One common question we get a lot here at the store, especially from those new to the area, is “Where do you ride around here?”.
It’s a valid question! When I first arrived in Saskatchewan in 1994, I put my mountain bike in a closet and figured those days were behind me. A few years later, I wanted to get back into riding so I bought a road bike (a riding adventure which I still love, by the way!). I figured, I live in the prairies, how good could the trails be out here? Boy was I wrong!
As I write this in late April, we’re finally emerging from what I believe is our fourth winter. Despite winter’s best efforts to have the “last word,” the snow will soon be gone, the trails will dry out, and we can once again hit the trails on our bikes. So, where can you ride once the trails are ready?
River Ridge – Langham
First, let’s start with the trails closest to us. River Ridge is a brand new trail system that started just 2 years ago. There was an old golf course north of the town of Langham along the river. The town and a group of outdoor minded individuals got together and started building a network of multi-use trails. The summer sees mountain bikers, hikers and dog walkers enjoying the variety of trails while the winter has an incredible array of trails for fat-biking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and more.
River Ridge offers trails suitable for all skill levels, with enough distance and variety to keep you entertained for hours! It’s primarily a cross-country trail system with some challenging climbs and technical sections, but last year they even added a flow line with berms and jumps. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, you’ll find many great loops to explore. There are bridge features, drops, jumps, and even a fun skills section with skinnies, a teeter-totter, and more to help you develop your skills and add some excitement to your ride.
The best part about River Ridge is its location nestled between farmers’ fields and the North Saskatchewan river, which provides a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. You may even spot some wildlife along the way!
Check out the links below for more information on these trails:
If you enjoy these trails, donate today! As a non-profit organization, your donation can help with trail maintenance, additional features and more. Check out their donation info on their homepage.
River Trails – Saskatoon
The Saskatoon river trails are the most well-known trails in our area. They run along both sides of the river, spanning nearly the entire city. A popular starting point for those of us living north of Saskatoon is near Peturrson’s Ravine, where a fun little jump park has been built. From there, the trails extend a short distance north and a long way south, offering a variety of options for all types of riders.
The Saskatoon river trails offer a variety of features that are sure to keep you entertained and challenged throughout the summer. With punchy climbs, fast descents, rock gardens, wooden features, and more, there’s plenty of fun to be had right in the heart of Saskatoon. However, keep in mind that these are multi-use trails, and you’ll likely encounter walkers, dogs, children, and other users along the way. To ensure everyone’s safety, consider using a bell to alert others of your presence and leave your headphones behind at home.
Just this winter, the Saskatoon Trail Alliance was able to sign an agreement with the City of Saskatoon and Meewasin which finally paves the for trail maintenance and development. If you are looking for information on the trails and their locations, be sure to check out them out on the Trailforks app or on Strava. Below are some links to check these out as well.
- Saskatoon Trail Alliance
- Check out how to volunteer as well
Finally, if you enjoy these trails, help the forward momentum by becoming a member today! Sign up here: https://www.saskatoontrailalliance.ca/membership/
Blackstrap Provincial Park
Just an hour south of Warman, there are some amazing trails that you could ride all day and still not cover them all. It’s well worth the drive, and the park pass, to come out for a day of riding. Blackstrap boasts two sections of trails to enjoy. At the north end of the park, you’ll find the original trail sections, which are tight and technical, with fast descents and challenging climbs. Toward the south end of the park, there’s a new and growing trail section built and maintained by Doug’s Spoke ‘N Sport Trail Crew. These trails feature great descents, with flowy and meandering climbs. Both sections offer hours of fun, so choose your adventure wisely!
You’ll find lots to enjoy at Blackstrap. From wood features such as a teeter totter and a couple of skinnies, to jumps, bridges and some sweet berms! Northern Bush Rastas Bike Club and Doug’s Spoke ‘N Sport Trail Crew both work together on maintaining and developing these trails and do a great job, so show them some support!
- Northern Bush Rastas
- Doug’s Spoke ‘N Sport Trail Crew (Facebook, Instagram)
Little Red (Prince Albert)
Another fantastic option that’s just an hour’s drive from Warman is to head north to Prince Albert and explore Little Red River Park. This park offers a great variety of trails that wind through sandy terrain, forests, and creeks. You’ll encounter some challenging climbs and enjoy fun, winding trails through the forest. Additionally, a new skills park is being built with drops, berms, jumps, and other features to challenge and entertain riders of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or a more challenging adventure, Little Red River Park has something for everyone.
Plan to spend some time out here, bring lunch and some drinks to enjoy near the Little Red River, and just explore the many trails this park has to offer!
Get Out and Ride!
No matter where you choose to go, we’ve got so many great trails to enjoy all within an hour or so of Warman. Go a bit further, and find even more (like Buffalo Pound!). Better yet, message us or join our Facebook Mountain Bike group to keep informed of our upcoming group rides and join us. Rides are always more fun with friends.