My Guide to Saskatoon Adventures

Who knew Saskatchewan could surprise me so much? I expected wide open spaces and I got that but I also found incredible people, stunning landscapes, and experiences I’ll never forget. Bonus: getting there was way easier than I imagined.

“Driving through Prince Albert National Park was breathtaking, and the highlight was spotting elk wading in the river.”

Jenni Wright

Getting There: From London to Saskatoon

Flying from London to Saskatoon is straightforward. Most flights from Heathrow make a quick stop in Toronto or Calgary, with Air Canada usually being the simplest option. For travellers who prefer something more scenic, VIA Rail’s Canadian train goes right through Saskatoon, giving the chance to step off for as many nights as you would like for the experiences you would like to include.
Reaching the province’s northern wilderness can be done by road, but the final stretch beyond La Ronge is a gravel winding through forest and rock. It’s manageable, but not always ideal for visitors unused to remote driving. Many travellers choose the smoother route: a Rise Air flight to La Ronge, followed by a shuttle or a float plane into lodge country. Both Churchill River Canoe Outfitters and Thompson’s Resort also offer round-trip transportation from Saskatoon, making remote travel surprisingly effortless.

Thursday, September 11 — Saskatoon to Prince Albert National Park

After a comfortable night at the Park Town Hotel, we visited Sixteen Grains, a family-run operation that has been cultivating the land for five generations. Hearing their story really showcased the dedication and care behind Saskatchewan agriculture. We even got a hands-on demonstration of a combine, run by their children, which was a delightful touch. Watching how the enormous machine harvest and separate grain, was a fascinating sight.
The breakfast they prepared for us was a real treat, especially the homemade pancakes, made with their freshly milled grains. Sixteen Grains also supplies these high-quality, locally grown ingredients to cafés and stores around Saskatoon.

“Saskatchewan is steeped in First Nation history, and Bea brought that heritage to life, sharing her deep knowledge of the land; from the trees and plants to their traditional medicinal and culinary uses. Her stories added meaning to every step we took, giving us a real sense of connection to the land.”

Jenni Wright

Moving On

One of my standout experiences of my trip was the Cree cultural program with Pêmiska Tourism.

Located on Treaty 6 Territory, on the lands of Beardy’s & Okemasis’ Cree Nation. Pêmiska offers a warm and immersive introduction to Cree history and culture, including the difficult legacy of residential schools, where children were often taken from their families and forbidden to speak their language. “Pêmiska, which means ‘come find it,’ invites visitors to connect with the land, its stories, and the people who call it home.”

We explored historic sites on foot before taking an ATV tour through the area, a thrilling ride that included a tricky reverse U-turn because of a fallen tree, complete with plenty of smoke and laughter!

Pêmiska also offers overnight stays in cosy, tipi-inspired glamping lodges within Fort Carlton Provincial Park. they even host weddings! We tried our hand at bannock-making (mine got a little crispy!) and enjoyed cultural demonstrations, you can paddle the river, and experienced a mix of adventure and learning.

On our way to Waskesiu, we stopped at the lookout tower along Highway 263. Driving through Prince Albert National Park was breathtaking, and the highlight was spotting elk wading in the river. From the top of the tower, the views over the Churchill River were absolutely stunning.

We ended the day in Waskesiu, checking into the Hawood Inn. The rooms are cosy and inviting, though there’s no elevator, so keep that in mind if you have mobility concerns. The real highlight is the lakeside location, offering beautiful views and a peaceful setting to unwind.

Dinner by the water, with the sun setting over the lake, was the perfect way to end a full and memorable day.

Friday, September 12 — Prince Albert National Park

The next morning began with a guided walk along the Mud Creek hiking trail, led by Bea, our Parks Canada interpreter. Saskatchewan is steeped in First Nation history, and Bea brought that heritage to life, sharing her deep knowledge of the land; from the trees and plants to their traditional medicinal and culinary uses. Her stories added meaning to every step we took, giving us a real sense of connection to the land.

After lunch, we had some time to wander around Waskesiu Lake on our own. It didn’t take long for me to be completely charmed by its easy going atmosphere. There truly is something for everyone: families building sandcastles, couples paddling quietly across the lake, and groups of friends cruising around town on scooters and quad cycles and I indulged in the best ice cream around at Olaf’s Ice Cream Parlour!

Later, we headed to Missinipe, stopping briefly at La Ronge, and ended the day at Churchill River Canoe Outfitter Cabins, a paradise for canoe lovers. After checking into our cosy cabins and enjoying a hearty homemade dinner, we settled in for the night, excited for what the next day would bring.

“Just when I thought the day couldn’t get any better, the skies cleared that evening and the Northern Lights arrived in full colour.”

Jenni Wright

Saturday, September 13 — Missinipe & The Churchill River

After a filling breakfast, we made our way to the dock for a canoe adventure. Once our life jackets were fitted and we covered a few paddling basics, we pushed off into perfectly calm water under bright, clear skies, ideal conditions for a day on the lake.
The 7-mile paddle was both relaxing and energising, with a cosy campfire lunch stop that kept things simple and delicious.
That evening, we checked into Thompson’s resort lakefront accommodations and enjoyed an unforgettable dinner prepared by Chef Jenni Lessard. Her Northern and Prairie-inspired dishes showcased the flavours and stories of Saskatchewan, making the meal as meaningful as it was delicious.

Sunday, September 14 — Thompson’s Resort, Missinipe

On the shores of Otter Lake, Thompson’s Resort offers cosy cabins, glamping lodges, and lakeside views perfect for families, friends, or solo travellers. Enjoy guided fishing, canoeing, kayaking, scenic float-plane tours, or just relax by the water. In winter, try ice fishing or snowshoeing, then warm up by the fireplace. With an onsite restaurant, nearby trading post, and access to remote fly-out lakes, Thompson’s Resort is the ideal base for northern Saskatchewan adventures
Breakfast was a family-style feast by Chef Jenni, featuring local and foraged ingredients (her coffee lentil dish = game changer). A presentation on the resort’s history was fascinating.
The morning brought a sudden change in weather! driving rain and gusting winds but it didn’t stop us from heading out for a fishing adventure. We were soaked and laughing nonstop, and catching our own lunch to cook over an open fire made the experience unforgettable.
Just when I thought the day couldn’t get any better, the skies cleared that evening and the Northern Lights arrived in full colour. Standing beneath waves of green and purple dancing across the night sky was the perfect finale to an already incredible day.

Monday, September 15 — Champêtre County

We set out on a long but scenic drive to Champêtre County, a charming family-run ranch that offers a relaxed taste of prairie life. A horse-drawn wagon ride and a stroll through the quirky Corral Maze provided plenty of fun, followed by a cosy campfire dinner and a guided night walk around the ranch.
Champêtre County perfectly blends adventure, comfort, and authentic prairie charm, making it an unforgettable stop on any Saskatchewan itinerary.
Spotting a black bear on the roadside added an unexpected dose of excitement to my trip.

Tuesday, September 16 — Saskatoon

The following morning took us to Wanuskewin Heritage Park, an incredible centre dedicated to honouring and sharing First Nations culture. The exhibits were engaging, and seeing the recently returned bison roaming the land was a real highlight. We even joined a teepee-building demonstration, learning the cultural significance behind each pole, a meaningful and memorable hands-on experience.

Before returning to the city, we joined a birding tour with Living Sky Wildlife Rehabilitation, spotting local species up close, then took a refreshing break at Crossmount Cider Company for a quick tour and tasting.

We ended the day at the stylish and welcoming Alt Hotel in Saskatoon, the perfect base for our final night.

Wednesday, September 17 — Saskatoon

Our last morning started with breakfast and a peaceful walk through the Meewasin Valley, taking in the river views and green spaces in the heart of the city.

We finished at the Remai Modern, where Spinner Forest by Nick Cave stole the show. With its incredible Picasso linocuts and contemporary art, it was the perfect finale to an unforgettable trip.

Final Thoughts & Reflections

Saskatchewan is a province for those who appreciate wide-open spaces, outdoor adventures, and authentic local experiences. With its vast skies, rich history, and stunning Northern Lights, it’s a place that stays with you long after you leave. Its combination of wilderness, Indigenous heritage, and welcoming communities makes it a destination worth exploring, and after this short but action-packed trip, I know I’ll be back to see more.
The FAM trip was incredible. Pêmiska Tourism and Prince Albert National Park were highlights, but every stop, from Missinipe to Champêtre County, added new insights into this remarkable province. I left informed, inspired, and ready to share Saskatchewan’s culture, nature, and hospitality with travellers.