By Devon Prosser
News Writer

With summer here, everyone wants to have some fun, and summer fun means road trips. But with many students saving up for university over the summer, there is rarely money left over for travelling. Thankfully, Saskatchewan has many great things to see — even on a budget — so start exploring today.

Bare Ass Beach
Approximately 21 kilometres south of Saskatoon on Range Road 3063 rests Paradise Beach, also known as Bare Ass Beach. You will come upon a parking lot to the left, and then past a white gate is the narrow pathway to the beach. Every Saskatonian has heard of it, but many believe it is just a myth. This is a place where you can feel free to go sans-clothing. Even if baring it all doesn’t appeal to you, it is a short drive from the city and a great place to spend some hot summer days.

The Berry Barn
While out at Bare Ass Beach, take a break from the sun with a quick drive back to the Berry Barn located approximately 11 kilometres south of Saskatoon on 830 Valley Road. If you love desserts, the Berry Barn is the place to go for a variety of desserts featuring fresh Saskatoon berries including pies, sundaes, and fudge. Accompany your dessert of choice with a delicious cup of tea or cider. After indulging in some goodies, wander through the gift shop or out to the berry patch to take some delicious Saskatoon berries home with you.

Wakaw
If you are seeking to venture a bit further from the city and towards some Saskatchewan history, head northeast on Highway 41 to Wakaw. John G. Diefenbaker’s law office was operated in Wakaw from 1919 to 1925. Now the town of Wakaw has a replica of it alongside the museum. After you have enjoyed seeing all the history the town has to offer, top off the day with some home-style Ukrainian food at Crossroads Grill. Don’t let it end here if it’s more Diefenbaker you crave; Prince Albert has Diefenbaker House located at 246 19th Street West.

Meskanaw
If it’s more Saskatchewan history you are after, keep going on Highway 41 to just a few kilometres before the village of Meskanaw. In the valley of McCloy Creek stands a wooden railway trestle, which is a heritage landmark. The trestle was completed in 1929 and spans 432 metres.  The last train to cross the bridge was in 1979. This trestle is one of the largest timber bridges ever built in Saskatchewan and is now on the endangered historical structures list.

Diefenbaker’s law shack

The Berry Barn

photos by Devon Prosser