Experience the Sand Beneath Your Feet

Experience the Sand Beneath Your Feet

If you want to experience the sand beneath your feet on a walking trail, then make sure you visit the Sand Hills Trail in Douglas Provincial Park. It is not as well-known as the Great Sandhills near Sceptre, but it is a fantastic destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. It’s like going for a walk in the desert without having to leave the province! 

The Sand Hills Trail is part of the larger Sand Dunes Loop, which is about 9.3 kilometers long. It’s generally considered a moderately challenging route, taking around 1 hour and 54 minutes to complete. You will need to complete the loop to view    the sand hills. Once you are in the sand, you are free to roam around the discover this unique terrain. 

The trail offers stunning views of massive sand dunes, which tower about 25 meters over the surrounding grasslands. These dunes are constantly shifting with the wind, creating a dynamic and picturesque landscape. 

As you hike, you’ll encounter a variety of habitats, including aspen woodlands, prairie landscapes, and lush, forested areas near the lakeshore. This diversity makes it a great spot for birdwatching and observing local wildlife. 

The best time to visit is from June through September. The trail is well-marked, but it’s recommended to bring ample drinking water and wear proper footwear, as there is little shade along the way. 

The Sand Sunes Loop also includes the Cacti/Dune Trail and the Sunset Hiking Trail, which each offers unique experiences and scenic views.  

The Cacti Trail portion is 5 km, and the Dune portion is 6.5 km. This trail takes you through diverse habitats, including areas with cacti and the picturesque sand dunes. It’s known for its moderate-to-hard difficulty level and can take about two to three hours to complete. You’ll encounter the park’s main natural features, such as the large, constantly moving sand dunes and isolated clusters of rich, aspen woodlands. 

Sunset Hiking Trail is an approximately 2 kilometer a loop. It is rated easy, suitable for hikers, cyclists, and even wheelchairs. This trail offers a diverse range of habitats, including moist meadows and lush woodlands. You’ll find forested areas near the lakeshore, where underground streams create lush, forested areas. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, especially in the early morning. Interpretive panels along the trail enhance the hiking experience by providing information about the local flora and fauna. 

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk or a more challenging hike, the Sand Hills Trail has something to offer.  

If you are interested in more information, visit these sites:   

 Douglas Provincial Park Sand Dunes, Saskatchewan, Canada – 101 Reviews, Map | AllTrails 

Douglas Provincial Park Trails | Tourism Saskatchewan 

Sand dunes in Saskatchewan! – Douglas Provincial Park, Elbow Traveller Reviews – Tripadvisor 

Tour Park Detail – Douglas Provincial Park, Saskatchewan – Saskatchewan Provincial Parks 

Katee Pederson – Douglas Provincial Park 

 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.