Discover the Beauty and Adventure of Wascana Trails

Discover the Beauty and Adventure of Wascana Trails

 

Nestled near the picturesque town of Lumsden, Wascana Trails offer a serene yet exhilarating outdoor experience. Spanning over 15 kilometers, these trails cater to enthusiasts of all abilities and interests, providing an ideal setting for mountain biking, hiking, trail running, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. With outstanding views of the valley surrounding Wascana Creek, Wascana Trails are a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The diverse landscape of Wascana Trails makes it a versatile destination for various outdoor activities. Whether you are a seasoned mountain biker seeking a thrilling ride or a casual hiker looking for a peaceful stroll, the trails offer something for everyone. The paths wind through the valley, presenting a mix of challenges that include gradual hills, sharp and winding descents, and steep climbs. This variety ensures that both novice and experienced trail users can find routes that match their skill levels and preferences.

One of the unique aspects of Wascana Trails is its year-round appeal. During the warmer months, mountain biking, hiking, and trail running are popular activities. The trails, with their natural terrain and scenic views, provide an immersive experience that connects visitors with the beauty of the Saskatchewan landscape.

As the seasons change and the snow begins to blanket the ground, Wascana Trails transform into a winter wonderland. Snowshoers and cross-country skiers take to the ungroomed trails, gliding through the snow-covered valley. The absence of motorized vehicles, including snowmobiles, ensures that the trails remain a peaceful and pristine environment for all users.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wascana Trails are not just a venue for physical activity but also a gateway to observing the region’s wildlife. The valley is home to an array of species, offering visitors the chance to encounter deer, hawks, muskrats, and owls. Birdwatchers and nature photographers will find the trails particularly rewarding, with ample opportunities to capture glimpses of these creatures in their natural habitat.

To enhance the visitor experience, Wascana Trails provide a few essential amenities. There is a pit toilet available on site, ensuring that basic sanitary needs are met. Dog walking is permitted, but it is important to note that pets must be leashed at all times to protect both wildlife and other trail users.

The trails are maintained with a focus on preserving the natural environment. Motorized vehicles, including snowmobiles, are not allowed on the trails. This regulation helps to maintain the tranquility of the area and protect the natural habitat.

For those planning a trip to Wascana Trails, it’s advisable to prepare for the varying trail conditions and weather changes that can occur throughout the year. Sturdy footwear is recommended for hikers and trail runners, while mountain bikers should ensure their equipment is suitable for the terrain. During the winter months, snowshoers and cross-country skiers should dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable.

Wascana Trails offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Respect for the environment and adherence to trail regulations ensure that this natural haven remains a pristine and welcoming place for all. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your skis, or hop on your bike, and explore the wonders of Wascana Trails.

You can find out more information about Wascana Trails at:

https://www.tourismsaskatchewan.com/listings/1003/regina—wascana-valley-trails

https://www.alltrails.com/ar/trail/canada/saskatchewan/wascana-trails

Exploring Echo Valley Provincial Park: A Hiker’s Haven

Exploring Echo Valley Provincial Park: A Hiker’s Haven

Nestled in the heart of Saskatchewan, Echo Valley Provincial Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. With its diverse trail system, the park beckons hikers, bird watchers, and nature enthusiasts to explore its scenic landscapes. Here’s why a visit to Echo Valley should be on every hiker’s list.

Echo Valley Provincial Park is situated between Echo and Pasqua Lakes along Highway 210 in Fort Qu’Appelle. Its proximity to Regina makes it an ideal day-trip destination for locals and visitors alike.

Established in 1960, the park has been a cherished part of Saskatchewan’s natural heritage. It is situated in the scenic Qu’Appelle Valley, known for its picturesque views and rich cultural history. Conservation efforts in the park focus on preserving its natural beauty and biodiversity, ensuring that it remains a haven for wildlife and a retreat for nature lovers.

The park’s trail system offers a variety of experiences, from leisurely walks to more challenging hikes, ensuring that every visitor finds their perfect path. The trails wind through picturesque settings, offering stunning views of the Qu’Appelle Valley, lush meadowlands, and the serene Echo and Pasqua Lakes.

The park boasts a range of trails, from the easy-going nature trail that takes about an hour to complete, to the more strenuous Ski Trail, Horse, Jack Rabbit, Fox Trail, Ermite, Mink Loop, which spans 7.0 miles and features an elevation gain of 711 feet. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a family with children, Echo Valley has a trail that matches your skill level.

Upon visiting Echo Valley, you’ll be greeted by the park’s diverse ecosystems. The trails meander through forested areas, open meadows, and along the lakeshores. Birding enthusiasts will be delighted to know that the park is home to over 200 bird species, including the vibrant mountain bluebird.

As you traverse the trails, you’ll be enveloped by a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees, providing a habitat for various wildlife. The park’s meadows display a variety of colors in the spring and summer including wildflowers like the prairie crocus and gaillardia. The changing seasons bring forth a wild array of wildflowers and foliage, making every hike a unique experience.

Here are a few comments from people who have visited the trails:

John S.: “The trails at Echo Valley are simply breathtaking. The Aspen Trail was a peaceful walk, and the views of the valley were stunning. It’s the perfect place to clear your mind and enjoy nature.”

Emily R.: “I visited Echo Valley with my family, and we had a great time. The kids loved the Beaver Trail because of the wildlife we spotted along the way. The park is well-maintained, and the trails are clearly marked.”

Liam T.: “As an avid hiker, I found the challenges of the Coyote Trail exhilarating. The elevation changes offered a good workout, and the panoramic views at the top were worth every step.”

Sophia M.: “The wildflowers along the Meadowlark Trail were so beautiful in the spring. I took so many photos! It’s amazing how such a serene place exists so close to the city.”

Alex D.: “I’m passionate about bird watching, and Echo Valley did not disappoint. The variety of bird species I could observe in one hike was impressive. I’ll definitely be back for more.”

Echo Valley Provincial Park is equipped with amenities to enhance your hiking experience. The park offers “CampEasy” tent sites for those wishing to extend their stay, and there are picnic areas where you can rest and refuel. It’s recommended to bring along water, sunscreen, and bug spray to ensure a comfortable hike.

For those planning a visit or seeking more information about Echo Valley Provincial Park, the following resources can be invaluable:

  • Tourism Saskatchewan’s Official Page provides detailed information on park amenities, events, and booking options.
  • AllTrails offers trail maps, reviews, and photos from the hiking community to help you plan your adventure.
  • Sask Parks gives insights into the park’s events, programs, and cultural significance.

More information on the site can also be found on our on-line trail directory at: Saskatchewan Trails Association – Google My Maps.

This article is part of the SaskTrails Storyteller Series. Thank you to the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association and Trans Canada Trail for supporting this initiative.

 

Finding Refuge at Condie

Finding Refuge at Condie

The Condie Nature Refuge beckons just a stone’s throw from downtown Regina, a serene oasis where the trails pulse with the symphony of nature.  

Condie is about 30 minutes northwest of Regina and about 15 minutes southeast of Lumsden.

The Condie reservoir, which is home to both fish and waterfowl, was created when the Canadian National Railway (CN Rail) damned nearby Boggy Creek in 1924. This dam was created as a source of water for their steam engines when they rolled through Regina.

Nestled around a tranquil reservoir created from the dam, this refuge offers a year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Glide across its waters in canoes, kayaks, or sups, or enjoy peaceful shoreline fishing amidst a chorus of wild roses, gaillardia, and western red lilies that paint the landscape with vibrant hues.

Over the last 30 years more than 80,000 trees and shrubs have been planted in the area to create the nature refuge as it is today, home to many species of residential birds over the winter and a great place to get away from the city.

There are pit toilets at each parking lot, all of which are wheelchair friendly. Four kms of gentle hiking trails are available for all skill levels, including one fully accessible loop. There is no beach and only a few areas suitable to drop in a canoe but once your out there, it’s worth it.

As Condie is a nature refuge, pets are prohibited on site to protect the integrity of the habitat for nesting birds and other wildlife.

Come spring and summer, the air hums with the melodies of a diverse community of birds, making Condie Nature Refuge not just a destination, but a harmonious sanctuary celebrating the spirit of Saskatchewan’s natural beauty. You’ll find pelicans, hawks, ducks, swallows, and many other birds while making your hike.

Each season brings its own charm to Condie. From the lush greenery of summer to the stunning fall colors, and the serene beauty of snow-covered landscapes in winter, it’s a year-round destination.

Here are a few more websites where you can find more information:

 

Please note that we also have a listing on our trail directory at:

Trail Directory | Saskatchewan Trails Association (sasktrails.ca)

 

This article is part of the SaskTrails Storyteller Series. Thank you to the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association and Trans Canada Trail for supporting this initiative.

For a Great ATV Experience

For a Great ATV Experience

Hey, ATV enthusiasts! 

Well, the weather warms up, ATV enthusiasts are looking forward to spending more time outside. Now is the time to remind the public to think about safety  while enjoying this season.  

 

 

ATVs are a great way to experience the Saskatchewan outdoors. Riding an ATV allows you to explore off-road trails, forests, and scenic landscapes that you might not otherwise experience. ATVs are amazing, but we should always be keeping ourselves and others safe. 

Following these guidelines will ensure that you make it home safe and sound; 

  1. Wear the gear. Saskatchewan law requires that all ATV riders (including passengers) wear a helmet and goggles (if the helmet doesn’t have a face screen) on public property or on property that the rider does not own. This includes side by side. Roll cages are not foolproof and in a roll over the driver’s head can meet the roll cage or other part of the side by side resulting in serious head injuries.
  2. Do not allow passengers unless the ATV is designed to carry a passenger. Single person ATVs are designed with a specific center of gravity and adding a passenger can create a dangerous imbalance in the ATV, especially when climbing or maneuvering around obstacles.
  3. The Right ATV – this is especially true for children. ATV’s will have warning labels which advise what minimum age is appropriate for riding that ATV. Placing a child or small person on an ATV that is too large or powerful for them to handle can have dire consequences.
  4. Get Trained – it’s important that riders know how to ride their ATV properly. If the rider is 12 to 15 years old or does not have a driver’s license they must take an approved safety course. However, all riders can benefit from the training.
  5. Ride with a Buddy/Group – at the very least make sure someone knows where you are and when you are expected to come back. Riding with friends or a group makes for a more enjoyable experience and provides additional security in knowing that someone else is there should there be a mishap.
  6. Know your Limits – attempting advanced or tricky maneuvers, without the proper experience and training, can lead to crashes, and resulting injuries.

This article is part of the SaskTrails Storyteller Series. Thank you to the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association and Trans Canada Trail for supporting this initiative.

Give Us Your Best Shot Photo Contest June 2024

Hike! Cycle! Paddle! … and Click!

Announcing the 2024 Give Us Your Best Shot Photo Contest!

At long last the warmth of spring has made its way to Saskatchewan, and adventure awaits for hiking, cycling and paddling enthusiasts! And with spring it’s once again time for our annual Give Us Your Best Shot photo contest. The month-long contest begins on June 1 – Saskatchewan Trails Day! – and runs right through to June 30.

This year we’re doing something new. There are three prize packages, each geared to your specific type of adventure: one for the hiking enthusiast, one for the cycling buff, and one for the paddling adventurer.

To enter the contest, submit your photos by posting to X (formally Twitter), Instagram or Facebook using #GiveUsYourBestShot2024. You can also submit via email at info@sasktrails.ca. When making your submissions, please let us know what prize package you prefer: hiking, cycling or paddling.

What Are We Looking For?

We’re really interested in photos showing you, your friends and family enjoying Saskatchewan’s beautiful trails and waterways. Children laughing as they wander along a wooded path? Perfect! Your best friend dancing on the trail? Fantastic! Your parents gazing at the spectacular beauty of a Saskatchewan river as they paddle their canoe through the waves? Incredible!

This is a great way to showcase your hidden adventure discoveries, showcase Saskatchewan’s beautiful trails and waterways are, and entice others to head out and explore on their own.

Rules for Entry:

All residents of Saskatchewan are eligible to enter the contest. STA board and staff may submit photos, but are not eligible to win. There’s no limit to the number of photos you can submit. But note that each photo is counted as one entry even if submitted through multiple platforms.

Please let us know where the photo was taken. Don’t forget to specify your preference for the hiking, cycling or paddling prize package!

The deadline for submissions is June 30!

Winners will be chosen by the board of directors at the end of the month and announced on all our social media pages. Winners will be contacted directly with details on how to claim their prize.

The Technical Stuff:

Check your privacy settings to ensure your entries are visible. Please note that private posts can not be entered. Post photos in the highest resolution possible so they can be used for promotional materials. Winning photos may be used in Saskatchewan trails materials such as brochures, annual reports, social media and more.

The Good Stuff:  Prizes

With a huge shout-out to our amazing sponsors: Stapleton’s Great Adventure Company (Hiking), Dutch Cycle (Cycling) and Fresh Air Experience (Canoeing).

Hiking Prize Package:

$25 Adventure Gear Gift Card (for use in store or online), Mystery Ranch Gallagator 20 18L Backpack, Chinook Adjustable Hiking Poles,  two Cotopaxi Tech Bucket Hats, Radiant 300 Rechargeable headlamp and Cenote 2L Hydration Reservoir.

 

Cycling Prize Package:

Evoc Hydration Hip Pack Pro, Finish Line – Dry Lubricant, Park Tool – AWS-10 Folding Hex Wrench Set, Two 49N-Patch Kits and a Knog Plus Lights-Plus Front in Black.

Paddling Prize Package:

Mustang APF PFD, Fresh Air Experience Headsweats FAE Hat, Petzl Tikka Core Light, Original Canada Buff and Nalgene Trail Products Water Bottle 32 oz Wide Mouth.

And A Final Note … Rules for Submissions:

Contest entries may be used by the Saskatchewan Trails Association (STA) for promotional purposes.  Pease do not submit any photos you do not wish STA to use.

By submitting photos, you confirm that (a) your photo is you own original work; (b) you own the rights to the photo, including copyright; (c) you have the right to give the STA permission to use your photo for the purposes specified in these rules; (d) the photo is not defamatory and does not infringe on any Canadian laws or violate the rights of any third party; (e) you have the consent of anyone who is identifiable in your photo or the consent of the parent or guardian of anyone who is a minor; (f) you waive any moral rights you might have in the photo; (g) you indemnify the STA against any claim, demand, action, suit, or other proceedings against the STA arising our of the use of the photo or any false or inaccurate statements.

By entering, contestants agree to follow these contest rules, which shall be applied by the STA.

Good Luck and Happy Adventuring along Saskatchewan’s beautiful trails and water ways!

Saskatchewan Trails Annual General Meeting

Saskatchewan Trails Annual General Meeting

The 2024 Annual General Meeting was held on Thursday, March 21 via ZOOM.

The guest presenter was Ric Driediger, a seasoned adventurer and passionate canoe enthusiast, who has been instrumental in helping people explore the pristine wilderness of the Churchill River system in northern Saskatchewan for several decades. He served as the owner of Churchill River Canoe Outfitters for 35 years before recently retiring to embark on his own canoeing adventures. Ric is also the author of Paddling Northern Saskatchewan: A Guide to 80 Canoe Routes, and Stories From the Churchill. Ric shared his knowledge and experience about the Churchill River canoe routes.
The meeting also featured an overview of the STA’s activities in 2023, audited financial statements and board elections.

Our annual report can be found here.

The draft meeting minutes can be found here.

The meeting minutes from the 2023 Annual General Meeting can be found here.

Winter on the Trails Photo Contest Winners

Winter on the Trails Photo Contest Winners

Thank you to everyone who enter our first-ever Winter On The Trail Photo Contest. The Winter Photo Contest ran from November 15 to December 15, giving trail enthusiasts a month to explore and capture the beauty of winter on the trails. The contest was open to all ages and skill levels.

The Grand Prize Winner is Jeff Hehn, who receives a prize package featuring:

  • MSR® PocketRocket™ Stove Kit
  • Camino Fair Trade & Organic Instant Dark Hot Chocolate
  • Hot Poc Reusable Hand Warmers
  • KGC 2 Pack Winter Neck Warmer Gaiter

 

 

First Runner Up is Carla Martin Roslinski, who receives a prize package featuring:

  • GSI Glacier Stainless Vacuum Bottle 1L
  • North Face Bozer Hip Pack III – L – Unisex
  • LifeStraw Personal Water Filter Straw

 

 

 

 

 

Our Second Runner Up is Mike Gavelis, who receives a prize package including:

  • AUTOWT Hand Warmers Rechargeable 2 Pack – 5000mAh Electric Hand Warmer Power Bank Flashlight 3 in 1, USB Charge Portable Magnetic Hand Heater for Camping, Outdoor Sports, Winter Gifts for Women Men
  • YETI® Rambler Tumbler with Lid
  • Bushnell Powerview 8×21 Binoculars

 

We received so many beautiful photos. Just because the contest is over doesn’t mean you have to stop using the trails and snapping photos. Sask Trails will accept your photos anytime of the year.

#winteronthetrailsphotocontest2023

 

Watch for details on our summer photography contest coming later this year!

Elbow Recreational Trail

Elbow Recreational Trail

A community’s journey to seven kilometers of outstanding scenery

 

Natalie Letts and her husband Rick, deeply involved in the Elbow community, share a personal connection with the area. Having spent summers on an acreage near Saskatoon and vacationing in Elbow, the decision to contribute to the community’s well-being came naturally.

This passion led to the establishment of Elbow Recreational Trail. “We knew it would be a good addition to the community, and that’s how Rick and I got really involved in getting this trail built. Friends of the Elbow Trail is the name of our group. We are a nonprofit. It’s a project that took approximately 1.5 years to construct from start to finish. And at the time, we were told it would take us five years. So, it really went by quickly,” said Natalie.

Elbow Recreational Trail, part of the Trans Canada Trail, spans approximately seven kilometers, taking walkers, hikers, and bikers on a scenic journey along the shores of Lake Diefenbaker and around Elbow Marina Harbor. The trail’s diverse terrain, with ups and downs, adds a thrilling element to the experience.

Recently, a connecting trail was added, linking Main Street Elbow to the primary trail. “We just recently built a connection trail that connects Main Street Elbow to our trails so that people coming into town can park on Main Street and walk on the connection trails and down to get on the main part of the trail down by the lake without having to drive,” said Natalie.

As trail enthusiasts explore the Elbow Recreational Trail, they encounter cultural and historical landmarks that add depth to the experience. The “Cairn Spot”, situated midway through the trail, serves as a rest area, offering a breathtaking view of Lake Diefenbaker, the elbow of the South Saskatchewan River, and the Aiktow Valley. Informative signs along the trail delve into the history of Captain John Palliser’s 1857 expedition and the development of the Lake Diefenbaker area.

The Elbow Recreational Trail project received a $150,000 grant from Trans Canada Trails, acting as a catalyst for the project. The construction was efficiently executed by Sustainable Trails, a company known for global trail-building expertise. Community support also played a vital role. “We had lots of community support, not just cash donations, but in-kind support, with equipment and labor during construction. All this helped the project move along much faster,” said Natalie.

For some community members, seeing the rapid progress motivated them to get involved and donate. One noteworthy community fundraiser that played and still plays an important role involved the sale of benches and picnic tables. These items were sold at $1,000 each, allowing purchasers to add a personal touch with a dedicated plaque. The adorned benches and tables were strategically placed along the trail, creating a lasting testament to the community’s support, and instilling a sense of ownership among contributors.

Maintaining a trail is as crucial as building it, and Elbow Recreational Trail demonstrates a model of community partnership. Volunteers, local golf course maintenance crews, and a collaboration with the Saskatchewan Trails Association (STA) ensures ongoing care for the trail. The strategic partnership with the STA allows people who donate to receive tax receipts.

“Getting charitable status was something that our group knew would be too much administrative work for us to do. It’s been a really good partnership with SaskTrails because they have been able to accept donations on our behalf and issue tax receipts,” said Natalie.

The Friends of the Elbow Trail Group hosts two annual fundraisers, the Spring Runoff and Dinner with the Stars, attracting community members and supporters. The Spring Runoff, held on Mother’s Day weekend, allows participants to walk or run a 5k section of the trail, followed by a gathering at the local harbor golf club.

Dinner with the Stars, featuring entertainment and a delightful meal, is a sought-after event with tickets selling out within minutes. Creative initiatives, such as the Sarcan bottle drop off, where residents collect recyclables, have proven to be successful fundraisers, reinforcing the community’s commitment to the trail.

For those planning to explore Elbow Trails, Natalie offers valuable insights. She says it’s a dynamic seven-kilometer stretch and the trail is not flat, making the journey more exhilarating. When it gets windy, you have nothing to worry about because the trail is shielded from the wind and very enjoyable.

Another thing you’ll enjoy is the sense of direction. “A tip for trail builders out there is that signage is your best friend. We decked out our trail with abundant markers, maps, and distance indicators. Trust me; you can never have too much — nothing beats the frustration of a poorly-signed trail,” said Natalie.

The Elbow Recreational Trail project stands as a testament to the power of community passion and collaboration. What began as a dream is now a seven-kilometer masterpiece, weaving through cultural and historical landmarks, offering breathtaking views, and promoting community health and well-being.

As the Elbow Recreational Trail continues to thrive, it serves as an inspiration for communities and individuals who wish to create lasting legacies. “If you don’t believe in something, then you know it’s never going to happen. So sometimes you just have to take that little risk, but the rewards are so worth it,” said Natalie.

Stay connected with the Friends of the Elbow Trail community on Facebook for the latest updates, events, and more!

Ski the Land of Living Skies A Cross Country Skiing winter guide

Ski the Land of Living Skies

A Cross Country Skiing winter guide

If you love winter and enjoy the outdoors, cross country skiing is a great way to explore the beautiful landscapes of Saskatchewan. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, there are plenty of trails to suit your skill level and preferences. In this newsletter, we will share some of the best cross country skiing trails in Saskatchewan, as well as some useful resources to help you plan your trip.

Popular Cross Country Skiing Trails in Saskatchewan

From the rolling hills and forests of the north to the flat prairies and badlands of the south, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular and scenic cross country skiing trails in Saskatchewan:

  • Duck Mountain Provincial Park: This park has 60 kilometres of groomed trails, ranging from green to black, that wind through the boreal forest and offer stunning views of the lakes and hills. The park also has a warm-up shelter, a ski rental shop, and a campground. You can find more information at here.
  • Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park: This park has 30 kilometres of groomed trails, mostly easy to moderate, that traverse the forested hills and valleys of the Cypress Hills. The park also has a warm-up shelter, a ski rental shop, and a variety of accommodations. You can find more information at here.
  • Great Blue Heron Provincial Park – Anglin Lake Trails: This park has 12 kilometres of groomed trails, mostly easy to moderate, that loop around the scenic Anglin Lake. The park also has a warm-up shelter, a ski rental shop, and a campground. You can find more information at here.
  • Eb’s Trails: These trails are in the Nesbit Provincial Forest, about an hour’s drive north of Saskatoon. They have 55 kilometres of groomed trails, mostly moderate to difficult, that offer a wilderness experience and a chance to spot wildlife. The trails also have several warm-up shelters and a parking lot. You can find more information and a trail map here.
  • White Butte Trails Recreation Site: This site is located 20 minutes east of Regina and has 12.7 kilometres of groomed trails, mostly easy to moderate, that meander through the aspen parkland. The site also has a warm-up shelter, an outdoor washroom, and two parking lots. You can find more information and a trail map here.

 

Useful Resources for Cross Country Skiing

If you want to learn more about cross country skiing, here are some resources that you can check out:

  • Cross Country Saskatchewan: This is the official website of the provincial organization that promotes and supports cross country skiing in Saskatchewan. You can find information about clubs, events, programs, coaching, and more at https://www.crosscountrysask.ca/.
  • Tourism Saskatchewan: This is the official website of the provincial tourism agency that provides travel planning, maps, vacations, camping, parks, accommodations, and more. You can find information about cross country skiing and other winter activities at https://www.tourismsaskatchewan.com/.
  • The Lost Girl’s Guide to Finding the World: This is a blog by Ashlyn George, a former Saskatchewanderer and an adventure traveller who has visited 60 countries and all 7 continents. She writes about her experiences and tips for travelling in Saskatchewan and around the world. You can find her blog at https://www.thelostgirlsguide.com/.

We hope this post has inspired you to try cross country skiing this winter, as it’s a fun way to enjoy the beauty and diversity of our province. Happy skiing!

 

Enhancing Saskatchewan’s Trails: The STA Membership Assistance Grant

Enhancing Saskatchewan’s Trails: The STA Membership Assistance Grant

There’s a thriving network of trails, which offer residents and visitors a chance to explore the beauty of the province up close. What many might not be aware of is the Saskatchewan Trails Association’s (STA) Membership Assistance Grant program that has been supporting trail projects across the province for years.

The STA’s Membership Assistance Grant is a financial assistance program designed to provide support to its members for various trail-related projects. These projects encompass a wide range of activities aimed at improving and maintaining the extensive trail system in the province. From snowmobile clubs to cross-country ski trails, the STA’s grant program has made a significant impact on the accessibility and quality of Saskatchewan’s trails.

Funding grants of up to $1,000 for building new trails or undergoing maintenance projects such as updating maps, fixing signs, purchasing maintenance tools or adding GPS capabilities are available through an application process. These grants are only available to current SaskTrails members. Some of the eligibility criteria include length of membership and how long you will be committed to the organization in the future.

Funds for this program are received through donations and project management fees by the STA. If you would like to make a donation, please visit https://sasktrails.ca/getinvolved/#donate.

Here is a glimpse of how we have distributed the funding to different trail groups.

2024

  • The Hudson Bay Ski Club, Manitou Beach and Prairie Sky Trails were recently awarded a $1,000 STA Membership Assistance Trail Grant. The funding will be used for trail signs along the newly-expanded Pineview Nordic Ski Trails in Hudson Bay, and for a new wheelchair accessible trail in the heart of Manitou Beach.
  • It will also support new interpretive signs depicting local Indigenous history, storytelling and information on local habitats along the trail system at Sunset Beach on Lake Diefenbaker.

Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore projects that received funding through this program.

2023

  • The Resort Village of Candle Lake received funding for upgrades to the Simon Lehne Trail. The village was able to mulch and conduct brush clearing on the trail. It now features a soft, woodchip base, which is ideal as a nature trail.
  • Bengough and District Park Authority added another additional 1km loop to their existing trail, which was began upgrades last year. This new path will create a connection back to the main trail section, creating plenty of opportunity for hikers to change their route on a regular basis. The grant will help purchase signs and signposts, benches, solar lights, garbage bins and dog waste receptacles for this new area.
  • The Oxbow and District Recreation Board plans to upgrade their existing Bow Valley trails. The grant will be used to purchase posts and solar lights that will be distributed to help light the path that has been enjoyed by residents, campers, and surrounding communities for years.
  • Pasquia Regional Park Authority would like to build a new rest area on their 5 km long path where the famous 90-million-year-old crocodile, “Big Bert”, was discovered. With plans to install an outhouse and park bench, the area will be cleared of foliage and other obstacles. This preliminary work is set to be completed in May, which will allow for installation in late July or early August.
  • The East Qu’Appelle will also be adding metred signage to their Kapo Kraze and Sunny Side Up trails, along with building a trail head sign between the Screeching Jay and Corky’s Revenge trails. This will offer checkpoints to hikers and give a better sense of direction and distance on these existing trails.

2022

  • Four recipients were selected to each receive $500 grants. The Bengough & District Regional Park Authority received funding to add a new loop to an existing trail and update signs, sign poles, and benches for park visitors.
  • Leader and District Tourism received funding to enhance pedestrian routes, ensuring safety and providing the community with safe trail alternatives.
  • Saskatoon Trail Alliance used the grant to improve trail surfaces on single tracks along the river valley, mitigating erosion and enhancing the trail system’s durability.

2020

  • The Foam Lake & District Leisure Services Board restored the nature trails in the RM of Foam Lake’s Foam Lake Heritage Marsh areas. The restoration was necessary due to past flooding that damaged signage, viewing platforms, and eroded shorelines. The project received $1000 and not only improved the area’s accessibility.
  • The Qu’Appelle Valley Nordic Ski Club’s project focused on the maintenance of its trail system and received $1000 funding. This was used to level the trails, install signage, plant trees for wind protection, snow accumulation, and habitat, as well as additional snow fence installation. All of this was done to improve the overall trail experience for skiers and hikers.

2017

  • Funding support was provided to three trail projects: the Fatlanders Fat Tire Brigade, Timber Trail Sno Riders Snowmobile Club, and Whiteswan Snow Hawks Snowmobile Club. These grants helped strengthen the trail network in Saskatchewan by facilitating the construction of new trails and necessary maintenance work.

2016

  • The Hudson Bay Ski Club completed a trail improvement project for the Pineview Cross Country Ski Trails. The project involved adding a 1.6-kilometer loop suitable for various activities, from skiing in the winter to hiking and mountain biking in the summer. This initiative expanded the trail system and made it more accessible to a wider range of outdoor enthusiasts.

2015

  • The Ed Spratt Trail near the town of Craik was supported by the STA. This trail, connecting Tugaske and Craik, serves as a tribute to Ed Spratt, who played a pivotal role in the development of the trail network in the region. Special signage was produced and installed to mark this significant route.

2014

  • The Whiteswan Snow Hawks snowmobile club received a grant of $400 to reroute a trail for safety reasons, as the original trail had issues with flooding. This project aimed to ensure the safety and enjoyment of snowmobilers in the area.
  • The City of Humboldt received $500 and completed a trail connecting the downtown area to Centennial Park, facilitating non-motorized transportation for residents. The grant supported the creation of a seating node along this trail, enhancing the experience for park-goers.
  • The Timber Trails Sno-Riders Co-operative Ltd. requested funding and received $500 to place signs and signposts along their trails, contributing to improved navigation for trail users.
  • The Parkland Trans Canada Trail Association utilized a $500 grant to install a bench with a plaque along a trail in Saskatoon. This initiative highlighted the association’s support and added a touch of comfort to the trail.
  • Following damage to their trails caused by an ice storm, the Lakeland Snowmobile Club used funding of $400 to clean and restore the trails, ensuring they were safe and enjoyable for the upcoming winter season.
  • The Resort Village of Manitou Beach received $500 to embark on an upgrade project, installing trail markers and signage along a recently improved gravel trail along the lakefront. The project was to enhance the experience of visitors exploring the area.
  • The Ness Creek Cultural and Recreational Society Inc. received $500 to update trail maps, survey a new trail with GPS, replace existing trail markers, and build a larger trailhead kiosk. These improvements aimed to cater to the growing number of people using their trails.

The Saskatchewan Trails Association’s Membership Assistance Grant program has allowed various trail projects to flourish, enhancing the overall outdoor experience for residents and visitors alike.

As we look to the future, the STA’s commitment to supporting trail projects continues to play a pivotal role in maintaining and expanding Saskatchewan’s trail systems. For those who are passionate about trails and their role in connecting communities and promoting outdoor recreation, this program is a beacon of hope. It demonstrates how dedicated individuals and organizations can come together to make a significant difference in their local communities.

If you have a trail project in mind and are an STA member, consider exploring the possibilities of the Membership Assistance Grant program. By doing so, you can become part of a legacy that helps preserve Saskatchewan’s natural beauty and invites others to experience it for generations to come.

You can also make a meaningful difference by donating to the grant program. Your generous contributions will directly impact the growth and maintenance of the province’s trail systems, and we can continue to fund vital projects that improve accessibility, safety, and overall enjoyment for outdoor enthusiasts and local communities.

For more information on the STA Membership Assistance Grant program and other funding opportunities, please visit Saskatchewan Trails Association.