North of Saskatoon Scenic Drive

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the scenic northern region of Saskatchewan, Canada. Starting in Saskatoon, the North of Saskatoon Scenic Drive takes you 418km to La Ronge, offering spectacular views and opportunities to explore along the way. Highlights include the city of Prince Albert, where you can take in the sights of the historic downtown core and the North Saskatchewan River. The best time of year to take this drive is during the warmer months, however the road is usually open year-round with the exception of extreme weather conditions. With moderate budgeting and a two-day timeframe, this road trip is suitable for all drivers and provides an unparalleled level of experience and memories.

Saskatoon is a vibrant city in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, and a great place to start your North of Saskatoon Scenic Drive. The city is situated in a beautiful setting of the South Saskatchewan River and boasts a myriad of attractions and activities. You can explore the city on foot, taking in the sights of the river and its banks, the University of Saskatchewan, and the Meewasin Valley Trail. The latter is especially interesting, as it follows the river, offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. You can also visit the Ukrainian Museum of Canada, the Western Development Museum, and the Mendel Art Gallery. The city also offers a variety of shops and restaurants, so you can get all the necessary supplies for your road trip. The closest international airport to Saskatoon is Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport (YXE). Car rentals are available at the airport, so you can head out on your North of Saskatoon Scenic Drive right away. Don't forget to check out the many parks and trails in the city, as well as the nearby Wanuskewin Heritage Park, where you can learn about the culture and history of the First Nations. Saskatoon is a great place to start your road trip, and you won't be disappointed with all it has to offer.

Start your road trip in Saskatoon, Canada and explore the beauty of the Rosthern and Prince Albert regions. A 140 km drive, taking fewer than two hours, will take you through rolling hills, vast prairies and scenic views. Rosthern is a small town with a lot of charm and plenty of activities to keep you busy. Visit the Rosthern Mennonite Heritage Village and explore the history of the Mennonite settlers and the area’s cultural heritage. Take a stroll around the town and explore the local shops, galleries and restaurants. Prince Albert is the gateway to the north and is known for its scenic beauty and vibrant culture. Visit the Prince Albert Historical Museum, which is full of interesting artifacts and stories about the city’s past. Take a walk along the river and explore the local parks and trails. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Embark on a captivating road trip through the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, beginning in the city of Prince Albert and ending in La Ronge. This 278km journey, taking fewer than 4 hours to complete, is sure to be filled with spectacular scenery, as you drive through the majestic Prince Albert National Park. Along the way, be sure to keep an eye out for the wildlife that call this park home, such as the majestic elk and the iconic Canadian beaver. As you make your way through the park, you will also be able to take in the breathtaking views of the many lakes and rivers that can be found in this area. As you leave the park, you will have the opportunity to explore the small towns of La Ronge and Sandy Bay, where you can find a variety of local businesses, restaurants and accommodation options. Finally, you will arrive in La Ronge, where you can enjoy the local culture, as well as the stunning views of the northern lights. Please note that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, so be sure to check for updates before you embark on your journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.

La Ronge is a small town located along the Churchill River in the northern Saskatchewan province of Canada. It is the northernmost point of the "North of Saskatoon Scenic Drive" road trip and a great place to end your journey. La Ronge is known as a gateway to the north, as it is the largest settlement in the area and is full of interesting places to explore. For history buffs, the La Ronge Museum will provide insight into the town's past. Nature lovers will be well served by the La Ronge Provincial Park, which offers a wide range of outdoor activities. The park is also home to two National Historic Sites, the La Ronge Fur Post and the Ile-a-la-Crosse Mission. For those looking to explore the surrounding area, there are plenty of lakes, rivers, and forests to explore. The nearby Lac La Ronge Provincial Park is home to some of the most beautiful lakes in the province and is a great spot for a picnic. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Saskatoon International Airport (YXE). La Ronge is a great place to end your "North of Saskatoon Scenic Drive" road trip. With its rich history and stunning natural beauty, it's sure to be the perfect way to finish your journey.

Before you set off

The North of Saskatoon Scenic Drive is a captivating 418km journey from Saskatoon to La Ronge, taking you through the diverse landscapes of Saskatchewan, Canada. This Road Trip not only promises stunning natural vistas but also invites travelers to experience the local culture and history of the region's communities.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Saskatoon: Known as the `Paris of the Prairies`, this bustling city is famous for its seven bridges, vibrant art scene, and the Meewasin Valley Trail along the South Saskatchewan River. Don't miss the Western Development Museum and the Remai Modern art museum.
• Prince Albert: Situated on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, explore the city's historic downtown, visit the Prince Albert Historical Museum, and take a stroll in Kinsmen Park.
• La Ronge: The end point of your Trip, La Ronge is a gateway to the great Canadian Shield and is surrounded by lakes and boreal forest, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Time to Go:

The most favorable time for this Scenic Drive is from May to September. During these months, you'll experience warm temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

Potential Risks:

• Winter months can bring extreme weather, including heavy snowfall and icy conditions, making some Roads treacherous or impassable.
• Be mindful of wildlife crossings, as encounters with deer, moose, and other animals are common and can pose a risk, especially at dawn and dusk.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• Saskatchewan is home to over 100,000 lakes, and during your drive, you'll be near several of them, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.
• The region has a rich Indigenous history, with numerous First Nations communities; take time to learn about their cultures and traditions.
• Saskatchewan's skies are renowned for their clearness, with the Northern Lights often visible from various points along the drive, particularly around La Ronge.

A good choice for:

Embarking on the North of Saskatoon Scenic Drive is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the grandeur of Saskatchewan's landscapes and the warmth of its towns and cities. This Road Trip is not just a means of travel but a journey that showcases the heart of Canada's prairie and northern wilderness, leaving you with unforgettable experiences and a deeper appreciation for this vast and beautiful province.