Did you know that you can stay in a tiny home right next door to Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park? To partake in this unique experience you will find yourself at the Historic Reesor Ranch. Located about an hour West of Maple Creek Saskatchewan, this is the perfect place to explore Cypress Hills’ West Block.
I had the opportunity to stay at the Frontier Cabin, which sleeps 2 to 4 people. This Cabin has 2 double beds that are laid out bunkbed style, a kitchenette (with a two person table), and a full bathroom with a shower. You also have use of the BBQ on your private porch.
This Cabin and the Pioneer Cabin overlook the back of the property, and are next to each other. While the Cowboy cabin is located in the bush behind these two.
These cabins would be perfect to rent if you were going as a group, or a large family.
The Historic Reesor Ranch dates back to 1867, and still is home to some of the original buildings first constructed in 1904. Due to this it is recognized by the Saskatchewan Government as a Heritage Ranch.
The Historic Reesor Ranch is located an hour West of Maple Creek, Saskatchewan. For the best route search for the ranch on Google Maps because their mailing address is located in Maple Creek. If you are still unsure about the location give the owners a call, and they will provide the best route.
While the ranch is located in Saskatchewan, you have to go into Alberta, then back into Saskatchewan to get here. At least you do if your coming from Saskatchewan. You will also be travelling on a grid road for a portion of your drive.
Driving Times
From Saskatoon, SK – 5 hours
From Calgary, AB – 4 hours
From Elkwater, AB (Alberta side of Cypress Hills) – 35 minutes
IMPORTANT: It is a good idea to use a 4X4 vehicle for this trip. You will not be able to travel the West Block of Cypress Hills if it happens to rain during your stay, and you are travelling with a low vehicle.
I stayed at just one of serval cabins there are to choose from. They have a BNB, additional cabins (not mentioned), and a group accommodation area, where you can stay in their Old Log Barn.
The Ranch has a restaurant and bar on site which offers: breakfast and supper daily. This must be booked in advance.
I didn’t have the opportunity to try out their restaurant because the weekend I stayed here they were hosting a TeleMiracle fundraiser. My friend and I got the catered fundraiser meal instead, which was super good.
I have one word for the bar, affordable. A glass of wine or beer is just $5, and I love the aesthetic of it, as it is designed as a Western Saloon.
The Historic Reesor Ranch offers two types of guided tours: Horseback, and ATV Tours. Prices can be found on their website. I did not partake in either of these, although I plan to go back to try horseback riding for the first time.
During my stay I opted in for their self guided hikes on the property. There are three trails: The Ancient Teepee Rings, the Smaller Conglomerate Cliffs, and the Kinnikinick Cliff Trail.
Note: Conglomerate is a unique rock formation made of stone and pebble that is stuck together like cement. I am not a rock enthusiast so that is the best explanation I can give.
The first evening at the tiny home I did the Smaller Conglomerate Cliffs during sunset, and the views were amazing. Completed in 1 hour, with stops.
The second evening I did the Kinnikinick Cliff Trail. Unfortunately it was smokey outside so there wasn’t a sunset, but it was still a good hike. There are guide books at your accommodation which you can use for this self guided tour.
Cypress Hills is home to one of the largest Dark Sky Preserves in Canada. As the Historic Reesor Ranch is located right next door to this area, you can benefit from this because there will be less light polution.
This is when your 4X4 vehicle will come in handy. The road that goes to this hike is rough. If I had my little Honda, I am unsure if it would make it. As for the trailhead, keep your eyes peeled Symons Noble Cabin, the trailhead is across the road. There isn’t anywhere official to park, but there is a little room on the side of the road.
Disclaimer: The West Block of Cypress Hills is not accessible in the winter months. If you are unsure on if you should go I recommend calling the park directly.
Overall with photo and lunch stops, this trail took 2 – 2 1/2 hours to complete. The first stretch of the hike was uphill, but flattens around 45 minutes in.
Note: We did not complete the entire loop. After hiking to the lookout we doubled back.
Southwest of the ranch is a grid road that connects to the Alberta side of Cypress Hills. I believe this is a seasonal road, so it is not operational year round. We decided to take a drive out there as we needed gas, and Elkwater AB was only 30 minutes away. Elkwater is a cute resort town with quite a few amenities.
If you have the time I would definitely recommend taking the time to explore this side of the park.
Admittedly we weren’t here long, but if you are heading to the ranch from Saskatchewan, Maple Creek is sort of on the way (depending on which route you are taking). Other than stopping for a quick bite to eat, we checked out this brand new brewery.
Finding the Rafter R Brewing Company Inc was actually pretty funny. My friend saw it as she was driving by, and promptly made a U turn. It was decided that we were going for a drink.
Personally I am not a beer drinker, however they also serve wine by the Cypress Hills Vineyard & Winery.
My friend really enjoyed their beer, and even got a growler for her boyfriend.
The Arenal Observatory Lodge was something my friends and I splurged on during our trip. When I learned that it was the closest accommodation to the volcano, I was in. Driving up the road to this colourful villa inspires a certain amount of awe and appreciation for your surroundings. I mean with views like these how could it not. If you are travelling
2 Responses
Looks like a great get away !! Something to add to my to do holidays
Thanks 🙂 It’s somewhere Willy would really like it too. Pre-covid they also had a barn dance event 🙂 Thanks for the read!