Winter Activities in Saskatoon

From ice skating and snowshoeing to cross country skiing and biking, there’s a lot to do in Saskatoon in the winter. So, don’t let the cold get in the way of having some fun!

Here’s a list 6 winter activities in Saskatoon, compiled by Leenan Property Management, to get you started.

1. Ice Skating

Ice skating is a class experience in Saskatoon. Locals are typically enthusiastic about it and will make you feel comfortable when you join in.

There are over 50 outdoor skating rinks in Saskatoon. The following are some popular options you can choose from:

• Cameco Meeswasin Skating Rink. This is a winter wonderland overlooking the river near the University Bridge downtown. The rink welcomes thousands of people during the winter season.

• Clarence Downey Speed Skating Oval. This one is next to Holiday Park. It’s a municipal arena, and skate times are offered throughout the winter season.

• Neighborhood Outdoor Rink. If you’re somewhat advanced in your skating skills, then this is a good spot for you. It’s meticulously maintained by the community association to ensure it’s always in great shape.

• Outdoor Pond at Innovation Place. This is arguably the cutest skating rink in the city of Saskatoon. It’s located next to Boffins Public House, and features a wooden gazebo, a fire pit, and some pretty fir trees.

2. Snowshoeing

Ever found yourself knee-deep in snow? If so, then you’ve probably had snowshoes at the top of your wishlist at least once.

In some areas of the city, the only way to walk around is by strapping on a pair and making fresh tracks. Those areas happen to be some of the most unspoiled landscapes you can find in Saskatoon.

One of the best spots to snowshoe is the Wanuskewin Heritage Park. Imagine snowshoeing up to a roaring fire greeting you at the Bison Viewing Platform on a winter day!

What’s more, you’ll also get an opportunity to discover the traditions and everyday lives of First Nation people. The National Historic Site is located just 5 kilometers from the City of Saskatoon.

For other explorations and adventures, you can rent a snowshoe at Escape Sports.

3. Sledding & Tobogganing

Saskatoon residents also have a love for snow sledding and tobogganing. As soon as its start to snow, you’ll find them sliding down hills.

While any hill would do, the Optimist Hill is the go-to for most snow sledding enthusiasts. Optimist Hill is a quiet little hill located in Diefenbaker Park.

4. Kicksledding

A kicksled is a great way to get around Saskatoon during the winter. A kicksled is a chair mounted on two metal runners. The rider stands on the runners, behind the chair, and propels the sled by kicking. The Swedes were really onto something with this fun invention!

You can rent one from Escape Sports. Once you have one, there are many spots to choose from for kicksledding. You can get started at the Meewasin Valley Trails. Running through the heart of the city, the Meewasin Valley Trail is a well-known popular choice for locals. There are over 60 kilometers to explore.

5. Cross-Country Skiing

Saskatoon doesn’t have any mountains nearby. In fact, the nearest is hours away. However, that doesn’t mean residents don’t get to have some fun skiing!

You’ve probably heard that the prairies are a boring piece of flat land with nothing to offer during the winter.

Well, it may be flat, but the rest couldn’t be further from the truth. There are many reasons to live in Saskatoon, and plenty of fun activities tie into that. Cross Country skiing is one of the main winter activities in Saskatoon.

If you’re just getting started with cross country skiing, the Saskatoon Nordic Ski Club is an excellent option. It’s a community of enthusiastic, engaged and supportive people who love cross country skiing in Saskatoon.

Another option is Canoeski. This is a Western Canadian outdoor adventure company based out of Saskatoon. It offers a gateway to the vast boreal forests and waterways of Northern Saskatchewan and is a great place to try some Winter photography.

Other options include the golf courses at both Wildwood and Holiday Park.

6. Biking

Saskatoon is a bike-friendly city! One of the best ways to experience Saskatoon is through biking. You can have a great time cycling through side streets, trails and the downtown areas of the city.

Unlike other cities, the Saskatoon bike experience goes beyond just the summer months. It’s year-round; and yes, we still do it even when we do have piles of snow. We have ‘fat’ bikes for a reason! These bikes are outfitted with ultra-thick tires with very low tire pressure to ensure riding on snow is a breeze.

You can get a great cycling guide from the City of Saskatoon. This Guide gives appropriate ratings to all streets in the city, from novice all the way to pro. You can get yourself a copy from the Civic Leisure Centers or from all branches of the City’s Public Library.

The winter season is a great time to feed the adventure animal inside of you. Whatever winter activity you want to try, rest assured Saskatoon has you covered!