Klinger’s Trail

Friends and family of Kleon Swahn (aka Klinger) have rallied together to incorporate a walking trail in his memory.

Kleon was born and raised in Rose Valley and spent a lot of his childhood years at Marean Lake. He married Jamie Schweitzer from Archerwill and had two children, Braden and Kiana. He worked his dream job with SaskPower for 23 years until he was killed in a workplace accident on Dec. 20, 2014. They resided in Saskatoon but spent any time they could at their cabin at Marean Lake. He was a great man and deserves a great legacy.

The trail will be 8 kms in length and join the two communities of Marean Lake and Greenwater Lake. It will meander through dense bush mostly in Greenwater Park and have scenic views of the lake and shoreline.

There are six smaller bridges planned as well as a large 40’ bridge. The trail will consist of base gravel with crusher dust topping. There will be rest areas along the way with sponsor benches provided. This trail is greatly needed in the area as people now walk on the grid roads which are dusty and dangerous.

The local trail group has received permission from all parties involved and hope to begin construction in early 2020. This project is a labour of love and has been two years in the making.

You can donate to this project at https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/saskatchewan-trails-association-inc/.

Fat Biking in Saskatchewan

Fatbikes, also known as Fatties or fat tire bikes, are a fun and exciting activity that allows cyclists more freedom from their traditional bicycle. Although fatbiking is currently growing in popularity, it isn’t new. With all of the possible new adventures that fatbiking can bring, here are the basics that you need to know about fatbiking.

Fatbiking is similar to biking or cycling in that the bicycles are very similar with only a few differences. The main difference is the fat or large tires. The increased tire size and decreased tire pressure makes it easier to stabilize yourself and thus provide an easier ride for all people.

Fatbiking can be a lot of fun and is a new activity for plenty of people. Due to the thickness of the tires, more surface area touches the ground and allows for more traction, stability, and an over all smoother ride.

So what? I know what you are thinking, it’s just a bike with bigger tires. Hold up, these specialized tires allow even the most beginner riders to take on terrains that most bicycles could not.

These fatbikes can travel on gravel, mud, dirt, sand, rocks, asphalt, and well pretty much anything you want to, but with more ease. This makes fatbiking a perfect fit for hitting the trails under almost any condition and even heading off the beaten path to make your own route or trail.

An added bonus, fatbikes can be used on wet terrain as well as snow. So rather than riding a bike on pavement for a few of the warm months in Saskatchewan, you can ride a fatbike, year-round on and terrain, through any condition. The fatbike community is growing in the province as well!

Fatbiking is another amazing activity to partake in year-round to burn those calories off, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors all year round regardless of weather. For those of you looking to learn more or talk to other Fatbikers, you’re in luck, we have just the thing for you!

The FatLanders FatTire Brigade is a group dedicated to the riding of fatbikes in Saskatoon. They are Saskatchewan’s first recognized fatbike specific cycling club and the only one in Canada. Go join them and discover the pure joy and pleasures of riding on snow and sand in and around Saskatoon.

Join the group and learn more here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/447916948562568/! There are also many other fatbike groups, websites, and Facebook pages that can help you to learn everything you need to know, including where to get one!

Churchill River Water Legacy Trail Project

Churchill River Water Legacy Trail Project

We’re raising funds to construct new composting toilets along the Churchill River and in the north with the STA raffle. Don’t miss out on the chance to get your hands on some great prizes and support a great cause! Raffle tickets are 1 for $10 or 3 for $25.

If you purchase your tickets early there is a special early bird prize which includes a family pack of tickets to the Saskatoon showing of the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour on January 13th 2020!

The early bird draw will take place on Monday, December 2nd, 2019 at the Saskatchewan Trails Association office and the raffle draw will take place on Saturday, March 28th, 2020 at the George Bothwell Library in Regina.

Some of the great raffle prizes include:

  • Two Tickets to the Banff Film Festival ($40)
  • Saskatoon Canoeing Club Membership ($55)
  • Classic Outdoors paddle ($95)
  • Hand carved Greenland kayak paddle ($150)
  • Back40 Wilderness First Aid CPR/AED Course and Day Trip Kit ($300)
  • Outter Limits Camping Package ($300)
  • Eb’s Source for Adventures 60L canoe barrel, harness, small barrel cooler, barrel bucket, barrel pocket, external barrel pouch, 2 Eb’s 1L Nalgene water bottles, 2 Backpackers Pantry Ice Cream Sandwiches ($350)
  • Churchill River Outfitters Three-Day Whitewater Course ($600)

Curious about how you can get your ahold of these raffle tickets?

Tickets are available at Eb’s Source for Adventure and Outter Limits in Saskatoon. You can also purchase tickets by emailing info@sasktrails.ca

State of Saskatchewan Trails

STATE OF SASKATCHEWAN TRAILS

During the last few years, the Saskatchewan Trails Association has made considerable efforts to improve the trail network in the province and further the engagement with new and current lovers of the trails. But what we were lacking was the understanding of trail issues within the province and the necessary tools to maintain and enhance this work. This led the STA to initiate a survey project to develop a greater understanding of the current state of trails in the province.

We would like to thank the trail enthusiasts and operators who participated in the survey. The information we have gathered is going towards improving the trails so you can continue to enjoy all the beauty Saskatchewan has to offer.

The survey was distributed 856 individuals representing a variety of users and operators including STA members, First Nations, snowmobilers, ATVers, municipalities, provincial sport and recreation associations, provincial park staff, and resort communities. The survey was distributed during May 13, 2019 and June 13, 2019 and received 72 responses from trail users and 20 responses from trail operators (10.7% response rate).

The responses from trail users included:

Number of Trails

Many people indicated that Saskatchewan does not have an adequate number of trails. This could also be due to lack of knowledge of current trails. Walking and running are leading for use of trails but just barely, snowmobiling, ATVing, skiing, and cycling all follow very close behind.

Development of New Trails

The survey showed mixed results to where new trails should be constructed, but there was a consensus that new trails and methods to find new trails should be undertaken. It was suggested that trails “could sponsor family biking days, where local bike shops take groups out for training rides.” This could work if more trail operators ran event days to spread awareness about trails. Diversity in the trails is required, both longer day trails and short trails requested with varying difficulty.

Safety

The majority of survey participants felt safe on the trails. There were a few who suggested culling wild hogs, more shelters in Prince Albert National Park, and drinking and driving checks for snowmobilers and ATVers.

Signage

Many commented they would like more signage, maps, and signs to show Point of Interests (POIs) on their journey.

Most people search for trails using the internet and word of mouth with few using trail guides or apps. There should be more promotion of the STA’s trail directory and resources blog as people will find it easier to access the info they are looking for. The info people want to know about trails is their location, condition reports, maps, snow condition, and trail descriptions.

 ATV Use

There seems to be disagreement between two groups of people in regard to ATV use. One side argues there are not enough ATV trails and info while the others argue that ATVers wreck the trails, are dangerous and don’t respect the land. Drinking and riding laws and enforcement was brought up multiple times.

Leave No Trace

One responded recommended it would be nice to see Saskatchewan adopt the Leave No Trace principles in all their trails.

 

The response from trail operators included:

Construction

Trail construction was noted as being a difficult process with concerns raised about funding, length of time/amount of work to construct a trail, the use of heavy equipment and volunteers, required skills, knowledge and amount of trail grooming.

Funding

Trail operators mainly commented on the lack of money/consistent grants for trail upkeep as well as the difficulty they face with low funding in regard to maintaining current trails. Funding for trail development comes mostly from donations or out-of-pocket with few government grants and corporate sponsorship to assist. The heavy majority of trail operators agreed there is not adequate funding for trail building and maintenance.

Due to this lack of funding, most trails are updated and groomed only once yearly if not less.

This upkeep is targeted to address weather deterioration and signage. Most trail clean-up is done by volunteers and eco-friendly trail users. Trail operators seem to have a strong network with many operators consulting with one another to solve problems and answer questions.

 

For the full report visit: STA report

Mans Best Friend on The Trails

Everybody loves the trails and who better to explore the great outdoors with than your four-legged friend? Dogs are like family and nobody should get left behind when the family heads out to their favorite trail. Hiking is a great experience for both you and your dogs alike. Although it might seem easy to just throw you new exploring buddy on a leash and head out, here are some easy steps to keep you and your pup safe on your next adventure!

Preparation

• Vaccination- The first step to ensure your pet stays safe is t ensure that they are caught up on all shots and vaccinations to avoid any unwanted illness or disease.

• ID Tags- Nobody ever expects to lose their dog on a trail but trust me, one squirrel and a loose leash and you never know what can happen. This is why you should always make sure to keep your dogs tags updated with all of the required information if they were to get lost!

• Food and Water- Dogs, just like humans, need food and water especially when exercising on long trails. Always ensure to carry ample water and snacks for both you and Fido!

• First Aid- Unfortunately, accidents happen and what works for you doesn’t always work for your fuzzy friend. So, pack some extra pet friendly first aid to be safe! Don’t know what to bring? Check out: https://www.calgaryhumane.ca/diy-canine-first-aid-kit/ for more info on how to make your own DIY Pet First Aid Kit!

• Leash- This one sound obvious but before your trek into nature, ensure that your pets leash fits properly so they cannot escape, is adjusted to size, and is not harming the dog.

• Research to ensure dog friendly trail- Not all trails are pet friendly and allow fuzzy friends on them, be sure to do your research beforehand to know the best spots! Check out: https://sasktrails.ca/best-online-trail-resources-to-checkout-before-your-next-hike/ to find some resources to lead you to pet friendly trails!

• Weather- Its finally summer and we are all basking in the sun! We love the sun, but our four-legged friends DO NOT sweat the same way humans do to cool themselves off. Too high of a temperature and too much sun can be dangerous for you animals. This means cloudy days or times when its not as hot are much better for your pet! Tip: If walking on a paved trail in the heat, place the back of your hand on the asphalt for 5 seconds. If it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your dog!

During

• Etiquette- Many dogs are human and dog friendly, but many are not. Just because another puppy looks nice doesn’t mean they can’t or won’t bite. We want the best for our animals and that includes avoiding any accidents. Make sure to always avoid any other animals or humans on the trail unless everyone agrees it is okay. One accident could get pets banned from your favorite trail, so stay safe!

• Regulation- If it turns out, you and your pup share your love for the trails, you still have to first make sure that each trail you hike allows dog. Various trails have different rules and regulations regarding pets, leash requirements and other pet specific rules. Make sure to check the signs and any online resources to make sure that the trail is pet friendly!

• Clean-Up Bags- We want to make sure the trail just like it was before we got there. We also don’t want to be scrapping dog duty from our shoes. Remember to bring a few clean up bags to pick up after any puppy surprises!

• Stay On trail- Some of the best hidden views and sceneries require some off-trail adventuring, yet for the sake of you pets stay on the trail. Tall grass hides ticks, sticks, and other potential dangers to your dog’s paw pads that can be easily avoided by staying on the path!

• Rest and Break (Shade)- unfortunately dogs and humans cannot talk, but dogs get tired and hot too and often don’t have a way of telling you. Like I mentioned before, dogs cannot sweat like humans to cool down. For this reason, make sure to take some breaks and walk in the shade when possible to avoid any meltdowns!

• Be aware of signs- Always check up on your dog to ensure their tales still wagging and they are plenty hydrated. Periodic breaks to check paw pads is also suggested, be aware of any large tearing in the paw pads. Smaller cracks on a dogs paw pads is normal but when it starts to have larger tears, be safe and head back.

After

• Ticks- We all know ticks are the hitchhiker we never asked to come with but they did anyways. Carefully check your furry friend from top to bottom (Including paws) for any uninvited guests.

• Plenty of Water- Congratulations on getting out onto the trails. I am sure you and your best friend has a blast! Now its time for both of you to hydrate up and recover from the sun and heat!

These Tips and Tricks should ensure you and your best friend stay safe and get the most out of your exploration through the Saskatchewan trails! Not every preparation step may apply to you, but this is a good first step to ensuring you and your dogs’ safety on the trails! Now get out there and soak up everything mother nature has to offer with your new hiking buddy by your side!

1000 Devils Trail by Russel Hodgins

We have a friend in town from New Zealand, so I took him down to Grasslands East Block to spend a night in the badlands:

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The Valley of 1000 Devils trail starts at the park visitor center in the East Block of Grasslands National Park and takes you into the badlands where backcountry camping is permitted. It was hot and dry with an extreme fire hazard when we backpacked into the hills, so we didn’t carry a stove and just ate a cold supper that night. In the 35-degree heat, hot food wasn’t a priority, just the scenery and that more than surpassed our expectations. The fluids we carried made up most of the weight in our packs and the park suggests each person carry 2-3 liters per day. They also point out that it can be 10 degrees hotter in this environment than other areas and it certainly lived up to it on our trip. The bonus is that when you are hiding from the sun in a patch of shade, you always have an amazing view.

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We chose the site for the tent based on the view higher up along with a steady cooling breeze. One of the difficulties in deciding where to camp was the amazing number of excellent places to put the tent. In colder weather, the tent could be set up lower down with more shelter and regardless of the wind direction, there was always a place that was out of the wind.

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5

Deer tracks were everywhere but they were all bedded down out of the sun during the heat of the day. We hoped to catch some moving in the evening and morning hours but surprisingly, saw none. I think our experience is not the norm but again, that might be due to the heat and the deer waited until after dark to move.

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We kept finding round balls of clay at the base of hills and it appears that rain caused the mud to be washed down, forming them on the way down. We were told that this surface turns to grease when wet and from the looks of these clay balls, it probably sticks to everything. There was a brief lightning storm during the night but only a small amount of rain came with it so we didn’t get to experience 20 pound boots on the hike out.

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Be prepared to do some climbing and while this area can be explored with a day hike, a night spent in the backcountry comes with a sunset, a sunrise and a star filled night.

Trail Communities In Saskatchewan!

Trail and Hiking Groups in Saskatchewan

Hiking, cycling, snowmobiling, running, horseback riding, whatever your method of traversing the trail, there’s others like you! Going on the trails solo can be an amazing experience but tackling a trail with others who share the same passion of exploring nature can be even better. Tackling a new trail can be a tough feat, especially for a new hiker. The Saskatchewan Trails Association strives to promote the trails and get more people out onto the trails to enjoy the beauty of nature. That’s why we put together a list of diverse trail and nature groups/clubs so you can find others who share your passion! So, pick a community you think you would enjoy, join the group, and see what adventures await! Most groups have a public and private group settings on social media, but I have found that if you request to join the group, they are all very friendly and welcoming!

 

SaskHiker- was created by Jay Brown, a Saskatchewan outdoors enthusiast as a place to spread information on everything hiking and has a great community of helpful people. SaskHiker has everything from a great community, to a great blog, and can even help you with gear reviews. You can visit SaskHiker on Facebook or visit their website at https://www.saskhiker.com/

 

Saskatoon Hiking and Skiing Meetup- is just like it sounds, a Meetup Page for people to meet new people to hike with in the summer or ski within the winter. Their page can be found on Meetup.com at: https://www.meetup.com/Saskatoon-Hiking-Skiing-Meetup/?fbclid=IwAR2RXySkreF60CpSc7IUlIPdocACz4t5Z0U1eJ4PiO1mGyB6yj6zcQOqdpA

 

#Walk1000Miles- is a private Facebook group with over 31,000 members! It is the official group for people changing their lives one step at a time through Country Walking magazine’s #walk1000miles challenge, and the most supportive group on the internet! Join to interact with others doing the same, share experiences, ideas and encouragement. You can find them on Facebook at #Walk1000Miles or at this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/walk1000miles/

 

Regina Outdoor Club- is another private Facebook group with less of a focus on trails, but more focused on just being outside in nature! The Regina Outdoor Club keeps their members up to date with tons of different outdoor activities and has plenty of members to interact with, ask questions, and learn new activities from! You can join them here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1830470487186331/

Outdoor Adventure Club (Sask)- Heading out on a day trip with room for a few extra friends? Itching to get out and do something, but need a few more people to make it happen? Have an activity/destination you always wanted to try out, but no idea where to start? Or just have a question to help you get out adventuring? This group is intended to meet new people with shared interests and build an experience-sharing community! Invite your friends! Find their Facebook Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/753504034766770/

 

Nature Saskatchewan- is a group all about, you guessed it, nature! From bird watching to trails, to tours and nature sanctuaries, Nature Saskatchewan has everything to keep you busy outside in nature! Nature Saskatchewan is a great group of individuals who love being outside and enjoying everything Saskatchewan and its wildlife have to offer. Nature Saskatchewan can be found on Facebook or their website at: https://naturesask.ca/

 

Boreal Outdoor Recreation Association (BORA) – promotes human-powered, outdoor adventure in and around La Ronge, Saskatchewan. The Boreal Outdoor Recreation Association is working to bring people together to hike/bike/snowshoe/trail run/ski/be outside, and to create and improve trails in the La Ronge area for these activities. Bora has a huge amazing community of people who simply love to hike, bike, snowshoes and more around the trails. Bora even holds a trail Tuesday where they invite the community together to share in their adventuring! You can find BORA on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/bora.laronge/

 

Meewasin- The Meewasin Valley Authority, Based out of Saskatoon, exists to ensure a healthy and vibrant river valley, with a balance between human use and conservation by providing leadership in the management of its resources; Promoting understanding, conservation and beneficial use of the Valley; and undertaking programs and projects in river valley development and conservation, for the benefit of present and future generations. Not only this but Meewasin has a fabulous community of trail users and also promotes various trail events and hikes!

 

Saskatoon Nordic Ski Club- If you are more into skiing than hiking and located around Saskatoon, the Saskatoon Nordic Ski Club is for you! The Saskatoon Nordic Ski Club is a community of enthusiastic, engaged and supportive people who are advocates for cross country skiing in Saskatoon. You can find them at: https://www.facebook.com/saskatoonnordicski/

 

Women’s 306 Outdoor Tribe- is a Facebook page dedicated to helping people connect in the great outdoors. With events like hiking, yoga and beach activities happening one or twice a month, the 306 Outdoor Tribe is a great way to dip your toes into the water and meet some phenomenal new friends! Find them here at: https://www.facebook.com/306OutdoorTribe/

 

The Lady Alliance Community- This is a place to communicate with other ladies within your community! Plan activities, car pool to The Lady Alliance events, join meet ups, ask travel advice, share personal adventures, and more! The Lady Alliance focuses on empowering women in the community while getting out into nature! Find their group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theladyalliance/?source_id=1794405767499745

 

SaskOutdoors- wants everyone to experience a deep connection with nature, play and learn outdoors, and discover how to live in harmony with their natural surroundings. Love the outdoors and want to meet a great community of people in Saskatchewan, join the group at: https://www.facebook.com/SaskOutdoorsSOEEA/

 

Women Who Explore Saskatchewan- has a goal to encourage women to believe in THEMSELVES and EACH OTHER, to bring like minded women together who love to explore and adventure, and to create a community of support and a place to share stories and experiences. Women Who Explore Saskatchewan is a Facebook page but there is also Women Who Explore Saskatoon, as well as Women Who Explore Northern Sask! Find out more at: https://www.facebook.com/womenwhoexplore/

 

AdventureHers- is an all-female, outdoor activity club based in Regina. It encourages women, of ALL ages and abilities, to participate in all outdoor and adventure activities. Some of its other outdoor adventure activities such as cross-country skiing, wilderness survival camps, snow shoeing, hiking or canoeing activities and out of province cycling destinations will be organized dependant on interest. So, if you have any adventures that you may want some company, let them know and they can try to gather some like minded individuals! Join their Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/64593015475/

 

Canoe and Kayak Saskatchewan– is the governing body for the sports of canoe/kayak racing in the disciplines of Sprint, Marathon and Whitewater as well as recreational padding including the Paddle Canada program. Canoe and Kayak Saskatchewan is a Facebook group with a friendly member base, tons of information, and everything you need to know about upcoming events! Find them on their website at http://canoekayaksask.ca/ or Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/CanoeKayakSaskatchewan/

 

Saskatchewan Cycling Association– is a volunteer non-profit association that promotes bicycling for sport, recreation, and transportation. Funded through Saskatchewan Lotteries, the SCA provides opportunities for individuals to experience all forms of cycling through its member clubs. The Saskatchewan Cycling Association has a great community to find others who love to cycle and stay up to date with cycling news in Saskatchewan. Like their page and find out more here: https://www.facebook.com/Saskatchewan-Cycling-Association-327882317318669/

 

Saskatchewan Horse Federation- Saskatchewan Horse Federation has both a Facebook page and a website dedicated to the amazing equestrian loving community. Dedicated horse loving members, tons of information, and all horse related events is a great reason to join this group and stay updated through their social media! Learn more at: https://saskhorse.ca/trail-information

 

Saskatchewan All Terrain Vehicle Association- The Saskatchewan All Terrain Vehicle Association’s (SATVA) primary mission is to promote safe and responsible use of the ATV’s in Sask. and to promote ATV trails. SATVA has both a public Facebook page to promote safety, and a private group to connect individuals who love ATV’s, talk about trails, share events, and discuss all things ATV’s! Find their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/saskatv/ or visit their website at http://www.satva.ca/

 

Off Road Syndicate- is a community of spirited individuals that crave the outdoors, horsepower, welding smoke, time spent in the shop, campfires, beer, and whiskey. Its website offers the gear you’ll want in the woods, and our events bring people together for good times. Our recipe is a mix of dirt, rock, engines, speed (or lack of), trail building, and the great outdoors. If this community sounds like fun to you, you can find them at: https://www.facebook.com/offroadsyndicate/

 

Jeep Saskatchewan- Jeep Saskatchewan is a fairly new but extremely quickly growing group of individuals who love their Jeeps, Love their community, love hosting amazing events but even more so, they love hitting the trails, pits, waters, and mud. With one of the friendliest and most helpful communities around, I had to add this community to the list for those trail enthusiasts who own a Jeep. Find them at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2364817920412817/!

 

Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association (SaskSnow) –is full of great people and great information. From trails to parts to events, you can find it all here on their website https://www.sasksnow.com/ or find them on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/sask.snow/

 

FatLanders FatTire Brigade- FatLanders FatTire Brigade is a group dedicated to the riding of FatBikes in Saskatoon SK Canada. We are Saskatchewan’s first recognized FatBike specific cycling club and, at least that we know of, the only one in Canada. Come join us and discover the pure joy and pleasures of riding on snow and sand in and around Saskatoon. Join the group and learn more here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/447916948562568/

 

We have tons of great communities throughout Saskatchewan to meet new people and share in you travels. Most if not all of these groups are run by passionate people who love the outdoors and support the creation and maintenance of Saskatchewan trails. By now you should have found at least one group you can relate to. This list of different communities should contain groups for every type of trail user. I am sure I have missed some great communities so feel free to email me at Parker.Piper@SaskTrails.com. Have a great summer and Trail On!

 

 

Survey Results & Outcomes

We recently distributed a survey to many members of the trail and hiking community. This survey was sent in order to receive information on how we can make trails a better and safer experiences for users and operators. We received considerable feedback on various issues and we will be reviewing the best approaches to deal with these issues. Thanks to all those who took the time to complete the “Trail User” or the “Trail Operator” Surveys. Some of the issues that were identified include:

 

Number of Trails in Saskatchewan

Issue: Many people indicated that Saskatchewan does not have an adequate number of trails. This could also be due to lack of knowledge of current trails. Walking and running are leading for use of trails but just barely, snowmobiling, ATVing, skiing, and cycling all follow very close behind.

Outcome: We would all love more trails in Saskatchewan. Unfortunately, it is a long and expensive process to build new trails and continue to maintain them. We are working on building new trails in the future, as well as reopening and maintaining current trails, but we also want to focus on educating the trail community on all of the currently operational trails. The survey showed mixed results to where new trails should be made, but there was a consensus that new trails and methods to find new trails should be made. We have been promoting the STA’s trail directory and other sources to find trails on social media as well as the blog and newsletter. One person suggested “The park could sponsor family biking days, where local bike shops take groups out for training rides.” This could work if more trail directors ran event days to spread awareness about trails like Meewasin does. Diversity in the trails is required, both longer day trails and short trails requested with varying difficulty.

 

Safety

Issue: For the most part, the majority of survey takers felt safe on the trails, the few whom didn’t suggesting culling wild hogs, more shelters in Prince Albert National Park, and drinking and driving checks for snowmobilers and ATVers.

Outcome: We will be looking into the possibilities of finding solutions for these problems as well as educating trail users on how to avoid these issues to begin with!

Signage

Issue: The general consensus on signage was that it is all right and is somewhat adequate. Many commented they would like more signage, maps, and signs to show Point of Interests (POIs) on their journey. Most people search for trails using internet and word of mouth with few using trail guides or apps. There should be more promotion of the STA’s trail directory and resources blog as people will find it easier to access the info they are looking for. The info people want to know about parks is their location, condition reports, maps, snow condition, and trail descriptions.

Outcome: We will continue to promote information like trail locations, reports, maps, and descriptions as well as working with trail operators and various trails to improve signage and make them aware of the issues in order to better solve these issues.

ATV Use

Issue: There seems to be disagreement between two groups of people in regard to ATV use. One side argues there are not enough ATV trails and information while others argue that ATVers wreck the trails, are dangerous and don’t respect the land. Drinking and riding laws and enforcement was also brought up multiple times.

Outcome: This is a difficult issue to address. Many people have suggested various plans or ideas to fix this problem. Currently, we are gathering more information and opinions in order to see all points of view and do what we can to address this particular issue.

 

Maintenance

Issue: Many trail users pointed out that there are trails that are not being maintained whether the damage be from ATVs, weather, litter, or just usage. The lack of maintenance makes these trails less enjoyable, more difficult to use, or completely unusable.

Outcome: Maintenance is a large job. Many trails rely on user groups and volunteers to clean up and assist in maintaining the trails. This is an issue that is directly linked to trail budgets and that we will be further looking into and discussing with trail operators to find a solution for.

 

Leave No Trace

One survey respondent recommended it would be nice to see Saskatchewan adopt the Leave No Trace principles on all their trails. www.leavenotrace.ca. This could potentially decrease some of the maintenance issues.

 

Outcome: We also want to learn more about any possible ways to improve the quality of Saskatchewan trails so we will be looking further into these possibilities.

Amenities

Issue: Lack of amenities was something that appeared a few times in the survey. Lack of washrooms and garbage cans often create unneeded waste being disposed of on the trails. This creates a larger need for trail maintenance which is already lacking. Amenities such as washrooms, garbage and shelters would alleviate some of the issues trail users are having and make it easier to hold various events.

Outcome: We will be reviewing these findings to determine the best steps to do what we can to address this issue. In the future we are looking at growing the amenities at various trails to help keep trails clean and promote events.

 

Operator Concerns

Issue: Trail operators have some concerns and issues including maintenance, budgeting, and consistent grants. We also heard about the difficulties being faced and potential fixes to some of the problems.

Outcome: We will be taking in this info for further evaluation and continuing discussion with trail operators on how we can find solutions to these issue and better work together with the community to improve the trails throughout Saskatchewan.

 

Conclusion

The one thing everybody seemed to agree on was that they enjoyed using trails and trails are a great activity for groups and families! We are working on taking all of the info we received from you and using it to identify the largest issues and the best plans of attack to combat these issues. Thanks to your help, we are hopefully going to be able to make the trails a greater experience for all users. We love to see trail users out on the trail enjoying their time in nature and soaking up everything trails have to offer. Keep it up and trail on!

 

Hiking The Trails And The Health Benefits!

There are trails to accommodate anyone, with trail ranging from a calm walk in the park to trails with steep inclines and obstacles. Regardless of your athletic ability’s or skills, anyone can enjoy nature on the trails. Not only are trails a fun and exciting way to spend time outdoors but there are also many health benefits such as:

  • Lower your risk of heart disease
  • Improve your blood pressure and blood sugar levels
  • Boost bone density, since walking is a weight-bearing exercise
  • Build strength in your glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and the muscles in your hips and lower legs
  • Strengthen your core
  • Improve balance
  • Help control your weight
  • Boost your mood
  • Combating the symptoms of stress and anxiety
  • Increased energy levels
  • Improve mental health

This weekend try out a new trail and see where the path takes you while enjoying nature and all of the positive benefits hiking can have in your life! Find the trail that fits you best and recharge your mind, body and soul! Remember while out on your hike to take lots of pictures of your favorite trails and spot to share with us on social media using #SaskTrailsPhotoContest for your chance to win a great prize! Don’t know where the trails are? Checkout our blog: https://sasktrails.ca/how-to-find-trails-in-saskatchewan/!

Tips and Tricks for Beginner Hikers

Gear Up!

Before jumping onto a trail and getting your adventure on, there are some key items you should have. These items can help you be prepared if anything happens or just make your hike more enjoyable! All of these items can help you be prepared for whatever you encounter:

 

  • Comfortable Backpack- Ensuring your backpack has room to fit all of your needs but not too clunky or uncomfortable. You backpack is with you the whole hike, it’s the last thing you need holding you back.
  • Good Footwear- A good pair of hiking shoes or boots can make a large difference on your comfort, feet, and safety on any trail
  • Snacks/Water- Healthy snacks can help maintain your energy level and are always good to have if you get lost
  • Light device- When hikes last longer than anticipated and the sun sets sooner then you thought, it is good to have a source of light with you
  • First-Aid Supplies- You can never be too careful
  • Phone or GPS- Phones and GPS can have downloaded maps and various apps to aid your travels
  • Hat- A hat on a hot day is important to avoid heat stroke
  • Sunscreen, Bug Spray, Bear Spray- Repellent are great to avoid unwanted pests like mosquitoes, bears and harmful UV rays
  • Camera- Lastly, a camera is a great way to capture great memory’s and scenic views to save and look back on. You can also enter your photos on social media to win a $200 prize pack, for more info check out: https://sasktrails.ca/2019-give-us-your-best-shot-photo-contest/!

You may not need everything on this list depending on when and where you plan on going but it never hurts to be prepared! This basic gear will help you take on any trail you encounter!

 

Ease Yourself In!

Everyone knows trails can be a ton of fun. Longer more difficult trails can make for even more fun. Before jumping into a full day trail with both feet, try attempting a few entry level paths or trails. Many people assume because we are in Saskatchewan that all trails are just flat, but many trails have steep elevation and varying terrain to hike. Trail difficulties, distances, pictures, and more info can be found through the online resources found here: https://sasktrails.ca/best-online-trail-resources-to-checkout-before-your-next-hike/. Apps and websites like AllTrails, Trail Forks, or Saskatchewan Trails Directory can give you an idea of what you are walking into before you even start!

 

Research Your Trail!

Know the trail! There are a ton of different resources a beginner hiker can use to help navigate their expedition. Unfortunately, you can not always rely on the on-site maps to be there when you get lost. Fortunately, there are apps and websites that you can use to gauge the difficulty, distance, points of interest, and even download maps that you can use without an internet connection. Nobody expects to get lost but, in an emergency, these resources can be a life saver! You can find some online resources to aid in your research here: https://sasktrails.ca/best-online-trail-resources-to-checkout-before-your-next-hike/. These tools allow you to know exactly what’s going on in the world of trails and what you need to know to be prepared for your adventure!

 

Water, Water, Water!

Before, during, and after exploring a trail, water is your best friend. The importance of hydration is often overlooked, but without water your body cannot perform at its highest level. During a hike, especially on a hot day where you are perspiration, water is needed in order to maintain endurance, lubricate joints, avoid heatstroke, and control your internal temperature. Water helps your body to transport nutrients and give you more energy! Make sure to drink a few bottles of water before your trail, bring plenty water with on your trail, and drink some more afterwards!

 

Bring a Friend!

Not only does bringing a friend reduce the chances of an accident or dangers, bringing friends or family make a hike so much more enjoyable! Getting lost or finding yourself in a tricky situation can be aided by bringing a few people along with. A friend can help you feel more secure on the trails as well as add extra knowledge on different potential dangers. Joining a trail group is always an option too, trail groups are a great way to meet new hiking friends and learn lots!