Destination Saskatchewan Summer by Postmedia Saskatchewan

Summer 2015

YOUR GUIDE TO SASKATCHEWAN VACATIONS

Saskatchewan’s Favourite Wireless The best network in the province, owned and operated by SaskTel, just keeps getting better! Covering over 98% of the province’s population, with 11 SaskTel Stores and 138 Authorized Dealer locations, no one has you covered like SaskTel. 4G network improvements are coming soon to additional rural communities throughout 2015. 4G Coverage – March 31, 2015

4G LTE Coverage – March 31, 2015

Visit a SaskTel Authorized Dealer or SaskTel Store | 1-800-SASKTEL | sasktel.com The coverage areas shown are approximate. SaskTel cannot guarantee that coverage will be exactly as shown since factors beyond our control also affect coverage. These include weather conditions, terrain, your distance from a cell tower and whether the cell is being used indoors or outdoors. Saskatchewan 4G coverage is as of March 31, 2015. 4G LTE coverage effective date is March 31, 2015. Coverage areas outside of Saskatchewan are subject to change without notice. Long distance charges apply outside local calling areas. Rates vary depending on service plan. Mobile internet access speed provided by the network operator may vary due to the divide being used, network congestion, distance from the cell site, topography, environmental conditions and other factors. Speed on the Internet is beyond the wireless network operator’s control and may vary with your conﬁguration, Internet traffic, website server and management policies and other factors. 4G and 4G LTE are not available in all areas.

the only

place to see it all

North America’s largest event for dryland farming and direct seeding technology. Over 900 exhibitors. Premier event where companies showcase new products and innovations for canola, wheat, forage, pulse crop production and livestock technology. www.myfarmshow.com

Canada’s Largest Tradeshow

Plan to Attend June 16, 2015 - Preview Day June 17 - 19, 2015 Evraz Place, Regina, SK, Canada

Proud Member of the Farm Show Council

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It all adds up to a great

Saskatchewan vacation!

By Jeannie Armstrong Postmedia SK Special Projects editor

A joint publication of The Leader-Post and The StarPhoenix, Destination Saskatchewan is your guide to nonstop summer fun! This edition of Destination Saskatchewan takes you on journeys to every corner of the province! We’ll take you to points north, where you can learn about the province’s only whitewater rafting festival on the Churchill River, along with new zip-line adventures being introduced to Elk Ridge Resort, just outside of Prince Albert National Park. Experience the rich history and culture of Central Saskatchewan’s many attractions, including visits to Fort Carlton Provincial Park and the National Doukhobour Heritage Village. Southern Saskatchewan is an enticing playground – the land of cowboys and dinosaurs! Destination Saskatchewan will turn the spotlight on the one-of-a-kind vacation experiences that await in our southern region. Sit back, relax and enjoy the read! Then start planning your next summer getaway in Saskatchewan! Jeannie Armstrong Editor, Destination Saskatchewan

Over 100,000 lakes... Close to 300 golf courses... 400-plus campgrounds... Over 200 museums 220 roadside attractions.... 50-plus art galleries 76 regional parks... 34 provincial parks... 2 national parks... Over 2,500 hours of sunshine annually...

ENDLESS FUN! FRONT COVER:

Lac La Ronge Provincial Park Photo Credit: Tourism Saskatchewan/ Paul Austring

ABOUT THIS CONTENT: These stories were produced by Postmedia Saskatchewan’s Special Projects department to promote awareness of this topic for commercial purposes. Postmedia’s editorial departments had no involvement in the creation of this content.

4 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

CONTENTS

• Celebrate good times in Saskatchewan! ...............5 NORTHERN SASKATCHEWAN ..............................8 • Waskesiu & Area Wilderness Region .....................6 • Zip-line fun comes to Northern Saskatchewan...16

CENTRAL SASKATCHEWAN ................................18 • Prairie performances in the spotlight.................23 • Discover yourself in Saskatoon ...........................28 • Culinary tours explore Saskatchewan.................34 SOUTHERN SASKATCHEWAN .............................35 • Gone ﬁshin’ ........................................................38 • All aboard the Southern Prairie Railway.............40 • Lake Diefenbaker province’s largest water park ..42 • Regina: a great place to spend the summer! ......46

GOLFING IN SASKATCHEWAN.......................49

The Sask Power

Windscape Festival

SASKATCHEWAN FESTIVALS

, taking place June 20-21 in Swift Current, will feature kite ﬂyers from Germany, England, France and the Philippines. —Photo Credit: SaskPower Windscape Festival

Celebrate

good times

Saskatchewan!

by Jonathan Hamelin for Postmedia SK Special Projects

ummertime in Saskatchewan is festival time. From words to wind to water, these festivals truly encapsulate the spirit of the province. The Saskatchewan Festival of Words in Moose Jaw celebrates imaginative language and attracts authors from across the country for readings and performances. With 60 events over four days – writing workshops for all ages, dramatic readings, feature interviews, trivia fun nights and a poetry slam – visitors truly embrace the culture of language.

mer Solstice

“Moose Jaw plays such a great host for the event,” said Saskatchewan Festival of Words Executive Director Donna Lee Howes. “The city seems to be well-designed for a festival where people can walk from venue to venue. Saskatchewan has a history of producing well known authors and 25 per cent of our lineup is made up of Saskatchewan talent. We also seem to have great success in courting the Governor General or Giller Prizewinning authors and having them attend. It’s Canada’s who’s who of literary talent.” For more information, visit festivalofwords.com. One of the best activities on a windy summer day in Saskatchewan is to go fly a kite! The SaskPower Windscape Festival in Swift Current is your chance to do it in style. This year’s event runs June 20-21 and features kite flyers from Germany, England, France and the Philippines.

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The festival, which runs from July 16 to 19 this year, features a poetry slam performance from Moe Clark, a multidisciplinary Métis artist. Some other performers include: Lisa Bird-Wilson (Fiction), Jane Byers (Poetry), Deryn Collier (Mystery) and James Daschuk (NonFiction), Terry Fallis (Fiction), Gary Geddes (Poetry), Steven Heighton (Fiction/Poetry) and Kim McCullough (Fiction/Teen Writing Instructor).

Taking plac e June 19-2 0 in Gravelb Saskatchew ourg an Summer Solstice is on , the Southern most divers e of the prov e op en-air cultu ince’s —Photo Cr ral and mus edit: Southe ical events. rn Saskatch ewan Sum

Continued on Page 6

DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

SASKATCHEWAN FESTIVALS

Churchill River Canoe Outﬁtters hosts the province’s only Whitewater Festival, June 26 to 28, at Missinipe.

—Photo Credit: Churchill River Canoe Outﬁtters/Ric Driediger

toche Days, at Back to Ba to celebrate lebrates ce l iva st fe There’s a lot . This year’s ﬂag, the is et M July 16 to 19 e th niversary of sistance the 200th an Batoche Re rsary of the rsary. ve ni an 130th annive l’s own 45th he Days Batoc and the festiva it: Back to —Photo Cred

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Continued from Page 5

“Some of these guys are the best kite flyers in the world,” said Windscape Kite Festival organizer Shann Gowan. “We have a team from England coming called The Flying Squad. They fly kites choreographed to music. They all fly together and they can stop their kites in midair, tip them on top of someone’s head. They’re amazing. One guy from Germany puts the camera up the line of a kite and takes pictures from up in the air. Another guy has huge handmade kites that are 1,000 square feet. There are people from the Philippines bringing some Asian influenced kites. We have about 40 to 50 celebrity flyers each year that really do fill the air with some pretty amazing stuff.” Gowan notes there are also plenty of children’s activities and kite vendors, while you can also strap a kite on your back and race against the wind. For more information, visit windscapekitefestival.ca. The Whitewater Festival in Missinipe truly makes a splash every year in the festival scene, being the only one of its kind in the province. Taking place June 26 to 28, the whitewater canoeing event attracts paddlers from

6 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

around the province. People gather on Friday afternoon at Devil Lake and paddle upstream for roughly three hours to Barker Island. “Barker Island is right at the base of the main rapids we use and is accessible only by canoe. The focal point of the whole weekend is the big event on Saturday at the island,” said Whitewater Festival Organizer Ric Driediger. “We have our chef come out and prepare a meal for everybody out in the middle of the wilderness. He’s done a roast pig, pulled pork and includes all the fixings. We always bring in a local band. This year there’s a musical group that’s paddling the Churchill River and stopping in communities to play music. They’re planning to arrive during the festival Friday and Saturday night.”

SASKATCHEWAN FESTIVALS The Saskat chewan Fe July 16 to 19 stival of Wor ds, , will attract nationally re authors and nowned po et s to Moose —Photo Cr edit: Sa Jaw. skatchewan Festival

Driediger said the event is attended by paddlers of a “huge variety of skill levels,” from beginners to experts. Motorboat shuttles to the island are available. For more information, visit churchillrivercanoe.com/whitewaterfestival.html. Saskatchewan has a diverse culture, and that is certainly represented in the Southern Saskatchewan Summer Solstice, one of the province’s most diverse open-air musical and cultural event, including international cuisine, children’s activities, workshops, art, dance, literature and a sizzling musical line-up. The Saskatchewan Summer Solstice runs this year from June 19-20. The festival is located in Gravelbourg, a town dubbed the ‘Cultural Gem of Saskatchewan’ due to its remarkable bilingual heritage and rich culture. As such, the event is themed every year to pay tribute to this. Past themes have honoured Korea, China, Netherlands and Mexico. This year, the festival’s theme is Ukraine. “I was talking to a couple out of Gravelbourg originally from Ukraine, so that’s why I decided to make it the theme. It’s nice if you have people in the community and you can organize something for them,” said Saskatchewan Summer Solstice Organizer Fred Hundersmarck. “They can invite their family and celebrate. It creates a welcoming environment if you have some dance

of Words

and entertainment from their home country. We are decorating the festival with the Ukrainian flag and colours, as well as having Ukrainian food and music.” For more information, visit summersolsticefestivaldete.com. If you’re a culture and history buff, then Back to Batoche Days is for you. This year’s event, from July 16 to 19, is celebrating 200 years of the Métis flag, as well marking the 130th anniversary of the Batoche Resistance through the development of Butterfly Lane. Veterans will be honoured by the placement of name plaques on the veterans’ memorial. The event also serves as a chance to celebrate Métis culture through a variety of pavilions. Bannock is available and there is a bannock baking competition. There are fiddling and jiggling competitions, square dancing showcases, live entertainment, old-time dancing, arts and crafts exhibitors, and a variety of displays. “It’s important for us to celebrate our culture. Five years ago, we celebrated the Year of the Métis. It’s for recognition for our Métis people,” said Back to Batoche Days Volunteer Organizer May Henderson. “Batoche is not a political venue; it’s more for culture. All of our pavilions are run by Métis people. People can meet new and old friends and families can have reunions. We want to showcase the young people because they’re our future.” For more information, visit backtobatoche.org. ■

DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

Cruise the serene waters of Tobin Lake on a ‘ﬂoating RV’ from

NORTHERN SASKATCHEWAN

Aurora Houseboats —Photo Credit: Aurora Houseboats

Northern

Saskatchewan is uniquely accommodating by Jeannie Armstrong Postmedia SK Special Projects Editor

ired of the same-old summer getaway? Make your precious vacation days truly memorable by planning a visit to Northern Saskatchewan.

oTENTiks of fer a new w and stay in ay to play Prince Albe rt National —Photo Cr Park. edit: Parks Cana

Step out of the ordinary and into some of the most unique vacation settings imaginable – and some you may never even have thought of!

Guests can choose from two uniquely designed yurts: The Yeti or the Betty. “The décor in each is different, but the amenities are the same,” Karen Wasylyk said.

Have you ever slept in a yurt? At Flora Bora Forest Lodging, near Emma and Christopher Lakes, guests are invited to stay in three-season yurt lodgings, surrounded by lush boreal forest.

Each yurt sleeps four in beds topped with cozy duvets. The fully equipped kitchen features a fridge, cooktop, microwave, coffeemaker – even wine glasses. The bathroom comes stocked with robes and handcrafted soaps. “Guests just need to bring their personal belongings. It’s like a hotel experience, but completely unique!” Wasylyk said.

For centuries, nomadic Mongolian tribes have sheltered in circular wooden dwellings known as yurts. Flora Bora hosts Karen and Justin Wasylyk have reinterpreted the historic yurt for modern day travelers, dialing up the luxury and comfort levels for year-round enjoyment.

da/PANP

Flora Bora guests can stroll the lodge’s attractive grounds and explore nature trails leading to nearby Tuddle’s Lake. Canoes and cruiser bikes add to the fun!

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NORTHERN SASKATCHEWAN

Experience the surprising luxury and comfort of a yurt, a unique adventure offered at

Flora Bora Forest Lodging

—Photo Credit: Flora Bora Forest Lodging

The Station Arts Centre in Rosthern presents

“Chickens” Lucia Frangione directed by Peter Jorgensen. by

July 10 to August 9, 2015 8 pm performances Tuesdays through Saturdays and 2pm matinees Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Pre-show dinners available by reservation.

For more information call 306-232-5332. DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

NORTHERN SASKATCHEWAN

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Entering its fourth season, the unique lodge has attracted visitors from as far away as Spain and England. “We adore our guests and enjoy meeting them,” Wasylyk said. For more information, visit ﬂorabora.ca. There’s a new way to stay and play at Prince Albert National Park (PANP): the oTENTik! Monica Osterhaut, PANP promotion officer, describes the oTENTiks as “a blend of a tent and an A-frame cabin on a raised wooden floor.” Parks Canada has introduced 10 oTENTiks at Beaver Glen campground. Last summer was the first full operating season for the program. The national oTENTik program is part of Park Canada’s strategy to provide alternative accommodations at its different parks and sites. “It’s an effort to meet the needs of our new visitors that maybe haven’t grown up with rustic camping,” Osterhaut said.

“I think there are many people who are looking for a wilderness experience but aren’t quite confident enough or maybe don’t have their own equipment. The oTENTiks meet that need. It’s a soft introduction to camping.” Each oTENTik sleeps six people on mattress-topped platform beds and bunk beds. “People have to bring their own sleeping gear — either sheets and bedding or sleeping bags — along with their own food and dishes. There is no electricity in them, so guests are provided with a lantern, as well as a propane heater for the shoulder season when it’s a bit cooler out,” Osterhaut said. The park has also turned up the outdoor comfort level for visitors by providing two Adirondack chairs and a screened tent for each unit. Because of the prevalence of wildlife in the park, no food preparation, cooking, eating or food storage is allowed inside of the canvas-walled oTENTiks. Each site has a food storage locker where visitors can place their food and cooking items. Another option is to store items in your vehicle. “It’s like tenting in that respect,” Osterhaut said. Each oTENTik has its own firepit, picnic table and barbecue. “They are within walking distance to the washroom and shower facility. There’s also a kitchen shelter alongside the loop that people can use,” Osterhaut said. The oTENTiks are available from the May long weekend through to Thanksgiving weekend (weather permitting). Reservations can be made online at Parks Canada’s reservation website: reservations.parkscanada. ca. For more information, call the PANP Visitor Centre at (306) 663-4522.

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d the s reinterprete Flora Bora ha odern travellers. for m Lodging historic yurt Bora Forest

Sturgeon River Ranch offers the opportunity to take a ride on the ‘wild west side’ of Prince Albert National Park, with its outback safaris. The Canadian Tourism Commission has selected the Sturgeon River Ranch offering as one of five unique ‘Signature Experiences’ that defines a visit to Canada. Continued on Page 11

it: Flora —Photo Cred

Town of Creighton 216 Creighton Ave., Creighton, SK Phone: 306-688-3538 Email: creightontourism@sasktel.net Web site: www.townofcreighton.ca

• Year round tourist information • Royal Northwest Mounted Police Post Museum • Free wiﬁ internet access • Gift shop

10 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

Open Year Round! Chitek Lake is a beautiful ul recreational spot with excellent sport ﬁshing, great boating, sandy beaches, excellent nd a short walk down the lakefront path, 9 hole grass greens golf course playground and many wilderness trails that may be explored with ATVs or snowmobiles. THE LODGE OFFERS: New and newly renovated lake front and second row cabins, six modern and four non-modern cabins, shower facilities, boat and pontoon boat rentals, BBQs and ﬁre pits. CHITEK LAKE, SASKATCHEWAN PHONE: (306) 984-2332 email: gilleandlise@hotmail.com • www.littlepinelodge.com

Sturgeon River Ranch

you can enjoy a unique wildlife viewing experience, while camping out on the trail, cowboy-style.

—Photo Credit: Sturgeon River Ranch

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Host Gord Vaadeland and his cowboy crew escort guests on horseback into Prince Albert National Park for a one-of-a-kind wildlife viewing experience. “The main claim to fame is the bison — the only completely wild and free-ranging herd of Plains Bison still in its historic range in Canada,”Vaadeland said. Sightings of elk, moose, white tail deer, mule deer, wolves, coyotes and bears are also common. While single day trips are available, overnight excursions offer the most memorable experience. “Guests have the opportunity to camp out on the trail, choosing to sleep in a tipi or outdoors under the stars,” Vaadeland said. ”We have our own chef who travels with us and does all of the cooking over an open fire. So while it’s rustic and off the grid, everything is top notch while they’re out there.” After a thrilling day on the trail, guests return to the campsite and gather round the fire to enjoy a gourmet meal and some cowboy tales. Vaadeland said, “We check off all the iconic old west boxes: the campfire, cowboys, tipis, First Nations culture, wildlife, and of course — the horses.”

If your idea of a dream holiday involves floating over the open waters, come aboard Aurora Houseboats on Tobin Lake. Hosts Tressa Moroz and Curtis Lockwood preside over a fleet of four houseboats, which accommodate groups of two to 12 people. Tressa Moroz describes Aurora’s eight, 10- and 12-sleeper houseboats as “floating RVs” where guests can enjoy all the comforts of home, while cruising the placid waters of Tobin Lake. The 12-sleeper houseboats are even equipped with their own hot tubs and slides. “It’s the ultimate experience. You never have to leave the water. You can tour around during the day. At night, you secure the boat at the shoreline of one of the beaches.” Moroz describes Tobin Lake as “exceptional in nature” with lovely, tree-lined shores and waters warm enough to swim in. Tobin Lake is internationally renowned for its great fishing, yielding large fish that have earned provincial and world records. “If you don’t have boating experience, have no fears,” Moroz said. “We do a very comprehensive orientation, explaining how everything works and how to navigate the waterways. The boats are equipped with a GPS system, so you’re basically following dot-to-dot.”

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It’s a vacation experience that has attracted visitors from across the country and around the world. For more information, visit sturgeonriverranch.com.

NORTHERN SASKATCHEWAN

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DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

NORTHERN SASKATCHEWAN

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The majority of Aurora Houseboats’ customers hail from Saskatchewan and Alberta, including groups celebrating weddings, anniversaries and family reunions. “It’s about families making memories, getting together for that quality family holiday,” Moroz said. For more information, call (306) 862-7014 or visit aurorahouseboats.com. A royal experience awaits at Keyhole Castle in Prince Albert, a distinguished 101-year-old Queen Anne revival-style mansion that is now a bed and breakfast. The castle-inspired home, listed in the Canadian National Historic Registry, was originally constructed by Prince Albert lumber baron, Samuel McLeod, and designed by Minneapolis architect Erich Wohann. Jonathan and Denise Smith purchased the palatial home in 2009 and opened the doors to guests. Jonathan Smith describes a stay at Keyhole Castle as one of casual elegance. “We want our guests to feel like they’re visiting a friend’s home — a place where they can feel comfortable and enjoy themselves.” The B&B offers three beautifully appointed guest rooms, decorated in period style with a host of modern amenities. The largest of the three is the ‘King Suite’, featuring a king-size bed, private ensuite bath and its own sitting room, adorned with Turkish fretwork.

Prince Albert National Park 1-877-441-5544

Keyhole Cas tle is a 101year-old he that has be ritage reside en restored nce in Prince as an invitin Albert g bed—Photo Cr edit: Keyhole and-breakfast prop erty. Castle

Guests are free to explore the stately residence, including the third floor ballroom. “It has a magnificent circular domed ceiling. The original maple dance floor, with horsehair matting, is intact. Currently, there is a grand piano in the ballroom. We’ve hosted some concerts there. It’s a nice venue for people who are planning get-togethers, reunions or conferences,” Smith said. Guests start the day with a delicious breakfast, made to order to satisfy guests’ individual preferences. “We typically begin with a seasonal fruit plate, yogurt and granola, followed up with either bacon and eggs or omelets,” Smith said. For more details, visit keyholecastle.com, or email: info@keyholecastle.com. ■

Jacobsen Bay on Anglin Lake

LODGE & CONFERENCE CENTRE Four season resort, conference & catering facilities, dining room & lounge, condos, specialty rooms & guestrooms, rooftop hot tubs.

Waskesiu Lake, SK www.hawood.com

You ur lakeside destination for family gatherings and quiet holiday stays stays.

Tel: 306-663-5911 Fax: 306-663-5219

email: hawood@sasktel.net

Join us as we celebrate the Village & RM of Canwood’s

July 29, 30, and 31st, 2016

Pet Friendly Accommodation, Boat/Canoe/Kayak Rental, Seasonal Camping and Convenience Store.

For more information email: Canwood100@outlook.com or visit our website www.canwood.ca

Call 306.982.4478 or visit www.landoftheloonresort.com

12 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

Camping is just one of the many activities families can enjoy at

NORTHERN SASKATCHEWAN

Prince Albert National Park

(PANP)! One of two national parks in Saskatchewan, PANP offers a great mix of recreational and nature experiences, including canoeing, ﬁshing, cycling, golﬁng, hiking and much more! —Photo Credit: Parks Canada

Adventure awaits in

Waskesiu Wilderness Region

by Jesse Green for Postmedia SK Special Projects

he Waskesiu Wilderness Region is rich with natural, historic and ecological treasures, and is a favourite summer playground in Saskatchewan. The area includes the Prince Albert National Park, Big River and the Lakeland district with Christopher, Emma and Anglin Lakes. It is a spectacular part of the world, with aspen parklands giving way to boreal forest and in this varied terrain supports a wide mix of wildlife and recreation.

ebeniuk

and drum and dance circle. Also held at the Ness festival site is the Northern Lights Blue-grass and Old Tyme Music Festival, a celebration of old time music with the best of bluegrass fiddle, banjo, mandolin and guitar. The Country at the Creek Music Festival is also on the roster at the Ness festival site. Featuring big-name country headliners and talent from the local Star Search, this is a family-friendly event.

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It’s a big year for the Ness Creek Music Festival in 2015, marking the 25th anniversary of celebrating music and ecology. This four-day festival, taking place July 16 to 19, features main stage performances, workshop stage, an eco-village, community kitchen, a great children’s area,

A celebratio n of music and ecolog marks its 25 y, the Ness th annivers Creek Mus ary in 2015 —Photo Cr ic Festival , taking plac edit: Waske siu Wilderne e ss Region/Jo July 16 to 19. nas Hr

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• Full spa & salon services • Aveda Hair, Skin & Body products • Aveda Pure Privilege points program • ProEnergy weight loss products • Laser hair removal, skin tightening & fat reduction 3 5 1 - 1 6 t h S t r e e t We s t , P r i n c e A l b e r t , S K S 6 V 3 V 6 D i r e c t : 3 0 6 - 9 2 2 - 2 1 1 5 • To l l F r e e : 1 - 8 7 7 - 3 0 o z e r a DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

NORTHERN SASKATCHEWAN

Great Blue Heron Provincial Park

is the newest addition to Saskatchewan’s provincial park system. The park includes Anglin Lake, pictured here, as well as the Emma Lake recreation site.

—Photo Credit: Tourism Saskatchewan/Greg Huszar Photography

Emma Lake SEASONAL CAMPSITES AT

Rothenburg Family Park

Valley Regional Park -Rosthern, SK

• Yearly renewals – no draws/no hassles • Fully serviced, potable water/sewer/power • Gravelled sites 30’ x 85’ • Allowing newer campers/5th wheels /motorhomes & park models • Can leave units on site over winter • Quadding, hiking, biking from your door For more information call 306-982-4805 Or email rothenburg@inet2000.com 14 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

18 Hole Golf Course 74 Site Campground - Picnicking Large Creative Playground Great for Company Picnics, Golf Tournaments or Reunions!

www.valleyregionalpark.com Pro-Shop (306) 232-5272 Camping (306) 232-5600 Ofﬁce (306) 232-5000

Saddle up with a Sturgeon River Ranch vacation and see the rolling parklands by horseback. You may spot Canada’s only free-ranging wild Plains bison in their historic range along your travels. Multi-day outback horse trips can include a night in a cozy tipi or at one of many nearby accommodations. The Prince Albert National Park protects a huge swath of boreal forest, aspen parklands and some 1,500 lakes and streams. Visit the Parks Canada Nature Centre for interpretive programs, special events and to explore the hands-on learning exhibits. Horseshoes, tennis, lawn bowling, biking and hiking are just some of the activities in the park and townsite of Waskesiu. Catch a matinee at the Twin Pines Cinema and don’t miss the old-fashioned candy selection. Hundreds of trails wind through the park, so be sure to get a map and scope out your path before you start out. Kids will love the new nature-themed playground at the Waskesiu Beach. Sculptures of a mama bear and her two cubs are part of the fun, along with new slides, tree structures and rope activities. The new playground is set to open this summer and will be a delightful addition to the beach. Take in a puppet show, get some balloon art or a fab face painting at the annual Waskesiu Children’s Festival. The pancake breakfast and afternoon barbecue are festival favourites, and take place at the Community Hall. The region boasts a great range of accommodations, from wilderness back-country camping to the new tent/ cabin hybrid oTENTiks at Beaver Glen Campground right up to luxury cabins and resorts. The Elk Ridge Resort, located just outside the park, is a premier, four-star destination.

Lucky golfers may spot deer, fox and other wildlife at any of these courses. The Anglin and Emma Recreation Sites make up Saskatchewan’s newest provincial park - the Great Blue Heron. There are picnic areas, boat launches, beaches, hiking trails and hundreds of campsites. Hiking in the area is outstanding, with a trail for every skill level.

NORTHERN SASKATCHEWAN

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Cast your line for northern pike, walleye and lake trout, and hold on tight − they grow big in these clear northern waters. Fish your way across huge bodies of water like the Kingsmere and Crean Lakes, then discover smaller inlet coves and rivers. Rent a boat at one of three marinas or head out in a canoe. Stop at the Visitor Centre in the national park for a canoe route, and choose from the challenging, multi-day Bladebone route, the 10-hour Bagwa route or one of many shorter trips including the trek to Grey Owls’ cabin. Grey Owl was by far the park’s most notable resident. He was a naturalist who lived in the park during the 1930s, and he captured the world’s attention through his messages of conservation. Visit Beaver Lodge, the one-room log cabin where Grey Owl lived. The cabin sits on the shores of Ajawaan Lake and is accessible by hiking trail or canoe. The museum and bookstore in the Waskesiu townsite have a wealth of information on Grey Owl and his work. Whether your idea of a vacation means lazy days at the beach, long paddles along the lake, a full spa day or fine dining, you will find it here. Find out why ‘adventure comes naturally’ in the Waskesiu Wilderness Region. ■

Elk Ridge’s championship course features three ninehole courses. With water in play, silica sand bunkers and mature forest, it is enjoyed by both amateur and professional golfers. Hit the links at the award-winning Waskesiu Golf Course. Golfers find a challenge with the undulating terrain of this 18-hole course. Known for its lobstick tree, this course was designed by the legendary Canadian architect Stanley Thompson. The 18-hole Emma Lake Golf Course is set in the lakeland forest and features sand traps, varied elevations and water in play.

avern Aandie’s T

ake L r e h p Christo ant r u a t s Re-8682 & l e t o H 306-227 l.net saskte

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AUGU ST 8 TH DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

Zip-line adventures will range from 270 to 700 feet at

NORTHERN SASKATCHEWAN

Elk Ridge Eco-Adventures

—Photo Credit: Tourism Saskatchewan/Paul Austring

Zip-line fun comes to Northern Saskatchewan! Elk Ridge Ec o-Adventur es of seven di fferent zip-lin will offer thrill seekers a es. Sky brid wind seam ges and plat choice lessly throug forms will h the majes —Photo Cr tic edit: Cypres boreal forest s Hills Eco. Adve ntures

Phone 306-425-5550 Fax 306-425-2455

- Honeymoon Suite - Executive Suite - Kitchenettes - Meeting Rooms

16 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

f it wasn’t for the bright orange helmets and the odd whoop of excitement, you’d hardly know they were there. Yet, there they are − sailing through the treetops on a zip-line in full-on thrill mode. The only thing brighter than those helmets are the smiles! The mantra at Cypress Hills Eco-Adventures is find your happy dance (#happydance), and since 2011 tens of thousands of people have done just that. The zip-line canopy tour is a guided tour with a sky bridge, stairs, platforms and multiple zip-lines through the lodgepole pine forest. It is the signature experience, but the basecamp is not to be missed Just when it seemed things couldn’t get any better, the EcoAdventures 306 Collective was formed, and a second location was announced. Elk Ridge Eco-Adventures will have thrill seekers sailing high above the forest floor on seven different zip-lines, ranging from 270 feet to 700 feet. The sky bridges and platforms wind seamlessly through the boreal forest and offer that same remarkable adventure.

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303 La Ronge Avenue P.O. Box 320 • La Ronge, Sask. S0J 1L0

by Jesse Green for Postmedia SK Special Projects

Continued on Page 17

The zip-line guides are a huge part of the experience. They make it a priority to know your name, make you comfortable and get the most out of your ride. These guides are dedicated, capable, and let’s face it, they’re happy! Flying through the forest with adventurous people each day might just be the best summer job ever. Take a breather at basecamp or dig into a different adventure. The three-storey climbing wall has four different routes, perfect for a buddy-challenge or just a solo climb to the summit. Hit the button and be rewarded with a siren sound, and the quickest time of the day is recorded. Slacklining, despite its name, requires a great deal of strength and concentration. The nylon webbing is strung between two trees and provides a dynamic, stretching line for walking, kneeling, bouncing and other tricks. Your mini-me will love the kids’ zip-line area. Safety comes first but these scaled-down zip-lines are a huge hit with the kids. If volleyball and four-square had a baby, it would be spikeball. Check out the courts at Elk Ridge and it’ll be hard to drag yourself away. The Elk Ridge Resort is a premier lifestyle resort in the boreal forest just outside the Prince Albert National Park. The resort is known for its championship golf course, salon, fine dining, saline pool with corkscrew water slide and huge selection of outdoor experiences. It has been

recognized by the Audubon Society for its care and management of the forest. The philosophy of Eco-Adventure 306 Collective fits nicely with Elk Ridge’s dedication to stewardship. With a mandate of leaving the earth as it was found, the Collective designs its canopy tours to blend in with the surroundings and supports initiatives around environmental education, protection and sustainability. They partner with technology companies to make their business better, donate one per cent of gross revenues to local environmental not-for-profits and run carbonneutral operations. Basecamp at the Cypress Hills Location also includes the challenge of a free-fall Treetop Drop. This is not for the faint at heart! Scale the cargo net, stay strong on the wobbly bridges and traverse the swinging logs of the Treetop Adventure Park. Forty feet up, this giant playground has 14 different challenges at two different levels.

NORTHERN SASKATCHEWAN

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Continued from Page 16

Cypress Hills Eco-Adventures has been a superstar on the awards scene in since its start in 2011. They represented at a national level this year, when the Tourism Industry Association of Canada awarded them small business of the year for their excellence in innovation and commitment to visitors. Lodgepole pine or boreal forest: two vastly different ecosystems, one don’t-miss experience! ■

WHY STOP NOW? The Capital of Northern Saskatchewan, the Town of La Ronge is a scenic two and a half hour drive north of Waskesiu Lake. The last major center in the province connected with paved highway and nestled on the shores of Lac La Ronge, the Town of La Ronge is the hub of the north and is next to world class hiking trails, ﬁshing, camping, and is home to great food and northern hospitality! The Town is at its ﬁnest in July and August with many summer activities and celebrations. Best of all, the sun won’t set on your fun until very late in the evening, so you may want to take in another round at the most Northerly golf course in Saskatchewan just outside of Town, get in one last cast on the lake or take that extra long stroll after supper.

Mayor Thomas Sierzycki, one of Canada’s youngest mayors, invites you to explore one of the world’s best kept secrets. Come and enjoy yourself in a community of progressive growth and vision, cultural ﬂare and intriguing history. Partake in the many festivities, or just simply enjoy.

Children’s Festival & Fireworks July 1 Elks Fair July 17-19 Waterski & Wakeboard Clinic TBA Freeze Breeze & Wheeze Triathlon August

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DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

Fort Carlton Provincial Park

CENTRAL SASKATCHEWAN

, you can travel back in time to the adventurous fur trade days. This is the original site of a 19th century Hudson’s Bay Company fur-trading post. Within the fort’s walls, you can tour a reconstructed palisade, fur and provisions store, trade store, clerk’s quarters and tipi encampment. —Photo Credit: Tourism Saskatchewan/Paul Austring

Central

Saskatchewan ready to surprise! by Jesse Green for Postmedia SK Special Projects

urprises await around every corner in the East Central and West Central regions of Saskatchewan!

18 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

Canada’ —Photo Cr edit: Tourism s largest indoor min eral spa. Saskatchew an/Garry Be rgen

Follow the footsteps of Louis Riel and Gabriel Dumont who led the resistance against General Middleton and his troops. Be sure to ask about the kids’ Xplorer program and how they can join the North West Field Force, help with chores or ‘build’ a red river frame structure. Jump on the brand new visitor shuttle for a scenic ride around the grounds and take an hour-long tour or stay out all day. Join the costumed guides as they tell stories of Métis life alongside the South Saskatchewan River. Celebrate the annual Back to Batoche event with fiddling, jiggling and chariot races.

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The West Central side of the province is steeped in history and heritage. This was the scene of many of the turbulent events of the fur trade and the North West Mounted Police’s march west. Try your hand at playing the spoons or packing furs for a journey to England at Fort Carlton Provincial Park. A Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading post operated here from 1810 to 1885, and visitors can get a first-hand look at artifacts like birch bark baskets and buffalo hides. Tour the fur and provisions stores, tipi encampment and clerk’s quarters. Walk where the Red River carts once ran the Carlton Trail and browse the displays at the Visitor Centre.

Manitou Sp rings is

Continued on Page 19

If only this dance ﬂoor could talk! Since the 1920s, couples have kicked up their heels in

Manitou Beach

CENTRAL SASKATCHEWAN

on Danceland’s original maple hardwood dance ﬂoor, which is cushioned with horse hair.

—Photo Credit: Tourism Saskatchewan/Garry Bergen

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Continued from Page 18

A lighthouse in Saskatchewan does sound like a punchline, but this is no joke. Sitting atop Pirot’s Hill at the north end of the village of Cochin is the working lighthouse and popular tourist attraction. This is a beacon for summertime boaters and snowmobile riders in winter, and it offers an outstanding view of the area. Visitors who climb the 158 steps are rewarded with a vista of Murray and Jackfish Lakes surrounded by prairie farmland and the resort village of Cochin. The area is known for its northern pike and walleye fishing, great spots for water recreation and sandy beaches.

aphic Produc tions

grown into a one-of-a-kind toy museum and collection of autographed photos. Visitors have come from as far as Finland and England, and the museum has grown to include a collection of dolls and vintage computers.

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Look to the eastern side of Central Saskatchewan for more unique vacation experiences. Play “I Spy” in Canada’s only Toy and Autograph Museum in Canora. What began with a young boy building up the courage to ask for Laurel and Hardy’s autograph in 1950 has

Escaping re ligious pers ecution in R immigrated ussia, Doukh to ob National Dou Veregin, Saskatchew an over a ce our settlers khobour Her ntury ago. Th itage Village and culture e . The site in commemor cludes a m bath house, useum, bake ates their history prayer hom ry —Photo Cr w ith br e, barns an edit: Tourism d blacksmith ick oven, Saskatchew shop. an/Rob Weit zel Gr

Continued on Page 20

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There is nothing quite like a fresh slice of bread baked in a brick oven. Stroll over to the bath house, prayer home, barns, blacksmith shop and early homes of the Doukhobor Heritage Village in Veregin. Doukhobors fled religious persecution in Russia in the late 1800s, and the Prayer Home shows architecture of czarist Russia. This a national historic site, and the village is host to a number of celebrations and events each year. See a dream come true at the Family Tree Forest in Hawarden. Each tree was planted by hand and a simple pasture was changed into a picturesque park where families gather. Wander the walking paths, stop for a hot dog roast and visit the expanding tree nursery. Visitors can see the family’s vision: to make a small corner of the world a better place, one tree at a time. The good old drive-in theatre is alive and well in Kyle. Check out the new screen and digital projector, and send the kids to play in the park until movie time. The Clearwater Drive-In has brought amusement and entertainment to summer visitors since 1947. Everyone can enjoy those wonderful summer nights at the drive-in. Cut a rug on the legendary Danceland Ballroom at Manitou Beach. Borne of the booming 1920s, this horse-hair sprung dance floor is host to lively weekend dances, dinner theatres, square dance evenings and others. Dance on the original maple hardwood in this classy heritage building. Manitou Beach is also known for its mineral and saline-rich waters of Little Manitou Lake. The legends say that these waters have healing properties, and with a saline content five times that of

an ocean, this is buoyant water. Explore the beaches in the area or stop at the Manitou Springs Resort and Mineral Spa for a soak in the European-style spa. Enjoy three sections offering varying temperatures and a full service spa.

CENTRAL SASKATCHEWAN

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Wilderness camping, cabins and resorts are available in Saskatchewan’s provincial parks. Good Spirit Lake is known for its beautiful fine sand and a shallow beach that goes on forever − perfect for families with little ones. Hike the self-interpretive sand dune trails or have a round of mini golf. Greenwater Lake Provincial Park has a marina with boat rentals, a full-service park store, kids’ rides and nine-hole golf. The Interpretive Centre is in the administrative building and features interactive displays. The Quill Lakes region is a must-see for bird watchers. A million migratory birds and more than 300 species pass through each year. These wetlands are part of the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network and see the likes of the endangered piping plover, whooping cranes and peregrine falcons. Visitors’ centres are in Wynyard, Foam Lake and Wadena and are open from spring to fall. Keep your eyes peeled for pelicans, western kingbirds, yellow-rumped warblers and so many others at Last Mountain Lake National Wildlife Area. This is North America’s oldest bird sanctuary and is an important stop on the central flyway migration route. The Last Mountain Regional Park has a full list of amenities from aquatic programming, fishing, concession and more. Keep a spot on your dance card for Central Saskatchewan this summer - it will surprise you! ■

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ree original e is one of th Prayer Hom emigrants ur bo The Veregin ho uk tructed by Do ns co es wed at ur ct vie stru It can be the century. llage. Vi e at the turn of ag rit He tions aphic Produc Doukhobour the National skatchewan/Rob Weitzel Gr

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are in the spotlight

by Jennifer Jacoby-Smith of Postmedia SK Special Projects

dd some drama to your summer with a diverse range of theatrical experiences in Central Saskatchewan. From country-fied festivals to river-side comedy, there’s something for everyone’s dramatic palate.

Station Arts Centre Station Arts Centre in Rosthern celebrates a very significant milestone this year. The Centre has brought professional calibre productions to rural Saskatchewan for a quarter of a century. To mark the occasion properly, executive director Nicole Thiessen says the centre carefully chose a play they’ve already produced at Station Arts – 2005’s Chickens by Lucia Frangione.

Station Arts Centre

in Rosthern offers visitors a chance to walk through gardens, enjoy a meal and then see a professional calibre production. Join them for an all-day festival July 11, as they celebrate 25 years of delighting audiences. —Photo Credit: Station Arts Centre

“It’s a really attractive summer theatre piece because it’s so much fun. We thought it would be a good way to get people who are not regular theatre-goers in our doors and give them a nice introduction to what we do here.” Station Arts Centre attracts roughly 4,000 visitors each summer. Some repeat visitors plan their driving vacations across the prairies to make sure to catch a play in Rosthern. In addition, visitors can walk through the gardens on site and enjoy a meal before the performance. Continued on Page24

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“It’s a musical barnyard comedy,” explains Thiessen.

The

CENTRAL SASKATCHEWAN

Prairie performances

DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

CENTRAL SASKATCHEWAN

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Continued from Page 23

The Centre will celebrate their 25th anniversary with a full-day festival, July 11. There will be art activities, live music, and good food. Everyone is invited to attend. Chickens runs from July 10 to August 9. The Station Arts Centre also includes a visual art gallery. This summer’s exhibit features a retrospective of Station Arts founder Kathy Thiessen.

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan The Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival in Saskatoon has become a yearly pilgrimage for some Saskatchewan residents and former Saskatchewan residents. “It’s a really great experience for people, especially if they’re from out of town and don’t know Saskatoon, to come and see this wonderful oasis in the middle of downtown, right on the riverbank,” says Will Brooks, artistic producer for the Festival. This year’s productions include Othello and the always popular Much Ado About Nothing. Othello will have a First Nations twist on the story by partnering with the Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company. In a very modern telling of the story, the main character will be the only Cree man in a senior position at a major corporation. Othello will also feature a local musician who will be composing an original soundtrack of sorts for the play, and perform it live all summer.

The zany romantic romp Much Ado About Nothing will be set in post-World War II era. Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is also redoing the seating configuration of their mainstage tent. Audiences are encouraged to come early to take advantage of pre-show programming on the PotashCorp community stage. Drinks are also available, along with a gorgeous river view. Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan kicks off July 8 and runs through August 23.

Saskatoon Summer Players One of Saskatoon’s oldest theatre organizations – Saskatoon Summer Players – will be producing Shrek The Musical. The company has produced 78 musicals over the last 51 years, recently adding full seasons to their theatre offerings. “They’re big shows,” says Anita Smith, general manager. “I think we’ve got about 100 volunteers working on Shrek and because they are willing to donate their time, we’re able to put on these fantastic musicals that the city can access at affordable prices.” Saskatoon Summer Players invites anyone with a love of theatre to join in on the fun. See their website for more info on how to get involved. The show opens June 26 and goes until July 4 (there is no show on Canada Day) at the Remai Arts Centre.

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A World-Class Family Festival! June 20 & June 21 Swift Current, SK

Continued on Page 25

Framed by the picturesque Orange Trafﬁc Bridge on the South, the Sky Trail Walking Bridge (currently closed) on the North and the panoramic view of the South Saskatchewan River... this is the setting for the Outlook & District Regional Park. The natural beauty, the spacious campsites and the mature golf course make our Regional Park a popular spot for family reunions, a weekend getaway or an extended stay to take advantage of swimming lessons. * 84 Campsites with 30 amp power and water * 2 Playgrounds * Saturday Kid’s Program * Bird Watching * Walk the Trans Canada Trail * Adjacent to the Town of Outlook Season Pass $45.00 Monthly Camping $750.00

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PotashCorp Fringe Festival Hot summer nights, indie theatre, street food and so much more. It’s what makes Saskatoon’s PotashCorp Fringe Festival one of the highlights of summers. This year’s festival promises to be another fantastic summer theatre event. Thirty-three performance groups from across the globe will put on 250 shows over 10 days from July 30 to August 8, in six venues. “The neat thing about the indie theatre that we present at the Fringe is it’s different. You will not see any of the same shows as last year,” says executive director Bob Wyman. For those who might be having a hard time choosing which shows to see, Wyma suggests checking out the Fringe Preview Night at the Broadway Theatre on July 29. Mid-festival, Fringe organizers offer up another unique theatrical event – Spoof Night. Always a sell-out the late night show features artists spoofing each other’s plays. In addition to the all-you-can-eat buffet of theatrical presentations, the PotashCorp Fringe Festival includes a market place, street artists and food vendors. Adds Wyma, “If people want to come down to Broadway and have a little supper and then go see an indoor theatre show, I think we have the whole package that makes the Fringe a very unique celebration on Broadway.”

The Barn Playhouse is another Saskatchewan theatre venue celebrating 25 years of drama, laughs and fun with the theme – Remembering Our Past. “The other thing that we want to do is show our gratitude to all the people that have come out over the years to be actors, to be volunteers, to come see our shows and to create a community at the Barn,” explains Vickie Dyck. “We also want to show our gratitude to the generation that came before us.” The Barn has been in the Dyck family for over seven decades. Generations of her family have slept as children in the loft. This summer the Barn will host two productions – Quilters and Cheaper by the Dozen. Quilters follows the story of a pioneer woman who made a legacy quilt to pass on to her daughters. Quilters runs from June 17 to 21 and 24 to 28 will be dedicated to Vickie’s mom Tina Dyck who helped start the Barn Playhouse.

CENTRAL SASKATCHEWAN

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Barn Playhouse

Continued from Page 24

Cheaper by the Dozen runs from August 19 to 23 and 26 to 30 and will be dedicated to Vickie’s father, Peter Dyck. As always there will be homemade food to enjoy and live music playing when guests pull into the yard. ■

Where moments become memories. Canpotex Train Carousel Ferris Wheel Pyramid Slide Water, Sand & Natural Play Areas

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DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

CENTRAL SASKATCHEWAN

The

Saskatoon Exhibition

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Saskatoon

by Jeannie Armstrong Postmedia SK Special Projects Editor

ou’re unique and so is the way you like to travel! Why take someone else’s vacation? Come to Saskatoon and enjoy a travel adventure that is tailored to your individual interests and tastes. Which of these travel experiences best describes what you’re looking for? Determining your ideal vacation type is a great way to make the most of your visit to Saskatoon!

Get playful!

rist

9, this six-day extravaganza of superstar entertainment, midway mania and carnival fare is one of the province’s largest tourism events of the year. New thrills and chills await this year with the addition of the scream-worthy Blitzer roller coaster!

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If you’re looking for a fun and playful experience, Saskatoon is sure to appeal, with an endless array of exciting things to see and do! Festival fun unfolds at a dizzying pace, creating a summer buzzing with excitement. Our city’s passion for festival fun began 129 years ago with the Saskatoon EX. Taking place August 4 to

A unique an d relaxing w ay to explor river valley e Sa is aboard Th e Prairie Lily. skatoon’s scenic depart daily from the do Riverboat cr ck uises be hi —Photo Cr edit: Tourism nd the Mendel Art Gallery. Saskatoon/ Louis Ch

CENTRAL SASKATCHEWAN

Discover yourself in

Continued on Page 30

��

�� DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

Generations of Saskatonians have treasured the family memories created at Kinsmen Park. The gorgeous park has been rejuvenated with the new PotashCorp Playland, featuring a sky-high Ferris wheel, colourful animal-themed carousel, a play area with water features and the highly anticipated Canpotex Train – a scale replica of a CP freight train that will take families on an extended ride through Kinsmen Park. Every day in Saskatoon offers a new culinary adventure, whether you’re indulging in gastronomic feasts created by top chefs or grabbing a tasty bite at a neighbourhood bistro or roving food truck. The YXE Street Food Festival, taking place September 19 at River Landing, showcases incredible food truck delights, all in one spot!

breaks with tradition by partnering with Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company to present a bold and modern production of Othello, from a First Nations perspective. Othello performs in repertory with the witty comedy Much Ado About Nothing. The PotashCorp Fringe Theatre and Street Festival is a celebration of artistic freedom, taking place July 30 to August 8. Independent theatre performers from around the world will stage 33 different shows, along with free outdoor entertainment, craft vendors and food stands out on the street.

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Connect to our culture Make a cultural connection with Saskatoon by sharing our local treasures. Creative expression abounds at the Saskatchewan Craft Council Affinity Gallery, which showcases our province’s finest artists. To celebrate its 40th anniversary, fascinating exhibits are planned throughout the summer in the gallery and delightful boutique. Stop by and you may even be able to meet one of the artists! Our city’s two leading theatrical festivals are sure to capture your imagination. This year, from July 8 to August 23, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan once again

At Wanuske win Heritage Pa of our First Nations peop rk, you can walk in th e footsteps le as you ex plore cu dating back 6,000 years. ltural activities —Phot o Credit: To urism Sask atoon

. k S , y a B n o s d u H rld al of the Wo You’ll Love It Here

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30 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

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2015 Summer Events June 6/7 Western Round Up July 1st Fireworks at Dark August 15 Heritage Day

Come here to discover the opportunities that await in Saskatchewan’s Boreal Forest Hudson Bay Tourism hbecdo@sasktel.net 1-306-865-2261 www.townofhudsonbay.com

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You’ll feel right at home!

Continued from Page 30

CENTRAL SASKATCHEWAN

Authentic Saskatoon Saskatoon has so much to offer someone looking for an authentic Saskatchewan experience, including many opportunities to live our history and feel immersed in our diverse cultures. The Western Development Museum will transport you back in time to Saskatoon’s early ‘Boomtown’ days, with the longest indoor main street in Canada. Take a walking tour through Saskatoon’s historic Riversdale district and reflect on our city’s past. The neighbourhood is enjoying a renaissance, with fabulous new eateries, boutiques and entertainment venues. Experience the beauty of Saskatoon’s gorgeous river valley by exploring the scenic Meewasin Trail, named one of the Top 10 Greatest Hikes in Canada by Reader’s Digest. Walk or bike some (or all) of the 64-km trail, which not only leads to scenic vistas, it’s a pathway to numerous cultural attractions including museums and interpretive sites. At Wanuskewin Heritage Park, walk in the footsteps of our First Nations people and participate in cultural activities dating back 6,000 years. Try your hand at tipi raising, cooking bannock or test your skill with a bow and arrow. The park’s magnificent trails lead to some of the most extensive archaeological finds in North America. Can you dig it? NEW Prairie Moon coming to Macklin, SK

Saskatoon welcomes you with our laid-back lifestyle and warm prairie hospitality. You’ll quickly feel at home as you settle into one of our city’s beautifully appointed hotels, and check out our amazing shops and restaurants. The Prairie Lily Riverboat Cruise is a relaxing way to explore Saskatoon, whether you’re a visitor or a longtime resident. One-hour riverboat tours depart daily from the dock by the Mendel Art Gallery. Scrumptious dinner cruises are on offer for Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as Sunday brunch. Get together with family and friends at the Forestry Farm Park and Zoo. This National Historic Site boasts beautiful gardens, restored heritage buildings and the province’s only CAZA accredited zoo, with everything from grizzly bears to a red panda! Whatever your travel style, you can maximize the enjoyment of your stay in our city by asking for Tourism Saskatoon’s FREE Experience Pass when you book at one of 20 participating hotels. The pass allows recipients to choose from 20 of Saskatoon’s best festivals, attractions, shopping and dining experiences and enjoy it for free. Start planning your getaway to Saskatoon today, by visiting tourismsaskatoon.com, or call one of their summer Experience Experts at 1.800.567.2444. ■

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• Dusty Wheels Car Show - Sunday, Sept. 27th - Saskcan Sports Centre • Rosetown 32nd Annual Business Garage Sale - Thursday Sept. 24th - 9:00am - 8:00pm - Saskcan Sports Centre

- Market & Kids Entertainment - Taste of Rosetown - Tough Trucks Competition - Harvest Family Festival open Saturday, Oct. 3rd - Civic Centre featuring Brenda Lee Cottree &

• 6th Annual Harvest Family Festival - Oct. 3 - 11th - Celebrity Pumpkin Decorating

The Legends - “A 60s Walk Down Memory Lane”

For information call Ali Haider Owner/operator

114 Railway Ave, Rosetown Sk. S0L 2V0, 306-882-3220 highwayhost5@gmail.com, www.highwayhost.ca

Ann @ (306) 882-5314 or visit www.rosetown.ca Hugh Lees (306) 882-3874

REGAL MOTORS LTD.

Bus: 306-882-2623 Cell: 306-831-7725 Fax: 306-882-2228

Prairie View Park Campground Highway #4 North • East on Marshall Avenue P.O. Box 1540, Rosetown, Saskatchewan

Full Service Sites Showers Pull-through Sites Available (306) 882-4257

RV Storage Open May 1, 2015

wref@sasktel.net

112 - 1st Avenue West Rosetown, SK S0L 2V0 frank@regalmotorsltd.com

Country Rose Inns Rosetown. Sask.

Rosetown Motel

Country Rose Inn

Hwy. 7 & Main St. Hwy. 7 & Main St. 882-2212 882-2212 P.O. Box 551, S0L 2V0 Fax 882-3870 Clean & renovated for your comfort. Centrally located for your convenience. Manager: Carl Ledding High Speed Internet

CENTRAL PLAINS CO-OPERATIVE LTD. Locations In: Eston, Landis, Plenty/Dodsland Harris, Perdue, & Rosetown www.centralplainsco-op.ca

Rosetown - Elrose - Davidson - Biggar - Outlook- Central Butte

1-877-676-9600 www.westernsales.ca

Patti Rodgers (left) and a group of participants lift a toast to

CENTRAL SASKATCHEWAN

Taste-it Food Tours’ very ﬁrst tour of Moose Jaw.

—Photo Credit: Taste-It Food Tours

Good eats:

Culinary tours explore Saskatchewan by Jennifer Jacoby-Smith of Postmedia SK Special Projects

f you’re looking for a completely unique way to savour Saskatchewan, then take your taste buds for a tour with Taste-it Food Tours. Owned by retired school teacher Patti Rodgers, Tasteit Food Tours started last summer offering tours of Moose Jaw and Regina. Rodgers says her tours will expand to Saskatoon this summer with exact locations still be worked out. After retiring two years ago, Rodgers spent several weeks each winter in Phoenix, Arizona and while looking for something fun to do, she got hooked on food tours. “It was really unique, because you got to taste the food at five or six different restaurants sometimes and some of them really wanted to show off what was their best signature dish” When a friend suggested Moose Jaw would be the perfect place to do a food tour, Rodgers agreed. After returning to Saskatchewan in April she says she hit the ground running. Her inaugural food tour of Moose Jaw took place the first week of July. By then Rodgers was already lining up dining hotspots in Regina. She launched food tours of the Queen City in August. As a former educator she found giving the tours a great fit, but growing the business she felt a little out of

34 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

The popula r Moose Ja w tour fe the Yvette M oore Gallery atures —Photo Cr Café. edit: Taste -It Food Tour s

her element. Even still, things really took off and soon Tourism Saskatchewan was calling her to get involved. She also got requests from other communities to organize tours there. “Food tours are all over the United States and Canada, and there were none in Saskatchewan,” notes Rodgers. “So I really hit a niche.” Each tour starts with participants meeting at a local landmark. Rodgers then gives a brief history of the city or the local area. For the next three hours food tourists trek from restaurant to restaurant sampling their signature dish. Rodgers explains what each location is known for or provides a little background for each restaurant. Sometimes the chef or owner will come out and chat with patrons about what they choose to serve. After about 20 to 25 minutes it’s time to move on to the next tasty spot. Offerings include appetizers such as fish tacos or perogies and bratwurst. Some places will also include half a glass of wine or a half pint of beer with the mini meal. By the end Rodgers says, everyone is quite full. “It’s not just dining, it’s an experience. You get the history of the area. You’re with all these different people. You’re sampling some of their best dishes.” If you’d like to sample some of Saskatchewan’s best flavours visit www.tasteitfoodtours.ca for a list of 2015 tours. ■

An exciting new way to explore the entire

Cypress Hills

SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN

Destination Area, is to take the Saskatchewan Skies GeoTour. Use your GPS to discover 38 fascinating sites, set among the area’s vast and varied landscapes —Photo Credit: Cypress Hills Destination Area

Go treasure hunting in

Southern

Saskatchewan

by Jonathan Hamelin for Postmedia SK Special Projects

here are so many unique treasures to find in Southern Saskatchewan that it can be difficult to unearth them all. Taking the Cypress Hills Destination Area’s Saskatchewan Skies GeoTour, however, is a great place to start. A geocache is like a treasure that is hidden in various locations. People use a Global Positioning System receiver or mobile device to uncover the co-ordinates and locate the cache. When tracking down the caches on the Cypress Hills Destination Area GeoTour, people will be led to various points of interest, making it easy for them to navigate their way through the must-see parts of Southern Saskatchewan. With the tour area comprised of 18,000 square kilometres, there’s a lot of treasure hunting to partake in. Check out visitcypresshills.ca for more information.

y Centre

geocaches that would have historical value or lead to incredible sites,” said Cypress Hills Destination Area Executive Director Gail Kesslar. “It will help people see the diversity. A lot of people think Saskatchewan is flat. But if you go half an hour south of the Trans Canada, you’ll discover a new Saskatchewan. The Cypress Hills are an anomaly in that they have the same elevations as Banff. A portion of the ice age missed this section and didn’t level it out.” The GeoTour could lead you to the Cypress Hills Vineyard & Winery. Located just off Highway 271 in Maple Creek, the winery offers patrons the chance to unwind, while wining and dining. The business offers nine wines made on site, from Chinook 2010 (made from imported Carnellion and Barbera grapes) to Rhubarb (off-dry white wine which is the bestseller and “flagship” of the winery). When it comes to food services, a unique change has been made.

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“This tour is the first of its kind in Saskatchewan. We wanted to help people explore the area by picking

One of the world’s larg est, skeletons – Scotty – was most complete T. rex Frenchman di River Valley. scovered in the nearby Scotty’s bo copied and nes have be cast into a en full-life skel on display at eton which the T. rex D is is —Photo Cr covery Cen edit: T. rex tre . Discover

Continued on Page 36

DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

The

T. rex Discovery Centre

SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN

, located in Eastend, offers visitors a close-up look at dinosaurs, marine reptiles and prehistoric mammals and their fossils. —Photo Credit: T. rex Discovery Centre

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Continued from Page 35

“We used to have a bistro style and now it’s more of a build-your-own picnic basket,” said Marie Bohnet, Cypress Hills Vineyard & Winery Co-owner, along with her husband Marty. “People will come and select one of our funky picnic baskets, shop for food off the shelves (we have a variety of artesian cheese, smoked oysters, tapas style foods and all the classics), pick out a wine and then take it all out to the vineyard or sit out on the lawn and enjoy our patio setting.” Guests are welcome to walk through the vineyard on a self-guided tour and view the wine making area through a viewing window. As Bohnet explains, it’s all part of the company’s motto of “being the best afternoon of your summer.” Visit cypresshillswinery.com for more information. The next treasure you unearth may just be Grasslands National Park, located near the Saskatchewan-Montana border. There is no shortage of rare wildlife in West Block’s Frenchman River: Black-footed Ferrets, Short-horned Lizards, Plains Bison or Black-tailed Prairie Dogs. While exploring the East Block, one can take in the Badlands and discover astonishing dinosaur bones exposed in the eroding layers of earth. One can also connect with ranching like nowhere else.

36 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

Horseback rid the prairie la ing is one of the best w ays to enjo ndscapes of y Grasslands —Photo Cr National Pa edit: Parks rk. Canada

The summer is full of spectacular events. The SleepUnder-The-Stars Party on July 25 includes a chance to stargaze in the Darkest Dark Sky Preserve in Canada. Meanwhile, you can unleash your inner cowboy through the park’s unique Cowboy Adventures (full-day and overnight excursions). The Fossil Fever program from Aug. 13 to17 allows visitors to dig for a day with McGill University Palaeontologists as they retrieve 65.5 million year old fossils. Visit pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/sk/grasslands/ index.aspx for more information. On Aug. 15, visitors to the park can spend the evening and enjoy a western hoedown at the Rock Creek Campground. ■

Visitors to

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN

can splash around at Loch Leven Beach or the Cypress Hills Leisure Pool.

—Photo Credit: Cypress Hills Destination Area

DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

by Carol Todd Postmedia SK Special Projects

▲

SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN

Gone ﬁshin’! A

Largemouth bass, a member of the sunfish family, is a relatively large fish, averaging from 0.5 to 1.5 kg (1.1 to 3.3 lb). The record of 61 cm (24 in) was pulled from the Boundary Dam reservoir in 1990. With its spiny dorsal fin, large head and gaping maw, the largemouth resembles nothing more than some deep-sea denizen. And, its looks are more than borne out by its attitude. “They’re feisty fish,” said Mike Halirewich, president of the Estevan Wildlife Federation.

We’re on Facebook! When you “Like” Tourism Melville or the City of Melville, you’ll get events & news sent to your feed!

Melville Tourism Centre 76 Halifax Avenue (just off Hwy #10) Public Washrooms & Picnic Area Summer Hours—late May-August: 9am-5pm, 7 days a week Winter Hours—September-May: 9am-4pm, Monday-Friday (306) 728-3722 Melville Tourism Centre offers a variety of

� � �

Continued on Page 39

nglers looking for excitement need go no farther than Southeast Saskatchewan, where the Boundary Dam Reservoir offers the only opportunity in all of the Prairie provinces to battle largemouth bass.

Avid anglers just adore that feistiness, and come from across Canada and parts of the United States to drop a line. “People love fishing for them. They’re very active, very aggressive, big fighters,” said Halirewich. A lot of people make the more than two-hour trek from Regina,

�

he said, and others travel “regularly” north from Montana. Rebecca Westling, the marketing and event coordinator with Tourism Estevan said anglers also come up from North and South Dakota. “[The fishing] is a huge draw. The dam is only five minutes from the border with North Dakota; they come for the fishing,” she said. Numerous tournaments throughout the year add to the lure.

information about Melville and area, including: Maps & Brochures Souvenirs Community Events Tours of Caboose & Railway Museum

Visit the Horizon Credit Union Centre! � � �

Recreation Opportunities…

575 2nd Ave West - (306) 728-6860 Indoor Walking Track is open daily—free of charge and open to the public. Summer ice rentals available. Cardiac Care Family Fitness Centre hosts a variety of fitness classes & wellness programming.

Melville offers a number of recreation opportunities! From ball diamonds to the skateboard park, from the swimming pool to the dog park, there is something for everyone!

Melville Swimming Pool Open June, July and August For more information on lessons, rentals, events, daily and seasonal rates call (306)728-6859 More About Melville Melville is a great place to live, play, and work! Interested in learning more? Stop by the Tourism Centre and talk to our Economic Development Manager about growing opportunities for development, investment, and employment. 76 Halifax Avenue—(306) 728-6855

38 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

Largemouth bass ﬁshing is attracting across the an Prairies and northern Uni glers from Boundary D ted States to am R es —Photo Cr edit: Tourism ervoir, near Esteva n. Saskatchew an/Julio Sa lazar)

FAST FISHING FACTS • The ﬁshing season for southern Saskatchewan, including Boundary Reservoir, opens May 5. • Limits include ﬁsh that are eaten for shore lunch or given away that particular day, all fish that are at a camp, being transported by or for the angler, and fish that are in storage.

SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN

which were first stocked in 2000. Boundary Reservoir also contains walleye, yellow perch, northern pike, burbot, smallmouth bass and white sucker. Not that it matters when the bucketmouths are biting. The reservoir doesn’t freeze because after it provides the cooling water for the Boundary Dam coal-fired power plant, the hot water return keeps water temperatures well above normal. In addition to providing power to the province − and the joys of feisty fish − the dam is also part of the Rafferty and Alameda Dam Project, which was undertaken, in part, to help control the Souris River and protect downstream locations like Minot, North Dakota, from flooding.

• On Boundary Reservoir, the limits are two largemouth bass, three walleye and 10 perch. • Don’t forget − all anglers age 16 and older must have a valid Saskatchewan angling licence. The price varies; see the 2015 Saskatchewan Anglers’ Guide for details. Licences can be purchased:

Continued from Page 38

So, why here? Other parts of Canada, such as Southwestern Ontario, have long been the big draw for bucketmouths, but Southeast Saskatchewan is the new fishing focus. Our province isn’t generally known for its heat, other than in July and August, but it is, in fact, heat that allows fishing fanatics to battle the bass. The northern two-thirds or so of the 599-hectare (1,481 acre) reservoir doesn’t freeze, even in the Saskatchewan winter, making it a great environment for largemouth,

Lat in A mer ica W

var e l u o ia B

Ge rmany Highw

Get there by driving south of Regina on Highway 6 to Highway 39 and follow it to Estevan, then take Highway 18 west to Rafferty and enjoy your time on the water. ■

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But, it’s not just anglers who are drawn to the area. With the reservoir itself offering numerous opportunities for water sports, there are also many other area attractions, including Woodlawn Regional Park with its beach, dock, camping sites and green space. Estevan, the largest urban centre close to the reservoir, has a population of almost 13,000 people and is the centre of the southeast oil and gas and mining industries − and tourism, of course. The city features numerous draws for non-fisher folk, such shopping and cultural and historical locations, like the Souris Valley Museum.

r e et

A Festival of Cultures the whole family will enjoy! Three days of food, dance and music from around the world, waiting for you just down the street! www.reginamosaic.ca

/RMCmosaic

#MosaicYQR

DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN

Explore Saskatchewan’s history and heritage aboard the

Southern Prairie Railway located in the town of Ogema.

—Photo Credit: Melira Photography

40 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

the Southern

Prairie Railway

by Jonathan Hamelin for Postmedia SK Special Projects

All aboard: next stop, the past!

ince 2012, the Southern Prairie Railway, based in Ogema, has transported tourists back in time to the early 1900s, when pioneers were arriving in the new and mysterious prairies. The renovated Pullman 1922 passenger car with a refurbished GE 44 ton engine is Saskatchewan’s one and only full-sized tourist train. “I think some of the pioneers were really shocked back then. There are stories of mail order brides showing up from Europe – showing up on the dock and everybody in town is there waiting,” said Southern Prairie Railway CEO Cheryl Generous. “Everyone that’s involved with the railway is a history buff. For us, it just seemed really natural that we would go back to an era where the train was so revered and people wanted to be on the train. “If you talk to a lot of the seniors, they tell you, ‘I rode the train from home to work, then I would get off and somebody would pick me up with the horse and the wagon and take me out to the farm.’ You see their whole faces light up when they’re telling their story. They get to share that with their children, grandchildren and sometimes great-grandchildren.” The train runs west along an old CPR branch line to Horizon and east to Pangman, and there are a variety of themed tours that touch on the rich history of the area. •

LESSONS

•

RENTALS

The Southern Prairie Railway consists of a refurbished 44-ton diesel locomotive, a renovated Pullman passenger car built in 1922, as well as a 1950s-era baggage car and caboose. —Photo Credit: Melira Photography

The Heritage Train takes passengers on a guided tour of an old grain elevator that still stands as a mute sentinel guarding the Land of Living Skies. Guides in period costumes will tell the tale of the elevator. Saturday Morning in Pangman takes visitors to the Pangman Farmer’s Market, where vendors offer local crafts, artwork and delicious fresh baked goods, homemade jam, fresh vegetables and more.

SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN

All aboard

If you’re hungry, the Southern Prairie Railway also has a selection of food-themed tours, where passengers are taken to the Horizon Community Hall for a spectacular meal and entertainment. This year, there’s the Pitchfork Fondue, Marvellous Meal, Bubbles for Brunch, Low Tea for Mom, Ya’ll it’s Redneck Time, Burgers and Bears, Settlers Supper, All Day, Fowl Supper, Charters and a Murder Mystery. At the end of all tours, tourists have the chance to visit historic Main Street in Ogema, check out the British America Gas Station – one of the only remaining corner stations in Western Canada – and tour the famous Deep South Pioneer Museum, with 30 buildings recreating a pioneer-era village. “We are very, very pleased by the feedback we’re getting from our passengers. It’s helping us grow,” said Generous. “We receive a great amount of help from the community.”

KITEBOARDING

For more information, visit southernprairierailway.com. ■

STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING

• SALES •

SERVICE

“BECAUSE LIFE BEGINS AT THE END OF YOUR COMFORT LEVEL”

(306) 586.KITE (5483) EXPLORESPORTS.CA DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

The Lake Diefenbaker Tourism area is home to many marvelous golf courses, including

Sage View

SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN

. Situated on the shores of the lake, the course is known for its astounding views. —Photo Credit: Lindjberg Photography

Lake Diefenbaker

is the province’s largest water park

by Tom Eremondi for Postmedia SK Special Projects

uilt as a result of the damming of the South Saskatchewan River, Lake Diefenbaker has now become one of the province’s largest and busiest lakes. At 220 kilometers in length and with 800 kilometers of shore line, Lake Diefenbaker is one majestic attraction.

With 800 ki lometers of shoreline th of lake or w ater at Lake ere is no shortage —Photo Cr Diefenbaker edit: Lake . Di efenbaker To urism

“The lake is massive and I think that’s its number one appeal,” said Shanda Boon with Lake Diefenbaker Tourism. “You can go out in a boat and not see anyone

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Continued on Page 43

29TH ANNUAL

2 0 1 5 13TH ANNUAL QUILT SHOW (SAT & SUN) 8TH ANNUAL SHOW & SHINE (SAT ONLY)

HOMESPUN CRAFT SHOW & SALE

NEW EXPANDED HOURS!

Saturday, SEPT. 19th 10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Sunday, SEPT. 20th 11 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. CARLYLE SPORTS ARENA, CARLYLE, SK “THE BIGGEST LITTLE CRAFT SHOW IN SASKATCHEWAN” Expanded To Over 80 Jury Selected Booths!

Winner of the SK. Tourism Awards of Excellence...Event of the Year!! VISIT: www.homespuncanada.ca or our Facebook Page! email: info@homespuncanada.ca • Phone: (306) 453-4488

42 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee July 8-11, 14-18 Dry Streak August 5-8, 11-15 Theatre Camps (Ages 6-16) July 6-31 Call 1-306-461-6869 or visit sourisvalleytheatre.ca for more information

One of Lake Diefenbaker’s hidden treasures is the

Sandcastles Sunken Hills Trail

SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN

and

near Beechy. The trail has great views of dunes, tipi rings and also the famous Sunken Hill, a plateau hill that suddenly sank years ago. —Photo Credit: Lake Diefenbaker Tourism

SHURNIAK ART GALLERY

Come Ride the Rails

Celebrating 10 years of bringing art to the community. Check website for special exhibitions and events. ADMISSION FREE: Tues to Sat: 10 - 4:30 pm • Sun (Apr-Dec) 1-5 pm Call for holiday hours 122-3rd Ave West, Assiniboia, SK (306) 642-5292 info@shurniakartgallery.com Located one hour www.shurniakartgallery.com south of Moose Jaw.

44 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

• Ya’l Redneck Time Ride • All Day Trips • Murder Mysteries • Fowl Supper h • Sunday Bubbles Brunch • Settler’s Supper • Rum Runner Special • Heritage Train Rides

Toll Free: 1-855-459-1200 55-459-120 200 20 0 Ogema, SK ceo@southernprairierailway.com www.southernprairierailway.com

Savour summer on one of

Regina’s

SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN

outdoor patios

—Photo Credit: Travel Regina

Regina: a great place to spend the summer! T

here is no better time than the warm days of summer to enjoy all that the vibrant Queen City has to offer. In the centre of Regina is one of North America’s largest urban parks, Wascana Centre. Surrounding Wascana Lake, it is an extraordinary place to visit year round. Nestled in the beautiful park are many great attractions, such as the Saskatchewan Legislative Building, Royal Saskatchewan Museum, Saskatchewan Science Centre and the Kramer IMAX Theatre. To truly appreciate the beauty of the park, grab a picnic lunch and choose your path as you take a stroll around the lake.

46 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

stone

Heritage Centre’s six galleries. Be a part of Rider Nation − at the stadium or in one of the many establishments throughout the city that celebrate game day. 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 from coast to coast. Hang with the locals and enjoy some of Regina’s best drinks from talented and creative mixologists. The options are limitless − from sweet and sensational to savoury and spicy, there is a drink that will please every

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The west side of the city is home to the RCMP Academy, “Depot” Division, Canada’s training ground for the men and women in red serge. The nearby RCMP Heritage Centre is rich in tradition and steeped in history. With a newly launched driving tour, visitors can begin by viewing the grounds where cadets have trained since 1885, and continue their visit with guided tours of the

The Regina Dragon Bo long-time fa at Festival, vourite even Sept. 4-5, is t for paddle a —Photo Cr rs, resi edit: Leader -Post/Wendy dents and visitors. Living

Continued on Page 48

2015 FESTIVALS & EVENTS

Frontier Days Fair & Rodeo is the biggest event of the year in Southwest Saskatchewan and just one of the reasons to visit Swift Current in 2015. Live it up at Living Sky Casino, Swift Current’s entertainment destination featuring table games, slot machines and live concert performances. Explore the new Saskatchewan Hockey Hall of Fame, Art Gallery of Swift Current and historic Lyric Theatre, Saskatchewan’s oldest operating theatre. Stay and play at our 3 legendary golf courses: Elmwood Golf & Country Club, Chinook Golf Course and Sask Landing Golf Resort. Swift Current offers 1,000 hotel rooms, more than 50 restaurants and a thriving downtown where you’ll find unique shops and boutique stores.

CODY SNYDER PBR INVITATIONAL May 23, 2015 MARKET SQUARE June 13 to September 26, 2015

BEST WESTERN INN AND SUITES 105 George Street West 306-773-4660 • bestwestern.sk.ca

LONG DAY’S NIGHT MUSIC FESTIVAL June 18 to 21, 2015 WINDSCAPE KITE FESTIVAL June 20 to 21, 2015 FRONTIER DAYS FAIR & CCA RODEO June 25 to 28, 2015

COMFORT INN 1510 South Service Road East 306-778-3994 • choicehotels.ca

CHAUTAUQUA THEATRE FESTIVAL July 9 to 12, 2015 WATERMELON FESTIVAL July 26, 2015 RANCHMAN’S RIDIN’ & RECITIN’ September 25 to 27, 2015

MOTEL 6 1185 - 5th Avenue NE 306-778-6060 • motel6.com

SAFARI INN MOTEL 810 South Service Road East 306-773-4608 • safariinn.ca

SUPER 8 405 North Service Road East 306-778-6088 • super8.com

VISITOR & CONVENTION SERVICES 44 ROBERT STREET WEST, SWIFT CURRENT, SK S9H 4M9 306-778-9174

WWW.TOURISMSWIFTCURRENT.CA

@SWIFTCURRENTSK

The

Shumiatcher Sandbox Series

SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN

at the Globe Theatre challenges the boundaries of theatre, dance and multidisciplinary performance. —Photo Credit: Travel Regina

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Continued from Page 46

palate. Regina’s patios are waiting for you to sit back and take a sip of summer. Experience the vibrancy of Regina through the soul of its artists, as the city’s story is told through colour, shape, movement and sound. Appreciate one of the many art galleries, such as the MacKenzie Art Gallery or the Nouveau Gallery. Feel exhilarated by a variety of performing arts, including the Regina Symphony Orchestra, New Dance Horizons or a live performance in the treasured Globe Theatre. Plan your visit to Regina and area to include some of these events:

Learn abou t the evolut ion of the N Police at th orth West M e RCMP H ounted eritage Cen —Photo Cr tre. edit: Trav el Regina

• Lieutenant Governor’s Garden Party, Regina, July 1

• Regina Folk Festival, Regina, Aug. 7 to 9

• RCMP Sunset-Retreat Ceremony, Regina, Tuesdays, July 7 to Aug. 1

• Symphony Under the Sky, Motherwell Homestead National Historic Site, Abernethy, Aug. 29

• Regina International Fringe Theatre Festival, Regina, July 8 to 12

• Regina Dragon Boat Festival, Regina, Sept. 4 to 5

• Craven Country Jamboree, Craven, July 9 to 12 • Olde Tyme Dancing at the Historic Bell Barn, Indian Head, July 24, Aug. 21, Sept. 25 • Queen City Ex, Regina, July 29 to Aug. 2 • Mid-Summer’s Art Festival, Fort Qu’Appelle, Aug. 1 • Standing Buffalo First Nation Powwow, Fort Qu’Appelle, Aug. 7 to 9

48 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

These and many other exciting attractions, tours and events are waiting for you in Regina. Visit tourismregina.com for more information on all of these experiences and others. Be sure to follow our social media channels: Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and share your adventures with #SeeYQR. Regina, see yourself here, this summer. ■ -Contributed by Travel Regina

Dakota Dunes Golf Links

GOLFING IN SASKATCHEWAN

is a prestigious course ranked by Golf Digest and SCOREGolf. The unique course features undulating fairways and large greens, laid out through natural sand dunes and indigenous prairie grasses. —Photo Credit: Tourism Saskatchewan/Greg Huszar Photography

Must-play golf courses in Saskatchewan by Tom Eremondi for Postmedia SK Special Projects

hat golf is still a hot trend in Saskatchewan is

simply a, well, a foregone conclusion. So says golf writer and enthusiast George Bowditch, who adds that the game will only increase in popularity for two current reasons. Bowditch is a two-time city councilor in Swift Current and a contributor to SaskGolfer.com since the early 2000s. “The first is that this year there are now two Saskatchewan golfers on the PGA tour. Joining Weyburn’s Graham Delaet is Adam Hadwin, who was born in Moose Jaw,” said Bowditch.

more Graham Delaets and Adam Hadwins out there in the future.” The return of the SIGA Dakota Dunes Open, a major stop on the Canadian PGA tour, also will keep eyes focused on the sport. The event runs June 29 to July 5 at the Dakota Dunes Golf Links, located 25 minutes south of Saskatoon. At the other end of the age spectrum, Bowditch reports that “baby boomers are a taking a more active approach to health and fitness. Golf is just one of the activities they’re doing.” Continued on Page 50

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“This is going to encourage more people, especially youth, to take up golf and in turn, you’ll probably see

Rolling Pine s Golf and Country R family-fr

esort is a iendly co —Photo Cr edit: Tourism urse located near Nipawin. Saskatchew an/Devona Hill Photog raphy

Located cated 1km West W of St. Stt. Brieux 9 holes Licenced Clubhouse Cart Rentals Food Service

Golf Book G Bookings kings 306-275-4433 3 Campground Bookings C 3306-275-2255

Tournaments and Group Booking available Beautiful Well Manicured Grass Greens

BOOK ONLINE @ GOLFKATEPWA.COM OR CALL 1-306-332-2582 DESTINATION SASKATCHEWAN • SUMMER 2015

GOLFING IN SASKATCHEWAN

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Whether you’re young or old, Bowditch says it’s easy to find a course suited to your skills. “People are so mobile these days and every summer you’re going to see lots of them driving around to different places, touring all the golf courses.” Because of this, he’s seeing less golfers buying memberships to one or two specific golf courses. “Instead they prefer to see what’s out there and play many different courses.” With Saskatchewan already having the most courses per capita, golfers are not disappointed when they do want to try something new or want to play a few holes on a whim. “Most golf courses are still relatively affordable, too,” Bowditch added, “so it means people can try the sport easily and inexpensively.” He’s noticed other trends, too. “For example, one of my home courses in Swift Current is the older, more established Elmwood Golf Club. They’re rebuilding some of the course but also building a housing development into it.” This example has been repeated elsewhere, especially in Regina (Spruce Creek Estates) and Saskatoon, with the Willows and Greenbryre, which is also home to the province’s first 12-hole course. Looking at the summer’s weather forecast, Bowditch is excited for the upcoming season. He also has some favourite places where he’s looking forward to teeing off and encourages others to do the same.

“Southwest Saskatchewan is blessed with a number of great and beautiful courses. There are Elmwood and Chinook in Swift Current. They’re both very playable and relatively easy to get on at any time. “Just north of Swift Current is Sask Landing, which is a beautiful links-style course. It’s also one of the first in the province to open every year. Maple Creek and the nearby Cypress Hills are also home to great golf courses. Cypress Hills is just surreal – it’s a beautiful nine-hole course set in the lodge pole pine forest.” He says another unique must-play is Dakota Dunes, just south of Saskatoon. “Its scenery is so awesome and different. I’ve had golfers tell me that, after every hill they went over, they were expecting to see the ocean on the other side.” In the north of the province, Bowditch is especially fond of the Northern Meadows Golf Club, where fairways cut out of the boreal forest with wide-open landing areas over gently rolling terrain offer the perfect setting for golf. “It’s a family-run business and still one of the best kept secrets in Saskatchewan,” he said. To the north east, Bowditch says Nipawin is known for its pristine golf courses like Evergreen and Rolling Pines. “You’ll also find great courses in Humboldt and Saskatoon and really all over,” he added. “You just can’t go wrong with golf in Saskatchewan.” ■

Challenge Your Game at Long Creek Golf Course

(306) 868-4432 www.long-creek.ca

www.sasklandinggolfresort.com

1-866-691-4653(GOLF)

Great family get away nestled amongst 70 acres. Nine hole grass green course crossing the natural creek six times makes this place a must see. Also sand pool, playground, camping and licensed club house.

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(306) 778-4653(GOLF)

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chinookgolf @chinookgolf

www.tourismswiftcurrent.ca

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