With the sun shining, and the 8 degree high, I was inspired to grab my dog’s leash, head outside & enjoy the weather. In my personal opinion, the best place to enjoy a stroll is along Saskatoon’s glorious Meewasin trails, spanning for miles across both sides of the South Saskatchewan River. Enjoying the entire Saskatoon river valley would take hours, so Rupert and I settled for just the north west chunk of it. We intended to park in the weir parking lot, but it seems like many other local residents had the same idea as us and it was full. So I parked across the street just south of 33rd on Spadina and crossed the street to the pedestrian / train bridge.
I had full intentions on going all the way up those stairs, and crossing to the east side of the river. But the stairs are see through and I got halfway up and got scared. So we went back down and enjoyed the view from afar.
If you are not afraid of heights you can cross to the other side and enjoy the view along the way. Unfortunately I am a wuss and will put this on the bucket list for another time. 🤦♀️🤣
This is my view from halfway up!
We got back to the ground and made our way south towards Saskatoon’s city center.
The weir is extremely dangerous but it sure is beautiful to look at.
Gorgeous! 😍
Despite the icy, murkiness of the trails we passed by tons of walkers, bikers and even a roller blader!
Saskatoon sure is eager to spring into spring.
One of my favourite things about driving or walking the tree lined streets of the river valley (in this case, Spadina Crescent) is the stunning homes along the way.
And they are all so different. Some modern, some old school charm.
Even as a kid I daydreamed about living in one of these homes!
It’s hard to avoid puddles when you have a 65 pound bulldog dragging you right through them.
But I was happy to see that the trails are drying up quite nicely.
There are all kinds of quirky items along the way to check out. Instagram photo shoot, anyone?
The trails were surprisingly mostly litter free, thanks to the multiple garbage cans along the way. And there are many benches for when you need a rest!
I am fully aware of how “crazy dog lady” this makes me sound, but Rupert really does have the cutest little paw prints.
All the way down the path, thanks to big puddles!
Stunning views of the University of Saskatchewan just across the river.
I love this cute little bridge.
There are multiple spots along the way where you can take a seat and enjoy the view.
Art is everywhere!
These cool sculptures can be found right behind the old Mendel Art Gallery.
Aka, the future home of the Children’s Discovery Museum.
I can’t wait until this facility opens up! Learn more at https://wonderhub.ca/
Also as you pass by the Children’s Discovery Museum you will spot Kinsmen Park. I spent many a summer here and am thrilled that prices are still so low. You can ride that Ferris wheel this summer for just $2! Learn more at https://www.saskatoon.ca/parks-recreation-attractions/events-attractions/nutrienplayland
Soon these tree lined streets will be filled with shadows from fluffy green leaves.
Also behind the Children’s Discovery Museum you will find the home of…
The Prairie Lily!
This summer you will be able to take a ride, and enjoy dinner. More info at www.theprairielily.com.
Right next to the boat you will find these binoculars. Look closely and you may be able to see the pelicans who call the South Saskatchewan River home.
Saskatoon isn’t known as the city of bridges for nothing. This route will give you a fantastic view of the University Bridge. 
Taking this bridge from 25th Street will help you get to Saskatoon’s beautiful U of S campus.
It is even more impressive from close up.
Another sure sign of spring? The geese are back!
Back from their winter away.
Can’t help but notice all the cool trees along the way.
And this one..
After you pass the University Bridge you will be entering the downtown core, giving you a breathtaking view of the Broadway Bridge.
And the crown jewel of Saskatoon, the luxurious (and supposedly haunted!) Bessborough Hotel!
Book your next stay at https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/yxedb-delta-hotels-bessborough/?scid=bb1a189a-fec3-4d19-a255-54ba596febe2
Also, just across the water you get a glimpse of the brand new Jim Pattinson Children’s hospital, on track to open this fall.
Learn more at https://pattisonchildrens.ca/
Another cool thing about enjoying Spadina Crescent along the downtown core are the impressive churches with bells that still ring.
It was at this point that we turned around to make our way back to the car, and enjoyed more cool trees along the route back.
And art.
And more trees…
That were full of blue jays!
This route took us approximately an hour and a half at a very leisurely pace.
And just over 3 kilometres.
My only regrets is not wearing rain boots..
And forgetting a towel to wipe off Rupert’s paws. My poor car!
I can’t wait to get out and enjoy more of the river valley. What is your favourite part of Saskatoon to explore? Leave us a comment or send a message via the contact us part of this blog.
Addendum: home not even 15 minutes and he is already snoring away! Hahah, Rupert is tuckered out!
Random Amanda 