Qu’Appelle Valley offers endless trails, trees and hills

by Karen Kornelsen

Ian Langley sledding in the beautiful Qu'Appelle Valley near Rocanville.
Ian Langley sledding in the beautiful Qu'Appelle Valley near Rocanville. Photo courtesy Ian Langley.

Rocanville, Saskatchewan, is a hub for those who love to sled. Located in the province's southeast, it sits on the edge of the beautiful Qu'Appelle Valley. It is a small but thriving farming and mining community of 1,000 people and one such resident, Ian Langley, loves to explore its sledding opportunities.

One of Langley's favourite rides takes place in the Qu'Appelle Valley. He and a few friends like to head out into the backcountry northwest of Rocanville along the edge of the valley.

"It has a little bit of everything," said Langley. "There is a really good trail system and tons of valley riding. There are lots of unmarked trails through the valley, with lots of tree and open areas to ride in. Last year was exceptional for snow."

Three valleys actually intersect in Rocanville: the Pipestone, Qu’Appelle and Assiniboine rivers join together to form this amazing mecca of trails.

"You see lots of wildlife in the area, like moose and elk," said Langley. "It's absolutely amazing all the different areas you can go and ride in. Pick your riding style and it's out there for sure."

Meet the rider

Name: Ian Langley

Lives in: Rocanville, Saskatchewan

Hometown: Rocanville, Saskatchewan

Age: 28

Sledding since: I was four years old

First sled: An old Alouette

Current sled: 2013 M8 Sno Pro with a boondocker turbo

Favourite riding area: Qu'Appelle Valley

Why is it your favourite? It has a little bit of everything: hills, meadows to play in and groomed trails throughout the valley

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