Qu’Appelle aqua oasis, nestled 40 miles northeast of Regina, holds a French mystery in its depths. Qu’Appelle Lakes, known fondly as the Fishing Lakes, are cradled within the Qu’Appelle Valley. The name “Qu’Appelle” whispers through the lush landscape, beckoning curious minds with its enigmatic query, “Who calls?” This alluring moniker birthed yet another alias for these serene waters — the Calling Lakes. Stories woven by local lore speak of indigenous voyagers hearing their names murmured across the rippling surfaces as they paddled, prompting them to echo back in the tongue of the French trappers in the region, ‘Qu’Appelle?’ Echo Lake, one of the quartet, owes its name to this melodic exchange while Lake Katepwa’s origins trace back to the Cree term “Kahtapwao” meaning ‘What is calling?’ Mission Lake pays homage to the Catholic Mission in Lebret, later transformed into a residential school, while Pasqua Lake commemorates Chief Joseph Pasqua and the Pasqua First Nation tribe he founded. Presently, the captivating lands surrounding the Qu’Appelle Lakes are under the watchful care of several First Nations bands, each preserving a piece of Saskatchewan’s rich heritage. Over centuries, the lakes, like liquid jewels in the valley’s crown, have nurtured communities with their bounty and beauty, capturing the essence of time within their depths. Fed by the gentle Qu’Appelle River, as well as subterranean springs and meandering streams from the vast prairies, the lakes ebb and flow with the rhythm of the land. The ever-vigilant Saskatchewan Watershed Authority strives to maintain harmony, ensuring the lakes’ waters remain a source of tranquility rather than turmoil. These interconnected water bodies, born of ancient glaciers that sculpted the valley, have become a sanctuary for both nature and mankind. Amidst the rolling prairies, the Qu’Appelle Valley provides a haven against the elements, nurturing life and history within its cradle. The legend of Qu’Appelle Lakes continues to unfold, drawing visitors to the enchanting shores where past and present converge in a harmonious dance. The Qu’Appelle Lakes depict resiliency and rebirth, demonstrating the enduring vitality of this ethereal region.