Last Mountain Lake Guide: Best Time to Visit, Hikes & Itinerary

Stretching over 90 kilometres through the heart of the Saskatchewan prairies, Last Mountain Lake is a shimmering ribbon of blue that defies the flatland stereotypes. Known to locals as “The Lake,” this glacial valley wonder is the largest naturally occurring body of water in southern Saskatchewan. It serves as a summer playground where golden wheat fields meet sandy beaches, creating a contrast that is distinctly Canadian and breathtakingly beautiful.

From the bustling resort atmosphere of Regina Beach in the south to the wild, reed-lined marshes of the north, the lake offers a diverse range of experiences. Whether you are looking to reel in a trophy walleye, sunbathe on a towel with a good book, or watch thousands of migrating cranes darken the sky, Last Mountain Lake provides an accessible yet wild escape just an hour’s drive from the provincial capital.

A Sanctuary of Firsts

While the beaches draw the crowds, the lake’s ecological significance is globally recognized. Last Mountain Lake holds the prestigious title of being the first bird sanctuary established in North America, designated in 1887, predating even the migratory bird convention. This foresight preserved a critical habitat that remains vital today.

The north end of the lake is a designated National Wildlife Area, a Ramsar Convention wetland of international importance. Over 280 species of birds have been recorded here. During the fall migration, the sight of up to 50,000 Sandhill Cranes and Whooping Cranes gathering in the fields and shallows is a natural spectacle that rivals any wildlife viewing experience on the continent.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Rowan’s Ravine Provincial Park - This is the premier spot for boaters and campers. Located on the west shore, it features a large full-service marina, a massive sandy beach, and excellent fishing facilities. (Park entry: $11 CAD/day).

The Regina Beach Pier - No visit is complete without a walk to the end of this long wooden pier. It offers the best vantage point for sunsets and is a popular spot for casting a line without a boat. (Free access).

Last Mountain House - Step back to 1869 at this reconstructed Hudson’s Bay Company post. It offers a tangible look at the fur trade era with period-correct buildings and interpretive trails. (Free admission, located near Craven).

The “Little Church” - A quirky local landmark near the highway in the Qu’Appelle Valley. This tiny white chapel is a photographer’s favourite and a testament to the area’s settler history. (Free viewing).

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Last Mountain Lake is straightforward. The primary gateway is Highway 11 north from Regina. For Regina Beach and the south shore, take the exit at Lumsden (Highway 54). For Rowan’s Ravine and the central/north areas, continue north to Chamberlain or take the Strasbourg route (Highway 20). A vehicle is essential as there is no public transit around the lake.

Pack for a prairie climate, which means layers. Even on hot July days, the wind can pick up across the water, and evenings can cool down rapidly. If you plan on fishing, ensure you purchase a Saskatchewan angling license online or at a local gas station before casting your line. Accommodations range from full-service campgrounds to cozy Airbnbs, but summer weekends book up months in advance, so plan ahead.

Whether you are chasing the summer sun on a paddleboard or bundling up for the solitude of ice fishing in January, Last Mountain Lake offers a year-round connection to nature. It is a place where the prairie sky reflects perfectly in the water, inviting you to slow down and enjoy the view.