Twenty minutes west of the city, Saskatoon Island Provincial Park packs a remarkable amount of Peace Country character into a small lakeside package.
Swan central
This is the classic place to watch trumpeter swans during spring and fall migration on Little Lake — the very birds behind Grande Prairie's 'Swan City' identity. Bring binoculars and patience.
Summer staples
In July, the park's namesake saskatoon bushes hang heavy with berries and picking is a beloved local ritual. Add a swimming beach, picnic areas, walking trails and campgrounds and you've got the region's easiest family outing.
Local tip
Combine the park with the dinosaur museum just down Highway 43 for the definitive west-of-the-city day. Day-trippers staying with us get the fridge for berry storage and the pool for the evening — a fair trade for purple fingers.
Staying in Grande Prairie? Enjoy free hot breakfast from 5:30 AM, an indoor pool with waterslide, free Wi-Fi and free parking at Holiday Inn Express Grande Prairie. Book direct through IHG or call 1-780-814-9446.