Catch the Action at Blackstrap: A Quick Trip from Saskatoon

Take a quick trip to Blackstrap Provincial Park, a prairie getaway known for its striking man-made mountain, grand views of Blackstrap Lake, and a wide range of outdoor recreation. Visitors can hike to panoramic viewpoints, relax on sandy beaches, or spend the day on the water. It's an easy, adventure-filled escape perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers (especially those with particular interest in mountain biking).

Getting There

Blackstrap Provincial Park sits just off Highway 11, about 50 kilometres south of Saskatoon and roughly 225 kilometres north of Regina. The park has paved roads leading directly to the main entrance and recreation areas.

Because of its proximity to Saskatoon, Blackstrap is perfect for a day trip, but many visitors choose to stay overnight to enjoy everything the park offers. A Park Entry Permit is required for all vehicles entering the park, which can be purchased before your visit or at the park gate.

Season
  • Summer
Time needed
  • Full Day, Multi-day
Locations
  • Blackstrap Provincial Park
What You Need to Bring
  • A valid Park Entry Permit
  • Sunscreen and swimwear
  • Bike and helmet

Morning

It's time to start the day and explore all that Blackstrap Provincial Park has to offer.

  • Start your day off with a hike! Whether you choose a lakeside stroll on the Shoreline Trail, a more challenging hike up Mount Blackstrap, or one of Blackstrap's many other trails, moving legs first thing in the morning will be certain to wake you up.
  • After your hike, cool down at Aspen Grove Beach, the main beach area in the park. Aspen Grove is a popular gathering spot with plenty of space to walk along the sandy shoreline or dip your toes in the water.
  • If you're travelling with a pet, stop by the off-leash dog and dog beach at Pelican Point picnic area for some space to run.
  • Pro tip: Remember to check for any fire bans or restrictions before heading to the park.

Midday

By midday, it's time to slow down and refuel while enjoying the lakeside scenery.

  • For lunch, stop by Little Kahuna's Beach Cafe and Tiki Bar which offers classic concession treats and burgers, along with our signature tiki cocktails. The restaurant, which sits right next to Aspen Grove Beach, is the perfect stop to refuel between activities.
  • If you're looking to pack your own lunch, the park features several picnic areas with benches, shaded areas, and beautiful views of the lake.

Afternoon

The afternoon is perfect for rounding out your visit with a few more adventures.

  • Hop on your bike and wind through the many trails Blackstrap has to offer. While some trails are shared with hikers, others are equipped with bridges, jumps, berms, drops, and rock gardens for those who are more experienced bike riders and want a few more challenges!
  • Cool off afterwards and head back to Blackstrap Lake to get your heart pumping aboard Sask Aquatic Adventure's floating waterpark! Run, jump, and swing through 13 on-water challenges exciting for all ages.
  • Or you can end your day fishing for Pike, Walleye, Burbot, or Perch. Grab your rod and bait and go shore fishing around the lake, cast out from the fishing dock located at the boat launch, or check out Fisherman's Point. For those who have a boat, there are two boat launches available in the park.

Pro Tip: Before you arrive, check for special events that may be taking place during your visit.

Make It an Overnight Trip

Blackstrap Provincial Park has multiple campgrounds that make it easy to extend your visit. Campers can choose from traditional full-service, electric and non-electric campsites, as well as accessible sites so everyone can enjoy the great outdoors. Camp-Easy Yurts for visitors looking for a convenient camping experience without having to bring all the gear are also available.

Want to turn your camping experience into a glamping experience? Blackstrap Glamping Resort offers luxurious glamping domes that come with plenty of amenities and a cozy atmosphere.

Reservations are recommended during peak summer weekends.

What's Nearby

Grab some fresh fruit for your trip at The Berry Barn. About 30 minutes northwest of Blackstrap you'll find this iconic u-pick patch which offers fresh berries, alongside a full-service restaurant serving up hearty prairie comfort food and incredible Saskatoon berry pie. Afterward, you can browse their greenhouse and gift shop or stretch your legs on the beautiful walking paths right along the river.

If you're looking to score a double header of classic Saskatchewan park life, make the short drive over to Pike Lake Provincial Park. Less than an hour from Blackstrap, Pike Lake offers more fun outdoor activities including disc golf and hiking to boat rentals and a swimming pool. Pike Lake is the perfect place to include in your itinerary.

Good to Know

Maximize your trip enjoyment with a little planning:

  • Get a Park Entry Permit online before arriving
  • Pack lunch and plenty of water for the day
  • Lifejacket Loaner Station is available
  • If you're planning to fish, grab your fishing permit before casting out
  • Borrow a free Discovery Pack from the Visitor Centre. Designed for families and visitors of all ages, Discovery Packs are a fun and engaging way to play, learn and interact with the natural environment. This year's new and exciting themes include:
    • Butterflies and Blooms
    • Cosmic Club
    • Creatures of the Past
    • Fungi Friends
    • Junior Ecologist: Forest Exploration
  • Recreation Packs are also free-to-borrow, focused on outdoor activities and sports. Borrow a Disc Golf, Birding, Beach Adventure or Campsite Games Pack from the Visitor Centre.
  • Trails information: available on All Trails (hiking) and TrailForks (biking)