Dark Skies

The Land of Living Skies - After Dark

Saskatchewan is renowned for its skies and the changing wonders within them. From awe-inspiring sunsets to captivating sunrises, and the stargazing opportunities in between, these events showcase why our province is known as the Land of Living Skies.

Join us as we visit different sites around the Meewasin Valley to learn about our dark skies, experience the wonder of the cosmos, and take part in unique experiences after dark. All proceeds from this experience support Meewasin’s conservation and education programs, making this a truly sustainable experience.

Upcoming Events

Dark Skies events are held periodically year-round, often coinciding with significant celestial events. Please check back regularly as new dates are added frequently.

Specific event details and descriptions can be viewed by visiting an event's Eventbrite page.

Dark Skies Event Information

Intro Workshop to Astrophotography: May 2

Join Meewasin and Saskatoon’s own Living Sky Guy, Tim Yaworski, for a hands-on evening dedicated to the art of astrophotography! Whether you're a beginner with a smartphone or an expert with your own gear, this workshop will guide you through tips and techniques to photograph the night sky like a pro.

As the stars emerge above us at the Beaver Creek Conservation Area, Tim will walk you through camera settings, composition, and how to make the most of dark sky conditions. Venture to our viewing area with fellow astronomers. Learn to capture Mars, Jupiter, spring constellations—and maybe even the Northern Lights!

You will also get a chance to try out Tim’s cutting-edge SeeStar smart telescope and practice your skills in our designated viewing area. For those feeling adventurous, join Meewasin guides on an optional Night Hike through the Creek & Prairie to discover even more vantage points and celestial sights.

Bat Blitz & Night Hike: May 23

Join us for an exhilarating night under the stars at the Beaver Creek Conservation Area with Owen Tillie, a dedicated member of Meewasin’s Resource Management team! Owen is at the forefront of Meewasin’s bat research and resources in the valley, working diligently to uncover the mysteries of these nocturnal creatures. During this special Dark Skies Bat Blitz, you’ll learn all about Meewasin’s bat surveys and discover how you can contribute as a citizen scientist. This adventure also includes an exciting night hike, where we’ll embrace the beauty of the dark skies and attempt to spot bats in their natural habitat.

General Information
  • This program is family friendly. Children 8-18 years old are welcome on this program, as long as they are accompanied by an adult guardian.
  • Beaver Creek is a conservation area, please leave the area as you came. No garbage, and no smoking is allowed on-site.
  • There are washrooms available on-site.
  • Additional and complimentary beverage options include coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and soda pop. Please bring your own water bottle as there is no potable water on-site.
  • Beaver Creek Conservation Area is a natural habitat for ticks. Ticks will be present on site. Please do a thorough tick check at the end of your visit.
Checklist
  • Please bring a flashlight / light emitting device.
  • Red cellophane filters for all light devices are provided.
  • Dress for the weather: bug spray and proper outerwear will make your experience more enjoyable.
  • A camp chair and blanket can make for a more comfortable experience.
Accessibility

Due to the features of this activity, this experience is not considered accessible for guests with limited mobility.

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
Dark Skies is an outdoor experience that is weather dependent – the event can be pretty boring on cloudy nights! In the event that the skies are not suitable for viewing, a postponement to our Rainy Day Date will be announced. In the event the skies are again not suitable for viewing, a full refund will be issued automatically.

Register Now

For a complete list of booking dates visit our Eventbrite page!

Questions?

For any inquiries, contact events@meewasin.com