Dog Sledding Through the Saskatoon Winter: A Journey Into History and Adventure

 

Adventure

Tune in Monday December 30, 2024 around 7:30 a.m. to hear the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area interview with Jeremy Dodge, Anchor CTV News Saskatoon CTV Morning Live airs weekday mornings 6:00 am - 9:00 am.

The greatly appreciated Television Coverage by Global News, Saskatoon.
The greatly appreciated Television Coverage by CTV Morning Live, Saskatoon.
Dog Sledding Event Saturday January 13, 2024 at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Dog Sledding Event Saturday January 4, 2025 at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Protect your dog in the severe cold winter weather warnings.

There’s something magical about the Saskatoon winter. The air, biting and crisp, wraps itself around you like a secret waiting to be discovered. The quiet of the snow-covered forest, the beauty of frost on the trees, and the exhilarating rush of a dog sled ride. This January, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area invite you to experience it all, with the Frozen Trails and Wagging Tails: Dog Sledding Delight event. And you can get a sneak peek of this unforgettable adventure on Monday, December 30, 2024, at 7:30 a.m., when Jeremy Dodge, the anchor of CTV Morning Live, sits down to interview Julia Adamson and Rahul Shekar of the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area. Stay tuned to your television, or the CTV News Website.

Jeremy’s interview will focus on the unique history of dog sledding, an integral part of First Nations and Métis culture. For those of us more accustomed to the land of urban convenience, there’s something enchanting about connecting to the past through the sound of sled runners gliding over snow, and the sight of sled dogs working in perfect harmony with their mushers.

The event, taking place on January 4, 2025, will introduce participants to two passionate mushers, Dan Kirkup from Battle River Kennel and Garrick Schmidt from Eagle Ridge Kennel. Garrick’s kennel, Métis owned and operated, adds an extra layer of significance to the day, linking the rich culture of dog sledding with the modern-day preservation efforts of the region. These men, who could easily be mistaken for Santa’s most enthusiastic helpers, have dedicated their lives to working with dogs—dogs that are more than just athletes—they are family.

Dan and Garrick share a genuine love for their dogs, and the joy is infectious. The dogs, some of which can hardly contain their excitement before a race, show just how much they thrive on the run. Watching them in action, it’s easy to forget the chill in the air as you’re swept away by the energy and enthusiasm of these incredible canine athletes.

But it’s not just the dogs who will steal your heart. The event is designed to give you a deeper connection to Saskatoon’s wilderness and the rich history of the land. You’ll enjoy a 10-minute sled ride through the pristine forest, with expert guides sharing their knowledge of the forest’s beauty and its cultural significance. The experience promises winter fun, heartwarming moments, and stunning views.

Of course, as with all great adventures, this is a limited-capacity event, so pre-registration is a must. The last thing you want is to miss out on an afternoon of frosty fun because someone else beat you to it! Head over to the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area website at friendsareas.ca to reserve your spot.

For those unfamiliar with the area, the event location is easily accessible. Drive along Circle Drive toward the City’s landfill, passing the Civic Operations Centre, Bus Barns, and Snowdump area. Then turn right (north) off onto Valley Road and follow Township Road 362-A (Cedar Villa Road). Continue west until you reach the forest and signs for the South West Off-Leash Recreation Area. From there, the adventure awaits. Please come out ahead of time and explore all the parking areas of this Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area.

The Frozen Trails and Wagging Tails event is made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of the City of Saskatoon and the YXE WinterCity Grant. This collaboration celebrates not just winter sports but the importance of preserving our natural spaces and connecting with history in meaningful ways.

So, mark your calendar for January 4, 2025. Tune in to CTV Morning Live on December 30, 2024, to learn more about this extraordinary event. It’s more than just dog sledding. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after the snow melts. And who knows? It might just inspire you to put on your warmest coat, grab your mittens, and start planning your next winter adventure.

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

🚨 Attention, adventure seekers! 🚨

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind winter experience in Saskatoon! ❄️ On January 4, 2025, join the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area for Frozen Trails and Wagging Tails: Dog Sledding Delight. 🐾🐕

Want to hear all about this epic event? Tune in on Monday, December 30 at 7:30 AM to CTV Morning Live where Jeremy Dodge will be chatting with Julia Adamson and Rahul Shekar about this exciting, cultural experience. 🌲🐺

Here’s your chance to learn about the history of dog sledding, deeply rooted in First Nations and Métis culture, and meet two incredible mushers—Dan Kirkup from Battle River Kennel and Garrick Schmidt from Eagle Ridge Kennel (Métis owned and operated). These passionate mushers and their dogs will show you what true teamwork looks like! 🏔️

✨ 10-minute sled rides through a pristine forest ✨ Meet and learn about the sled dogs ✨ Winter fun, breathtaking views, and memories to last a lifetime

This event is limited capacity, so don’t miss your chance! Pre-register now and be part of the adventure. 🌟

🗓️ When: January 4, 2025 (1:30 PM - 4:30 PM) 📍Where: Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Thank you to the City of Saskatoon and YXE WinterCity Grant for supporting this amazing event. ❤️

#FrozenTrailsWaggingTails #DogSleddingSaskatoon #WinterAdventure #FrozenTrails #SaskatoonEvents #WaggingTails #SaskatchewanWinter #SleddingFun #WinterWonderland #DogLovers #CulturalHeritage #OutdoorAdventure #Saskatoon https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com/2024/12/20/dog-sledding-through-the-saskatoon-winter/

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