgettable experiences ...

  11. Saskatoon Tours with Local Private Tour Guides

    Saskatoon Private Tours. Enjoy an unforgettable tour of Saskatoon with a friendly personal guide from ToursByLocals. A mix of city life against nature leaves you much to discover so why not explore it all with a passionate private guide. Take the time to get acquainted with locals of a different kind as Saskatoon is home to over 300 different ...

  12. 10 History Themed Road Trips and Tours in Saskatchewan

    Count's Country Tour. This tour is a journey visiting the Saskatchewan country churches decorated by Count Berthold Von Imhoff. This three-day driving tour originates out of Saskatoon, and takes you to the most prominent sites associated with this famous artist in the province. Duration: 3-day (self-guided tour)

  13. 15 Day Trips from Saskatoon

    There is an endless amount of scenic tours to take and museums to experience what life was like for a Saskatchewan prairie farmer, all within an hour or two from Saskatoon. Here is list of 15-day trips to take from Saskatoon that within two hours of driving will take you to towns and hamlets around Saskatoon. Learn about Saskatchewan's ...

  14. Saskatchewan Road Trip: Top 11 Things to Explore

    In between stops, make your drive come alive with a free and entertaining driving tour of Hwy 1, Saskatchewan! Driving across the prairies can be, well, less than exciting for lack of a better phrase. Despite the seemingly endless flat, there are lot's of fun and exciting things to see and do. Check out these attractions to help break up the ...

  15. Bald Eagle Guided Self-Driving Tour

    2610 Lorne Avenue. Saskatoon SK S7J 0S6. 3066525975. Join Stan Shadick for a 5-hour private self-drive birdwatching tour from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada to view a location where many Bald Eagles congregate before migrating south for the winter. During the drive, we may might find Sharp-tailed Grouse, Ravens, redpolls and Snow Buntings.

  16. Saskatoon Shorebirds

    July 23, 2024 4-hour Saskatoon Shorebirds Group Tour (CAD $190) Sun. July 28, 2024 4-hour Saskatoon Shorebirds Group Tour (CAD $190) Sat. August 10, 2024 4-hour Saskatoon Shorebirds Group Tour (CAD $190) Sun. August 18, 2024 4-hour Saskatoon Shorebirds Group Tour (CAD $190) Please select all that apply. I prefer the following date for this ...

  17. Top 10 Scenic Western Canada Road Trips and Self Drive Tours

    Speak to a Travel Designer. Call 1 800 217 0973 US. Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm PST. , Saturday: 8am - 4:30pm PST. , Sunday: 11am - 5pm PST. Schedule a Call Contact us. View our top 10 scenic Western Canada road trips and start planning your dream vacation with Canada's largest specialist in self drive tours.

  18. Driving Tours

    Driving Tours in the Great Southwest of Saskatchewan. Discover our five destination areas: Big Muddy, Cypress Hills, Grasslands, Great Sandhills and Lake Diefenbaker. Find hotels, restaurants, bed and breakfasts, guest ranches, golf courses, museums, getaways and communities in Southwest Saskatchewan, Canada.

  19. Some Saskatoon public libraries change hours in response to assault on

    Saskatoon Public Library has announced changes to the hours at some locations after police say two teenage girls assaulted an employee Monday at the Carlyle King Library on Laurier Drive in Saskatoon.

  20. Great Birdwatching Day Tours and Bird Photography Day Tours from

    See eagles perching in a tree like Christmas decorations! Join Stan Shadick for a 5-hour private self-driving birdwatching tour from Saskatoon to view a location where many Bald Eagles congregate before migrating south. We should also see many kinds of ducks and other water birds. Fees: $490 for your party of 1 - 4 persons.

  21. Pleasanton Drivers Ed

    For technical support, please call National Driving and Traffic School at 877-786-5969 or send an email to: [email protected] ...

  22. Atlantic Canada Road Trip

    Call 1 800 217 0973 US. Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm PST. , Saturday: 8am - 4:30pm PST. , Sunday: 11am - 5pm PST. Subscribe for expert travel tips and inspiration. This best selling 8 day Atlantic Canada road trip is the perfect way to explore two of Canada's most striking maritime provinces of Nova Scotia & P.E.I.

  23. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada-Driving Tour Fall 2023 4k

    Saskatoon is the city of Saskatchewan the total population is 342000 and its industrial city of canada. it served as cultural and economic hub, we are drivin...

  24. Saskatoon 4K

    Hey guys welcome back to another video! In this video let's explore more of Downtown Saskatoon, I've also added some walking clips to show you Saskatoon in a...

  25. The Complete Pacific Coast Highway Guide:

    After driving across the famous Columbia River bridge, stop and give yourself a self-guided tour of popular Goonies spots in Oregon's northwest-most town. Pacific Coast Highway Directions: If you are on a quick PCH road trip, turn inland along the Columbia River and then south on I-5 to Portland, which is a two-hour drive.

  26. By the numbers: Statistics confirm Scottie Scheffler's historical

    He is the first player to win 10 (or more) times on the PGA TOUR in the span of three seasons since Dustin Johnson won 10 titles between 2015-16 and 2017-18.

  27. 968 Sakura Drive, San Jose, CA 95112

    Find Property Information for 968 Sakura Drive, San Jose, CA 95112. MLS# ML81963066. View Photos, Pricing, Listing Status & More.

  28. Gallery

    Gallery | First-Round Pick Olu Fashanu Arrives at 1 Jets Drive . See photos of the Jets 11th overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft at the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center for the first time. 1 / 15 2 / 15 3 / 15 4 / 15 5 / 15 6 / 15 ...

  29. 2573 Tolworth Drive, San Jose, CA 95128

    Find Property Information for 2573 Tolworth Drive, San Jose, CA 95128. MLS# ML81963022. View Photos, Pricing, Listing Status & More.

  30. 5864 Calpine Drive, San Jose, CA 95123

    Find Property Information for 5864 Calpine Drive, San Jose, CA 95123. MLS# ML81961125. View Photos, Pricing, Listing Status & More.