Saskatchewan: Land of the Living Skies

The Royal Saskatchewan Museum (RSM) is a crown jewel of Saskatchewan and a must-visit for anyone interested in natural history and indigenous cultures. Founded in 1906, it’s the first museum in Saskatchewan and the first provincial museum among the three Prairie Provinces.

The RSM boasts an impressive collection of over 3.5 million objects, including:

• 3 million archaeological artifacts
• 250,000 insects
• 37,500 fossils
• 10,000 birds
• 6,500 plants

The museum is particularly renowned for its paleontology collection, which features the world’s largest T. rex skeleton, affectionately nicknamed Scotty.

Visitors can explore various exhibits that delve into Saskatchewan’s natural history, from the ancient past to the present day. The museum also highlights the rich cultures of Saskatchewan’s First Nations and Métis peoples.

Here are some of the exciting things to see and do at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum:

• Explore the T. rex Gallery: Come face-to-face with Scotty, the world’s largest T. rex skeleton, and learn about these fascinating creatures.
• Travel through Saskatchewan’s ecozones: Discover the unique plants, animals, and landscapes of Saskatchewan’s four ecozones.
• Explore First Nations and Métis cultures: Learn about the rich history and traditions of Saskatchewan’s Indigenous peoples.
• Visit the Museum Shop: Find unique Saskatchewan-made souvenirs, art, and crafts.

The Royal Saskatchewan Museum is a great place to learn about Saskatchewan’s fascinating history and culture. It’s a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Saskatchewan may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of hot springs, but it boasts one particularly famous location: Manitou Springs Resort and Mineral Spa.

Located in Watrous, Saskatchewan, Manitou Springs Resort is home to Canada’s largest indoor mineral pool. The warm, mineral-rich waters of Little Manitou Lake are legendary for their buoyancy, similar to the Dead Sea. Visitors flock to soak in the warm waters, which are believed to have various therapeutic benefits.

Here’s what you can expect at Manitou Springs Resort:

• Relaxation in the Mineral Pool: The resort’s centerpiece is the massive indoor mineral pool, featuring warm, mineral-rich waters perfect for soaking and relieving aches and pains.
• Spa Treatments: Indulge in a variety of spa treatments designed to pamper and rejuvenate, from massages to facials.
• Accommodation: The resort offers a range of accommodation options, from hotel rooms to suites, to suit your needs and budget.
• Activities: Enjoy various activities offered at the resort, including swimming in the outdoor pool, kayaking on Little Manitou Lake, or exploring the nearby town of Watrous.

Manitou Springs Resort is a popular destination year-round, but especially during the colder months when visitors can escape the chilly prairie weather and soak in the warm, soothing waters.

Here are some additional details to consider when planning your trip to Manitou Springs Resort:

• Location: Manitou Springs Resort is located approximately 77 kilometers east of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
• Booking: It’s recommended to book your stay and any spa treatments in advance, especially during peak season.
• What to Pack: Pack your swimsuit, comfortable clothing, and a refillable water bottle. The resort provides towels.

If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway in Saskatchewan, Manitou Springs Resort and Mineral Spa is the perfect destination. Soothe your muscles, ease your mind, and experience the unique natural wonder of Saskatchewan’s hot springs.

Saskatchewan is a stargazer’s paradise! Thanks to its vast, flat prairies and minimal light pollution, the province boasts some of the darkest skies in Canada. Here’s what you can expect:

• A Sea of Stars: Unfettered by light pollution, Saskatchewan’s night skies come alive with a dazzling display of stars. Millions of twinkling points of light are visible, including constellations, distant galaxies, and even shooting stars.
• The Milky Way in All Its Glory: The Milky Way galaxy, our home galaxy, stretches across the night sky like a luminous river of stars. In Saskatchewan’s dark skies, you can see the intricate details of the Milky Way, its swirling arms and dust lanes, invisible to the naked eye in most populated areas.
• Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights): While not as frequent as further north, Saskatchewan offers glimpses of the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis, particularly during the equinoxes (spring and fall). The vibrant green, purple, and red hues dancing across the night sky are a truly breathtaking sight.

Prime Stargazing Spots:

Saskatchewan has several Dark Sky Preserves, officially recognized by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada for their exceptional darkness:

• Grasslands National Park Dark Sky Preserve: One of Canada’s darkest skies! This park offers expansive views with minimal light interference.
• Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park Dark Sky Preserve: Sitting on the border of Saskatchewan and Alberta, this park features diverse landscapes and excellent stargazing opportunities.

Tips for Stargazing in Saskatchewan:

• Escape the City Lights: Head out to rural areas or designated Dark Sky Preserves for the best views.
• Choose the Right Time: Aim for nights with clear skies and little to no moon.
• Bring the Right Gear: A star chart or app, a flashlight with a red filter, and a comfortable blanket will enhance your experience.
• Be Patient: Allow your eyes time to adjust to the darkness for optimal stargazing.

Saskatchewan’s night skies offer a glimpse into the vastness of the universe and a chance to connect with the wonders of nature. So pack your sense of wonder and head out for an unforgettable stargazing adventure!

Paddling the Churchill River is an epic adventure that traverses the boreal forest of Saskatchewan, Canada. Imagine this: a ribbon of water winding through untouched wilderness teeming with wildlife, vibrant sunsets painting the sky, and the tranquillity of floating down a historic waterway.

The Churchill River itself stretches over 1,600 kilometres from Churchill Lake to Hudson Bay. Paddling options range from short day trips to multi-week expeditions, allowing you to tailor the adventure to your experience and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

The Splendor of the Boreal Forest:

The river winds through the Canadian Shield, a vast area of ancient rock underlying much of Canada. The landscape is a tapestry of towering spruce and pine trees, carpeted with mosses and wildflowers. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings – moose, bears, otters, and a vast array of bird species call this ecosystem home.

Thrilling Rapids and Calm Stretches:

The Churchill River is not for the faint of heart. There are sections with challenging whitewater rapids, demanding skill and teamwork to navigate. However, the river also boasts long stretches of calm water, perfect for soaking in the scenery and paddling leisurely.

Historical Significance:

The Churchill River has been a vital transportation route for Indigenous peoples for millennia. Fur traders later used the river, and remnants of their historic posts can still be found along the banks. Paddling this river is a journey through time, connecting you with the rich history of the region.

Planning Your Churchill River Paddling Adventure:

• Season: The best time to paddle the Churchill River is from late June to early September. This ensures pleasant weather and avoids the spring floods and biting insects of earlier months.
• Experience Level: Different sections of the river cater to varying experience levels. Be honest about your paddling abilities and choose a route that matches your skillset.
• Guided vs. Independent: Several outfitters offer guided paddling trips on the Churchill River. These trips provide experienced guides, equipment rentals, and camping logistics, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. For experienced paddlers, independent trips are also possible, requiring careful planning and obtaining necessary permits.

Paddling the Churchill River is a challenging yet rewarding adventure. With its stunning scenery, exciting rapids, and historical significance, it promises an unforgettable experience for paddlers seeking a taste of true wilderness.

The Moose Jaw Tunnels are a network of underground passageways located beneath the city of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada. Originally built in the early 1900s, they’ve transformed into a unique tourist attraction offering a glimpse into the city’s history.

Here’s the scoop on the Moose Jaw Tunnels:

• A Historic Labyrinth: These tunnels were originally dug for various purposes. In the early 1900s, they served as utility corridors and storage spaces for businesses. During Prohibition (1919-1933), some believe they were used for bootlegging activities, with connections to mob boss Al Capone’s organization.

• Theatrical Tours: Today, the Moose Jaw Tunnels are not just a historical site, but a full-fledged tourist attraction. Visitors embark on guided tours presented in a theatrical fashion. Costumed actors bring history to life, transporting you back in time to different eras.

• Tour Options: The Tunnels offer a variety of tours catering to different interests:

  • The Chicago Connection: This tour delves into the Prohibition era, showcasing the alleged connection between the tunnels and Al Capone’s bootlegging operation.
  • Passage to Fortune: This tour sheds light on the experiences of early Chinese immigrants who helped build Canada, facing hardships and discrimination.
  • Bunker 24: This tour takes you back to the Cold War era, simulating a situation where you take refuge in a makeshift bomb shelter.

• A Fun and Educational Experience: The theatrical tours offered by the Moose Jaw Tunnels provide a fun and engaging way to learn about Moose Jaw’s history. It’s a great option for families, history buffs, and anyone seeking a unique underground adventure!

So, if you find yourself in Saskatchewan and looking for an offbeat attraction, consider diving into the historic depths of the Moose Jaw Tunnels! You might just brush shoulders with a Prohibition-era bootlegger or a Cold War citizen on your quirky underground adventure.