Local News
Southwest History: The Valley of 1,000 Devils
Where backcountry meets badlands at the basin of Hellfire Creek lies southwest Saskatchewan's Valley of 1,000 Devils. Situated in the East Block of Grasslands National Park is the Valley of 1,000 Devils, a hidden gem amongst hikers, locals, and nature enthusiasts. According to an article in Explore Magazine, the K-T line is visible in the hoodoos and geology, showing a visible division of material that's more than 65.5 million years old. Fossils of triceratops, hadrosaurs, fish, and turtles have been located in the area. Tourism Saskatchewan says that visitors will experience millions of years of history with unique geological formations, buttes, rock columns, a pass along Hellfire Creek and breathtaking views. The Valley of 1,000 Devils Route is an 11-kilometre loop that features scenic coulees, mixed grass prairie, rugged landscapes, exposed fossil beds, and has been camped on and walked by countless folks over the years. Parks Canada notes that in a badlands environment like the Valley of 1,000 Devils, trail users might experience varying daytime temperatures in some areas caused by the lack of cooling winds and heat-absorbing clay soils. The trailhead begins west, across Rock Creek Bridge. (Photo by Russel Hodgins) It's recommended for folks to plan to hike in the early morning or early evening and be prepared for extreme heat during the summer months. Folks interested in more information can head to Valley of 1,000 Devils Trail under Parks Canada on the Government of Canada's website or visit Tourism Saskatchewan on Facebook.