Saskatchewan is home to far more outdoor experiences than many people realize. From prairie valleys and northern forests to lakes, regional parks and trails close to home, there is no shortage of places to explore.

Saskatchewan Trails Association recently met with Brad Crassweller, MLA for White City-Qu’Appelle and Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport, at White Butte Trails to talk about his connection to the outdoors, his work with the ministry and why more people should take the time to discover what Saskatchewan has to offer.

A lifelong connection to the outdoors

Crassweller’s appreciation for the outdoors began long before his current role. He grew up in British Columbia before moving to Saskatchewan at 19 and spent many years working outdoors in landscaping.

Although he does not describe himself as a dedicated hiker, outdoor recreation has always been an important part of his family life.

“Any chance we get, we take the boat and try to get on the water. We just enjoy some of the lakes and that family fun.”

Wake surfing remains one of his favourite ways to spend a summer afternoon. As he put it, there is rarely a bad day on the water, unless the boat refuses to start.

His current role has also given him an opportunity to learn more about the many ways Saskatchewan residents enjoy the outdoors, including hiking, cycling, snowmobiling, camping and exploring provincial and regional parks.

Learning more about Saskatchewan’s parks

As Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport, Crassweller supports Minister Alana Ross with projects and priorities across the portfolio.

This summer, he plans to spend time visiting parks throughout Saskatchewan to gain a stronger understanding of the outdoor assets found across the province.

“I’m going to try to get out and take a day here and a day there throughout the summer. I’m looking forward to touring around the province and seeing what we have to offer in our parks.”

With so many provincial and regional parks to choose from, he does not expect to visit them all. Instead, his goal is to experience as much variety as possible.

That variety is one of Saskatchewan’s strengths. A visitor can explore the valleys and trees of Echo Valley Provincial Park, travel north toward Prince Albert or Meadow Lake, discover mountain biking opportunities, spend time on the water or visit trails located only a short drive from a city or town.

“There are just so many great things in our constituency and in our province in general,” he said.

Looking beyond the flat-Saskatchewan stereotype

One message came up repeatedly during the conversation: Saskatchewan is much more geographically diverse than people sometimes assume.

“Everybody always thinks Saskatchewan is just this flat place. We’ve got some incredible things to see.”

He encouraged people to explore areas they have not visited before, especially northern Saskatchewan, where visitors can find forests, lakes, fishing, trails and outdoor recreation opportunities that look very different from the southern prairie landscape.

Even closer to Regina, places such as White Butte Trails and Echo Valley offer opportunities to experience nature without travelling across the province.

For people who have not spent much time exploring Saskatchewan’s parks and trails, his advice is simple.

“Life is busy, so you just have to take some time to relax and get out into nature.”

That does not have to mean planning a major expedition. It can be a short walk, an afternoon by the water, a visit to a nearby park or trying a trail you have driven past but never explored.

The role of trail organizations and community support

Crassweller also highlighted the role organizations such as Saskatchewan Trails Association play in helping people discover outdoor opportunities.

He noted that trail maps, stories and destination information can make it easier for residents to learn what is available and feel more confident trying somewhere new.

“We need organizations like you to help promote the parks and promote getting out. We could all use a little more fresh air.”

The work of trail organizations also depends on partnerships, sponsorships and the people who maintain, promote and support outdoor spaces across the province.

From local volunteers and trail groups to organizations such as Sask Lotteries, the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association and Trans Canada Trail, that support helps connect people with Saskatchewan’s landscapes and communities.

More to come

Crassweller also hinted that an exciting parks-related announcement is on the way, although he could not share the details just yet.

For now, he plans to continue learning, visiting parks and encouraging Saskatchewan residents to explore more of their own province.

Whether your ideal day involves hiking, cycling, paddling, fishing, snowmobiling or simply sitting beside the water, there is likely somewhere in Saskatchewan waiting to be discovered.

As Crassweller said, “There are lots of things to explore and find around our province that are pretty impressive.”

And sometimes the best way to learn what is out there is simply to pick a trail and start walking.