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.
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.
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.
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!
