Mountain Biking In Buffalo Pound

For a downloadable PDF version of this guide CLICK HERE! 

 




 

Buffalo Pound Provincial Park is a land of adventure and possibility. Whether your niche is kayaking, hiking, mountain biking or cross country skiing, Buffalo Pound has activities for all ages and personalities. Originally named for its use by First Nations hunting bison, Buffalo Pound is a pleasant place for families to enjoy the outdoors and camp in a friendly atmosphere.

 

ADVENTURE STATISTICS

Location: 20km north of Moose Jaw, SK

Elevation Gain: Max 200m

Difficulty: There are activities of all levels of difficulty

Season: June to September for camping

Additional Requirements: There is a $10 fee per person per day to enter the park.

 

Buffalo Pound - Epic Trip Adventures
Image 1: Buffalo Pound

 

DRIVING DIRECTIONS

From Moose Jaw:  Head north on Highway 2 for 16km, Turn right onto SK-202-E and then take a quick left to stay on SK-202-E. Follow SK-202-E for another 12.5km. Take a right into the park when you see signs.

 

WHAT TO BRING

  • Comfortable Footwear:Hiking shoes.There are some great hikes in the park, don’t forget some hiking shoes.
  • Mountain Bike: Buffalo Pound is known for is biking trails. Although it is still flat Saskatchewan, there are some fun trails around the area.
  • Water:Water is important for any camping trip
  • Sunscreen:If it is sunny and you’re like Mattson, who easily burns, bring sunscreen!
  • Insect Repellent:Insect repellent can greatly improve your hiking experience.
  • Camera:There are numerous photo opportunities you won’t want to miss.
  • This Guide:Print a copy of this guide to reference throughout the hike

 

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

Wood Ticks:In May and June Wood Ticks can be quite prevalent in Buffalo Pound.  Wear long pants when walking through long grass and thoroughly check yourself for ticks after outdoor activities.  Check any pets you brought along as well!

 

Leave No Trace: It is important that we enjoy the outdoors responsibly and sustainably. Some key principles to consider when hiking to “Leave No Trace” are:

  • Plan ahead and prepare: Proper planning allows adventurers to hike safely while minimizing damage to the land.
  • Travel on durable surfaces: Stick to the trail when possible. If there is no trail, or you must travel off trail, stay on durable surfaces to reduce your impact.
  • Dispose of waste properly: Pack it in, pack it out.
  • Leave what you find: Leave rocks, plants, archaeological artifacts and other objects of interest as you find them.
  • Respect wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance. Never feed wild animals.
  • Be considerate of other visitors: Be courteous to others to allow everyone to enjoy their outdoor experience.

To learn more about “Leave No Trace” visit http://www.leavenotrace.ca

 

CAMPING TIPS

  • Check if there is a fire ban. If you can’t have an open fire you may need to adjust your meal plan.
  • Reserve your camping site early as the park can book up. Especially on long weekends.
  • There is firewood available and are washrooms and shower facilities. Although this generally isn’t our style of camping it makes life a lot easier!
  • When checking in ask for a site with some shade. The midday sun can be hot and some of the sites are pretty barren.

 

Camping - Buffalo Pound - Epic Trip Adventures
Image 2: Setting up our hammocks
Buffalo - Buffalo Pound - Epic Trip Adventures
Image 3: The buffalo of Buffalo Pound

 

MOUNTAIN BIKING

  • Choose trails that are appropriate for your skill level. It is no fun getting stuck on a trail that is too difficult
  • Download the app “Trail Forks”, it has great trail maps that link with your GPS so you can easily navigate the park.
  • Bring a backpack with some snacks and water so you don’t have to bike back to your campsite if you get hungry.
  • We biked the majority of the trails in the park and found the trails South East of the park entrance were our favorites. There was a variety of difficulties and the trails were short enough that you could repeat your favorites.
  • All of the trails except for Jackpot can be ridden in either direction. Always be on the lookout for riders approaching head on.

 

Mountain Biking - Buffalo Pound - Epic Trip Adventures
Image 4: Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking - Buffalo Pound - Epic Trip Adventures
Image 5: Mountain Biking

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

Thank you for choosing Epic Trip Adventures as your guide.  We are committed to continually updating our guides to be as relevant and accurate as possible. If you have feedback to improve this guide please leave it in the comments below.

We also want to hear about your Buffalo Pound adventures.  If you have stories, pictures or even a link to your own adventure video please share them below!

 

Have fun out there!

– ETA