The Doukhobor Dugout House is a National Historic Site of Canada located near Blaine Lake. The site consists of the remains of a log dugout built by Doukhobor settlers in Saskatchewan. It is a rare surviving example of the impermanent construction methods utilized by settlers of Western Canada.
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We had a weekday overnight stay at the Tolstoy cabin, situated with a fabulous view of the North Sask River Valley. Cool breeze and fresh cedar smell, luxurious bed - silence and serenity! Great sleep! Brenda and Dan were superb hosts - the attention to detail in every aspect, was remarkable: tea service with the Samovar and saskatoon tarts, traditional decor in dishes etc.; supper served at the cabin incl homemade borscht and fabulous fresh bread and muffins; breakfast served at the cabin with traditional pyradi and blinsis. All the details, too numerous to mention (!), were provided for a wonderful off-grid stay. We rushed the season, so can't comment on the museum, but all other displays are thoughtful and interesting. A love of Doukhobor history, thoughtful preservation and integrated activities with a fun & modern twist, make the summer of 2025 something to anticipate! Encourage all to experience this piece of history, so carefully preserved and presented. See all the weekend activities planned for 2025 on their website, kayak down the river and reserve a night or 2 here - it is a wonderful prairie experience in all aspects. Kudos to Brenda and Dan for the hard work and detailed thoughtfulness put into preserving their family and cultural history. They are...
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A serene slice of Saskatchewan history!
Visiting the Doukhobor Dugout House near Blaine Lake was a powerful experience. Costumed guides led us through the original 1899 dugout house and the ten themed heritage spots: Oospenia Spring, the Prayer Home, Banya, Tolstoy House, artifacts museum, and more—all delivered with passion and storytelling. 
The site is officially designated a National Historic Site for being the only surviving example of this type of pioneer shelter in Canada. It offers a rare, tangible connection to the hardships faced by the Doukhobor settlers and their creative resilience. 
Only open select Saturdays in July and early August, these themed event days—with live reenactments, music, and fresh‑baked Doukhobor bread—make it worth timing your visit right. 
The setting is peaceful and scenic, with an outdoor patio overlooking the river valley called “Peter Verigin The Lordly,” where food and refreshments (including bread by pre‑order) are available. 
Be prepared: it involves some steep walking over loose terrain and isn’t fully accessible—but the effort pays off in rich history and beautiful views. There is a small entry fee and don’t forget...
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The trek down and back up the hill with the loose rock, to see the 2 houses was extremely difficult with a walker. That is unfortunate as I'm sure not everyone made it. I did but it was hard!! In the museum bldg. it would be nice if there could be some help in re-doing the photos on the bristleboard with writing that could be read. Their way of life is a part of history so displaying everything clearly would help keep it alive. I'm so glad we went to see...
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