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:

• https://www.tourismsaskatchewan.com/listings/1002/regina—condie-nature-refuge

• Boggy Creek (Saskatchewan) – Wikipedia

• Tour Park Detail – Condie Nature Refuge, Saskatchewan – Saskatchewan Provincial Parks

• Condie Nature Refuge – PROJECT PLAY YQR

• Explore Condie Nature Refuge – Prairie Hiking trail | AllTrails

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.