 |
Local InformationThose planning canoe trips in northern Saskatchewan must prepare to meet a variety-filled wilderness environment. With few exceptions, the country is forested. The waters vary in character from rockbound lakes to teacoloured sloughs, meandering rivers, sweeping marshlands and boiling rapids. The general relief is low; shores are covered with alder, willow, tamarack and water-loving plants. On higher ground poplar, birch, spruce, fir and jack-pine occur. Rocky shores and numerous islands typify the ancient mineral-rich Precambrian lake country. Sandy or marshy conditions with fewer islands and less rock predominate in the geologically younger area south of the Precambrian Shield.Muskrat, beaver, mink and otter inhabit the thousands of kilometres of shoreline. Deer, bear, moose and, in some areas, woodland caribou visit the shore to drink and feed. A variety of loon, grebe, other waterfowl and shore birds are certain to be seen during the course of an extended wilderness canoe trip. The bald eagle nests in northern Saskatchewan and on some routes it is not unusual to see a pair circling their nest. |
Climate and Weather information | Fire history and present conditions
- The following roads may be used for access to the north (the link will take you to the canoe routes along the specific highway):
- Highway 4, leading into 104, to Meadow Lake and Canoe Lake
- Highway 55, leading into 155, to lle-a-la-Crosse.
- Can-Am Highway (#2) to Lac la Ronge
- Highways 102 and 105 north to the Churchill River.
- Highway 120, Highway 106 Hanson Lake Road and 135 to Pelican Narrows.
Consult your current Saskatchewan highway map for campground locations and road classifications.
When in the north, you should make your own arrangements for leaving your car in a safe place. It may be possible to leave cars with camp operators. Horizons Unlimited in Missinipe can store your vehicle and arrange your flight out.
Prince Albert is the main air terminal service in the north. Regular flights are available to Lac la Ronge, Uranium City and Stony Rapids. Float plane facilities are available at a number of communities serviced by roads. The farthest north you can drive and fly out is Points North, on Highway 102. Special arrangements can be made with commercial operators.
Saskatchewan Hot Line Road Information (306) 953-3575
