Visit the Wanuskewin Heritage Park to discover more than 6,000 years of local history. Explore archaeological digs, browse exhibits in the on-site interpretive centre with an art gallery, and enjoy a traditional First Nations dish in the restaurant. For those who would rather just go for a hike, various walking trails will take you through a vast prairie landscape.
The land surrounding Saskatoon holds great cultural significance to the indigenous Cree people, who continue to live on the land today. More than just a tourist attraction, the Wanuskewin Heritage Park remains an important cultural site. It hosts ceremonies and events throughout the year and is also an important research and educational facility. Sometimes dancers are present to perform a traditional show.
Begin your visit to Wanuskewin by watching an introductory film presentation. Various 20-minute feature films outline the customs of the First Nations people and why the area surrounding Saskatoon is so important to them.
Browse the cultural centre to see traditional art in the galleries and the huge bison mounted on a wall. Have a bison burger at the centre’s restaurant while you enjoy views across the prairie and Opimihaw Creek.
Outside, follow the Path of the People to reach the park’s three main trails. The Trail of Discovery will take you through a number of archaeological sites, including active digs by the University of Saskatchewan. See artifacts from 5,000 years ago. The items recovered by the students include arrowheads and animal bones.
The Circle of Harmony trail will take you to some of the most fascinating sites in the park. See how the Cree people once lived in tepees, or learn how the Medicine Wheel boulder circles are used as a healing device. Take the Trail of the Buffalo for views of the South Saskatchewan River.
Wanuskewin Heritage Park is open daily and a fee applies for admission to the centre. The park is located about 8 miles (13 kilometres) north of Saskatoon and is best reached by car. Ample parking is available on site.
