The Great Sandhills

Great Sandhills

The Great Sandhills are a unique phenomenon to this area of Southwest Saskatchewan.

The large mass of sand and dunes cover 1,900 square kilometres and are subject to very strong winds, creating an ever-changing landscape. Some of the dunes stand 15 to 20 metres high, and cover several hectares of land.

The Sandhills are fringed by small clumps of trees such as aspen and birch, and are home to native grasses, abundant wildlife, and the rare Ord’s Kangaroo Rat.

The Great Sandhills are used to pasture up to 16,000 head of cattle during a 7 month grazing period. The area also hosts widespread oil and gas exploration.

Thousands of people come to see, photograph and climb the dunes each year. There is nothing like the feel of the soft smooth sand between your toes as you explore the banks of the Great Sandhills!

  • When visiting the Great Sandhills, there is off-road parking within walking distance of the dunes.
  • NO FIRES and NO SMOKING of any kind are allowed because of the risk of wildfires.
  • Visiting the Great Sandhills is a privilege: please respect the laws as posted.