In between the Saskatchewan and Qu'Appelle River valleys, there aren’t many waterways that afford an opportunity for downhill winter sports. Perhaps that’s why the slope of Wolverine Creek just south of Muenster has a reputation in the area as sled central.

For years, Muenster hill has presented challenges for toboggan, sled and tube enthusiasts. The snow-covered terrain produces jumps and dips all the way to the creek bed. Once the paths are worn and slippery, riders can float across the frozen creek and even start up the slope on the other side.

As this archival photo shows, there was even a group of thrill seekers who engineered an intricate ski slope to extend the ride. With no architects drawings or schematics, one can estimate by the scale that the ramp added another 10 metres or so to the run. With the sudden transition to the ground slope at the bottom, this may have been a skiers dream, but not ideal for sledders.

Over the years, the hill has seen plastic carpets, sliding discs, snow skates and all manners of skis race down between the poplars. The hill has been quiet this last month given the frigid temperatures. Once the current cold snap lifts, Muenster hill will again welcome its current generation of sliders.