Grasslands National Park is one of those places that does not try to impress you. It just exists. Wide prairie. Big sky. Long distances between everything. The Valley of 1,000 Devils sits quietly within that landscape, and if you take the time to visit, it stays with you.
This area is part of the East Block of Grasslands National Park, near Val Marie, Saskatchewan. It is remote, open, and unlike anywhere else in the province. The name alone makes it sound dramatic, but what you actually find is something deeper than that. It is rugged, expansive, and unexpectedly beautiful.
Getting There and What to Expect
The Valley of 1,000 Devils is not a casual stop. You need to plan for it.
Once you leave the town of Val Marie, services become limited quickly. Gas stations are few and far between, so make sure you fuel up before heading into the park. Roads leading to the East Block include gravel sections, and conditions can change depending on weather.
When you arrive, there are designated viewpoints and trails. This is not a place for wandering off randomly. The land is fragile, and staying on marked paths protects both you and the landscape.
There are no cafés, no gift shops, and very little infrastructure. That is part of the experience.
The Views Are the Reason You Come
The first thing you notice is the contrast.
From above, the prairie feels calm and almost flat. Then the land suddenly drops away into a series of deep coulees, ridges, and eroded formations that stretch out below you. The Valley of 1,000 Devils looks carved rather than built, shaped slowly by time and weather.
The views are wide and uninterrupted. On a clear day, you can see layers of land folding into each other, with light and shadow constantly shifting across the valley. Early morning and late afternoon bring out the texture of the badlands, making the entire area feel alive.
Photos help, but they never fully capture the scale. This is a place you feel more than you photograph.
What Makes This Area Different
This part of Grasslands National Park feels exposed in the best way. There is very little shelter, very little shade, and nothing to distract you from where you are.
In summer, the open prairie can feel much hotter than the actual temperature. Wearing a hat is not optional. Sun exposure is constant, and the wind can change conditions quickly. Bringing enough water is essential.
You may see wildlife, from birds of prey circling above to smaller animals moving through the grasslands. This is their home. Keep your distance and move slowly.
Practical Tips Before You Go
This is a place where preparation matters.
Fuel up before entering the park.
Bring more water than you think you need.
Wear a hat and sunscreen in warmer months.
Check weather and road conditions before heading out.
Download maps ahead of time, as cell service can be unreliable.
A 10 km hike here feels different than a forest trail. The openness, heat, and wind all add to the experience.
When to Visit
Late spring through early fall is the best time to explore the Valley of 1,000 Devils. Summer offers long days and dramatic light, but also stronger sun and heat. Morning and evening are ideal if you want cooler temperatures and softer light.
No matter when you go, give yourself time. This is not a place to rush through.
Is It Worth the Trip?
If you love landscapes that feel raw, quiet, and expansive, the answer is yes.
The Valley of 1,000 Devils is not flashy. It does not announce itself. It invites you to slow down, pay attention, and respect the land you are walking through.
It is one of Saskatchewan’s most striking places, and one that reminds you how powerful open space can be.
Take This Checklist With You
Planning a hike like this is easier when everything is in one place.
I created a beautiful, printable version of this Valley of 1,000 Devils trip checklist designed specifically for prairie adventures. It is clean, easy to use, and made to slip into your phone or pack without weighing you down.
If you want the full, printable version you can take with you on the trail, you can find it here:
Get the Valley of 1,000 Devils Trip Checklist
This version is perfect if you:
Like having everything organized before you go
Want a lightweight checklist you can reuse
Prefer something beautiful and practical
This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my adventures.