Saskatchewan - north to Loon Lake

We leave Vermilion after work around 11am with Lloydminster in our sights.  It's a Canadian city that uniquely spans the border between Alberta and Saskatchewan earning the nickname "Border City". It is one of only two such bi-provincial cities in Canada, the other being Flin Flon. 

The 4th Meridian bi-sects the city into Alberta and Saskatchewan

The border markers are really cool and we jump back and forth from Alberta to Saskatchewan many times...lol There are four of these 100' tall pillars. 

Alberta on left/ Saskatchewan on right

Beautiful old City Hall building

Saskatchewan license plate

After lunch we head into the Lloydminster Museum and Archives.

Local museum

The museum is interesting as it tells the story of  the Barr Colony, a group of nearly 2000 British settlers who immigrated to Canada in 1903. Named after their leader, Isaac Barr, the colony grew into what is Lloydminster today, despite disorganized leadership, poor preparation and hardship.  

Of course there is always the unfortunate displacement of the first nations Treaty 6 was signed near here. 

Treatt 6 Territory

Big Bear, Poundmaker and Thunderchild - prominent natives of Treaty 6

Charles M Russel painting

Bison Bone Pile - Sadly the killing of the buffalo took out the natives. 

Next we head north up Highway 17 out of Lloydminster, which is also the 4th Meridian dividing Alberta and Saskatchewan. 

Highway 17 also the 4th Meridian

We make a stop at Frenchman Butte National Historic sight where on May 28th, 1885 Plains Cree engaged in a battle with Canadian Militia troops.

Frenchman Butte, Saskatchewan

Still remnants of warrior rifle pits dug by the Cree can be seen. 

We wonder the thought behind how roads get paved in this province as out of nowhere a paved road will become gravel for great stretches and then back to pavement. We finally make it to the small town of Loon Lake. Saskatchewan.

We have heard of Loon Lake before as the well known, Ray Mitsuing,  7 time World Chuckwagon race driver is from here. Also the late Bev Kynoch (my sister-in-laws mom) grew up in this area.

7 time winner of the world chuckwagon races

A bit farther on to our campsite at Stabler Lake Campground located on Makwa Lake between Big Jumbo and Little Jumbo beaches. Very nice spot to walk along the beach and watch the sunset. 

Sunset just before 10pm tonight.

It's been a busy day of travel and exploration.