Just over an hour’s drive from Saskatoon, nestled between open prairie and rolling hills, lies the Last Mountain Lake National Wildlife Area (NWA) — a peaceful paradise for nature lovers, bird watchers, and anyone craving a relaxing lakeside escape. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and laid-back atmosphere, the NWA is the crown jewel of Last Mountain Lake and a must-visit destination in Saskatchewan.

Last Mountain Lake National Wildlife Area (NWA)

Location & Access

Located at the northern end of Last Mountain Lake, the NWA is 120 km northwest of Regina and about 9 km west of Govan. Coordinates: 51.3667° N, -105.2339° W. It’s easily accessible via Highway 20 with clear signage directing visitors to the sanctuary.

Wildlife & Conservation

Established in 1887, this is Canada’s oldest bird sanctuary and a designated National Historic Site. It plays a vital role in the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network, supporting over 280 species of birds, including endangered ones like the whooping crane and piping plover. It’s also an important stopover for migratory birds.

Activities & Amenities

Visitors can enjoy a variety of immersive activities:

• Wildlife Viewing & Bird Watching: Observation towers and trails offer excellent viewpoints.
• Hiking & Nature Walks: Interpretive paths and a floating boardwalk reveal prairie, marshland, and forest habitats.
• Boating & Canoeing: Permitted in designated areas, except during breeding season (May–July).
• Photography & Nature Study: Ideal for photographers and nature lovers.
• Picnicking: Day-use picnic sites available throughout the area.

Facilities include:

• Observation tower
• Self-guided trails
• Picnic areas and washrooms
• Interpretive pavilion and admin building (open 8:00 am–4:00 pm)

About Last Mountain Lake

Formerly known as Long Lake, Last Mountain Lake is the longest natural lake in southern Saskatchewan, stretching over 93 kilometers from Craven to Nokomis. Formed by glacial activity, it features diverse shorelines and wetlands and provides vital habitats for wildlife.

The lake itself surrounds the NWA and offers an extended nature experience. It’s perfect for those wanting to explore beyond the sanctuary while staying close to natural beauty.

More Reasons to Visit

Boating & Fishing

Last Mountain Lake offers multiple boat launches and excellent fishing. Popular catches include:

• Walleye
• Northern pike
• Yellow perch
• Whitefish

Winter visitors can enjoy ice fishing in a tranquil setting.

Parks & Beaches

• Rowan’s Ravine Provincial Park: Features camping, boat rentals, trails, playgrounds, and a marina.
• Regina Beach: A lively lakeside town with restaurants, shops, and a swimming beach.
• Arlington Beach: Quiet and family-friendly, ideal for relaxed getaways.

Scenic Trails

Explore interpretive trails throughout the sanctuary and surrounding parklands, offering peaceful walks through rich ecosystems.

Camping & Accommodation

Whether you’re camping or staying in comfort, there are plenty of options:

• Rowan’s Ravine Provincial Park: Electrical and non-electrical campsites, modern amenities.
• Lakeside Cabins & B&Bs: Found in Regina Beach, Bulyea, and along the eastern shore.
• Airbnb & VRBO: Offer cottages, glamping tents, and vacation homes.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer:

• Canoeing and paddleboarding
• Swimming and beach volleyball
• Picnics and barbecues

Winter:

• Cross-country skiing
• Snowshoeing
• Winter birdwatching and ice fishing

Local Events & Communities

Engage with the area’s small-town charm:

• Regina Beach Farmers Market (summer weekends)
• Last Mountain Rodeo in Craven
• Local art & craft fairs
• Prairie-style diners and cafes

Tips for Visiting the NWA

• Bring binoculars and a camera for wildlife and scenery
• Dress in layers and pack sunscreen & insect repellent
• Book campsites or rentals in advance
• Stay on trails and respect conservation rules

Getting There

From Saskatoon, drive south on Highway 11 to Lumsden, then take Highway 20 or 322 toward the lake. It’s about 1 hour and 15 minutes depending on your final stop.

Plan Your Visit

Visit the official Government of Canada page for maps, rules, and updates.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re an adventurer, birdwatcher, or someone seeking serenity, the Last Mountain Lake National Wildlife Area is one of Saskatchewan’s true treasures. With breathtaking views, vibrant wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination for a meaningful nature getaway.

Start planning now at TriptoSaskatoon.com — and let the sanctuary refresh your soul.our soul.

The post Discover the Beauty of Last Mountain Lake National Wildlife Area (NWA): Saskatchewan’s Hidden Gem first appeared on triptosaskatoon.com.

Discover the Hidden Spring Gems of the Prairies

Saskatchewan might be known for its endless skies and golden wheat fields, but springtime in this prairie province has a soft, floral surprise: cherry blossoms! While not as widespread as in Japan or Vancouver, Saskatchewan has its own quiet charm when it comes to blooming trees. From city parks to community gardens, here are some of the best places to experience cherry blossoms in Saskatchewan.

1. University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon

One of the best-kept secrets in Saskatoon is the blossoming trees on the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) campus. Come spring, the pathways near the President’s Residence and Arboretum display beautiful ornamental cherry and plum blossoms. It’s a peaceful place for a walk, photos, or a quiet picnic under the petals.

2. Kiwanis Memorial Park, Saskatoon

Located along the South Saskatchewan River, this park is a scenic spot with pathways lined by trees that bloom beautifully in spring. While not all are cherry trees, you’ll often find a few blossoming species that create that perfect pastel ambiance.

3. Wascana Centre, Regina

In the heart of Regina, Wascana Centre is a massive park surrounding Wascana Lake. Several areas around the Legislative Building and nearby gardens showcase flowering trees, including ornamental cherry, crabapple, and plum trees. Early May is usually when you’ll spot the first pops of pink.

4. Forestry Farm Park & Zoo, Saskatoon

Besides the animals and nature trails, this park features a Heritage Rose Garden and other blooming trees. If you visit in late April or early May, you may catch crabapple and cherry trees in bloom near the main entrance and garden paths.

5. Local Neighborhoods and Community Gardens

Many residential areas and community gardens in cities like Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, and smaller towns such as Outlook have privately planted ornamental cherry and flowering plum trees. These trees typically bloom in late April to early May, depending on weather conditions.

Bonus: Plant Your Own Blossoms!

If you live in Saskatchewan and want to enjoy cherry blossoms every spring, consider planting an ornamental cherry or plum tree in your yard. Hardy varieties like Prunus × kerrasis (dwarf sour cherry) or Western Sand Cherry thrive in the province’s climate.

Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Saskatchewan:

• Bloom period: Late April to early May
• Peak bloom: Usually the first or second week of May, but it can vary due to spring temperatures.

Final Thoughts

While Saskatchewan may not have massive cherry blossom festivals, the quiet beauty of blooming trees here is something special. Take a stroll, grab your camera, and appreciate the peaceful magic of springtime blossoms right here in the prairies.

Have a favorite blossom spot in Saskatchewan?
Share it in the comments or tag us on Instagram with your cherry blossom photos!

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Cranberry Flats Conservation Area

Located south of the city, this sand-based conservation area has an interpretative route that is wheelchair accessible that leads to a picturesque valley overlook. There are further self-guided routes that lead directly to the riverside and its expansive sandy beaches. Dogs are welcome at this spot, but they must always be tethered, according to pet owners. An excellent place for a fall run!

Saskatoon Natural Grasslands

This 34-acre stretch of natural grassland in Saskatchewan is situated in Saskatoon’s Silverspring neighborhood. This fescue grassland habitat is found right in the city and includes grasses, blooming plants, birds, animals, and insects. An excellent place for a fall picnic. Fun fact: Since the glaciers retreated, this ecosystem has represented around 10,000 years of natural history.

Meewasin Trail

Take a stroll beside a river and take in the fall foliage! You can discover the ideal vantage point or picnic spot along the South Saskatchewan River thanks to the more than 105 km of multipurpose paths that wind through Saskatoon and beyond. Consider beginning your journey at River Landing, the ideal location for exploring the city’s natural or urban areas. River Landing is a conveniently situated gathering point, performance venue, and recreational area.

Beaver Creek Conservation Area

Just south of the city, at the confluence of Beaver Creek and the South Saskatchewan River, discover this miniature version of the Meewasin Valley. A network of trails allows you to explore the area’s distinctive flora and fauna, and in the fall, keep an eye out for migratory birds. It’s acceptable to hand feed the Black-capped Chickadees here, and it’s a fun family pastime!

Fred Heal Canoe Launch and Poplar Bluffs Canoe Launch

To follow the current, begin your paddling adventure south of the city! To get your boat into the water, you must do a 50-meter portage at both the Poplar Bluffs and Fred Heal canoe launches. Paddle down the vast river and take in the sights of fall foliage, wildlife, and birds. Seasonally, both launches terminate around the end of November or the beginning of December.

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History of Saskatoon Berries

The Saskatoon berry is more than just a fruit; it’s a delectable part of Saskatchewan’s rich history. Indigenous communities all over the province have treasured these berries for years, appreciating their unique flavor as well as their nutritional and medicinal value. Incorporated into Indigenous culinary traditions, Saskatoon berries are used in soups, stews, meat dishes, pemmican, and dried cakes. Outside of the kitchen, the berries are also used in holistic remedies; their juice is used to ease stomach ailments and act as a mild laxative. When not in use, the berries’ stems can be used to make arrows and pipes.

Savor Saskatchewan’s Experience

You don’t need to search far to locate your own Saskatoon berry delicacies in the city. Saskatoon berries have been a mainstay of many places’ menus. These establishments, which range from quaint cafes to upscale restaurants, not only provide delectable cuisine but also add to the history of this well-known regional fruit.

Berries from Saskatoon are more than just a berry. They serve as both a fantastic source of culinary inspiration and a reminder of Saskatoon’s rich past. You’ll love this traditional fruit whether you’re enjoying it in a traditional recipe, indulging in a rich dessert, or exploring new berry-focused businesses. Celebrate this prairie treasure even more and savor the distinctive berry of Saskatoon in all its delectable magnificence.

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Bar Stella

Location: 108 19 St. W, Saskatoon, SK

Saskatoon’s Bar Stella is a quaint Italian eatery with a nostalgic diner feel.

Having started in June 2023, they are among the newest eateries in the city, calling themselves “Unfussy Italian!”

They also have a thing about focaccia, which you can find in their sandwich options, burrata cheese plate, and bruschetta (which is typically served on crisper cut baguettes).

F&B Restaurant

Location: 226 2 Ave. S, Saskatoon, SK

“Homegrown and globally inspired comfort food paired with properly hand-crafted cocktails” is what Chef MacKay is cooking here at F&B. You have to admire renowned chefs who remain in their hometowns to produce exceptional dishes.

Chef MacKay was the brains behind two other well-known neighborhood eateries, Sticks and Stones and Ayden Kitchen, which he recently shuttered in order to open F&B, a new concept in Saskatoon! In order to satisfy the demand of both residents and visitors like us, Ayden Kitchen’s well-known chicken wings dish with lemongrass, lime leaf, and cilantro has been moved to F&B.

Junior Cafe

Location: 737 Broadway Ave. or 339 Avenue A S., Saskatoon, SK

Junior Cafe, a sibling establishment of Bar Stella, has outlets in both Broadway and Riversdale. It serves a fantastic array of hot and cold beverages, pastries, and breakfast fare. Before spending the morning shopping in the neighborhood, we sampled their Egg Sandwich, Mushroom & Ricotta Toast, and Cinnamon Bun at the Broadway restaurant. It’s a quaint little restaurant with excellent meals and drinks and quick service!

ODLA

Location: 801 Broadway Ave., Saskatoon, SK 

You should try Odla, a stunning restaurant in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan’s Broadway District. The name Odla is Swedish meaning “to farm, cultivate, grow.” Since this restaurant is “farm direct,” dishes are prepared with fresh products that are picked at the height of their production from Farm One Forty, a nearby farm. Everything is manufactured in-house, literally.

It’s a lovely collaboration. Seasonal, straightforward, and delectable ingredients are highlighted in order to encourage a renewed relationship with food.

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1. Lakeview Pond 

There’s an outdoor rink on a pond on the east side of the city. There is a cleared area for people to skate on at the southernmost point of Mckercher Drive and the southernmost point of the pond. Bring a shovel or check back often since the Lakeview Community Association and local volunteers may not clear it for several days following significant snowfall. Be sure to pay attention to any indications indicating whether it is safe to skate and how thick the ice is.

2. Idylwyld Park

The majority of the public skating rinks in the City of Saskatoon are conventional rinks with boards encircling the ice that are situated close to schools. However, a straightforward ice sheet located in Idylwyld Park, between Saskatchewan Crescent and Poplar Crescent close to the river, is one of my favorite outdoor rinks. It’s a tiny rink in the heart of the park, but it’s ideal for shinny games with friends. If snow needs to be removed from the rink, there are usually two nets on the ice and a shovel close by. You don’t have to wait for daylight to get out on the ice because the park is lit up at night as well.

3. Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink at Nutrien Plaza 

One of Canada’s most recognizable skating rinks is the Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink. There’s a fire pit at the edge of the rink, benches to attach your skates, indoor shelters, and restrooms close by. Daily hours for the skating rink are noon to nine o’clock. Throughout the year, the rink has a number of skating parties, one of which is the Meewasin Sip & Skate, which takes place this Saturday, February 24.

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Along with the dance/music presentation, the Step Back in Time Walk, the Bison Walk, and special programming, there are guided tours available every day. We went on a Medicinal Plant Walk with one of Wanuskewin’s wonderful guides whenever we visited.

You are welcome to explore the 7km of walking trails that Wanuskewin currently offers. Along the way are lots of plants and herbs. A guide showed us how to use a variety of berries, leaves, and plants—some of which we would even consider weeds—medically to treat various illnesses.

Certain plants have several uses, such as treating bug bites or acting as a natural sunscreen. This fascinating walking tour highlighted some of nature’s real marvels.

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There are countless breathtaking lakes and rivers to explore in Saskatoon and across Saskatchewan. There is a place to enjoy paddling a paddleboard, kayak, or canoe close to the city.

Canoeing Pike Lake

Valley Road takes you just 20 minutes south of Saskatoon to Pike Lake. Although the park is home to one of Saskatchewan’s smallest lakes, it is nevertheless very popular with day trippers from the city. It’s the ideal location for a canoe trip that lasts just a day, or for a weekend getaway for campers. The South Saskatchewan River formed the lake, which is actually an oxbow, a u-shaped lake formed when part of a river is cut off.

Paddleboarding – Poplar Bluffs into Saskatoon on the South Saskatchewan River

Distance: 12 kilometres, 2-3 hours

Situated approximately ten minutes south of Saskatoon on Valley Road is the Poplar Bluffs Conservation Area. It requires some work to get to the river from the parking lot. There’s a path that leads to the river, but it ends with a sandy drop off the side into the water below.Depending on the season and the level of the water, one must frequently hop across sandbars to access the river’s main flow. There’s a split in the river directly across Wilson Island. It takes approximately two hours to paddle back into Saskatoon’s downtown.

Kayaking the Chief Whitecap Waterway

Distance: 50km from Whitecap Dakota First Nation, 100km from Gardiner Dam, 1-3 days

The Chief Whitecap Waterway, which is a section of the Trans Canada Trail, offers canoeists more than 100 km of navigable trail with numerous pullouts along the way. You are welcome to design your own canoe adventure on the best water trail in southern Saskatchewan, regardless of your level of experience.

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1. BHP Enchanted Forrest

Savor Canada’s most breathtaking drive-thru light show! There are more than 70 unique light displays in the BHP Enchanted Forest. With each journey through the lights, you can be certain to learn something new! You can make sure you won’t miss it because it runs every night until January 8 from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

2. Sleigh Rides in Champetre County’s Winter Wonderland

Have you not always desired to ride a one-horse open sleigh and dash through the snow? Even though Champetre County only has two horses pulling the sleigh, it’s still a really unique experience!

3. Glow 

Prairieland Park is home to Glow, a family-friendly indoor holiday light festival! A market, live entertainment, fair food, and more are all present! It’s the ideal location to add some holiday vibes to your Instagram photos!

4. Traditional Christmas Feast at The Berry Barn

The holidays are all about celebrations, FOOD, family, and friends! This is a classic holiday buffet being held at The Berry Barn! Every one of your beloved holiday songs! Turkey! roggies! Pie! Make sure to secure your reservation for the dinner on December 16th and 17th, as it will be hosted on these two consecutive days.

5. Eaton’s Once Upon a Christmas

Canadians who shopped at Eaton’s in post-World War II cities such as Winnipeg and Toronto were greeted with windows adorned with figures and scenes for Christmas! These characters have been a part of the Western Development Museum’s annual Eaton’s Once Upon a Christmas exhibit in Saskatoon since 1989! Until January 15th, the exhibit allows visitors to enter a nostalgic world of make-believe!

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University of Saskatchewan Observatory History 

The University of Saskatchewan Observatory was built with assistance from both university funds and private donors. The Observatory was built in two stages between 1928 and 1930, with an approximate cost of $23,000, and was formally opened in April 1929. This iconic campus landmark has been there for over 90 years and is rich in history! Examine the plaque inside the dome to see if you can identify any of the donor names.

How to Visit the University of Saskatchewan Observatory

Telescopes and other study aids are frequently used by university students and visiting scholars. Classes from elementary and high schools, as well as other local community associations, frequently join campus staff members for guided tours of the Observatory. The first and third Saturday evenings of each month are free for anyone who wants to come and use the telescope to view celestial objects.

What’s on View at the University of Saskatchewan Observatory 

Depending on the time of year, staff will aim the three-meter long refracting telescope at planets, star clusters, galaxies, or other noteworthy celestial objects visible when you visit. Staff members are still on duty at the Observatory and will lead guests through an informative slide show if you happen to visit on a cloudy night. A small museum about black holes, astronomy, and the solar system is open year-round. enjoyable to all ages!

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