Aspens
Photo credit: Ryan Goolevitch
Be wowed by Saskatchewan’s largest tree (nearly 5 meters in circumference), the beautiful aspen parkland, and the North Saskatchewan river valley. Check out Doukhobor villages and caves, the Fort Carlton trail, cemeteries, schools, beautiful murals, and an armillary.
As you drive this fantastic tour through history and natural wonders, what else will you find?
Geocaches. We plan to have lots more of them along this route!
This driving tour has been put together by the Riverlands Heritage Preservation Region. The route takes visitors along a loop that starts and ends at Blaine Lake. There are information signs at each site, as well as an informative printable brochure available on their website.
Picture of “The Big Tree” from find log by adventurejunkies306
Saskatchewan may not be well known for its trees, but you’ll be amazed by the beauty of the aspen parkland near Rosthern. Driving through this area even allows you to drive along part of the Fort Carlton Trail.
What’s more, you can check out Saskatchewan’s largest tree for yourself! With bark that is 4 inches thick, this wonder is 160 years old and is the last remaining giant cottonwood.
As you drive, watch for wildlife! The area is home to white tailed deer, moose, and even cougars and black bears!
View from “Picture Perfect” from find log by adventurejunkies306
This scenic tour visits several sites of significance to the Doukohobor settlers of the area; cemeteries, churches and schools.
A recommended additional visit to the driving tour is a visit at the Doukhobor Dugout House, a national historic site of Canada. This dugout house is the only remaining shelter of its kind in the country. It was built in 1899 by Russian Doukhobor immigrants desperate for a reliable form of shelter on the barren prairie. Take note that this site is only open on Saturdays in July, and at specific times.
So, plan to take a drive to find some caches…and see some amazing things along the way!
For more information please check out these websites:
- Riverlands Heritage Sites Driving Tour
- Doukhobor Dugout House National Historic Site
- Town of Blaine Lake
- Map on Geocaching.com
Current Notable Geocaches:
- GC1CD5Z – The Big Tree
- GC1CD6B – Picture Perfect
- GC1QV6P – Craigmore Church
- GC1QQRX – Spasovka Cemetery and Riverhill Armillary
- GC1QV6V – Ottawa School
Map of the Driving Tour locations
