Saskatchewan Parks Week is underway, and Moose Mountain Provincial Park is marking the occasion with free entry and special programming on Saturday, July 19.
Acting park manager Ainsley Sauter said while there is no set theme this year, the week serves as an opportunity to encourage people to enjoy the outdoors and explore what provincial parks have to offer.
“It’s just a week to encourage people to get out and explore Saskatchewan provincial parks. Try different things or continue doing what you love,” she said.
Moose Mountain is offering a variety of events for families and first-time visitors this weekend. Saturday’s lineup includes a guided hike at 10 a.m. on the Beaver Lake Trail, followed by a craft activity at 2 p.m. on the beach. On Sunday, visitors can take part in another craft program at 10 a.m. in the campground’s Site 7, and a Digging for Dinos activity at 2 p.m. on the beach.
Programming continues throughout the week, much of it geared toward children. Events include fairy house building, a teddy bear picnic, and an Acknowledging the Land presentation on Friday at 2 p.m. at the chalet lawn. Sauter said the cultural program is designed for all ages and highlights a connection to the land.
The team behind the park is passionate about what they do, and Parks Week is an opportunity to share that love of nature with others.
“Most of us here love the outdoors and being in nature. We love helping people enjoy it too,” she said.
Located in southeast Saskatchewan, Moose Mountain Provincial Park is often referred to as an island forest on the prairies. It offers a wide range of amenities including hiking trails, beaches, a dog park and an 18-hole disc golf course that weaves through trees and hills. Visitors can also explore the historic 1931 chalet, which serves as the park’s visitor centre.
“It’s kind of called the island forest in the middle of the prairies,” said Sauter. “We’ve got lots of trees. It’s quite unique.”
For Sauter, who has spent years working at the park, it is the quiet, everyday moments that leave a lasting impression.
“I just love being out here in Moose Mountain, in nature, walking the trails and listening to the birds,” she said. “It’s the quietness and serenity that makes it special.”
She said Parks Week is also important for raising awareness about conservation and outdoor stewardship, especially for people who may be new to the camping or hiking experience.
“It gets people out who maybe haven’t been to our parks before. Along with that comes learning how to be a good camper and a respectful outdoors person.”
Later this summer, the park will host its annual Cabin Fever Art Festival on Aug. 23. The event showcases the work of artists-in-residence at Moose Mountain’s four seasonal cabins, with expanded programming and entertainment throughout the day. While regular park entry applies, the event itself is free to attend.
As for those still deciding whether to visit Moose Mountain or other parks in the province, Sauter had a simple message.
“Get out and experience as much as you can. Try different activities and explore different areas. Then go visit other provincial parks. They all offer something different and special.”
Park entry will be free this Saturday for all provincial parks across Saskatchewan. Regular day entry to Moose Mountain is $11.