Mysask411 Road Trip: North Central Saskatchewan
It’s the beginning of June and if your kids are anything like ours, they are ready for summer vacation and hitting the open road! Planning for your road trip can be just as important as picking the right tunes and having the right snacks in the car. Mysask411 is here to help with all your arrangements. From hotels to gas stations to restaurants, we have you covered!
Twisted Trees of Alticane/The Crooked Bush
Called a “botanical mystery”, the twisted trees, or crooked bush have been declared one of the ‘54 Wonders of Canada’. Located in the rural Municipality of Douglas near Hafford, scientists believe that the tree growth is a result of genetic mutation, but they are not sure what caused the mutation. Local legend attributes the twisted tree shaping to everything from UFO encounters to lightning strikes but no matter what caused the spectacular shaping of the trees we think they’re cool! After you’ve completed the self-guided tour make sure you head to the Red Bull Family Restaurant and Lounge, located on highway 16. A five-star review sums up this local business: “This restaurant is a gem. The service is wonderful, the atmosphere is cozy with well-appointed décor. The menu caters to all culinary temptations; from sushi to burgers and more”.
The Creighton Limestone Crevices are a perfect road trip stop for fossil hunters and adventurists. Although there are many types of limestone (mostly made from calcium carbonate), the limestone in the Creighton area is believed to be what remains of coral reefs and lime that was compacted down over time. Make sure you’re well equipped to climb this rock as the conditions can be precarious and it is not recommended to hike with small children or pets. If you manage a hike amongst this natural attraction, be sure to stop in at Creighton’s Pizza for a delicious slice. The menu doesn’t stop at pizza though, offerings include Greek, Mexican, Ukrainian, Chinese, Japanese and Indian cuisine. If you’re staying in the area overnight make sure you head to The Hooter for a fun night of food and music. A long-time landmark in the Flin Flon-Creighton area, the bar is known by the locals as a great place to listen to live music and relax.
Meadow Lake Provincial Park Boreal Trail
Founded in 1959, Meadow Lake Provincial Park is the largest provincial park in Saskatchewan. It also includes the only trail that is open year-round in the province – the Boreal Trail. We’ve heard the term ‘Boreal’ before but didn’t know this type of forest is defined as those growing in high latitude environments where freezing temperatures occur for 6 to 8 months of the year. Living in Saskatchewan we now understand 😉. Many of the local businesses in the area are seasonal so be sure to check hours of operation before you get on the road, but we did find a couple hidden gems just out of the park. Guests can’t rave enough about The Sunshine Café. Located in Goodsoil, this little café is described as “all around down home awesome”. You can’t beat that and with meals ranging from $10-$20 it’s a great stop for larger families. If you head into Meadow Lake there are a couple local businesses that would love to serve you. Mack’s Family Restaurant, Sandi’s Poutinerie & Grill and Silver Palace Restaurant will make you feel like a neighbor and have you leaving with a full stomach.
Last up on our road trip through north central Saskatchewan is the sand cliffs at Nipekamew. Sand pillars that were deposited over 120 million years ago became exposed as the Nipekamew river eroded revealing the cliffs. There is a 1.5km walking trail that takes you to a location across from the river where the cliffs can be viewed. This unique Saskatchewan location is truly in the middle of nature. Some of the closest local businesses are in La Ronge. The La Ronge restaurant guide lists all the restaurants in the city, including the local gems, and provides details on when they are open and the category of food they offer. One of our favourites is the La Ronge General Store because of all the delicious coffee selections they offer. Enjoy!
North Central Saskatchewan is known for it’s lakes, forests, fishing and hunting. Whether you are travelling north to see what nature has to offer or set your sights on the food and drinks local businesses have for you, your road trip is going to be filled with memories you’ll have for years to come.
Next month we head to our last road trip destination – South Central Saskatchewan. Don’t miss out on the unique places we’ll visit in July!
-Sarah Elchuk is a member of the Marketing Team at Directwest