Step into a Country Pace: Lumsden Trail

Step into a Country Pace: Lumsden Trail

The town of Lumsden offers two unique opportunities for trail enthusiasts: The Lumsden/Deer valley section of the trans-Canada trail and the Lumsden walking tour.

Lumsden/Deer Valley Trail

The trail is approximately 16 km stretching from Lumsden River Park to Deer Valley. There are five information kiosks on the trail, each providing an overview of this section of the TCT including a detailed topographical map of the area where the kiosk is situated.

Walking, biking and hiking are suitable activities on the trail and canoeing/kayaking is a popular pursuit in the Qu’Appelle River and Wascana Creek. During the winter, walking within the town limits and cross-country skiing adjacent to the trail is possible; however, snowshoeing is the only suggested activity in the valley sections.

Lumsden Walking Tour

The Lumsden Walking Tour is a delightful way to explore the historical nooks and crannies of the town. The 6.5 km tour features quaint streets, old buildings, and a sense of nostalgia.

Here are some of the highlights:

1. Historical Sites Galore: The tour boasts 51 historical sites and buildings scattered throughout Lumsden. You’ll feel like a time-traveling detective as you uncover hidden gems.
2. Town Bell and Train Station: You’ll encounter the Town Bell, which probably rang out news of yesteryears, and the CNR Train Station is a vintage structure built in 1904.
3. First Home Ever Built: Imagine standing where the very first home in Lumsden was constructed back in 1888.
4. Living Skies Retreat Conference Centre: Originally known as St. Michael’s Retreat, it was established by the Franciscan Friars of Western Canada in 1963. Over the years, it has served as a venue for conferences, weddings, recovery and healing retreats, yoga and meditation sessions, and more.
5. Lumsden Museum Heritage Park: This spot is like a scrapbook of Lumsden’s vibrant past. You’ll find displays, pictures, and various artifacts.

While you are in the area, there are a few other trails to note:

Lumsden to Craven Paddle 

Try this 18.7-km point-to-point trail near Lumsden. Generally considered a challenging route. This trail is great for birding and paddle sports, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring.

Hidden Valley Loop

Generally considered a moderately challenging route, this 1.6-km loop takes an average of 33 minutes to complete. This trail is great for hiking, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. You’ll need to leave pups at home — dogs aren’t allowed on this trail.

Saw-Whet Trail 

Explore this 3.5-km out-and-back trail. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 53 minutes to complete. This trail is great for hiking and running, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

If you are interested, there is more information about the Lumsden trail system and those who contributed to its excellence:

Lumsden to Craven Paddle, Saskatchewan, Canada – 13 Reviews, Map | AllTrails

Saw-Whet Trail, Saskatchewan, Canada – 26 Reviews, Map | AllTrails

Hidden Valley Loop, Saskatchewan, Canada – 33 Reviews, Map | AllTrails

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.