Dark Skies

Night Sky Viewing through telescopes
Beaver Creek's closed conservation site offers minimal light pollution, making it a great spot for star gazing.

Expert Guidance
Tim Yaworski (Saskatoon's Living Sky Guy), will provide fascinating insights into the night sky.

Tech & Tools
Access to telescopes (including the new SeeStar smart telescope) and binoculars for close-up views of planets, galaxies, and nebulae.

Cozy Atmosphere
Stay warm with a crackling campfire, storytelling, and complimentary hot cocoa, coffee, or tea.

Education
Learn about astronomy, dark sky preservation, and the importance of protecting our natural environment with a Meewasin guest lecture in the theatre!

All proceeds from this tour support Meewasin’s conservation efforts in the river valley, making this a truly sustainable experience.

Limited Availability
These events sell out quickly!

Age Recommendation
This program is family-friendly. Children of all ages are welcome if accompanied by an adult. To ensure a positive experience, kids should be comfortable staying up late!

What to Bring
We recommend bringing a camp chair, blanket, and flashlight. (We have a limited supply available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis).

Dress Code
Dress for the weather! Proper outerwear and footwear are a must as we will be walking on uneven surfaces (watch for gopher holes!).

Hydration
Please bring a full water bottle (no potable water on-site).

Etiquette
This is a Conservation Area. Please tread lightly and refrain from littering or smoking.

Accessibility
Due to the terrain and nature of this activity, this experience is not considered accessible for guests with limited mobility.

Weather Disclaimer
Our Dark Skies program runs rain or shine so be prepared for the weather! In the event that the sky is cloudy, all participants will automatically recieve a cloudy skies discount for joining us on the program.

Background
A microcosm of the Meewasin Valley, the Beaver Creek Conservation Area (BCCA) is located where a prairie creek meets a prairie river. The conservation area is 133 hectares in size. The creek, for which Beaver Creek Conservation Area is named, runs from the Brightwater Marsh area to the South Saskatchewan River. BCCA contains remnant sand hills that provide a unique habitat for grassland birds, wildflowers and home for numerous species at risk including the sand-dune reliant Smooth Goosefoot, and the ground nesting Common Nighthawk. One of a small number of uncultivated short-grass prairie areas preserved in Saskatchewan, the current site has been used as a nature park since 1913. Beaver Creek is rich in biodiversity and provides many valuable services to the ecosystem.

Directions
Beaver Creek Conservation Area is located approximately 13km south of Saskatoon. Starting on Lorne Avenue, take Highway 219 due south. After approximately 12km, you will see a sign reading, "Beaver Creek East" - do NOT turn here. Continue past this sign, approximately 1km, to a sign on the right reading, “Beaver Creek Conservation Area.” Turn right (west) and follow the winding road to the parking lot.

Click here for directions on Google Maps

What happens if it is cloudy or the weather is bad?
Our Dark Skies program runs rain or shine so be prepared for the weather! In the event that the sky is cloudy, all participants will automatically recieve a cloudy skies discount for joining us on the program. We will notify ticket holders via text message and email if a postponement is necessary.

Is there a specific temperature cutoff?
We generally proceed in all cold weather unless it poses a significant safety risk. However, this is a winter event in Saskatchewan! Please assume it will be cold and dress accordingly.

How should I dress?
Dress in warm layers! We will be sitting inside in the warm theatre for the start of the program, but when we transition outside, you may be sitting which can make you feel colder than if you were moving. We strongly recommend winter boots, thermal layers, tuques, mitts, and a windproof outer layer.

Is there a lot of walking?
The Night Hike is optional. If joining us, be ready to walk on uneven prairie terrain in the dark. While the distance isn't a long hike, (less than 2km) the ground can be tricky. Good winter footwear with grip is essential to avoid slips or trips on gopher holes.

Are there washrooms available?
Yes, there are indoor washroom facilities available at the Beaver Creek Conservation Area Interpretive Centre.

Will there be food?
We provide complimentary hot coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. However, no food is served. We recommend eating dinner before you arrive or bringing a snack with you.

Do I need to bring my own telescope?
No! We will have telescopes (including the smart SeeStar telescope) and binoculars available for shared use. However, you are welcome to bring your own telescope or binoculars if you prefer.

Is the event accessible for wheelchairs or walkers?
Get in touch with our team (events@meewasin.com)! We are happy to provide you with a plan that provides both comfort, and ease of access.

Can I bring my dog?
Pets are not permitted at Beaver Creek Conservation Area. Service animals are, of course, welcome.

Is transportation provided?
No. Guests are responsible for their own transportation to and from Beaver Creek Conservation Area.

Where do I park?
There is ample parking available at the Beaver Creek Conservation Area lot.

Can I buy a ticket at the door?
These events typically sell out in advance. We strongly recommend purchasing your tickets online as soon as possible to guarantee your spot.

Cancellations and Refunds

Click here to view our cancellation and refund policies.

Weather Disclaimer
Our Dark Skies program runs rain or shine so be prepared for the weather! In the event that the sky is cloudy, all participants will automatically recieve a cloudy skies discount for joining us on the program.