​WHEN THE Saskatchewan winter settles in, the urge to escape the city’s concrete and salt-covered streets becomes undeniable. Fortunately, Saskatoon is perfectly positioned as a gateway to the boreal forest and serene lakeside retreats. Whether you are looking for a high-end resort experience or a rustic “off-the-grid” woodstove vibe, these three destinations offer the perfect winter reset—all within a two-hour drive.
​1. The Luxury Boreal Escape: Elk Ridge Resort
​Distance from Saskatoon: ~2 hours north
If your idea of a “cabin” involves a stone fireplace, a gourmet kitchen, and a soak in a hot tub, Elk Ridge Resort is the gold standard. Located just outside Prince Albert National Park, Elk Ridge offers a variety of two-to-four-bedroom cabins and cottages.
​The magic of Elk Ridge in January lies in its “Winter Wonderland” atmosphere. The resort maintains an outdoor skating pond (complete with a warming shack), groomed cross-country ski trails, and a dedicated toboggan hill. After a day in the crisp air, you can retreat to the Wyld at Elk Ridge for a fireside dinner. It’s the ultimate destination for those who want the forest experience without sacrificing modern comforts.
​2. The Artistic Soul: Ness Creek (Big River)
​Distance from Saskatoon: ~1.5 hours north
For a retreat that feels more “authentic Saskatchewan,” head to the Ness Creek site near Big River. While famous for its summer music festival, Ness Creek transforms into a silent, snow-covered sanctuary in the winter.
​The cabins here, like the iconic Cabin No. 3 (the only one with a wood-burning stove) or the newly built Waldorf Nesstoria, are nestled deep in the jack pines. This is the place for “Nature Therapy.” You can spend your morning snowshoeing on over 25km of trails and your afternoon in the community’s wood-fired sauna. Most cabins are self-contained with kitchenettes, allowing you to hunker down with a good book and a hot cocoa while the aurora borealis dances above the trees.
​3. The Local Favorite: Blackstrap Provincial Park
​Distance from Saskatoon: ~25 minutes south
You don’t have to drive for hours to find a lakefront retreat. Blackstrap Provincial Park has seen a surge in luxury “cabin-style” vacation rentals in recent years. The Blackstrap Lake House, for instance, offers a modern, high-capacity retreat just 13 minutes from the city limits.
​This is the ideal getaway for a “staycation” with a group of friends. You get the benefit of lake views and ice-fishing access during the day, with the luxury of 120-inch laser TVs and outdoor hot tubs at night. It’s the perfect compromise for those who want to feel “away from it all” but still want to be back in the city in time for Monday morning’s commute.
​Booking Tips for 2026
- ​The Two-Night Rule: Most popular spots like Elk Ridge require a two-night minimum stay on weekends.
- ​Pet-Friendly Picks: Ness Creek is famously pet-friendly (the “Eugene” cabin is a top choice), but be prepared to pay a small nightly pet fee (usually around $20).
- ​Supply Check: For Ness Creek and regional parks, remember that local grocery stores often have shorter winter hours. Stock up on your way through Shellbrook or Prince Albert.
Enjoy the moments.
