With the buzzing of Manitoba’s official bird (a.k.a. the mosquito), the smell of overcooked wieners, freshly sheared grass, and freshly fertilized fields just around the corner, summer fever is setting in. For many, a getaway is long overdue. Our province may not have many physical ups and downs, but it certainly has its treasures. Here are three day trip destination which anyone can afford to explore.
West Hawk Lake
(1 hour, 36 minutes)
West Hawk Lake is located on the easterly cusp of Whiteshell Provincial Park. The lake was smashed into existence by a meteor, leaving behind a crater which eventually became the deepest lake in Manitoba, with a depth of 115 meters (377 feet). For reference, this is equivalent to a 35-story apartment block. The lake offers a wide range of activities such as scuba diving, swimming, sailing, cliff jumping, and fishing. A variety of recreational activities and restaurants are accessible on the lakefront.
Spruce Woods
Provincial Park
(2 hours, 5 minutes)
With its signature blend of prairie grass, forests, and sand dunes, Spruce Woods is a superb destination. Located to the west, the provincial park offers many clearly marked hiking and horse trails, varying in length and with constantly changing terrains. Additionally, the beach at Kiche Manitou provides visitors and campers access to swimming, fishing, and picnic areas.
Kenora
(2 hours, 10 minutes)
Tucked along the shores of Lake of the Woods, Kenora is a metropolis for summer activity. The drive to Kenora leads you through Whiteshell Provincial Park and down serpentine highways peppered with beautiful rock formations, lakes, and dense forest. Kenora includes tourist attractions ranging from an M.S. Kenora dinner cruise to enjoying the festivities of Harbourfest. Whether you’re getting your toes sandy on one of the city’s five beaches, enjoying a round of golf at one of two courses nearby, or boating on the endless lakes, Kenora has it all.
