Winter on the Trails Photo Contest

The chill in the air, the soft whisper of snowflakes, and the serene beauty of a winter wonderland – this season paints our favorite trails in Saskatchewan with an entirely different palette. As we bid farewell to the golden hues of spring, we are thrilled to announce our first-ever Winter Photo Contest, inviting all trail enthusiasts to capture the breathtaking essence of Saskatchewan’s winter landscapes.

The Winter Photo Contest will run from November 15 to December 15, giving you a whole month to explore and capture the beauty of winter on the trails. Your task is to showcase the unique experiences and activities that come to life on a winter trail.  Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a casual shutterbug, we encourage everyone to participate. This contest is open to all ages and skill levels.

This year, a fantastic set of prizes that await the winners of this contest. Our top prize winner will receive 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

Our first honourable mention will receive:

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

The second honourable mention will receive:

  • 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

These prizes are to enhance your outdoor experiences and make your winter trail adventures even more memorable.

Participating in the Winter Photo Contest is easy. Simply take your camera or smartphone with you on your winter trail adventures and capture an activity – walking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, snowmobile, and so on – that define this season on the trails. Share your photos on social media using the hashtag #winteronthetrailsphotocontest2023, and don’t forget to tag SaskTrails to ensure we see your submissions. For those without social media, please email us at info@sasktrails.ca.

All residents of Saskatchewan are eligible to enter the contest. STA board and staff members may submit photos, but they are not eligible to win. Photos may be submitted multiple times, but there is only one entry per photo. You may submit as many different photos as you would like. Please let us know where the photos were taken.

Check privacy settings to ensure that entries are visible, as private posts are not considered to be entered. Try and post photos in the highest resolution possible so that we can use them for potential printed materials. Winning photos may be used in Saskatchewan trails promotional materials through brochures, annual reports, social media and more. As pictures come in, they may be featured on our page, with credit to the photographer.

If you do not want to provide the Saskatchewan Trails Association (STA) permission to use your photos, please do not submit your photos.

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.

Winners, chosen the following week, will be announced on all of our pages and will be contacted to arrange to claim their prize. The deadline for submission is December 15, so make sure to have your photos in before then.

Here are a few reasons to get out and explore this season:

  • Winter trails offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The quietude and tranquility of snow-covered landscapes create a meditative and serene atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding.
  • Winter decorates the trails with a blanket of glistening snow, transforming familiar landscapes into a breathtaking winter wonderland. The play of light and shadows on the snow-covered ground creates picture-perfect.
  • There are numerous activities to enjoy on the winter trails. These activities are not only great for your physical health but also provide a mental boost as you connect with nature.
  • Winter offers the opportunity to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Animal tracks in the snow, including those of deer, rabbits, and foxes, are a common sight, offering a glimpse into the lives of our forest friends.

We encourage you to gear up, step outside, and let your camera capture the enchantment of winter on Saskatchewan’s trails. We can’t wait to see your photos and share in the beauty of this season with all of you. Good luck to all participants!

Embracing the Saskatchewan Trails in all seasons: Winter hiking preparation

As the spring leaves fall and the air takes on a crisp, invigorating chill, the allure of winter hiking beckons to outdoor enthusiasts in Saskatchewan. The province’s picturesque landscapes transform into a wonderland of serene, snow-covered trails, inviting adventurers to experience the unique beauty of the season. However, embarking on a winter hike requires careful preparation and a respect for the challenges of colder weather. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to get ready for the winter hike season and offer some valuable tips for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Preparation is Key

  1. Choose the Right Trail: The first step in preparing for a winter hike is selecting an appropriate trail. While many of Saskatchewan’s summer trails are still accessible in the winter, it’s essential to consider factors such as trail length, terrain, and the level of difficulty. For beginners, it’s often advisable to start with shorter, well-marked routes and gradually progress to more challenging options.
  2. Gear Up: Invest in high-quality winter hiking gear. Essentials include waterproof and insulated boots, moisture-wicking clothing, thermal layers, a warm hat, gloves, and a winter jacket. Don’t forget to protect your extremities with warm, moisture-resistant socks and gaiters to keep snow out of your boots.
  3. Safety Equipment: Winter hiking may require additional safety equipment. Ensure you have essential items such as a map and compass, headlamp or flashlight, a multi-tool, and a fully charged mobile phone. Extra clothing layers and high-energy snacks should be readily available in case of emergency.
  4. Traction Aids: Winter trails can be icy, making traction aids like micro spikes or crampons vital for stability and safety. These devices will help prevent slips and falls on icy surfaces, providing you with added confidence on the trail.
  5. Snowshoes: Depending on the depth of snow, snowshoes may be necessary to prevent you from sinking and struggling through deep drifts. Choose snowshoes that suit the type of terrain you’ll be exploring.

Winter Hiking Tips

  1. Check the Weather: Always keep a close eye on weather conditions before setting out. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather and temperature. Cold snaps and storms can be unexpected in winter, so having an awareness of the forecast is crucial for safety.
  2. Layering is Essential: Dressing in layers is the key to staying warm in cold conditions. Multiple layers trap heat and can be adjusted as needed to prevent overheating. Start with moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away from your body, add insulation for warmth, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect against the elements.
  3. Stay Hydrated: It’s easy to forget about hydration in cold weather, but staying well-hydrated is just as important in winter as in summer. Dehydration can make you more susceptible to cold-related issues. Carry an insulated water bottle and ensure it doesn’t freeze by placing it in an insulated cover.
  4. Warm-Up Breaks: In extremely cold conditions, it’s essential to take regular warm-up breaks. Find a sheltered spot, eat a snack, and drink something warm to keep your energy levels up. Use these breaks to check for signs of frostbite or hypothermia, such as numb fingers or toes.
  5. Navigation Skills: Winter landscapes can sometimes be unrecognizable due to the snow cover. Ensure you have good navigation skills and carry a map and compass or GPS device to stay on course.
  6. Respect Wildlife: Winter is a challenging time for wildlife, and they may be struggling to find food. Be respectful of their space and keep your distance to minimize disturbance.
  7. Leave No Trace: Just as in any season, practice Leave No Trace principles. Avoid trampling on delicate winter ecosystems, and pack out all trash, including food scraps.
  8. Plan for Shorter Days: In the winter, the days are shorter, so plan your hike accordingly. Start early to make the most of daylight and be prepared with a headlamp or flashlight in case your hike lasts longer than expected.
  9. Travel with a Buddy: Hiking with a partner is a good safety practice, as you can look out for each other and help in case of an emergency.

Whether you’re exploring the rugged terrain of the Cypress Hills or the enchanting forests of Prince Albert National Park, the winter landscapes of Saskatchewan are a sight to behold. Embrace the opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or simply trekking through a winter wonderland.

With proper preparation and adherence to safety precautions, winter hiking in Saskatchewan can be a truly magical experience. So, as the snow begins to blanket the trails, make the most of the winter season and embark on your next adventure. Saskatchewan’s winter trails await, and with the right gear and knowledge, you can explore them safely and enjoy the serene beauty of the season.

 

Winners Selected For Give Us Your Best Shot Photo Contest

We are pleased to announce the winners of the 2023 Give Us Your Best Shot Photo Contest!

Congratulations to Grand Prize winner Ryan Belt De Vera. Honourable mentions to  Virginia D and Neethu Jinil. The early bird prize winner was Jeff Acena.

Ryan won an 18L day-pack, a portable mess-free container, an adventure medical kit, a collapsible water-bottle and a wilderness T-shirt (valued at over $200).

Here is the winning photograph, captured at Peegee Man Trail Near North Battleford:

Virginia  won a North Face waist pack, a Lifestraw water purifier, a headlamp, a rain poncho, and a wilderness T-shirt. The second honorable mention winner, Neethu, won a Yeti water bottle, an adventure medical kit, a trekking towel, and an Elbow Trails hoodie.

Here are the two honorable mention winning photos:

Virginia’s was taken in Prince Albert National Park, while Neethu’s photo was captured at Waskesiu Trails.

Jeff received a set of trekking poles, a camping mug, a Buff headscarf, a 3-in-1 flashlight and a SaskTrails T-shirt (valued at over $100). His photo was taken at the Cypress Hills Beaver Creek Loop:

Thanks again to everyone who submitted photos and showed interest in the contest. We received almost 200 submissions and reached over 8,000 people on social media! We hope these photos inspire you to get out and enjoy Saskatchewan’s beautiful trails.

2023 Give Us Your Best Shot Photo Contest

Introducing the 2023 Give Us Your Best Shot Photo Contest!

The time has come once again for the Give Us Your Best Shot photo contest. The month-long contest will begin on June 3, which is Saskatchewan Trails Day! It will conclude on Friday, June 30.

To enter the contest, submit your photos by posting to Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook using #SaskTrailsPhotoContest2023. You can also submit via email at info@sasktrails.ca.

Rules for Entry:

All residents of Saskatchewan are eligible to enter the contest. STA board and staff members may submit photos, but they are not eligible to win. Photos may be submitted multiple times, but there is only one entry per photo. You may submit as many different photos as you would like. Please let us know where the photos were taken.

Check privacy settings to ensure that entries are visible, as private posts are not considered to be entered. Try and post photos in the highest resolution possible so that we can use them for potential printed materials. Winning photos may be used in Saskatchewan trails promotional materials through brochures, annual reports, social media and more.

As pictures come in, they may be featured on our page, with credit to the photographer. We wish everyone who enters the best of luck and can’t wait to see all the wonderful photos!

Prizes:

Winners, chosen at the end of the month, will be announced on all of our pages and will be contacted to arrange to claim their prize. The deadline for submission is June 30, so make sure to have your photos in before then.

The Grand Prize Winner will receive a 18L day-pack, a portable mess-free container, an adventure medical kit, a collapsible water-bottle and a wilderness T-shirt (valued at over $200).

The Early Bird Prize, awarded on June 16, features a set of trekking poles, a camping mug, a Buff headscarf, a 3-in-1 flashlight and a SaskTrails T-shirt (valued at over $100).

Two Honorable Mention winners will receive either:

A North Face waist pack, a Lifestraw water purifier, a headlamp, a rain poncho and a wilderness T-shirt.

Or a Yeti water bottle, an adventure medical kit, a trekking towel and an Elbow Trails hoodie.

Rules for Submissions:

If you do not want to provide the Saskatchewan Trails Association (STA) permission to use your photos, please do not submit your photos.

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 applies by the STA.

STA Grants

The Saskatchewan Trails Association is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s Member Trail Grants. The recipients are Bengough and District Regional Park Authority, the Resort Village of Candle Lake, the Oxbow and District Recreation Board, Pasquia Regional Park Authority and the East Qu’Appelle Cartel cycling group.

Bengough and District Park Authority intends to add 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 Resort Village of Candle Lake is in the process of extending the Simon Lehne Trail by approximately 750 meters for walking, cycling, and snowshoeing – starting at Hayes Drive. This trail extension will provide a practical connection from Simon Lehne Trail to Northview Trail, as well as the Nobles Point Marina and Shoreline Trail. Grant funding will be used towards Phase 2 of the project, which requires tree and brush clearing equipment.

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.

Although we wish we could fund every project, we would like to express our appreciation to all those who applied and continue to dedicate themselves to maintaining Saskatchewan’s trail network.

We look forward to seeing all the great things these organizations will do with the support of these grants!

East Qu’Appelle Cartel cycling group

East Qu’Appelle Cartel cycling group

Saskatchewan Trails Annual General Meeting

Saskatchewan Trails Annual General Meeting

You are invited to attend our annual general meeting on Thursday, March 23 at 7 p.m. via ZOOM. The meeting coordinates are as follows: 

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87255572419?pwd=WHpkVUJpcncvWkxseWNGOGpaVEROUT09

Meeting ID: 872 5557 2419

Passcode: 810911

Dial by your location

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kc3VWzN5Jc

Our guest presenters include Jane Murphy, President of the Canadian Trails Federation (CTF), and Dr. Sonya Richmond, who walked across the Trans Canada Trail (TCT).

Jane will provide an update on the CTF and its advocacy efforts as it is working to obtain trail funding from the federal government. The mission of the CTF is to enhance the recreational trail network in Canada by sharing information, providing leadership and coordination, and by building consensus within the trails community, both nationally and internationally. For more information on the CTF visit https://canadiantrails.org/.

In 2019, Sonya left her job as a GIS analyst assisting in the development of Provincial Bird Atlases for Bird Studies Canada, and an ornithological researcher for the Canadian Wildlife Service.  Shortly afterward, she sold her house and donated her possessions to self fund a 28,000 km hike across Canada along the world’s longest pathway, the Trans Canada Trail.  While few others have made this trek in its entirety, none have done so for a cause and with the primary purpose of promoting diversity and accessibility outdoors while striving to get youth engaged with and connected to nature through citizen science.   This unique and out of the box approach to conservation outreach to communities not typically the focus of environmental messaging has garnered regional enthusiasm, national support, and international attention while educating people about Canada, bird conservation, citizen science, and important bird areas.  The result was one of the largest self driven, self funded and unsupported conservation initiatives undertaken in Canada. For more information visit https://www.comewalkwithus.online/.

The meeting will also feature an overview of the STA’s activities in 2022, audited financial statements and board elections. Our annual report can be found  here.

AGENDA

7:00 p.m. 

Welcome from the STA

7:05 p.m.

Introductions

7:10 p.m. 

Canadian Trails Federation Update

Jane Murphy, President

7:20 p.m.

Walking Across the TCT

Dr. Sonya Richmond

7:50 p.m.

Call to Order for Business Meeting

Approval of the Agenda

Approval of the Previous Meeting Minutes

Business Arising From the Minutes

President’s Report

Approval of Financial Statements

Approval of Auditor

Bylaw Amendments

Board of Directors Election

New Business

8:30 p.m. (approx.)

Adjournment

Update on the Barker Island Toilet Project

The Barker Island Toilet Project is still progressing well! Last month, a team of four volunteers including Adrien Blais, Brodie Thompson, Chris Wall, and Ross Phillips (with technical support from Ron Medwid), completed the pre-fabrication of the walls and deck elements of three remote restrooms.
The construction plans piloted off the existing Barker Island toilets and were given a dry run to great effect. The elements will be stored for the winter until the ground thaws for the final construction and installation.
Ross Phillips, a volunteer and Principal Water Resources Engineer said, “It was a fun and productive day.”
Now that pre-fabrication is complete Phillips said they will be turning their attention towards preparation for installation next spring. He added, “It will be fun to day-dream plans during the winter, I have several ideas for interior finishings to refine the experience.”
If you are interested in donating to the Churchill River Water Trail Legacy Project, visit: https://sasktrails.ca/getinvolved/#donate.

Adventures at Avonlea Badlands
We recently had the opportunity to explore the Avonlea Badlands, which are located just a few kilometres outside the town of Avonlea at the junction of Highways #334 & #339.
The area is only accessible by guided tour, so we were sure to book ahead and secure a time through the Avonlea Heritage Museum. This scenic spot in Southern Saskatchewan will certainly take you by surprise!
We followed our guide to the start of the hike which is approximately 3 kilometres, or 1.5 hours long.
As you walk out towards the badlands, it’s as if the prairies fall away from underneath you. Before you know it, you are left standing in what seems like a whole different world.

Some sedimentary deposits were laid down as long as 2.5 million years ago when a large inland sea covered the area. Prehistoric rock and sand formations tower around you as you navigate the landscape, serving as a stark reminder of the powers of nature.

There are many cliffs, buttes, hoodoos and pillar formations of all shapes and sizes. As the area is still being eroded, it’s almost like a living museum.

This land is privately owned and justifiably sheltered in order to maintain this geological anomaly. With many archeological and paleontological discoveries found in the area, visitors should be particularly respectful when interacting with the environment.

In other words: ‘Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints.’

Scenes are picturesque at any time of day, but the Avonlea Heritage Museum offers ‘golden hour’ tours of the badlands as well. If you think these photos are cool, imagine them with a Saskatchewan sunset!

Living on the prairies, we are used to seeing a sea of green. Here, there is only a sea of sand. As I looked at each bump, crack, or wave in the lay of the land I couldn’t help but imagine what used to live there.

If you have ever wondered what it might be like to walk along the bottom of the ocean, this might be the tour for you.

To step back in time, even just for an hour or two, was an enchanting experience!
For more information on the Avonlea Badlands, or to book a guided tour visit: https://avonleamuseum.ca/avonlea_badlands/.

Churchill River Water Trail Legacy Project Continues

Churchill River Water Trail Legacy Project Continues

The next phase of the Churchill River Water Trail Legacy Project is now under way. Following generous donations from volunteers, three more composting toilets have been purchased for sites along the Churchill River and construction planning has begun for next spring.
Pristine lakes in northern Saskatchewan are connected by countless falls, rapids, and ledges as the Churchill River courses through the rugged landscape on its 1,600-km journey to the Hudson Bay. Throw in huge areas of spectacular boreal wilderness with a rich and storied history, and it’s easy to see how the Churchill River system enthralls thousands of canoeists, kayakers, and anglers who return year after year. It is also home to multiple Indigenous communities whose people continue to use the land and waterways.
Since much of the river system is in the Canadian shield, with all this activity, one of the biggest challenges in backcountry sites is dealing with human waste. In 2019, the STA partnered with the Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport, Churchill River Outfitters, volunteers and the local community to launch the Churchill River Water Trail Legacy Project. This project aims to remedy the lack of toilet facilities which lead to human waste and remnants of toilet paper being scattered throughout the landscape causing long-term environmental consequences and negative visitor experiences.
After extensive research into this challenge, a realistic and cost-effective solution was found in using a Urine Diverting Vermicomposting Toilets (UDVT), manufactured by Toilet Tech Solutions (TTS). The technology separates the waste streams to allow for successful composting and has been proven to work through peer-reviewed academic research and in the field experiences. The system is innovative, leading-edge, and reliable.
These systems are expensive and the STA has been leading the project to make these toilets a reality in northern Saskatchewan. Our initial efforts have been to raise funds to install a UDVT on Barker Island. We raised the funds through donations, raffle tickets, and a special fundraiser call the Give a Sh*! Event. After enough funds were raised, volunteers installed the toilet in 2021.
Since that time, the project has continued and now we are planning to install three toilets in spring 2023. Funds are still required to cover shipping and handling, and building materials to house the structures. if you are interested in donating, visit: https://sasktrails.ca/getinvolved/#donate.
We believe that the Churchill River Water Legacy Project is an initiative that will facilitate stewardship and lead to a cleaner environment along with providing an enhanced visitor experience. This project is a wonderful opportunity to promote trail development in the north and showcase how important trails are in every community to both the natural environment, its inhabitants, and travelers.
Although human waste is rarely spoken of, the problem of dealing with it is a serious issue in the backcountry and in remote sites. Compounded by increased visitation, the problem can have lasting negative impacts on the environment and create very poor visiting experiences.

Buffalo Pound Trail Enhancements

The Saskatchewan Trails Association is proud to be partnering with the Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport as well as TransCanada Trails (TCT) to enhance the trail system at Buffalo Pound Provincial Park.

The Parks department is building a chalet that will function as an interpretive, recreation and visitor information centre. Construction on this exciting new addition should be complete sometime this year.

The trail network was also in need of some TLC. Naturally, the trail needs to be tied to the new building as it will be a central feature of the recreation hub. This project will also create an access pathway from the lower Chalet campsites to the new Chalet building, allowing people from all over the campground to enjoy the facility.

This will also tie the TCT network to the chalet as it crosses Buffalo Pound Provincial Park. The new trail will allow visitors to travel the full length of the park by either hiking, running, and mountain biking in warmer seasons or by fat-bike, snowshoes, and cross-country skiing in the winter.

The trail will connect to major attractions of the park such as the bison compound, Nicolle homestead, the north section of park, Nicolle Marsh, the public pool, main beach, and the beautiful landscape throughout the area.

Better signage and mapping are also going to be added to these trail systems, along with special destination points like rustic all-weather shelters, vistas, benches, and backcountry campsites. The goal of these projects is not only to enhance the park itself, but to enhance opportunities for venders’ business such as the convenience store and mini-golf and draw more tourists to the park in general.

If you are in the Moose Jaw area, be sure to check out Buffalo Pound Provincial Park and see these new developments for yourself!