Paddling Day Trips on the South Saskatchewan River Near Saskatoon
The South Saskatchewan River as it flows into Saskatoon has some of the best paddling in Saskatchewan. Wide, shallow, and gently meandering, this stretch of river offers an incredible day on the water—complete with sandbars, sunshine, and plenty of wildlife. Whether you're out for a half-day float or a full-day adventure, paddling the South Saskatchewan River is one of our favourite ways to spend a summer day.
Why Paddle the South Saskatchewan River?
This part of the river is accessible, scenic, and offers something for paddlers of all skill levels. While conditions can vary—a sunny, calm day can quickly turn breezy as the wind funnels down the river valley—there are several well-known launch points and convenient take-outs right in the city. The key is to pick your route based on how much time you want to spend paddling and to plan your shuttle in advance.
Paddling Routes on the South Saskatchewan River
Here are some of our favourite paddling day trips near Saskatoon:
1. Poplar Bluffs to Saskatoon
Distance: ~11 km
Paddling Time: 1.5–2 hours
Poplar Bluffs is close to the city and a popular launch spot for shorter paddles. Getting your kayak or canoe down to the water can be tricky—the riverbank is steep, so it's not the best for solo paddlers.
To get there, drive 6 km south on Valley Road, turn left at the Poplar Bluffs Conservation Area sign, and follow the access road about 2 km to the parking area. There’s a 100 m walk to the river. You will need to scramble down a short steep bank but often people have cut stairs into it. In low water years you will also need to cross the extensive beaches to reach the water, which will be shallow.
Tip: Parking is open 9 AM–9 PM daily (May long weekend to Labour Day) and on weekends until October 31.
2. Fred Heal Canoe Launch to Saskatoon
Distance: ~20 km
Paddling Time: 3–4 hours
This is one of the most popular day trips for paddlers in Saskatoon. The Fred Heal launch is well maintained with a short 40 m trail to the water that takes you to a launch point. This bank has been eroded significantly in the last few years so may not be as easy to load from (deeper water, steep bank). Alternatively you can take the longer trail south from the parking lot which takes you to the beach area (these may be underwater in high water years).
To get to the Fred Heal parking area head south on Lorne Avenue past Beaver Creek. Just after the bridge, turn right onto a gravel road. Keep going about 2km when you'll turn right near the bottom of a hill. Drive about 1km through a field to the parking area.
Tip: Watch for migrating sandhill cranes in the area.
3. Paradise Beach to Saskatoon
Distance: ~25 km
Paddling Time: 3.5–5 hours
Known for its sandy beaches and sunbathers (sometimes of the clothing-optional variety), Paradise Beach is a great spot to launch a longer paddle. Depending on the river level, you’ll walk 50–300 m to access the water.
To get there, drive south on Valley Road until it curves past the Berry Barn. Just past Lakeshore Tree Farms turn left onto Range Road 3063. Follow the road 2.5 km to the parking area.
Tip: Paddle upstream for quieter sandbars and fewer crowds.
4. Pike Lake Pumping Station to Saskatoon
Distance: ~42 km
Paddling Time: 6–8 hours
This full-day trip is perfect for experienced paddlers looking to immerse themselves in the prairie landscape. While scenic, the launch area is rustic—expect no facilities and a bit of a steep put-in. The road can be rough after rain.
Directions: take Valley Road to Highway 60, turn south (left) onto it and drive 11.5 km until the highway curves into Pike Lake Provincial Park. Turn right onto O’Malley Road and drive 1.8 km past acreages. Then take the first left (this will be along the south edge of the park) and head east 5 km on a dirt road to the river.
Tip: Not ideal for low-clearance vehicles in wet weather.
Where to Take Out in Saskatoon
Gabriel Dumont Park
Perfect for groups and families. There’s plenty of parking, bathrooms, picnic tables, a small beach, and playground.
Victoria Boathouse (Rowing Club Dock)
Located on the west side of the river. Features bathrooms (open during the day) and ample parking. You’ll often see other paddlers here, especially from the Saskatoon Canoe Club.
Rotary Park
Easy river access and lots of parking. There's a small sandy beach for take-out—and you’re just a short walk from Homestead Ice Cream on Victoria Avenue. Treat yourself!
Final Thoughts
Planning a day paddling trip on the South Saskatchewan River is easy, fun, and incredibly rewarding. Whether you want a short scenic float or a full-day adventure, there’s a route that fits your style. With easy access points, convenient city take-outs, and beautiful prairie scenery, these day trips near Saskatoon are summer must-dos. You can also camp overnight on the islands if you wish to turn your trip into a multi-day adventure.
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