Waskesiu Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary
Nestled within Prince Albert National Park, Waskesiu offers a pristine blend of boreal wilderness, sparkling lakewater, and a charming heritage townsite. It is Saskatchewan's premier playground for outdoor adventurers and families alike.
Waskesiu is more than just a destination; it is a feeling of nostalgia wrapped in the scent of pine needles and campfire smoke. Located deep within Prince Albert National Park, this lakeside townsite serves as the civilized gateway to a million acres of Canadian boreal wilderness. Here, the pace of life slows to the rhythm of the waves lapping against the breakwater, and the evenings are soundtracked by the haunting call of the loon.
For generations, families have gathered here to disconnect from the city and reconnect with nature. Whether you are seeking the thrill of a backcountry hike to Grey Owl’s historic cabin, the challenge of a Stanley Thompson golf course, or simply the joy of an ice cream cone on a sun-drenched beach, Waskesiu delivers an authentic Canadian summer experience that feels timeless.
Seasonal Weather Guide
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A Legacy of Conservation and Culture
Waskesiu’s history is deeply intertwined with the story of the boreal forest and the Indigenous peoples who have travelled these lands for millennia. The townsite itself retains a charming vintage aesthetic, with heritage buildings and rustic cabins that date back to the park’s establishment in the late 1920s. Walking down the main street feels like stepping back into a simpler era of summer vacationing.
Perhaps the park’s most famous resident was Grey Owl (Archibald Belaney), the controversial but influential conservationist who lived here in the 1930s. His cabin on Ajawaan Lake remains a pilgrimage site for hikers and paddlers. Beyond the history books, the park is a living cultural landscape, where the transition from aspen parkland to dense boreal forest creates a unique biodiversity hotspot teeming with elk, black bears, wolves, and a free-roaming herd of plains bison.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
Pilgrimage to Grey Owl's Cabin
Journey by boat and hike to the rustic lakeside cabin of the famous conservationist and author, Archibald Belaney (Grey Owl).
Golf at Waskesiu Golf Course
Play 18 holes on one of Western Canada's oldest courses, designed by Stanley Thompson, featuring rolling fairways cut through dense forest.
Hike the Boundary Bog Trail
A magical 2 km loop on a boardwalk that takes you through a boreal bog ecosystem filled with carnivorous plants and golden tamaracks.
Relax at Waskesiu Main Beach
Soak up the sun on this expansive sandy beach right in the townsite, featuring shallow waters safe for children and proximity to ice cream shops.
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The Icons You’ll Want to See
Grey Owl’s Cabin - Accessible via a boat trip across Kingsmere Lake followed by a 3 km hike. It’s a full-day adventure to see the beaver lodge built inside the cabin. (Boat tours approx. $150 CAD, Hiking is free with park entry).
The Narrows - A stunning 24 km scenic drive from the townsite leading to a marina. The area is famous for great fishing, bird watching, and the Narrows Peninsula hike. (Free with park entry).
Waskesiu Heritage Museum - Located near the beach, this outdoor museum features a replica fire tower, a portable shack tent, and artifacts from the park’s early days. (Admission by donation).
The Hanging Heart Lakes - A chain of three small, calm lakes perfect for novice paddlers and observing nesting bald eagles. Boat rentals are available at the marina nearby. (Rentals approx. $40 CAD/hour).
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Insider Tips
Planning Your Visit
Waskesiu is located approximately 2.5 hours north of Saskatoon via Highway 11 and Highway 2. A National Park Discovery Pass or daily entry fee is required for entry. The townsite is walkable, but having a vehicle is essential for reaching trailheads like Boundary Bog or Kingsmere. If you plan to visit in July or August, booking accommodation is critical, as hotels and campgrounds often reach 100% capacity.
Pack for variable weather. Even on hot summer days, temperatures can drop significantly at night. Bring layers, rain gear, and high-quality bug spray, as the boreal forest is home to mosquitoes and horseflies. If you are camping, be
Sample Itineraries
Classic Waskesiu Weekend
A relaxing blend of beach time, easy nature walks, and local dining perfect for first-time visitors.
Day 1: Arrival and Townsite Exploration
- Morning: Arrive at the park gate (approx. $17.50 CAD daily entry) and check into your hotel, then grab a latte and breakfast wrap at Evrgreen Coffee.
- Afternoon: Walk the Waskesiu River Trail, a gentle 2.5 km hike that crosses the river on a winding boardwalk, followed by a visit to the Waskesiu Heritage Museum.
- Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner of pizza and burgers at Pete’s Terrace ($40-60 CAD) before watching the sunset from the Main Beach breakwater.
Day 2: Lake Life and Local Flavours
- Morning: Rent a canoe or kayak from the marina (approx. $30-50 CAD/hour) and paddle along the shoreline to spot loons and beavers.
- Afternoon: Spend a few hours lounging on Main Beach or playing tennis at the superb local courts, then treat yourself to a massive cone at Big Olaf Sundaes ($8 CAD).
- Evening: Dress up slightly for a fine Italian dinner at Restaurant Pietro ($100-140 CAD), featuring fresh pasta and an excellent wine list.
Day 3: Scenic Views and Departure
- Morning: Drive 25 km down the scenic Narrows Road, stopping to hike the short but beautiful Narrows Peninsula trail to see the birds.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a final lunch at the Hawood Inn before browsing the local gift shops like The nature Shop for souvenirs.
- Evening: Depart the park, keeping a close watch for bear and elk crossing the highway as dusk settles.
The Boreal Adventure
An active itinerary focused on hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the deeper wilderness areas of the park.
Day 1: Into the Woods
- Morning: Start with a hearty breakfast at Baker’s Bungalows, then tackle the 4 km Mud Creek Trail which follows the winding creek through dense forest.
- Afternoon: Drive to the Boundary Bog trail (2 km) to walk the boardwalks through the unique tamarack ecosystem.
- Evening: Set up camp at Beaver Glen Campground and cook dinner over a fire while listening for the evening calls of loons.
Day 2: The Grey Owl Experience
- Morning: Book the boat tour (approx. $150 CAD/person) or paddle across Kingsmere Lake to the trailhead for Grey Owl’s Cabin.
- Afternoon: Hike the 3 km trail to the cabin, explore the historic site where the author lived with his beavers, and return via boat.
- Evening: Refuel with a hearty meal at Mackenzie’s Dining Room ($60-90 CAD) after a long day of exertion.
Day 3: River Rails and Wildlife
- Morning: Drive to the Kingsmere River parking lot and hike the 1.5 km rail portage trail to see the unique railcart system used to move boats.
- Afternoon: Rent a mountain bike and explore the Fisher Trail, looking out for deer and foxes along the way.
- Evening: Drive the West Side road (if accessible) or the quieter park roads near the golf course specifically to look for the bison herd and elk.
Day 4: Golf and Goodbye
- Morning: Tee off early at the Waskesiu Golf Course (green fees approx. $70-90 CAD), enjoying the challenge of the rolling terrain.
- Afternoon: Have a quick lunch at the clubhouse overlooking the 10th hole before packing up camp.
- Evening: Stop at the Red Deer trail for one last short walk to the lookout tower before exiting the park.
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