WINTER 2014
YOUR GUIDE TO SASKATCHEWAN VACATIONS
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contents NORTH SASKATCHEWAN. ...................................4 • WASKESIU & AREA WILDERNESS REGION. ......................... 6 • UNLEASH YOUR INNER EXPLORER......................................9 Central SASKATCHEWAN............................. 12 • MANITOU SPRINGS RESORT............................................ 16 • THE GREAT NORTH EAST SNOW ESCAPE.......................... 18 • THE SASKATCHEWANDERER IS INTO WINTER!................... 19
Saskatoon............................................................. 20 South Saskatchewan.................................. 24 • LET’S GO ICE FISHING!.................................................... 19 Regina...............................................................30 • ARE YOU READY TO RAGNAROK?. .................................... 31 • THE PRAIRIE DINER EATS HIS WAY ACROSS SASKATCHEWAN............................................... 33
• SKI HERE!..................................................................... 34 SASKATCHEWAN SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION . ................................................ 40
Front Cover:
Snowmobiling, Elk Ridge Resort
Photo Credit: Tourism Saskatchewan /Greg Huszar Photography
ABOUT THIS CONTENT: These stories were produced by Postmedia Saskatchewan Creative Features to promote awareness of this topic for commercial purposes. Postmedia’s editorial departments had no involvement in the creation of this content.
Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
3
The five-star
Candle Lake Golf Resort
extends its hospitality all-year round, offering an exciting range of recreation amenities – including a toboggan hill, hockey rink, snowmobile trails and ice fishing shacks.
North
—Photo credit: Candle Lake Golf Resort
northern Saskatchewan?
Think you know
by Jeannie Armstrong SP Creative Features Editor
Think Again!
MYTH: Northern Saskatchewan is a great destination for a summer vacation, but there’s nothing to do in the winter. FACT: Winter means a brand new season of fun has arrived in northern Saskatchewan! In this mammoth playground, you can enjoy any winter recreation activity imaginable: snowmobiling, downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, tobogganing, dog sledding, ice fishing, hiking... the ‘to-do’ list is endless! Adding to the fun is a full calendar of exciting winter festivals, ice fishing derbies, cross-country ski marathons, snowmobile rallies and the epic Canadian Challenge International Sled Dog Race (Feb. 2015). Recently recognized as one of Canada’s Top Events, this thrilling race sees world-calibre dogsled teams racing from Prince Albert to La Ronge, in hopes of qualifying for the legendary Yukon Quest. MYTH: Everything closes up for the season after the October long weekend.
4 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
nix/Greg Pe nder
and town homes. There are plenty of on-site recreation amenities to keep your family busy—including a toboggan and tubing hill, skating and hockey rink, even complimentary ice fishing shacks. Candle Lake is also one of the province’s top snowmobiling destinations, located on the Trans-Canadian Snowmobile Trail, North America’s first coast-to-coast recreational trail. From your base at Candle Lake, you can explore over 500 kms of scenic snowmobile trails, groomed by the Candle Lake SnowDrifters Club. MYTH: You have to own a snowmobile to have fun in northern Saskatchewan. FACT: It’s true that snowmobiling is a hugely popular activity in northern Saskatchewan, thanks to an abundance of snow and several thousand kilometres of groomed trails. However, there are also many other activities where you can get out and explore the magnificent countryside, like cross-country skiing. Northern Saskatchewan is home to some of the country’s most spectacular cross-country ski and snowshoe trails. Favourite destinations include Prince Albert National Park with over 150 kms of groomed trails and Lac La Ronge Provincial Park with a 60-km trail network. The Don Allan Saskaloppet, held on the first weekend of March, attracts hundreds of skiers from across the province to Lac La Ronge every year.
s
FACT: There are plenty of four-season resorts and destinations in northern Saskatchewan. Candle Lake Golf Resort is just one example. This five-star resort extends its hospitality all-year round, with a great selection of luxurious accommodations, including rental cottages
The Canad ian Challeng e Internatio which runs nal Sled Dog from Prince Race, Albert to La recognized Ronge, ha as one of C an ada’s Top Ev s been —Photo cred it: StarPhoe ents.
FACT: Northern Saskatchewan has a thriving arts community, no doubt inspired by the region’s breathtaking scenery and strong cultural ties. Among the area’s newest cultural attractions is the Woodlands and Waterways Regional Visitor Centre in La Ronge, which is now open year- round. Manager Judy Hanke said “It’s a beautiful new building. We’ve invited local artists to come in and display their art. We’ve got everything from beautiful acrylic paintings and photography to pottery and traditional dreamcatchers.” Featured artists include acclaimed landscape painter Helen Croissant and photographer Corey Hardcastle, a resident bush pilot with a passion for photography. “His photos capture the beauty of the north, from the Aurora Borealis to our countless lakes,” Hanke said. This winter, the Woodlands and Waterways Regional Visitor Centre has a diverse range of cultural events planned, including wine-and-cheese art shows. “We’re also planning to bring in storytellers and local musicians on different evenings,” Hanke said. To keep apprised of upcoming events, visit the centre’s Facebook page: Lac La Ronge Tourism Woodlands and Waterways.
Taking place at the E.A. Rawlinson Centre, the annual arts festival turns the spotlight on talented artists and craftspeople, complemented by great food and lively entertainment. The Holly Berry Craft and Hobby Sale is a popular annual event in Meadow Lake (Nov. 22), attracting over 1,500 avid shoppers. Over 100 craft tables will be offered at the event which takes place at the Meadow Lake and District Arena. The gateway city of Prince Albert is gaining renown as a centre for entertainment. The E.A. Rawlinson Center for the Arts hosts a diverse range of events including the upcoming Fiddle Frenzy with Donny Parenteau and Brian Sklar (Nov. 21), Celtic performers The Barra MacNeils (Nov. 23) the Broadway stage production of Disney’s Peter Pan (Dec. 5-13) and Tenore - Christmas with You (Dec.21).
North
MYTH: I’m more interested in an arts and culture experience than dashing through the snow. Why go north?
Every winter, Prince Albert hosts one of the province’s biggest entertainment extravaganzas: the P.A. Winter Festival. Known as “Western Canada’s Largest Party in the Snow”, the P.A. Winter Festival spans several weeks in February. Traditional events include outdoor King Trapper competitions and dog sledding. Entertainment venues, including the Country North Show, Voices of the North and the blues-themed Twelfth Street Station garner huge audiences during the festival’s run. n
If you’re a fan of artisan craft sales, plan to visit the Evergreen Artisan Market in Prince Albert (Nov. 7-8).
Prince Albert “THE GATHERING PLACE”
Prince Albert is nestled in the Mighty North Saskatchewan River Valley, surrounded by natural and gently developed parks, Boreal forests, 100,000 lakes, rivers, bogs and millions of acres of adventure. This beautiful setting creates a unique atmosphere and backdrop for your convention, event or winter leisure activity. For the winter months, we have groomed cross-country ski trails, down-hill skiing, fishing, and more. The City is also home to the Canadian Challenge Sled Dog Races, an international event starting downtown Prince Albert to La Ronge and back.
For more information visit: www.princealberttourism.com Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
5
Paws ‘n’ Paddles
Wilderness Tours
offers custom-made canoe, dog sled and snowshoe tours for individuals, families and groups. Each adventure is tailored to the individual participants’ comfort level. —Photo credit: Paws ‘n’ Paddles Wilderness Tours/Miriam Körner
North
Unleash your inner explorer
T
he teapot sizzles over a comfortably warming campfire. The distant howling of a pack of wolves echoes across the lake and then it is silent. No cell phone rings, no road noises, just the wind whistling through the boreal forest. All of your worries about your day-to-day en e Op We’r Round Year
by Miriam Körner Paws ’n’ Paddles Wilderness Tours
life subside and your senses focus on the here and now. Your routine is simple: travel, find a campsite, eat, sleep. “It’s hard to describe if you haven’t experienced it,” Quincy Miller of Paws ’n’ Paddles Wilderness Tours said. Continued on Page 8
LITTLE PINE LODGE, YOUR YEAR-ROUND GET-A-WAY Chitek Lake is a beautiful recreational spot with excellent hunting, ice-fishing and sno-mobiling. We are a stop on the Transcanada snomobile trail with hundreds of miles of groomed and ungroomed trails. You can ride your sled right up to our cabins. Big game hunters love to explore our area for a great hunt. Many trophy Northern Pike and Walleye have been caught through the ice. There’s a convenience store and a gas station within two blocks of our cabins. Our email address gilleandlise@hotmall.com Our website www.littlepinelodge.com Contact us at 306 984-2332
Hudson dson B dson Bay ay 100 100 Rally Ral ally ly & Steak Ste teak ak Supper pper F pper February ebru eb ruar ru ary ar y 14th 2015 201 015 5
“Platinum Award Winning Trails” Best in SK last 9 years in a row!
E n jo y a Winter Wonderland at Anglin Lake Your Destination for X-Country Skiing, Ice Fishing, Dog Sledding & More! www.landoftheloonresort.com Call 306.982.4478 or email loon.land@sasktel.net for affordable self-stay accommodation Rates start at $80 per night
6 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
670 kilometers of Groomed Trails
Average Annual Snow Falls of 6 Feet
Unlimited Off Trail Opportunities
Destination for the
Abundance of Wildlife Abu
Whole Family
& Beautiful Scenery
HUDSON BAY TOURI RISM SM (306) 865-2263 Box 730 Hudson Bay SK K S0E 0Y0 Email: hudson.bay@sasktel.net • Website: www.townofhudsonbay.com Town of Hudson Bay is now on facebook,keep updated year round!
MY
WONDERLAND
It’s the familiar sound of snow crunching under your boots; the anticipation of warming up with a cup of hot cocoa after a day of making snowmen; and, the hockey game with your friends on the Candle Lake marina. These are the things that create a lifetime of winter memories for you and your family. Our four-season resort, which features spacious cabins for rent, can be your winter destination in the north. With ice fishing, curling, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and tobogganing, you can warm your heart with an unforgettable winter adventure at Candle Lake Golf Resort.
My Family. My Lake.
CandleLakeGolfResort.com
306-929-2211
Continued from Page 6
s
“While most people would rather snuggle up in front of the TV than a campfire, there are quite a few who want to experience the northern wilderness, but don’t have the experience to find their way in the bush or simply don’t have the gear,” Miller said.
North
“The further you travel into the wilderness, the more focused you become on the things that matter just that moment: the next paddle stroke, the clear air you breathe, the song of a loon.”
Sharing adventures with people of all sorts of skill levels became the business idea behind Paws ’n’ Paddles Wilderness Tours. This past year, the family-owned and operated company celebrated its tenth anniversary.
Quincy has been fortunate to have grown up in Northern Saskatchewan; the bush is his home. “I always want to know what’s around the river bend or behind the next lake. I never thought it was anything special until people started to ask me ‘You did what?! Paddled a thousand kilometers by canoe? Went camping by dog team for three weeks in the dead of winter?’” said Miller of his passion for exploration.
The couple organizes custom-made canoe, dog sled and snowshoe tours for individuals, families and groups. “Everyone has their own comfort level. We like to organize tours that are within each guest’s comfort level, but provide enough of a challenge to send our guests home with a feeling of accomplishment,” Körner said. “For some, this might be a day tour, sitting comfortably in the sled. For others, it might be a multi-day adventure where they can run their own dog team.”
He and his wife Miriam Körner discovered that others shared their interest in exploring the pristine wilderness of northern Saskatchewan.
SHELLBROOK...
Tours are hands-on and fully engage the participants, who are required to help set up camp and look after the sled dogs during winter tours or carry canoes when portaging on summer treks.
a better place to play!
Körner says the pristine wilderness experience they share with their guests is truly unique. “Northern Saskatchewan is very special in that way. Sometimes we travel for days without seeing other people. In lots of areas the Precambrian Shield is exposed and sitting on rock formed more than 500 million years ago evokes a new respect for the power of nature.” www.pawsand paddlestours.com n
n r e v a T s Aandie’ aurant & Rest l e t t o H ake s k t e l .n e topher L hell@sa
Chris
7- 8 306-22
ors 682 n
www.shellbrook.net
SnowmAoandie's Ta bile Ra vern lly - Ja C n. 31 h Vintageristophe r Lake S n o w m March obile R 14 & 15 aces Torch R iver Do March g Sled R 7&8 un
Winter Package: • Guest Rooms & Condominiums • Complimentary Cross country skiis • Complimentary Snow shoes • Guided Ice Fishing Experience on Waskesiu Lake • Dining Room open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner daily
Prince Albert National Park 1-877-441-5544
LODGE & CONFERENCE CENTRE
8 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
• Roof top HotTubs • Conference & Wedding Facilities • Gift Shop • Licensed Lounge & Fireside Lobby • Open year round
Waskesiu Lake, SK www.hawood.com
Tel: 306-663-5911 • Fax: 306-663-5219 • email: hawood@sasktel.net
Get away to it all!
North
Elk Ridge Resort
is a winter wonderland, where you can enjoy a wide range of activities, including skating, curling, hockey, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and tobogganing. —Photo credit: Tourism Saskatchewan /Greg Huszar Photography
Waskesiu & Area Wilderness Region
W
hether it’s just the two of you, or the entire family, now’s the perfect season for a getaway to the Waskesiu & Area Wilderness Region (WWR)!
This destination tourist area encompasses Waskesiu and Prince Albert National Park, Elk Ridge Resort, Big River, the Lakeland District (Emma, Christopher and Anglin Lakes) and the Village of Christopher Lake. Continued on Page 10
A warm welcome awaits you in Spiritwood
ng, bowling... y, curli hocke h t i w ing, hunting! ing a new recreation centre ice fish l in g , mobi as w much more... o s d ell as outd r fun with snow an oo ations Enjo mmod o c y o u r s ho c a , pping, dining
Feat ur
Wapiti Valley Ski Area 29 miles north of Melfort We offer downhill skiing and boarding on 12 slopes. Our Hill boasts a quad chair lift and a magic carpet lift.
www.skiwapiti.com Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
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Continued from Page 9
Looking for travel inspiration? Here are just a few ideas to get you started! For more information, visit www.WaskesiuWildernessRegion.com.
North
Family Fun Plan an outdoor adventure for your family! Reconnect over a hike in the woods, cycle through boreal and aspen forests, and try geo-caching in Prince Albert National Park (PANP). Fall is ideal for wildlife viewing. The area boasts some of the most diverse wildlife in Canada: elk, foxes, deer, bears and more! When the snow arrives, explore PANP’s trail system on snowshoes or cross-country skis. The new ice fishing hut on Waskesiu Lake will add to your family fun. The Hawood Inn staff will light a fire, sell you a fishing license and even provide the fishing poles! Family fun is non-stop at Elk Ridge Resort. Head outdoors for cross-country skiing, pond hockey, curling, tobogganing, bonfires and fireworks, then warm up at the resort’s indoor salt-water pool and spa. The Lakeland area is a popular family destination, particularly for the snowmobile crowd. A host of amenities will enhance your stay, including restaurants, live entertainment, even a spa. Warm-up shacks turn up the comfort along the groomed trails. Not into snowmobiling? A photography trek is another great way to experience the Lakeland’s amazing scenery. Enjoy one of two Canadian Tourism Signature Experiences in the Waskesiu & Area Wilderness Region, at Sturgeon River Ranch. Host Gord Vaadeland escorts guests on horseback into the west side of PANP for a one-of-a-kind wildlife viewing experience. Watch out for the mighty plains bison – one of the few free-roaming herds in North America. Tours range from two hours to an overnight outing in an authentic tipi. Sundog Excursions is another of two Canadian Tourism Commission Signature Experiences in the area! Their ‘Dog Sled & Dining’ package with Elk Ridge Resort is a perfect way to enjoy the winter. Meet the team, travel the trails in our unique and diverse biosphere, learn about what it means to be in a pack, eat some great regional cuisine and explore our winter wonderland. No snow? Dog carting red by t safari offe is a fun option in the tic wild wes ed by the m na en The authen be s er Ranch ha on as a ‘Signature iv R on ge fall. si Stur a. m Commis uris anad Canadian To that defines a visit to Css Region ’ ne Experiences askesiu & Area Wilder it: W —Photo cred
10 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
Downhill skiing at Ski Timber Ridge is a popular family pastime, with runs for novice and advanced skiers alike. Warm up in the cozy new chalet, complete with a fireplace. Does your family love quadding? Head out on Big River’s famed trails, winding around lakes and through stands of timber. Quad rallies in the fall and the spring turn up the fun. Plan your getaway around WWR’s many special events, including the Big River Shiver, Festival of the Trees and Ness Creek’s Vinyl Record Night. The annual New Year’s Eve celebration at Elk Ridge is always popular, so book in advance! March events include dog sledding, vintage snowmobile rally (drag and oval races too) and pond hockey tournaments.
Couples & Culinary Adventures The Waskesiu & Area Wilderness Region is the ideal couple’s retreat. No bugs, no crowds, beautiful scenery – lots to do or nothing at all. By day, explore the trails at Prince Albert National Park. By night, try ‘glamping’ in a cozy, heated yurt at Flora Bora in Lakeland. Private decks overlook the boreal forest. Moonlight skiing at Ness Creek spells romance, especially when the aurora borealis light up the sky. Unique accommodations include cozy cabins at Ness Creek Campground and yurts at Nesslin Lake. Relax in the roof-top hot tubs at the Hawood or the private whirlpools or spa tubs at Lost Creek Resort and Elk Ridge Resort. Enjoy an outdoor bonfire, a game of curling, a couple’s massage at Elk Ridge or an après ski drink at Ski Timber Ridge in Big River – the choice is yours. Dine on great regional cuisine at our many restaurants like the Copper Ridge Dining Room at Elk Ridge (soon to be featured on City TV’s The Prairie Diner). Enjoy homecooking in Lakeland at Lake Country Cottage Restaurant, and try the amazing cheesecakes, rhubarb squares and other delights at the Yellow Fender Cafe & Eatery. The Beach Restaurant at Sunset Bay Resort in Emma Lake has a wood-burning fireplace upstairs and serves up big portions of Asian fusion cuisine, roast dinners and other specialities. Third & Main Restaurant in Big River will tempt you with appetizing home-style specialties. Aandie’s Tavern at Christopher Lake offers pub-food favourites, accompanied by live entertainment. PANP’s Hawood Inn has mouth-watering pickerel and delectable chef’s specials! This fall, stay tuned for our couple’s progressive dining tour and mark your calendars for the ‘Warm Up To Winter’ tasting event at Elk Ridge Resort. Adventure, family fun, nature experiences, culinary delights… The Waskesiu & Area Wilderness Region has it all this fall and winter! n
s e l i o f M Sno 0 0 w 10 Snowmobile North East Sask
Like Like us us on on Facebook Facebook at at Snowmobile Snowmobile North North East East Sask Sask
Nipawin
offers 300 kms of groomed snowmobiling trails making it a great destination if you’re looking for some new scenery to explore on your sled.
Central
—Photo credit: Tourism Saskatchewan/Rob Weitzel Graphic Productions
Good times start here: Central
Sleigh rides are just part of the fun du Winter Won ring Kinder derland on sley’s Nov. 15. Th pancake br e day starts eakfast and with then movie —Photo cred s all afternoo a it: Kindersle y Cham n.
Saskatchewan by Jennifer Jacoby-Smith of SP Creative Features
W
inter is no time to hibernate! In Central Saskatchewan, there’s such an exciting range of activities that you’ll keep busy until spring thaw. With so much fresh snow providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures and cultural and heritage sites offering fun learning experiences, you’ll never run out of things to do.
ber of Com merce
s
In east central Saskatchewan, Yorkton celebrates another bountiful year on the prairies with the Yorkton Grain Miller’s Harvest Showdown. The event features a cattle show and sale, horse pulls, 4-H judging, ag forums and so much more. A two-day indoor rodeo will have you on the edge of your seat. The action will be fierce with team roping and penning competitions. There are also a blazing hot fiddling competition and an auctioneers’ competition. Man’s best friend even gets in on the action with a stock dog competition. It’s a four-day event jampacked with excitement for young and old. The Harvest Showdown goes Nov. 5 through 8 at the Gallagher Centre and Exhibition Grounds in Yorkton.
12 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
Kindersley shines with Christmas cheer at their annual Winter Wonderland and Parade of Lights on Nov. 15. The day starts with a pancake breakfast for the kids. The afternoon is filled with movies. The parade, which starts at 5 p.m., features Christmasthemed floats decorated by local businesses. Take advantage of late night shopping, entertainment and sleigh rides, all while sipping on hot chocolate. It’s a great way to get into the Christmas spirit before the holiday rush really starts. Ring in the New Year at the Battlefords’ New Year’s Ball at the Knights of Columbus Centre. Each year it gets better and better. This year’s dance starts at 8 p.m. with Dusty Rose providing live music. Lunch is provided and there are plenty of door prizes to make this New Year’s Eve a night to remember. There are only so many snow days in Saskatchewan each year and it’s best to take advantage of the beautiful white powder while you can. The 2015 Provincial Snowmobile Festival in Yorkton, Feb. 27 and 28, is the perfect opportunity. Yorkton boasts nearly 400 km of well-groomed trails and nine warm-up shelters thanks to the good folks at the Yorkton Sno-Riders Club. The family-oriented club is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2015. Continued on Page 15
Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
13
While in the Battlefords,
Download Download the Battlefords Battlefords App! Battlefords App
Free Download
www.battlefordstourism.com
New 6 Waterfront Cabins Your All-Season Getaway Stay and Play Experience this Winter Downhill Skiing, Snowmobiling, Cross Country Skiing, Sledding Hill, Ice Fishing, Snow Shoeing Sl or Rest and Relaxation
www.theouterbanks.ca w Box 201 • Gronlid, SK SOE OWO Bo Phone: 306.277.2020 Email: theouterbanks@staffcomm.com Located approximately 1 hr. from Prince Albert, 2 hrs. from Saskatoon and 3 hrs from Regina.
14 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
In addition to many planned activities,
Central Saskatchewan offers unending outdoor winter adventures, including snowshoeing and ice fishing.
central
—Photo credit: Tourism Saskatchewan/Rob Weitzel Graphic Productions
s
Continued from Page 13
Early bird registration (before Jan. 31) costs just $75 and includes all Friday and Saturday events, Rise and Shine Breakfast on Saturday, a trail lunch and the Saturday evening banquet and dance. Fresh air, beautiful snow-topped landscapes: what could be more fun? Have you ever been in love? If you travel to the village of Love in east central Saskatchewan you will! With such an infamous moniker it would seem natural to host an annual Valentine Winter Festival. The community’s 104 residents host a variety of fun activities. It starts with a Friday night church service and social.
The Vintage
Snowmobile Drag Races in Nipawin continue to test the abilities of snowmobile collectors from across Canada.
—Photo credit: Tourism Saskatchewan/Rob Weitzel Graphic Productions
Breakfast follows the next morning. Some of the activities include a king and queen pageant, nail driving and power saw competitions, hatchet throwing, pillow fighting, arm and leg wrestling, and more. A Saturday night cabaret wraps up the festivities. The Valentine Winter Festival goes Feb. 13 to 14. Nipawin is a hub of snowmobiling activity for the entire winter. Over 300 km of trails around the community cover a variety of terrain: forest, hills, fields and frozen lakes. One event that continues to attract more and more visitors is the Vintage Snowmobile Drag Races. Snowmobile collectors from across the country test their abilities with classic snowmobiles made before 1981. The event takes place Feb. 21, 2015. In addition to planned special events there are plenty of other activities in central Saskatchewan – such as downhill skiing and snowboarding at Wapiti Valley or Duck Mountain Ski Resorts. As well, hunting big game, waterfowl or upland game birds is a popular activity for many in the central Saskatchewan region. Once the weather turns really cold, ice-fishing provides hours of recreation and some really great fish, too! Good times and adventure await you in central Saskatchewan. Whether you’re zooming through the pristine country side on a sled or laughing with friends on a sleigh ride, there are recreational activities and special events to keep you busy… until it’s time to cozy up to the fireplace. n
Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
15
• 102 Room Hotel • Conventional Facilities
• Mineral Pool • Serenity Spa
The expanded spa area has pedicure chairs for groups to experience some fun pampering.
Manitou Springs makes top spa list
—Photo credit: Manitou Springs Resort
by Jennifer Jacoby-Smith of SP Creative Features
T
s
he list of accolades for Manitou Springs Resort continues to grow. The central Saskatchewan resort near Watrous was named as a finalist for Business of the Year at the 2013 Canadian Tourism Awards, 2013 finalist for Saskatchewan Tourism Awards of Excellence for Business of the Year (over 50 full-time employees) and was also included in the list Top 50 Spas of Canada by Spas of America.
Manitou Beach (Watrous), Sask. 1-800-667-7672 manitousprings.ca
16 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
St. Peter’s Abbey, Muenster May 28 - June 7, 2015 For more information contact 1-800-344-6024 or visit www.saskstitches.ca
Dwight Hayter, who took over as owner in 2009, appreciates the recognition. “It’s nice to be recognized for our efforts. The staff that we have are incredible and they give the best service possible.” The main attraction for most visitors is the pool. People from all over the world come to enjoy the therapeutic effects of the waters, some returning again and again. “A lot people with difficulties, like arthritis, come here for the zero gravity effect of the water,” explained Hayter. “The result of that combined with the hot water that we have in our mineral pool – they come out of the pool feeling really good.” When the weather turns cold, the recently renovated Manitou Springs Resort still has plenty for guests to do. Located in the heart of Saskatchewan it makes a convenient, inexpensive winter getaway close to home.
Snowboard or Ski For
E E FR
At
The resort’s cross-country ski trails are scheduled to be revamped this year, and the area is perfect for snowmobiling for any visitors who want to bring their sled. If the weather is miserable, there are always enough activities at the resort between the pool, massage, esthetics and dining to keep a couple or small family busy. Manitou Springs Resort offers pampering at its finest. Book a couple’s massage or a pedicure with girlfriends or schedule a romantic weekend to celebrate a special occasion at Water’s Edge Restaurant. Or simply escape for an afternoon of bobbing in therapeutic waters known to bring healing to generations.
JANUARY 5TH 5TH THRU THRU JANUARY JANUARY 25TH. 25TH. 2015 2015 JANUARY
“People are surprised that we are a resort and we do offer all these things here,” said Hayter. He’s convinced new guests will find, like many before them, that one visit isn’t enough. n
Stay at one of These Battlefords Hotels Association Properties
January in Northern Saskatchewan means
Fun on the Trails!
Choose LaRonge as your
Winter Destination
Plan to take part in the Stanley Mission Snowmobile Poker Rally held annually in January
Waterbase Inn LARONGE, Saskatchewan • Executive suite • Kitchenettes
• Meeting Rooms • Honeymoon Suite
Call today (306)425-5550 or Fax (306)425-2455
AND Receive A Complimentary Full Day Pass For Each Night You Stay For Each Registered Guest
Best Canadian Motor Inn (306) 445-7747 Gold Eagle Lodge (306) 446-8877 Super 8 Motel (306) 446-8888 Tropical Inn (306) 446-4700 Travelodge (306) 445-9425 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
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There are thousands of miles of snowmobiling trails in
Central
1,000 Miles of Snow…
THE GREAT
Northeast Saskatchewan
. Many have warm-up shelters to enhance your experience. —Photo credit: Tourism Saskatchewan/Douglas E. Walker
NORTH EAST Snow Escape! • Contributed by Snowmobile North East Sask Committe •
4:58 ... 4:59 … 5:00… Let’s go Sledding!
R
ush home, hook up the snowmobile trailer, gather the family and head off to northeastern Saskatchewan where 1,000 Miles of Snow beckon! Choose from wide-open fields, winding forest trails or the pristine areas of freshly fallen snow. What makes northeastern Saskatchewan so different from the other areas of Saskatchewan and worth the drive? It’s the variety of activities you can participate in, once you arrive. From the Provincial Forestry Fringe, to the rolling prairie landscapes, northeastern Saskatchewan has it all! Snowmobiling is a great winter sport which can involve the whole family or be a weekend getaway with just the guys or gals! With a bit of planning, you can even accomplish both. The extensive trail network in northeastern Saskatchewan allows you to plan a short ride, or a week getaway… the choice is yours! Start planning and dreaming now! Find out what’s happening on the Facebook page “Snowmobile North East Sask”. Pick your community, pick your activity and come on up! Many communities allow you to sled right up to the door of your accommodation. Once you arrive you can park your vehicle and snowmobile where you want to go. Your snowmobile license plate permits you to ride on all the groomed and signed trails. Go to www.sasksnow. com/trail-club-updates/zone2/ to check out all the trails before you leave home. Many great snowmobile clubs in the north-east focus on providing safe and scenic trails.
18 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
Many of the hills are perfect for tobogganing, skiing, and cross-country skiing, with warm-up shelters located in convenient locations for anyone wishing to stick close to the fire. Fun and camaraderie can easily be found. With several shelters located throughout the trail network, every ride can be enjoyed even on the coldest of days. The first rider out starts the fire in the shelter early in the day and all who follow continue throwing a log on to keep the shelter a toasty place to stop and visit. Fishing in the northeast is popular all year round. Many of the lakes host small communities of ice fishing shacks. Pick the right weekend and you can watch the dogsled races or the Vintage Sled Drags. Join one of the many snowmobile rallies happening throughout the winter months. The great banks of fluffy snow are just waiting for some serious fun. A short drive throughout scenic north eastern Saskatchewan will take you to a snowmobiling mecca. The snowmobile trails in the north east connect one community to the next, allowing you to explore sights for hours or even days. Each community has something different and interesting to offer. You won’t run out of places to investigate or activities to participate in. Like “Snowmobile North East Sask” on Facebook and start planning your winter getaway today. Ride 1,000 Miles of Snow! n
Saskatchewanderer
The
, Caitlin Taylor, knows how to enjoy a Saskatchewan winter! In the past year, she’s tried a variety of new experiences – from snowboarding and cross-country skiing to dogsledding and ice fishing.
The Saskatchewanderer is into
winter!
Central
—Photos courtesy of Caitlin Taylor
by Blair Braitenbach for SP Creative Features
A
s the Saskatchewanderer, Caitlin Taylor has explored some of the farthest reaches of this beautiful and geographically diverse province. As such, she has discovered when the mercury dips and snow blankets the ground there is an abundance of frosty adventures to get the mind racing and heart pounding.
province’s abundant fresh water locales. Anglers can drop their lines from the countless lakes within Prince Albert National Park and Battlefords Provincial Park in the north, to Greenwater Provincial Park in central Saskatchewan down to Echo Valley Provincial Park in the south and just about everywhere in between.
While many residents of this northerly landscape lament the oncoming months of autumn and winter, Taylor knows from experience that life in colder climes is entirely what you make of it. Funded through the provincial government, the Saskatchewanderer’s mandate is about “Showcasing Saskatchewan as a Great Place to Live, Work and Play” – all year round. So rather than hibernating throughout the long and nippy months until spring arrives, Taylor encourages everyone to embrace the world-class recreational benefits this province has to offer.
Another attraction gaining popularity is dogsledding through Canada’s northern boreal forest. Both Paws ‘n’ Paddles Wilderness Tours and Sundogs Sled Excursions have built reputations for their unique winter escapes. Taylor took advantage of a short, adrenaline-inducing ride with Brad Muir’s Sundogs operation, just north of Prince Albert.
“Sure in the summer it’s easy to get outside and do lots of stuff, but there are still tons of fun things to do in winter and many people don’t realize that,” Taylor said. “I think if people took advantage of those opportunities more they wouldn’t feel the blues so much.”
“Brad is super knowledgeable on sled dogs and the boreal forest and ecology of the area,” she said. “It’s especially interesting going with him. I just sat in the sled so I could film (for the Saskatchewander website). You get going really fast and have zero control over anything, so when you go near bushes it can be scary for a second. It’s definitely a cool way to see the forest, it’s way different than being on a snowmobile – you get a feeling more of being in nature.”
One of Taylor’s first and most memorable ventures was snowboarding the slopes of Mission Ridge Winter Park in Fort Qu’Appelle. Taylor was impressed by the locale’s exceptional downhill ski and snowboard challenges, which has since gained renown thanks to 2014 Olympic bronze medalist Mark McMorris who used to call the park home. “I had never been there before so it was such a fun experience.”
Taylor adds that many people don’t realize how much fun can be had going camping in the winter. Blue Mountain Canada Outdoor Adventure Centre near North Battleford is one such place that provides the opportunity.
The intrepid explorer enjoyed her first ice fishing experience also in the Fort Qu’Appelle region, pointing out that the activity can be enjoyed on just about any of the
To learn more about Taylor’s Saskatchewanderer explorations and gain inspiration for your own adventures,
“We went for one night and had to tent and eat supper in the cold wilderness at -15C in March. We skied in and out and had to pack lightly but overall it was a really cool experience,” she said.
visit www.saskatchewanderer.ca. n Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
19
Take the family skating at the riverside
Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink at PotashCorp Plaza.
Saskatoon
—Photo credit: Tourism Saskatoon
Saskatoon is weekend WONDERFUL!
by Jeannie Armstrong SP Creative Features Editor
Y
While in Sa skatoon, di ne, shop an River Land d play at ing, one of the newest areas in do destination wntown Sa skatoon. —Photo cred it: Tourism Saskatoon
ou don’t have to travel far to escape your daily routine and experience an exciting urban getaway. Saskatoon stands out on the prairies as a vibrant booming metropolis, bustling with dynamic energy and warm hospitality… the ideal destination for a day or weekend away!
music venues, from hot jazz at The Bassment to cool indy rock at Village Guitar and Amp. The Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra promises an entertaining season, ranging from the classics to Led Zeppelin. The symphony’s ‘silent movie’ nights at the Roxy Theatre are rapidly gaining a devoted following.
Here you can enjoy big city luxuries, without redlining your travel budget. Recently described as a “city on the rise” by the Toronto Star, Saskatoon is home to stellar hotels, amazing restaurants, diverse nightlife and fascinating cultural events.
To maximize your stay in Saskatoon, take advantage of the Experience Pass from Tourism Saskatoon. The Experience Pass is completely free with an overnight stay at one of 20 participating hotels in Saskatoon, providing visitors with access to amazing offers for great shopping, events and attractions. For every night’s stay at a participating Saskatoon hotel, you will receive one Experience Pass. Simply request the Experience Pass when booking your hotel stay, then take the pass to your chosen event or attraction to redeem it.
Immerse yourself in the lively downtown scene, then explore off-the-path neighbourhood treasures! The eclectic Broadway district is famed for its great food, art and fashion. Dine, shop and play at River Landing, while enjoying panoramic views of the river valley. Discover why Riversdale has been named one of Canada’s ‘Next Great Neighbourhoods’ by EnRoute Magazine, for its hipster eateries, trendy shops and Farmers’ Market.
20 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
Wondering how to spend your day or weekend in Saskatoon? Here’s a suggested getaway plan to inspire your travels!
s
During the fall and winter, Saskatoon’s arts and culture scene explodes with events. Enjoy dynamic performances by the city’s one dozen professional and community theatre companies. Find your vibe at live
Complete information is available at www.tourismsaskatoon.com.
Saskatoon’s culinary landscape is exploding with amazing new restaurants, embracing flavours from around the world.
Saskatoon
—Photo credit: Tourism Saskatoon
Family Fun Weekend SATURDAY 3 p.m. Unload kids and luggage (in that order) from the car and check into the newly renovated Saskatoon Inn. While going up to your room, check out the gorgeous indoor courtyard garden. Who can spot the brass giraffe first? 5 p.m. Head over to Eighth Street for dinner with the family at The Cave Restaurant. At this landmark Saskatoon restaurant, you can enjoy everything from pasta and pizza to incredible Greek ribs, surrounded by caverns and dens. There’s even a waterfall! 7:30 p.m. Ever taken your family skating under the stars? Make a new memory at the riverside Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink at PotashCorp Plaza. Skates are complimentary (donation appreciated) inside the warming shelter. There’s even a wood-burning fireplace! If it’s too chilly out, jump in the car and treat the family to a drive through the Enchanted Forest Holiday Light Tour at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park. Talk about twinkle power! Before jammie time at the hotel, stop off for a hot chocolate.
SUNDAY
Lighting up Saskatoon’ The BHP Bi lliton Enchan s Forestry Farm Park , ted Forest is drive-throug Canada’s la h Chr rgest —Photo cred istmas light display. it: To
8:30 a.m.
urism Sask ato
Rise ‘n’ shine! Your morning is off to a delicious start at the famous Sunday morning brunch at the Saskatoon Inn. 10 a.m. Take the kids for a quick dip in the pool before heading out on the town. 11 a.m. After checking out of the hotel, zip over to The Fun Factory, a ginormous family entertainment centre featuring tunnels, ball pits, slides and more! The Snack Factory has everyone’s lunch favourites. 2 p.m. Catch ‘Something on Sundays’ from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Mendel Art Gallery. While the kids enjoy supervised art and craft activities, mom and dad can tour the latest art exhibits and relax over a gourmet beverage at Museo Coffee before heading for home.
Start planning your getaway to Saskatoon today, by visiting www.tourismsaskatoon.com, or call one of their Fall/Winter Experience Experts at 1.800.567.2444.
Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
21
ENDLESS B eauty
tourismsaskatoon.com Toll Free: 1.800.567.2444
The Stir Crazy Blues Festival
in Swift Current in February presents three nights of talented performers, like Shakira S’Aida and a superb range of blues styles.
south
Photo credit: Stir Crazy Blues Festival/Shann Gowan
Head south for
festival fun by Hilary Klassen of SP Creative Features
T
here’s a cure for ‘stir crazy’ – those winter blues that threaten to unglue you. You can find it in the south – not the Deep South or the tropical south, but the Saskatchewan south. It’s the Stir Crazy Blues Festival at the beautiful Lyric Theatre in Swift Current. In its 12th year, the festival spans three nights with one performer each night. “It’s a really nice opportunity to get out of the house in the middle of winter. We all struggle to find things to do in the evenings when they’re long and cold,” coordinator Shann Gowan said. The festival features three diverse types of blues and partners with Saskatoon and Regina festivals, often swapping performers at a midpoint between the cities, Gowan said. There’s some fun at intermission, like “name that tune” on this great weekend happening February 26 to 28.
24 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
stival/Shelly Slykhuis
proud of it.” Blenders is the brain-child of Gowan, who brings in top, up-and-coming, Canadiana and indy music acts. Of course, there are other ways to fend off the winter blues in the south. Polish up your snowboard for the SaskTel Jibfest when Mission Ridge Winter Park near Fort Qu’Appelle plays host to the best riders in Saskatchewan. “It’s an opportunity for local athletes to take their skill to the next level. That’s what Jibfest is about: supporting a community of athletes and giving them a chance to get together and have fun but also ride competitively,” event coordinator Doug Elder said. Now in its 13th year, the event is one of the longest running snowboard contests in Canada and it’s where Saskatchewan product and professional snowboarder Mark McMorris got his start. “The spirit of the event is really cool; just the way the riders are all kind of like friends. They’re all pushing each other and yet it’s not all about winning. It’s about getting together and having fun in a friendly atmosphere,” Elder said. Jibfest takes place in March 2015. See jibfest.ca for updates.
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The Lyric Theatre is part of the downtown revitalization in Swift Current and home of the Blender Series. “It was in disarray and we’ve managed to resurrect it,” Lee Friesen of Tourism Swift Current said. “It’s made a difference; it’s becoming a cornerstone and the community is very
A journey ba ck in time aw aits at the D Festival in C ickens Villa arlyle where ge distraction family fun is from the co a welcome mmercializat —Photo cred ion of Chris it: Dickens Vi tmas. llage Fe
At four o’clock, carolers come out and urchins appear, begging for money for the poor. There’s a proper high tea with small sandwiches and scones with participants modeling period millinery. “Fourteen of our businesses participate in the Tiny Tim’s Tasting Tour, where you go into a store and they might have things like cream puffs, hot chocolate and caramel corn,” Slykhuis said. The main street in Carlyle is decorated in Victorian style and many people are in period costumes. There’s food sold on the street over supper, a lighted parade, and a Christmas musical comedy in the evening. “Some compliments that come back are, ‘we’ve taken a little bit of the materialistic commercialization from Christmas’, and ‘we have family fun’.” The festival, now in its 12th year, regularly draws crowds from nearby provinces — even British Columbia and the U.S. Slykhuis says with two new hotels in town and the newly renovated Bear Claw Casino Hotel, people can make the Dickens Village Festival a destination.
Craft sales are always popular with Christmas shoppers, particularly when homemade products are on hand. Unique items like horsehair jewelry can be found at the Assiniboia Mistletoe Art and Craft Sale, which features all homemade crafts and artwork. Held in the Prince of Wales Cultural and Recreation Centre, the sale draws people from across the province on November 7 and 8. Many head straight for the table with “personality toques,” according to event coordinator Joanne Weiss. The Mistletoe Café is open the entire time, with proceeds going to the Assiniboia District Arts Council.
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If you feel like the dickens, visit the Dickens Village Festival in Carlyle, December 5 and 6. Featured in Canadian Living magazine two years ago, this fun festival brings the Dickens era to life. “We have our Scrooge telling people to save their money. We have two English bobbies making sure that Scrooge smartens up and entertains the kids. We have Father Christmas and our Town Crier couple. We have a lot of people dressing up in long skirts with capes and a bonnet,” festival coordinator Shelly Slykhuis said.
The Whistlestop Christmas Craft Sale on October 24 and 25 boasts 70 booths with everything you can think of. Shelley Bader, owner and director of the sale, says that Continued on Page 26
Cozy, full modern, new log cabins with gas fireplaces, BBQ’s, etc. Located on major snowmobile trails in
Qu’Appelle Valley at Katepwa Provincial Park.
Close to ice fishing and downhill ski areas.
(306) 783-7951
www.sundayslogcabins.com
Cabin Accommodates: 2-6 people
Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
25
south
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Continued from Page 25
crafters travel from Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan to display their wares at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Convention Centre. Seabuckthorne products from a new Ontario exhibitor, prairie cherry products from Lumsden, jewelry made from leather and sterling silver, and much more will be available. The sale coincides with Moose Jaw’s Christmas in October weekend featuring the Yvette Moore Gallery and Café, with festive foods and handcrafted artisan creations. With its storied geography and rich history, the town of Eastend is celebrating its centennial by presenting a traveling exhibit of the history of the visual arts of Eastend and surrounding areas, which will visit other southwest Saskatchewan communities until February 28. Winter weather caused the cancellation of Weyburn’s
first annual Winterfest last February so they’re trying again. Winterfest 2015 will include outdoor skating, cross country skiing on trails through the city, sleigh rides (hopefully) a free hotdog lunch at Jubilee Park, and more, according to Nancy Styles, city councilor and chair of the Parks Board. “What we’re trying to do is get people to embrace winter and enjoy the outdoors!” See city. weyburn.sk.ca for more information. Don’t let fall escape without a visit to the Market at Pumpkin Hollow in Lumsden, which stays open till the end of October. Get spooked at the Haunted Village on October 25 at the Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village Museum 12 kilometres south of Moose Jaw. New scares and new routes should spike your heart rate at this popular event from 7 to 9 p.m. Plenty of distractions await you in the south. They’re not a cure for winter but they’re a reprieve! n
Fort Qu’Appelle
summer and winter
Minutes away from shopping, snowmobile trails, ice fishing & downhill skiing.
Exercise Room King/Queen Beds Geothermal Heating/Cooling Satellite TV Hi-Speed Internet Coffee Makers Fridge 5 Kitchenettes 750 Bay Avenue S. Fort Qu’Appelle
http://braeburn.sk.ca 1-306-332-5757
4 Lakes - 4 Seasons - 4 Everyone
Fort Qu' Appelle
Visit downtown Fort Qu’Appelle for many Unique Businesses and Services. TOWN OF FORT QU’APPELLE E Tel: 1-306-332-5266 www.fortquappelle.com
26 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
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Jason (l) and Jeff Matity, brothers who operate
MatitysGetFishing.com
, say there are many reasons why ice fishing is so popular.
south
—Photo credit: MatitysGetFishing.com
Casting call:
Let’s go
ice fishing by Tom Eremondi for SP Creative Services
A
glance out on the ice of Saskatchewan’s many lakes and rivers reveals a new booming activity in our province – ice fishing! As temperatures drop and our lakes freeze over, clusters of ice fishing shacks pop up on the ice, demonstrating the newfound popularity of this winter pastime. Jason and Jeff Matity, fishing enthusiasts and brothers who created the popular website MatitysGetFishing.com, say there are many reasons why ice fishing is spawning so quickly.
28 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
ing.com
Believe it or not, the longer, colder winters are another reason why more people are taking up the sport, brother Jason said. “There’s definitely been no issue and very few days when people haven’t had enough ice under their feet. As late as March 31 last year, when the season legally ends, there was still 42 to 46 inches of ice on most lakes in the province.” Jeff adds that many people take up ice fishing to spite winter. He also says many do it because there’s just as much chance of landing the dream catch. “This is especially so at the beginning and towards the end of the ice fishing season when fish are feeding more actively or spawning and have to feed very regularly. We’ve caught 15-pound walleyes, 25-pound pikes and two-and-a-half pound perch through the ice.” Both agree that another attraction is how simple the sport can be, especially for beginners. All one needs is a pail of bait, a pole and an auger to carve out a hole.
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“The majority of fishers in Saskatchewan are shore fishers,” Jeff Matity said. “That means they don’t use a boat. Ice fishing literally levels the playing field because that hump, flat or perfect spot you wish you could get out to in the summer is frozen in the winter. You can step on the ice and go anywhere you want.”
There’s an abundance of fish spec Saskatchew ies to be fo an, includin und in —Photo cred g JasonMatity’s ju mbo perch. it: MatitysG etFish
“The innovations in the last 10 to 15 years have made ice fishing even more accessible and enjoyable,” Jason said, noting fishing shacks at the top of the list. “Even on a sunny, minus (zero) day, a little bit of prairie wind can be a real turn-off. It’s even worse on a cloudy day. Now, you can bring a portable shelter and spend your time fishing being warm and comfortable.” He adds that ice fishing shacks range from the basic four walls and ceiling, to those structures that are fully heated and equipped with a host of luxurious amenities. Some are as easy to move as a snowmobile. Technology has also played a part in the appeal of ice fishing, they point out, noting underwater cameras as the must-have companion for many anglers. The brothers offer some tips to guarantee a great fishing expedition. “We always stress that safety comes first,” Jeff said. “It’s a lot of fun but you should always be aware of the rules and potential dangers.” Once you’ve assured that you’ll be safe, Jason says fishers should know what they’re targeting before attaching the bait and then choosing the right destination. “Perch are a smaller fish but they’re plentiful, good to eat and bite readily through the ice. Northern pike really like cooler waters and are easily attracted to a smelt tip.”
Jeff reports that one can never go wrong with a good investment. “If you start by buying good equipment and taking care of it, you’ll have it for a long time. You can do your homework online or by going to the specialty stores and seeking out advice from the staff. “Go where other fishers are,” he said. “You can learn a lot from other anglers. Joining your local wildlife federation or fish and game league is another great way to learn.” Both Matitys note there are numerous places to ice fish in the province but agree on their favourite fishing spots. “Tobin Lake is a must, especially if you’re looking for northern pike,” Jason said. He also ‘faves’ the Qu’Appelle Lakes, Last Mountain Lake, and Rafferty Dam as other places to carve a hole.
south
However, and yet another factor in the growth of ice fishing, is the increasing amenities and technology that people can use to catch that perfect fish.
“We also like Diefenbaker Lake because it’s a multispecies heaven,” Jeff said. “You can find pike, perch, walleye, whitefish, lake or rainbow trout, and a multitude of others.” Other favourites of his are Pasqua Lake in the Qu’Appelle region, Anglin Lake in the Prince Albert area, and Lake of the Prairies, which straddles the Manitoba and Saskatchewan borders. For more tips, visit MatitysGetFishing.com. The brothers also make frequent appearances at both Cabela’s locations in Saskatchewan. n
Reward yourself, rself, right here in Saskatchewan. Staying with Canalta Hotels can be naturally rewarding. For those of us who live here, we know that the natural beauty of Saskatchewan is its own reward, but why not earn some extra rewards while you visit! Canalta Hotels now has locations in 9 Saskatchewan communities offering you legendary hospitality while you experience Saskatchewan. Best of all, save your Canalta Rewards Points while you stay, and redeem your points to stay even longer and enjoy amazing Saskatchewan experiences like dogsledding.
Go to CanaltaHotels.com for locations.
Then, book your stay with us today!
Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
29
Learn about the evolution of the
North West Mounted Police at the RCMP Heritage Centre.
Regina
—Photo credit: Travel Regina
There’s a lot to
Loveabout
Regina by Travel Regina
F
rom the inspirational and the historic to the little quirks that give it its charm, there is a lot to love in Regina and we encourage you to explore all our vibrant city has to offer during the fall and winter seasons. From Nov. 24 to 29, experience the agricultural industry firsthand at the Canadian Western Agribition. Discover cattle trade auctions, milking demonstrations, sheep rides for children, the Canadian Cowboys Association Rodeo Finals, cultural entertainment and excellent shopping opportunities.
30 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
Photo cred the Regina it: Travel Re Pats! gina/Look M atters
cheer on our Regina Pats — the oldest junior hockey franchise in North America. Learn the history of Regina by visiting the RCMP Heritage Centre where you can partake in self-guided audio tours of exhibits that chronicle the evolution of the North West Mounted Police to the modern-day RCMP, recognized the world over. Take a driving tour of Depot where you can catch the Sergeant Major’s Parade at 12:45 p.m. from Monday to Friday on the Parade Square. At the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, journey through two billion years of Saskatchewan’s geological and early natural history, or see life at the turn of the 20th century as you roam through the halls of Government House. Get to know Regina through the soul of its artists as our city’s story is told through colour, shape, movement, and sound. Appreciate one of our many art galleries such as the MacKenzie Art Gallery. Feel exhilarated by a variety of performing arts including the Regina Symphony Orchestra, New Dance Horizons or a live performance in our beloved Globe Theatre.
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Leap to your feet beside the greatest fans in Canada and discover Rider Nation while you’re in Regina. A Rider home game is an experience like no other as you find yourself getting caught up in the energy and excitement of the Saskatchewan Roughrider super fans. Be sure to wear green and instantly become part of a community whose roar can be heard across the country. You can also
Cheer on ho metown favo urites, —
Now through January 4,
The MacKenzie Art Gallery
Regina
features an exhibition of Wilf Perreault’s works of everyday back alleys, including a 150-foot wrap-around panorama. —Photo credit: Travel Regina/Keith Hershmiller
Lose yourself in Wascana Centre. Located in the heart of the city, this elaborate park has 2,300 acres of green space, a hand-planted urban forest and wildlife reserves. Some of Regina’s greatest attractions, such as the Saskatchewan Science Centre, call Wascana Centre home. The park is also a hot spot for festivals and outdoor enthusiasts all year round. Skating and cross-country skiing are some favourite activities during the cooler months. Just outside of the city, venture through a corn maze at Pumpkin Hollow, or enjoy a sleigh ride at Beaver Creek Ranch. During our truly frosty days, find warmth and peace in our indoor oasis: the Regina Floral Conservatory. Taste our locally grown, raised, distilled and brewed flavours found in the city’s 200 restaurants. Innovative chefs have created astounding new tastes by pairing prairie sensibilities with world-infused flavour. Be sure to check out one of the several new pubs located downtown or the microbreweries located in the Warehouse District.
Innovative chefs have revolutionize d Regina’s which boas dining scen —Photo cred ts over 200 restau e, rants. it: Travel Re gina/ Christalee Fr oese
The Canadian Cowboys Association Rodeo Finals is one of the highlights of the mammoth Canadian Western Agribition. —Photo credit: Travel Regina
These and many other exciting attractions, tours and events are waiting for you in Regina. Visit www.tourismregina.com for more information on all of these experiences and others. Regina, there is a lot to love all year round. n
•
LESSONS
•
RENTALS
• SALES •
GIFT CERTIFICATES
“BECAUSE LIFE BEGINS AT THE END OF YOUR COMFORT LEVEL”
(306) 586.KITE (5483) EXPLORESPORTS.CA Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
31
Regina
Are you ready to
Ragnarok? Red Bull’s Kite Farm
coming to Regina this winter!
by Blair Braitenbach for L-P Specialty Products
Look to the skies this winter for excitement as Regina hosts the inaugural North American qualifiers for the
Red Bull Ragnarok event
.
Kiters from across the globe will land in the Queen city in February vying for berths at the international Red Bull Ragnarok championships in Norway. —Photo credit: Explore Sports
T
he sport of kiteboarding can expect a huge lift across Canada and the United States as Regina prepares to host the inaugural North American qualifiers for the Red Bull Ragnarok event in Norway.
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Kiteboarding, as well as kiteskiing, has been gaining momentum with each passing season as a viable winter pastime for those seeking a fun and challenging board sport. While still considered by some as a sport on the fringe – similar to snowboarding’s image 30 years
32 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
In the world of kiteboarding and kiteskiing, there is no competition bigger or more prestigious than the Red Bull Ragnarok endurance race held in early April in Haugastol, Norway. Approximately 240 kiters from across the globe will be competing in the sixth annual 100 km challenge. February’s Ragnarok qualifier is the first of its kind in North America, and with Saskatchewan’s natural undulating landscapes, it’s impossible to imagine a more suitable locale for the event, according to Aaron Hackel, owner of Explore Sports and event director for the qualifiers in Regina. “Let’s face it, we’ve got the wide open spaces for wind, which provides for a perfect prairie playground,” he said, adding Regina was also selected for its central location and easy accessibility from all the provinces and northern U.S. states. “It’s a brand new event, but it’s going to bring international exposure for Ragnarok, increase exposure of the sport to all of North America and it will be a great opportunity for those competing to represent in Norway.” The one-day qualifier will be held three km north of Regina off Highway 11 on either Feb. 14, 15 or 16, depending on wind conditions. Hackel is expecting about 175 racers competing in ski, board and women’s divisions on a 10-km loop, with two riders being sent to Norway. In addition to the competitors, Hackel hopes to see another
The Prairie Diner eats his way across
W
Saskatchewan
by Jeannie Armstrong SP Creative Features Editor
hen ‘funny guy’ and Saskatoon resident Jody Peters launched his career as a stand-up comedian and actor, he never thought he’d become an authority on where to eat in Saskatchewan. The comedian, whose career highlights include Montreal’s Just for Laughs Festival, stage shows, animation voice-overs, TV series including Wapos Bay and Rabbit Fall, and big screen flicks like Just Friends, is now the host of City TV’s The Prairie Diner. Produced by Zoot Pictures, The Prairie Diner takes viewers on a culinary tour across Saskatchewan and Manitoba in search of great eats in unexpected places. Although Peters confesses to having “zero food knowledge,” he does love to eat. His own cooking skills have increased greatly over the past two years, as each episode of The Prairie Diner sees Peters getting schooled by the featured chefs. “They always get me doing something in the kitchen — usually chopping. It’s funny because I’m not all that skilled with a knife,” Peters said. Fork in hand, Peters has criss-crossed the province and enjoyed many memorable meals in the past two
100-plus kiters coming out as spectators to be a part of the momentous occasion. Although plans are still being finalized, Hackel noted there will be piles of activities for the whole family to enjoy, including: para-motoring demonstrations, heated tents, concessions, a giant snow slide created by Degelman Machinery for children’s tobogganing, horse-drawn sleigh rides and more. With Red Bull as title sponsor, Hackel added, there will be DJs spinning from Red Bull’s Sugga Truck, a Red Bull after-party, swag and more. With all the exciting action taking place over the February long weekend, Hackel is confident the qualifying event will showcase what Saskatchewan has to offer for both those already involved in the sport and those curious to learn more.
Regina
ago – word is spreading among adrenaline junkies of the excitement that comes with being strapped to a board and propelled at high speeds by a giant kite.
“People always talk about the mountains for riding. I’d rather be in the field with one of those ‘Land of the Living Skies’ moments with my mates, kite in hand and riding into the moonlight,” Hackel said, noting the sport can be enjoyed throughout each season via Saskatchewan’s 100,000 lakes and long winter months. “I’ve been an avid skier and snowboarder since I was five. I wish I’d had kiteboarding when I was five or 10, knowing the natural landscape and being able to ride all year round. It’s hard to fully describe until you actually try kiteboarding. You get hooked; it’s a lifestyle. We watch the wind by the hour and drop what we’re doing to go kiteboarding when the conditions are perfect for us.” n years, including beerogies at Beer Bros. Gastropub and Deli in Regina and cajun seafood at Mardis Gras Grill in Saskatoon. “For one of our first episodes, we visited The Olive Tree Restaurant on Highway 12, just before the Petrofka Bridge,” Peters said. “The owners, Michael and Georgia, are from the island of Crete. Georgia made a beef tenderloin steak, flambéed it with rum, then added coffee, chili flakes and chocolate chips. Then she simmered it down in wine, added cream and bananas. A chocolate banana steak? Come on! But it was excellent!” The owners of The Olive Tree told Peters that after the episode aired, they were inundated with people coming in to try the chocolate banana steak. “Georgia says there is so much more on the menu, but everyone is asking for that steak!” Peters said. Another memorable Saskatchewan stop was the Harvest Eatery and Fresh Market in Shaunavon, offering a ‘from your garden to our table’ concept. “The owner, Rusty Thienes, was a top chef in Calgary. He convinced his wife, Kristy, who was a city girl, to move back to Shaunavon and open their own place. He’s a phenomenal chef who works with local producers. He’s got people in town who have large gardens bringing him their extra vegetables. He uses cuts of meat from selected local farms,” Peters said. “If you start with top ingredients, you’ve got the building blocks to a great meal.” n
Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
33
Skihere!
Located north of Melfort, Wapiti Valley Ski and Board Resort is one of the most full-scale ski and snowboard facilities in the province. —Photo credit: Wapiti Valley Ski & Board Resort
by Blair Braitenbach for SP Creative Features
W
ith ski and snowboard season approaching, expert shredders and novice wobblers alike have a treasure trove of facilities throughout the province to get one moving and grooving. Although Alberta and B.C. are renowned for their worldclass alpine opportunities, Saskatchewan too has a variety of picturesque and challenging locales catering to both downhill and cross-country adventurers. In the northwest, only minutes east of North Battleford, is Blue Mountain Canada Outdoor Adventure Centre. With over 30 kilometres of groomed trails snaking their way through the region’s scenic hills and valleys, manager Jason Moore says Blue Mountain makes for some of the best cross-country skiing in Canada.
s
“One thing people always comment on after driving through the prairies is that they are absolutely blown away by the enormous hills that surround them. It’s incredibly peaceful in the area,” Moore said, adding the trails are primarily north and south facing.
34 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
Wapiti Valley Ski & Board Resort
Regina
—Photo credit: Tourism Saskatchewan/Rob Weitzel Graphic Productions
“One thing that’s really nice about our trails is the way they’re situated. They don’t get lots of full sun so they never get too icy.” Blue Mountain not only acts as a training facility for the North Battleford biathlon club, but has also been host to provincial, western and international biathlon competitions. In addition to its cross-country ski and biathlon amenities, the year-round park provides snowshoeing, skating and tobogganing opportunities as well as rentals and a full service chalet complete with a cozy fireplace. For information and booking inquiries, visit www.bluemountaincanada.com. Just a hop, skip and jump away from Blue Mountain to the west of North Battleford is Table Mountain. Boasting a 110-metre vertical drop with 11 trails and four lifts, Table Mountain has been a mainstay for provincial downhill enthusiasts for decades. This alpine oasis provides rentals, beginner to advanced runs, a terrain park and a newly renovated chalet. For more information, visit www. tablemountainregionalpark.com. Ski and snowboard parks to the north-east and central ranges of the province also allow for superb winter getaways. Ski Timber Ridge, located five kilometres south of Big River just west of Prince Albert National Park, will take one’s breath away – and not just from racing down its slopes. Surrounded by scenic forest, the hill delivers amazing panoramic views atop its 90-metre high peak. “It’s a unique environment,” manager Arlene Gilbert said. New to the resort cooperative are recently constructed additions to the chalet. With six runs – ranging from black, blue and green diamond – Gilbert says Ski Timber Ridge is perfect for riders of varying skill levels. The hill also regularly hosts school trips and is a great place to improve one’s skills before traversing any actual mountains outside Saskatchewan. “It’s a great place to get ready to go to those places. Overall it’s a great family area,” Gilbert said. Visit their Facebook page
at www.facebook.com/skitimberridge for more details. Wapiti Valley Ski and Board Resort, north of Melfort, is one of the most full-scale ski and snowboard facilities in the province. In addition to its 12 runs and freestyle terrain park, the resort is home to extensive and groomed crosscountry ski trails. On-site cabin rentals, a chalet, warm-up shelters, lounge, rentals, lessons and more make Wapiti Valley a growing winter tourist hub. Visit their website at www.skiwapiti.com. Duck Mountain Ski Area, a short drive east from Kamsack near the Manitoba boarder, is a volunteer-based, non-profit organization. The 22 runs, featuring a 1,600 metre long course, showcases the natural splendour of the surrounding Duck Mountain Provincial Park. Visitors enjoy a wide variety recreational activities, which include snow tubing, a terrain park and snowshoeing amenities. A licenced chalet, instructions and equipment rentals are all available on-site. Visit www.skitheduck.com for a full listing of services. In southern Saskatchewan lies Mission Ridge Winter Park, approximately 45 minutes north-east of Regina within the beautiful Fort Qu’Appelle valley. Once home to 2014 Olympic bronze medalist Mark McMorris, Mission Ridge boasts a 90-metre high elevation with a mixture of easy to difficult slopes, explains general manager and co-owner Don Williams. “What I’m told is we’ve got the best terrain park around,” Williams said. “We do take an awful lot of care on our terrain park for snowboarders.” Williams says with “perfect conditions” on the daily wall-to-wall groomed hill, the park’s nine runs offer some of the best riding east of the Rockies. “Probably our biggest challenge is to ensure people know we have snow out here,” he said, noting the park’s primary use of man-made snow. The day lodge features equipment rentals and “local favourite” Bubba’s Pizza. Visit www. missionridge.ca for more information. n
Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
35
SASKATCHEWAN YAMAHA DEALERS SUPPORTING THE SASKATCHEWAN SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION Discovery Motorsports Freedom RV & Marine Mercury Service Nipawin Chrysler-Dodge Northland Chrysler Open Road Recreation Proline Motorsports
Humboldt North Battleford Moose Jaw Nipawin Meadow Lake Regina Saskatoon
Reed Leisure Robertson Motorsports Schrader Motors Sno Pro Sports Terry’s Cycle Tru North Yamaha
Regina Swift Current Yorkton Rosetown Weyburn Prince Albert
SSA MEMBERSHIP JOIN TODAY!
SSA MEMBERS RECEIVE FREE:
Take A Friend Snowmobiling Week
February 15 – 21, 2015 For details on Saskatchewan
Snowmobile Tours go to www.sasksnow.com
• Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association magnet • Four issues of SnoRiders • Entry for three membership prizes: 1. One coupon for Free Avalanche Training Course (Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 Class and Field) anywhere in Western Canada from ZacsTracs. Valued at $350 2. One $50 Co-op Gift Card for 10 lucky recipients 3. Free Rental of sled trailer coupon from any Flaman location in Saskatchewan for a weekend (pick up Friday before 6:00 pm and return Monday morning) valued at approximately $200 • Entry for a Grand Prize: $500 Gift Certificate from Recreation Supply. • Snow/trail conditions, event information and Vintage Snowmobile information on the SSA website. Your membership ensures that the SSA can deliver snowmobile safety, provincial/national and international representation, accessibility to land access for trails, a strong government partnership, insurance for trails and long-term planning to keep snowmobiling alive and well in Saskatchewan. An SSA family/single membership is $25 and can be purchased by visiting the SSA website at www.sasksnow.com and clicking on Membership!
Saturday, February 7, 2015 Gallagher Centre Yorkton, Saskatchewan
GET YOUR SASKATCHEWAN SNOWMOBILE SAFETY CERTIFICATE!
Ride with Us!
38 years of snowmobiling for Easter Seals™ Kids
ONLINE & CLASSROOM SNOWMOBILE SAFETY TRAINING!
www.snowarama.ca Email: snowarama@abilitiescouncil.sk.ca
visit www.sasksnow.com
Tel: 306-782-2463
WIN A 2015 SLED! WIN YOUR CHOICE OF ONE OF THESE 2015 SLEDS OR $10,000.00 CASH In co-operation with The Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association Inc. Box 533, Regina Beach, Sask. S0G 4C0 Ph. 729-3500
Draw Date: February 28th,2015 at St. Mary’s Cultural Centre Yorkton, SK
Yamaha PZ50XTFB Phazer X-TX
Arctic Cat XF 6000LXR ES
BRP MXZ Sport 600
Polaris 600 Switchback Pro-S
75% of the profits go to Local Clubs to promote trail development and safe snowmobiling in Saskatchewan Winner to be announced on www.sasksnow.com Lic. No. RR13-0805 • Must be 14 years or older to win • Maximum 60,000 Tickets Sold
Contact your local snowmobile club to purchase a $2.00 ticket.
Contact the SSA @ 1-800-499-7533 and purchase your tickets using Visa or MasterCard!
YOU COULD BE THE LUCKY WINNER!
Winners will be announced on www.sasksnow.com
Toll free in Saskatchewan:
1-866-301-0031
2015 Yorkton Easter™ Seals Ambassador 12-year-old Brooke Perepeluk
For information and regular updates, please visit and like our Facebook page Easter Seals Snowarama
Enter your photos at
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Win a Trailer! Enter your snowmobiling photos and you could win a trailer!
Contest starts at the end of October. Brought to you by:
107 Ffun Motorsports
69 Triton Trailers 70
Electrical Room
Concession
Men
Print Room
105
Show Office Ladies
104
94 1 SSA
2 SSA Raffle
95
106 Nica 103 96
93 96A
102
91
92
101 98
91A 97
85A
85
79 EPS 84 85B
90 90C
90A 3 Tru North
89 86
88 87
59 32 39 4 GT
33 38
60
34 37
81
80
64
63 35 36
61
50 57
62 51 56 5 Rec Supply
52 55
ENTRANCE
99 BRP
72 71 74 75
78
65
66 TSS
43 Arctic Cat 44
45 46 53 54 21
6 Proline
7 Yamaha 9 Flaman
8 Flaman Trailers
SSA HEADQUARTERS & BREAK OUT ROOMS
VINTAGE SLED DISPLAY
77 Martin MS
67 PSR
26 20 19 17 & 18
16
15
14
13
30 Platinum
12 Adrenaline Unlimited
25
23
22
68 Kramer Trailer
42 Prairie Rec
27
31 Axxis Hall E
11 Polaris
10B 10A
HUB CITY DISPLAY STORAGE WASHROOMS
FOYER
CONCESSION & BEER GARDENS
Prairieland Park, Hall D & E Saskatoon, SK
Klim Technical Riding Gear ...................................64,63
SIAST Power Sports Tech ..........................................25
A.O.A. Orthotic Works ................................................95
Koenders MFG ...........................................................27
Sled Sicamous/Tourism Shuswap ..............................75
Adrenaline Unlimited ..................................................12
Kramer Trailer Sales...................................................68
Sled Wrecks ...............................................................44
AMSOIL......................................................................70
Lake & Country Realty................................................38
SnoRiders West....................................................... 90C
Arctic Cat Inc. .............................................................43
Martin Motor Sports....................................................77
Snowarama Yorkton ...................................................92
Axxis Motorsports Ltd.................................................31
Melfort & District Trail Riders Inc. ...............................60
Speed Demon Lights..................................................26
Battlefords Trail Breakers Snowmobile Club ..............46
Millennium Technologies ............................................57
Split Rail Snowmobile Ski...........................................13
Boryski’s Butcher Block Ltd. .......................................32
Mountain Sports Distribution ......................................22
SSA 4 Sled Raffle.........................................................2
BRP ............................................................................99
Muck Boots and More...........................................72, 71
SSRA Straightline Snowmobile Racing Associate......86
Bulldog Decks...............................................................8
Natural Connections...................................................89
THE OLD SIGN SHOP C/O ONTRA SALES..............20
Canadian Avalanche Centre
Nica’s Clothing & Accessories ..................................106
Thunderstruck Films...................................................88
(will be rebranded to “Avalanche Canada”
Oasis Insurance..........................................................59
Tie Boss - RJS Sales................................................85A
on Oct. 2, 2014)..........................................................74
Platinum Recreation & Powersports Ltd.....................30
Tobin Lake Resort.......................................................35
Candle Lake Golf Resort ............................................91
Polaris Industries........................................................ 11
Top Secret Shop................................................. 66 TSS
Cedar House Chalets .................................................52
Powder Keg..............................................................90A
Tourism Fernie............................................................54
Choko Design.......................................................81, 80
PowderHunter.............................................................97
Tourism Golden ..........................................................53
Cutco Cutlery..............................................................61
Power Sports of Regina..............................................67
Tourism Yorkton..........................................................93
EXHIBITOR LIST
3 Second Heat............................................................87
DNR Motorsports........................................................45
Prairie Recreation.......................................................42
Town of Hudson Bay & Hudson Bay Trail Riders .......39
Eagle Bay Resort........................................................15
Prairie Women on Snowmobiles ......................101, 102
Town of Nipawin .........................................................36
Ens Toyota................................................................10A
Proline Motorsports & Marine Inc. ................................6
Town of Porcupine Plain.............................................33
Extreme Power Sports................................................79
Recreation Supply ........................................................5
Trinity Safety & Training..............................................78
Fast Enterprises .........................................................69
Reed Leisure Products...............................................21
Tru North Yamaha, RV and Marine...............................3
Ffun Motor Sports.....................................................107
Revelstoke Snowmobile Club...............................51, 50
Valemount & Area Recreation
Flaman Sales Ltd.......................................................8,9
Ride for Dad .............................................................85B
Development Assoc. (VARDA) .............................84, 85
Gadgets and Things .................................................91A
River Trail Country Vacations .....................................37
Waskesiu Wilderness Region &
Global One .................................................................34
Saskatchewan All Terrain Vehicle Association......55, 56
Lakeland Snowmobile Club......................................104
Go Video Motorsports............................................17,18
Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association ..............1 SSA
Weir Boondocking ......................................................90
Grizzly Lodge..............................................................62
Saskatoon Snowmobile Club......................................96
Whiteswan Snow Hawks Club....................................16
GT Performance ...........................................................4
Scentsy.....................................................................103
Yamaha Motor Canada.................................................7
H2R Distirbuting of Fox Shox .....................................19
Shifted Earth Apparel..................................................65
Yorkton Sno-Riders.....................................................94
Kelvington TrailBlazers...............................................98
Shores On Cowan ....................................................105
Zacs Tracs..................................................................23
Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association Inc. 221 Centre Street, Box 533 Regina Beach, Sk., S0G 4C0 Phone (306) 729-3500 Fax (306) 729-3505 Email: sasksnow@sasktel.net www.sasksnow.com
Make sure your
snowmobile
is registered before hitting the trails
Snowmobiling
—Photo credit: SSA
Register your
winter
Snowmobile this
by Jonathan Hamelin for SP Creative Features
B
efore you hit the trails this winter, make sure you do the paperwork and register your snowmobile or renew your registration. If you don’t, you’ll take a hit in your pocketbook – failing to register your snowmobile results in a fine of $60, not to mention the hefty fines in the event of an accident. Saskatchewan snowmobilers are required to have their vehicles registered when operating on any land other than private property. This also applies if you’re snowmobiling on someone else’s private property without permission. Registration costs $149 annually, which includes $200,000 third-party liability insurance. Snowmobiles can be registered at over 400 SGI motor license issuers located in communities throughout Saskatchewan and can be renewed in-person or online: www.sasksnow.com. “People who don’t register their snowmobiles are taking a major risk involving insurance,” Saskatchewan
40 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
Numerous snowmobile are located trails in the Big —Photo cred River area. it: SSA
Snowmobile Association (SSA) President/CEO Chris Brewer said. “Without any liability insurance, if an accident happens you’re subject to being sued. It doesn’t fall under no-fault insurance.”
“Every intersection on the trail system now has a ‘You Are Here’ trail map, which is unique to Saskatchewan. Our trails systems are all numbered, so you always know where you are.” - Chris Brewer, President & CEO Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association A total of $70 from each annual registration goes toward the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Trail Fund, which helps keep the province’s trails in peak condition and funds the snowmobiling safety programs. The registration brings in an average of $1.2 million annually, which covers around half the cost of operating the province’s trails. Continued on Page 42
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Brewer warns that a lack of support will affect the quality of the province’s extensive snowmobile trail network. “One of the things that we’re seeing in Saskatchewan is our grooming equipment is not getting updated as often as it should be. That’s a difficult thing. You want to try and keep good quality equipment.” For more information on new registrations or renewals, visit www.sasksnow.com or www.pcs.gov.sk.ca/Snowmobilefees. Snowmobile owners are encouraged to talk to their insurance broker about additional insurance. n
AT C H E W A
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SK
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SASKATCHEWAN SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION AND CO-OP DEALERS
TIO N
With the positive benefits of the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Trail Fund, it’s surprising to Brewer that some Saskatchewan snowmobilers choose not to register their vehicles. Around 3,000 Saskatchewanians were surveyed in 2009 and half of them reported they hadn’t registered their snowmobile. Oddly enough, some people reported
“Our system here is fairly unique because we’re open for tourism and we’re open for business,” Brewer said. “So many businesses kick in and help with their local snowmobile club and assist with fund-raisers and so on. Keeping the fees down is a way of giving back to those businesses. They can see some of the benefits.”
IA
“When the fund came along we established some policies and procedures – which we still work on today – to make improvements. Some of the improvements that we’ve seen here in Saskatchewan include ensuring that every intersection on the trail system now has a ‘You Are Here’ trail map, which is unique to Saskatchewan. Our trails systems are all numbered, so you always know where you are. It makes things very comforting for snowmobilers.”
In addition to the fund facilitating the upkeep of trails, Saskatchewan snowmobilers don’t have to purchase trail permits, passes or additional fees.
C
“Prior to the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Trail Fund being brought in, the clubs were run on a volunteer system. Clubs had to fund-raise for all of the dollars that came in and there was no consistency,” Brewer said. “When there was enough money to put some fuel in the groomer, they would go groom. We would see that lots of clubs were in debt come spring and they would fundraise all summer to pay off some loans. The trail signage virtually didn’t exist. It was literally ribbon or surveyors tape tied around trees.
having both a registered and unregistered snowmobile in their house, meaning they had likely registered only their primary snowmobile.
SA
s
Continued from Page 40
P ROVIN NCIALL SSNOWMOBILE NOW WMO OBIILE FFESTIVAL ESTIIVALL PROVINCIAL FEBRUARY 27 THETO 28
Sno-R Riders Present
EVENTS F O E SCHEDUL SATURDAY, FEB. 28, 2015
FRIDAY, FEB. 27, 2015 5:30PM - 8PM
REGISTRATION/BELT BREAKER MEET & GREET BEGINS 8AM - 10AM PULLED PORK ON A BUN AVAILABLE FOR ALL REGISTERED
7PM - 1AM
BACK TO THE FUTURE RETRO FASHION SHOWCASE, SILENT AUCTION, 50/50 RAFFLES,
10AM - 4PM 5PM - 6PM 6PM - 8PM 8PM - 1AM
SNACKS & LIVE BAND “SHAMELESS”
RISE & SHINE BREAKFAST & FINAL REGISTRATION *TRAIL LUNCH PICK UP SUPER TRAC’S MUSEUM TOURS & SELF GUIDED TRAIL EXPLORATION COCKTAIL HOUR BANQUET, CO-OP AWARDS & ENTERTAINMENT SILENT AUCTION, 50/50 RAFFLES, SSA $10,000 OR SLED DRAW MIDNIGHT LUNCH & LIVE BAND “SHAMELESS”
TOTAL PACKAGE INCLUDES • ALL FRIDAY & SATURDAY EVENTS • WELCOME PACKAGE • ENTERTAINMENT, BANQUET & DANCE • SATURDAY BREAKFAST • SATURDAY TRAIL LUNCH & SUPER TRAC’S SNOWMOBILE MUSEUM TOUR • SOUVENIR PIN & 1 LITRE XL-S SYNTHETIC 2-CYCLE OIL FOR EACH PARTICIPANT OF THE FESTIVAL ************************************************************************************************** • ALL EVENTS WILL BE HELD AT ST. MARY’S CULTURAL CENTER 240 WELLINGTON AVENUE, YORKTON, SK • ALL SNOWMOBILES MUST BE REGISTERED • SHUTTLE SERVICE AVAILABLE • MANY GREAT PRIZES TO BE WON! FOR INFORMATION CALL: KATHY MOONEY AT 306-621-2170 OR JOLENE KINDIAK AT 306-786-1902 REGISTER AT: WWW.SASKSNOW.COM
42 Destination Saskatchewan • WINTER 2014
Stay
& Play in in Regina Regina
Ask for the Stay & Play package when you book your room at any participating Regina hotel to receive: Special stay rates at participating hotels.
2 for 1 Show Lounge tickets for a casino-presented performance.
Pay $10, Play $20 gaming vouchers on days one and two of your stay.
And new for 2014, a bonus Pay $20, Play $40 gaming voucher if you stay a third day!
Daily $5 food and beverage vouchers valid throughout Casino Regina.
For more information about Stay & Play packages and participating hotels, visit casinoregina.com/stayandplay. Be sure to mention the Stay & Play package when booking.
Offer expires January 31, 2015. Stay & Play packages must be booked in advance and are subject to hotel availability. Some restrictions apply. One Casino Regina offer provided per week, per stay. Cannot be combined with any other offer. No cash value and non-negotiable. Gaming vouchers are redeemable for non-cashable slot play only. Must be a Players Club Member. Get your free Players Club Card at the Casino Regina Players Club Desk. Casino Regina reserves the right to cancel or alter any promotion.