Without hesitation, I turned into the southwestern Saskatchewan Visitor Reception after crossing the border from Alberta.
It was late in the day but I was hoping some friendly Saskies or Saskatchewanians would offer some tips about the area and suggest some sightseeing.
I was in luck. They pointed me down the highway to Maple Creek, the nearest town, about 100 kilometres away from Medicine Hat.
A bit of Maple Creek history
Maple Creek, founded in 1903, has a charming small-town vibe with a history tied to Fort Walsh.
The town gets is name from the Manitoba Maple trees that were growing along the banks of a small creek running north of the town, called Maple Creek. The friendly staffers shared a little history about the town and pointed out some popular hotspots.
Maple Creek is the first Saskatchewan recipient of the Prince of Wales Prize for outstanding municipal heritage leadership, according to the visitors guide. More than 325,000 tourists visit annually, likely due to the beauty of Cypress Hills and its proximity of Fort Walsh.
It is also the birthplace of former Ottawa Senator Zach Smith. I later learned this after driving past a huge sign, Home of Zach Smith.
After a good stretch of my legs, I headed to Maple Creek. The drive was pleasant and scenic. The last census clocked roughly 2,000 residents in the town. I found parking in a big lot then I walked around the town.
I grew up in a small town (and I’m a Maritimer) so I enjoyed the chatting with random people on the street in the shops. There are a few quirky stores like Old Town Plush, which boasts over 3,000 plush animals and Saskatchewan’s largest independent toy store, Cowtown Kids Toy & Candy. I stopped in here and it was crazy big with shelves stocked with every game and toy imaginable from just about every era. I was tempted to pick up a few toys from my own childhood (like a Rubik’s cube).
My tentative plan was to have lunch in Maple Creek then head to the Fort Walsh National Historical Site. The clouds were darkening and it was getting late so I decided to enjoy lunch then go back to Medicine Hat for the night.
A shop keeper recommended The Rockin’ Horse Restaurant & Pub on Maple Street. Decorated with rock n’ roll memorabilia, this place was really cool. I even spotted Meat Loaf’s distinctive red and black Bat out of Hell album cover featuring a futuristic motorcycle on one of the walls. I will always remember that album from my parents’ album collection.
I enjoyed a pint and a quick lunch of fires before hitting the road again.
Although my visit was brief, I could see why Maple Creek draws so many visitors. Its small-town historical charm and quirky shops make it a perfect stop on any Saskatchewan road trip.
Have you been to southwestern Saskatchewan? What is your favourite childhood toy? I would love to hear from you in the comments below.