MANITOBA PARKS GUIDE Life s. Great. Outdoors. In Manitoba's Provincial Parks. Explore the new. Winnipeg Beach Campground.

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1 MANITOBA PARKS GUIDE 2012 Life s Great Outdoors In Manitoba's Provincial Parks Explore the new Winnipeg Beach Campground see page 36

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3 Table of Contents Pinawa Dam Connect with the Great Outdoors 4 Minister s Message 5 Parks Reservation Service/Fees 6 Manitoba at a Glance 7 Photo and Story Contest 8 Keeping Our Environment Green 9 Leave No Trace Canada 10 Make a Family Discovery 12 Hey Kids! 12 Tales from the Campfire 13, 22 Central Region 15 Eastern Region 23 Back Country Camping & Canoeing 30 Northern Region 31 What s New 36 Grand Beach Western Region 37 Become Healthy by Nature 42 Geocaching in Provincial Parks 43 Beach Safety 44 Boating Safety 45 Comfort Camping 46 Be Bear Smart 47 Summer Highlights 50 Winter Adventures 51 For More Information 52 Whiteshell Provincial Park Cover: Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park Watch for the Star Attractions Logo The Star Logo on street and highway signs directs you to Manitoba Star Attractions. This publication is available in multiple formats upon request.

4 Connect with the Great Outdoors P arks provide a perfect setting for people to participate in a wide variety of physical activities. Research shows that staying active can improve heart and lung function, increase flexibility, strengthen bones and muscles, boost energy, reduce the risk of heart disease and enhance overall health. Studies also show that exercising is even more effective when performed in natural settings like parks. Healthy by nature There are so many reasons why parks are an important part of a healthy lifestyle. They offer a year-round range of activities for everyone such as fishing, hiking, cycling, swimming and cross-country skiing. Parks are a low-cost alternative to formal gym memberships or structured exercise programs and still provide plenty of health benefits. Play in our parks Children are always curious and the natural environment is a wonderful world to explore. Yet today s children spend less time playing outdoors than previous generations. Instead, more time is spent indoors watching television, playing video games or using the computer. As a result, many children are not getting enough physical activity and don t know how to play outside or relate to nature. Plus, these children will develop an appreciation of nature and an interest in protecting the environment that will grow with them into adulthood. Connect with each other Parks are excellent places for families to connect with each other and with nature. Children can play freely on beaches, climb trees and look for wildlife. Whether you go for a day or camp for a while, families can share a unique outdoors experience and get active while everyone enjoys a break from the usual routine. Get together Currently, programs are being developed to encourage more contact with nature and people, especially in parks. All Manitobans can connect with nature by getting outside more often with family, friends and neighbours. Go on nature hikes, organize scavenger hunts or take weekly walks through the woods. Everyone will benefit and be enriched from the increased physical activity and extra time spent together. Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park Experience nature It is important for children to play outdoors. Experts believe that children and young people who frequently experience the natural world are generally healthier. Just looking at plants and trees, for example, reduces stress. Children who regularly play outside get along better with others and are more creative and co-operative. 4

5 Minister s Message Welcome to Manitoba s provincial parks. I invite you and your family to explore life s great outdoors and discover everything Manitoba s parks have to offer. Manitoba parks provide more than just a stunning backdrop for a weekend getaway. They play an integral role in protecting Manitoba s unique natural spaces and diverse ecosystems for future generations. Our newest parks (Nueltin Lake, Colvin Lake, Birch Island, Little Limestone Lake and Fisher Bay) are more remote, but they were established to preserve the natural features and special habitat they represent. Our parks and protected areas cover approximately 5.3 million hectares of land or 10 per cent of Manitoba s land mass. Nature is at your doorstep. Whether you are looking for a wilderness adventure, a sunny day on a sandy beach, becoming a master angler, or simply walking in the woods, Manitoba s parks have everything you need to create memories that will last a lifetime. Connect with nature and share your favourite places with family and friends. Come for a day or stay for a week. Accommodations range from camping to cottages to lodges and even yurts. So pick a park, select some activities and come for a visit. With so many choices, your biggest challenge might be deciding on where to go. This year, why not try something different? You may just discover a new favourite park. Gord Mackintosh Conservation and Water Stewardship Minister 5

6 Parks Reservation Service M anitoba s online Parks Reservation Service is the easy, convenient way to make sure you can enjoy your favourite campsite this season. The Manitoba-made and operated system allows users to browse available campsites, photos, and view park maps and details about each campsite. With real-time, up-to-date information, the system improves connections between campground offices and the reservation system and provides a better way to manage park resources and campground inventory. Visit us online at manitobaparks.com to make your campsite reservations. Group use, cabin and yurt reservations can be made the first Monday in February. Campsite reservations begin the first Monday in April. For telephone assistance, call toll free U2-CAMP ( ) or in Winnipeg at Making reservations for others Now, making online reservations for family and friends is easier than ever. Simply ensure their name, account number, address information and number of people is handy, because reservations must be in the name of the person who will be occupying the campsite. Then, just make one easy payment to secure all your reservations. Cancellations, Changes, and Refunds If your plans change, please let us know. If you cancel four or more days in advance of your arrival date, you will receive a refund, less the $9.00 non-refundable reservation fee. If you cancel within three days or less, you will receive a refund, less the $9.00 non-refundable reservation fee and the first night s camping fee. If you cancel after your arrival date, no refund will be issued. Depending on availability, changes to reservations regarding dates and location or facilities may be allowed for a non-refundable change fee of $3.00. However, changes made within three days or less of your arrival date that involve a later arrival, or moving to another campground will be subject to an additional non-refundable nightly camping fee plus the change fee. Name changes for reservation holders are not allowed. Rates Camping fees vary depending on the availability of surcharged services such as modern washrooms, showers, hookups and firewood. Minimum nightly fees apply in the case of group camping. Per Night Basic Service $10.50 to $18.90 Electrical Service $14.70 to $23.10 Electrical/Water Service $17.85 to $24.15 Full Service $19.95 to $26.25 Group $31.50 to $201.60* Vacation Cabins $34.41 to $78.44 Yurts $51.52 * Rates are based on minimum group size. Additional camping units will pay extra. Note: Rates are subject to change without notice. Vehicle Park Entry Permits Park vehicle permits must be displayed yearround in provincial parks. Permits are available at all campground and district offices, and most business locations that sell fishing and hunting licences. Annual Permits Vehicle (other than buses) $30.00 Buses $ day Permits (valid for three consecutive days) Vehicle (other than buses) $8.00 Buses $ day Permit Vehicle (other than buses) $4.00 Buses $

7 Manitoba at a Glance M anitoba is blessed with a wealth of natural environments: boreal forest, granite ridges, vast inland seas, networks of interconnected waterways, short grass and tall grass prairie, aspen parkland, sand hills and escarpments that rise above the surrounding prairies. Each region boasts a variety of provincial parks. Read on and discover the adventures that await in your favourite part of our province. Central Region Eastern Region Northern Region Western Region Provincial Parks National Parks 7

8 Enter our Photo and Story Contest Manitoba s parks provide a wonderful venue to create lasting memories. Celebrate Life s Great outdoors and share your memeories with us by entering our Photo and Story Contest! Calling All Photographers! Breathtaking places and wide open spaces challenge the shutterbug in all of us during our adventures in Manitoba s parks. Is there a special place in a provincial park that caught your eye? Are there activities that you like to do while visiting Manitoba parks? Did you catch that perfect wildlife shot? Does your photo celebrate the great outdoors? There are 4 categories and you may enter as many times as you like! 1. Spectacular Scenery 2. Wildlife Wonders 3. Amazing Action 4. Youth Photography (under 18 years old) Calling all Story Tellers! Are you the centre of attention with your campfire tales? Are you asked over and over again to tell the big story? Share your tale with everyone! Send us your favourite Manitoba provincial park memories in 500 words or less. We ll definitely read them all and post our favourites on our website. Check out the photo and story entries from our previous contests. Before submitting your entries, please read the contest rules at: 8

9 Keeping Our Environment Green Help Protect our Rivers, Lakes and Streams by Making Smart Choices V isitors are always welcome in Manitoba parks. Campers and cottagers, in particular, enjoy extended periods of time in our great outdoors. Did you know that the everyday products you use while staying at a campsite or cottage impact the very environment we all enjoy? Everyday activities, such as bathing and washing clothing or dishes, can harm our lake, rivers and streams because many cleaners and detergents contain chemicals and phosphates. It is estimated that 8,000 tonnes of phosphorus enters Lake Winnipeg each year. Using Green Products Can Help From shampoos and soaps to laundry detergents and household cleaning products, everything we flush, rinse or pour down the drain eventually ends up in the water. That affects all of us because all Manitoba lakes and rivers are connected. The good news is that we can choose to use environmentally friendly products. Look for products that have been certified by an independent third party. Products with the EcoLogo, Green Seal, or U.S. E.P.A. Design for the Environment logos at your local store are good options. These products are tested by a neutral third party to ensure that they are environmentally friendly and contain no harmful chemicals or phosphorus and are an excellent choice, no matter where you use them. Beware of green washing because not everything labelled green has the scientific research to back up its claim. It is up to each of us to take action and ensure there is clean water for today and the future. Using environmentally friendly products is one small change that can make a big difference. What can you do to become lake-friendly? Buy lake-friendly cleaning and personal care products by looking for products that are EcoLogo certified, thereby preventing harmful chemicals and phosphorus from entering our lakes, rivers and streams. Read the label. Use cosmetic fertilizers and pesticides responsibly or eliminate their use. These products enter the lakes, rivers and streams through runoff. Use less water. Take advantage of water saving products to reduce the amount of water requiring wastewater treatment. Protect wetlands and natural shorelines. These areas act as a filter to clean our water and can help prevent shoreline erosion. Maintain and service septic systems regularly. Support upgrades to wastewater treatment in cities and rural areas to prevent contamination of ground water, our lakes and our rivers. For more information, visit: 9

10 Leave No Trace Canada Take Only Pictures, Leave Only Footprints A pplying the principles of Leave No Trace Canada helps minimize the negative impacts on Manitoba s parks and natural areas. The principles of Leave No Trace Canada strive to create a strong positive outdoor ethic that teaches us to minimize our impacts on the environment while enjoying outdoor recreational activities and sharing the land with all users. Leave No Trace education is critical when you consider the combined effects of millions of outdoor visitors (Manitoba s provincial parks see over 5 million visitors annually!). For example, one poorly located campsite or campfire may have little impact, but thousands of such instances can degrade natural resources and recreation experiences. Caribou Lake - Manitario Trail 10

11 Leave No Trace Canada There are seven principles of Leave No Trace Canada that teach us how to prevent avoidable negative resources and social impacts, minimize the unavoidable impacts, and to ultimately preserve the quality of resources and recreational experiences.1 1. Plan Ahead and Prepare To help ensure the safety of your group, add enjoyment of the experience and help minimize your impact on the land. Know the regulations and special concerns of the area you ll be visiting. Prepare for all types of weather by packing the appropriate clothing and food. Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use, and visit in smaller groups split larger parties into groups of 4 to 6. Pack food in re-usable containers. 2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces to prevent soil erosion and vegetation damage. Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow. Walk single file in middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy. 3. Dispose of Waste Properly Pack it in, pack it out. This reduces water pollution, minimizes spread of disease and protects local plants and animals. Inspect your campsite, trails and rest areas for trash, leftover food and litter before leaving. 4. Leave What You Find Take photos or make drawings instead of taking items home. By doing so you will increase enjoyment and sense of discovery for others and prevent lasting damage to trees, plants, historical and cultural sites. 5. Minimize Campfire Impacts Campfires can cause lasting impacts on the land. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light. Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings or fire pans. Always pack out your trash; do not burn it in your campfire. It doesn t always completely burn and may attract unwanted wildlife. In Manitoba s provincial parks, all fires must be lit only in approved fire pits between April 1 and November Respect Wildlife Observe wildlife from a distance; do not follow or approach them. This maintains the safety of your group, and the safety of the wildlife. Never feed animals. This can damage their health, alter their natural behaviours and exposes them to predators and other dangers. If camping with pets, control them at all times. 7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors Everyone enjoys the outdoors in a different way, but all outdoor visitors are sharing a common, finite space. Mutual consideration helps everyone enjoy a positive experience. Avoid loud voices and noises, take breaks and camp away from other visitors and yield to other users on trails. By following these seven principles when enjoying Manitoba s great outdoors, we can ensure that everyone has a positive outdoor experience. 1 Adapted from: trace.ca/principles 11

12 Make a Family Discovery Let an Interpreter be your Guide A re you looking for something to make your next visit more memorable? Follow us over the hills, through the woods and across sandy beaches to family fun. Whether you are at the cottage, camping or just out for the day, park interpreters want to make the most of your stay. Attend an evening event and travel through time to meet those who came before us, without leaving the comfort of a campfire. Take the path less travelled as interpreters guide you through a new trail or help you rediscover an old one. Interpreters love questions so bring yours to the programs, park centres or anywhere along the path. Park interpreters provide guided hikes, special events, family activities, campfire programs and amphitheatres in select parks. Interpretive programs are free and open to everyone. For program listings call or visit manitobaparks.com, ask park staff or watch for event posters in your favourite park. Hey Kids Pick up an activity book to become a Nature Detective (ages 3 to 5), Junior Naturalist (ages 6 to 9) or Park Explorer (ages 10 to12). Work on the activities and then return it to us to earn pins and certificates and become an official Nature Detective, Junior Naturalist or Park Explorer. Booklets are available at campground offices, interpretive events and on the website. School Activities Calling all teachers are you looking for a way to bring your lessons to life? Take your students to a provincial park for an opportunity to follow in the steps of history or experience science in action. School programs are provided free to all grades. Check out the teacher s corner on our website to find out more: manitobaparks.com Parks that have Park Interpreter-led Programs May Long Weekend to September Long Weekend River Road Hecla/Grindstone Paint Lake St. Norbert St. Malo Turtle Mountain Grand Beach February to Thanksgiving Spruce Woods Year Round Birds Hill Whiteshell 12

13 Tales from the Campfire Working Out the Bugs I f you have forgotten what makes life worth living go camping with your daughter and grand daughter. What an incredibly beautiful and fun filled time it was. Emily s excitement was evident in her melodious chatter and movements, even while restrained by her car seat as we headed out to Nutimik lake for two days. In contrast, Emily s mom Noelle, was quiet and sleepy during the ride, coming to occasionally just to comment on the scenery or her daughter s enthusiasm. The highlight of the trip was on our second night. After a simple supper of smokies cooked over an open fire, we threw the remaining logs on the shimmering coals. Within minutes leaping orange flames illuminated a few feet of softly warm and wavering light around the pit. Noelle and I settled into our chairs in this glowing space, Emily sat on my lap, and we were soon lulled into the calm and mystical spell cast by the fire and songs of birds and frogs in the surrounding woods. City tensions were gently eased out of our lives. Then nature s light show began. Lightening silhoutted silvery white and mauve clouds against the dark night sky to our right. Faint rumbles of thunder and an occasional gust of fresh, moist wind foretold of a storm that may soon pass our way. To our left, a full moon and stars shone through the intricate ceiling of latticed branches of the boreal forest. Straight above us, was the big dipper, framed by a ring of tree tops shimmering green in the fire s light. Fireflies lit up, informing us of their presence, and the depths of the dark and life filled woods. Emily leaned her head back on my shoulder, while wowing over all these different expressions of light. I could feel Whiteshell Provincial Park her soft dark hair against my cheek, as she gasped and said in surprise Hey, grandma, it worked! Earlier that night Emily had wished on the first star to lose her fear of bugs that had been hugley tested since we arrived at our campsite. I m not scared of the bugs. That s great, sweetheart I responded. I know, she replied wisely. Noelle was pulled back from her distant musings. She looked at us and chuckled. I silently thanked the Earth for moments like this upon it. They exist with or without us to witness them; to bring a fire light into them. Had it not been for Noelle s suggestion that we get out of the city for a couple of days, we would have missed it. And if, having witnessed this event, I was somehow unmoved by it, Emily s shared exclamations of surprise and appreciation for nature s light show would have snapped me out of my complacency to see anew as seen by her, the wonders of life here on planet Earth. Thankyou, thankyou, thankyou. Now I can go on. As Submitted by - Christine K. 13

14 YOU CAN PROTECT YOURSELF FROM WEST NILE VIRUS In Manitoba, West Nile virus (WNV) is transmitted to humans primarily by the Culex tarsalis mosquito, usually in late June, July, August and early September. This risk varies from year to year based on temperature, precipitation, mosquito population and other factors. WHO IS AT RISK? In southern Manitoba, anyone can be exposed to a WNV-infected mosquito during the summer months. Severe illness has occurred in all age groups, but more often among older adults or people with chronic health conditions or weakened immune systems. HOW DO I PROTECT MYSELF AGAINST WNV? Reduce the time you spend outside between dusk and dawn. Apply an appropriate mosquito repellent. Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves and pant legs. Make sure door and window screens fit tightly and are free of holes. For more information, visit our website at manitoba.ca/health/wnv. If you have WNV health concerns, speak with your doctor or call Health Links-Info Santé at (in Winnipeg); toll-free HELP PROTECT MANITOBA S TREES Do Not Move Firewood With your help, we can protect Manitoba s beautiful trees and forests from harmful exotic pests like the Emerald Ash Borer and the Asian Long-horned beetle. Do not transport firewood into Manitoba. Buy it locally. If you re visiting the province and have firewood with you, please dispose of it in the bright orange bins located along the main highways entering Manitoba. And also, remember that it is illegal to transport any firewood into or out of Manitoba across the Canada-U.S. border. To learn more, please call the Tree Line at , or the Manitoba Conservation toll free number at , or visit: manitoba.ca/conservation/forestry/alerts/alerts.html Do Not Move Firewood Ad Ad size: 7.5 x Full Colour

15 Central Region Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park Along the Way to the Prairie Seas Lundar Beach Provincial Park Camp Morton Provincial Park In the heart of the continent, some of the world s largest freshwater lakes create an oasis for lovers of water and shoreline adventure. Long, sandy beaches are ranked among the best in North America. Test the winds and waters by boat, kayak or sailboard. Discover marshes and wetlands teeming with birds, reptiles, amphibians and other life. Trace the steps of early explorers and pay tribute to the Metis, Scottish, Ukrainian and Icelandic settlers at the many historic sites and museums in this area. 15

16 Central Region Beaudry Provincial Park Established 1974 Where else can you find tall grass prairie, river-bottom forest and a meandering river all in one area? Just west of Winnipeg, placid Beaudry Provincial Park seems a world away. The towering cottonwood, basswood and maples shelter plentiful wildlife. Paddle the winding Assiniboine River or explore the woods on a network of walking and biking trails. In winter, four cross-country loop trails, with a warming hut, make Beaudry one of the best ski locations near Winnipeg. Ski trails range in distance from 2 km (1.2 mi.) to 5 km (3.1 mi.). Snowmobilers travel on the frozen Assiniboine River, beside the towering cottonwoods. Leaving Winnipeg, travel west 10 km (6.2 mi.) on Roblin Boulevard/PR 241. Birds Hill Provincial Park Established 1964 Designated in 1964, Birds Hill Provincial Park opened to the public on July 15, 1967, in celebration of Canada s centennial year. Ever since, when people need a break from urban living, Birds Hill is the place to go. Bike or blade the paved pathway and scenic loop road. Hike or mountain bike Camp Morton Provincial Park the extensive trail system. Fly-fish for trout in Kingfisher Lake or swim and catch some rays at the beach. Watch for white-tailed deer and wild turkeys. Camp at the basic, electrical or fully serviced campground, just a 20 minute drive from Winnipeg. In winter, Birds Hill offers an extensive network of groomed cross-country ski trails and snowmobile trails. Hiking trails range in distance from 1 km (0.6 mi.) to 16 km (9.9 mi.). Bike trails range from 1.5 km (0.9 mi.) to 14 km (8.6 mi.). Horse trails range in distance from 1.5 km (0.9 mi.) to 15 km (9.6 mi.) and ski trails range from 4 km (2.4 mi.) to 14 km (8.6 mi.). Leaving Winnipeg, follow Hwy. #59 north, 24 km (14.9 mi.) to the west park entrance. Camp Morton Provincial Park Established 1974 First developed as a Roman Catholic children s summer camp in Take a leisurely stroll to view the historic buildings, monuments and gardens. Explore the woodland trails and discover the plants and animals of the Interlake s mixed boreal forest, or follow the limestone-cobbled shoreline of Lake Winnipeg and encounter its varied wildlife. Enjoy the spectacular cross-country ski trails in the winter months. Find your own piece of lakeside heaven. Rustic log cabins, yurts, a small campground and a group use area give you a choice of accommodations. Camp Morton Provincial Park lies along the western shore of Lake Winnipeg, approximately 7 km (4.5 miles) north of Gimli. The park can be reached by either PTH 8 or 9 and PR

17 Central Region Grand Beach Provincial Park Established 1961 Three kilometres of soft sandy beach backing onto sand dunes make Grand Beach one of the best beaches in North America. Discover sheltered marshes and ponds that protect frogs and tadpoles and an amazing variety of life to thrill the child in each of us. A large lagoon provides a popular spot for waterskiing, boardsailing and boating. Two interpretive trails and a network of longer hiking and mountain biking trails take you into the boreal forest and up sand ridges that offer wonderful lake views. The campground offers basic and electrically serviced sites, along with a store, interpretive program and nearby summer attractions. Plentiful snow makes Grand Beach perfect for winter fun. Crosscountry ski trails for all skill levels range from 2.6 km (1.6 mi.) to 13.3 km (8.3 mi.), and snowmobile trails head off in all directions. Leaving Winnipeg, follow Hwy. #59 north, 80 km (49.7 mi.) to the Grand Beach turnoff. Follow Hwy. #12 west 6 km (3.7 mi.). Birds Hill Provincial Park Hecla /Grindstone Provincial Park Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park Established 1969 Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park was designated in 1969 and officially opened as a provincial park on July 26, As a part of the changes in designation under the new Provincial Parks Act, Hecla and Grindstone parks were combined to form Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park in This year-round park is ideal for the outdoors-loving family. Fish off the piers, view wildlife and waterfowl or discover Hecla Village, a scenic turn-of-the-century fishing community. Play on the beaches or walk the limestone-cobbled shores. Explore 60 km (37.3 mi.) of easy to moderate hiking trails. A scenic lakeside cycling trail along Highway 8 leads from Gull Harbour Marina to Hecla Village. The park offers basic, electrical and electric/water serviced sites, group campsites, family vacation cabins, year-round bed and breakfast and motel unit accommodations. Visit in winter and enjoy a full range of family activities including cross-country skiing and snowmobiling on groomed trails. Leaving Winnipeg, follow Hwy. #8, 165 km (102.5 mi.) north along the west shore of Lake Winnipeg to Gull Harbour. 17

18 Central Region Norris Lake Provincial Park Established 1974 Norris Lake is located in the scenic Interlake region. The park offers many activities including swimming, waterskiing and fishing for northern pike. Families can enjoy lunch at one of many picnic shelters while children have fun at the playground. Golfers can travel to the nearby towns of Teulon or Inwood for an afternoon on the links. For an unforgettable experience, visit the Narcisse Wildlife Management Area near Norris Lake. Watch as thousands of red-sided garter snakes emerge from their limestone sinkholes and tangle together during their spring mating ritual. The snakes then disperse to the marshes for summer, returning to their dens in the fall. At this unique site you can see more snakes at a glance than anywhere else in the world. The park s campground offers 15 basic self registry campsites and three group use sites. Norris Lake is approximately one hour from Winnipeg. Take PTH #7 north 45 km (28 mi.) to Teulon, then northwest 20 km (12.4 mi.) on PTH #17. Pembina Valley Provincial Park Established 2001 The Pembina River cuts through the Pembina Hills near the Manitoba-North Dakota border to create a paradise for nature lovers. Watch for wildlife in a setting of boulder-filled creeks, lush vegetation, and towering hills. Snap photos of prairie wildflowers like asters, lilies, harebells and meadow blazing stars. Walk a short loop or spend the day traveling a network of 11 trails. Hike the Pembina Woods Trail and enjoy the view from Sunset Point, climb the viewing tower at Panorama Point, or weave around the park s perimeter on a 12.7 km (7.8 mi.) hike past stunning view points. Leaving Winnipeg, take Hwy. #3, turn south on Hwy. #31, left on PR 201 to a dead end, turn right 0.5 km (0.3 mi.), turn left into the park. St. Norbert Provincial Park Established 1976 Discover the rich history of the Red River Valley in this park at the junction of the La Salle and Red Rivers. This rich land first invited Aboriginal peoples to hunt, fish and camp, then supported a Métis settlement, which evolved into a French-Canadian agricultural community by the early 20th century. Park Interpreters offer tours of restored residences, after which you can view the scenic grounds, walk the 1 km (0.6 mi.) loop self-guiding trail or enjoy lunch in the picnic site. Leaving Winnipeg, take Hwy. #75 south, travel 3 km (1.9 mi.) to the park. Birds Hill Provincial Park 18

19 Central Region Leaving Winnipeg, take Hwy. #75 south, travel to St. Norbert, turn right at Rue des Trappistes for approx. 1.5 km (0.9 mi.), left at Rue des Ruines du Monastere. Stephenfield Provincial Park Stephenfield Provincial Park Established 1971 The scenic farming country where the Red River plain meets the higher Manitoba Escarpment provides a delightful backdrop for this park nestled beside the Boyne River. Swim, fish and boat on a reservoir. Picnic for the afternoon or enjoy a weekend camping trip. Serviced campsites, yurts and group camping are available. The Carman Golf Course is nearby. Leaving Winnipeg, travel southwest 62 km (38.5 mi.) on Hwy. #3 to Carman, continue west on PR 245, 10 km (6.2 mi.), turn right at the park signs. Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park Established 1968 Winnipeg Beach is a terrific place to celebrate summer and has been since the 1920s when the Moonlight Special train brought visitors from Winnipeg. Enjoy this resort town, stroll the boardwalk, picnic among the trees or stretch out on the sand. Our newest campground (opened in 2011) offers 120 full-serviced campsites. From Winnipeg, travel north 52 km on Hwy 8, turn right on PR 225 to Hwy 9. Travel north 6 km to the park. Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park Trappist Monastery Provincial Park Established 2002 The ruins of the Trappist Monastery sit along the gentle La Salle River making this an ideal spot for reflection and relaxation. Learn about the community of French-Canadian monks who lived and worked here. Discover the distinctly French architecture of the ruins. Enjoy birdwatching or a peaceful walk through the scenic gardens. 19

20 Central Region Camp Morton Provincial Park Hecla/ Grindstone Provincial Park Stephenfield Provincial Park Parks/Campgrounds # of Basic Sites # of Electrical Sites # of Electrical/Water Sites # of Full Service Sites 50 Amp. Electrical Service Available Picnic Shelters Washrooms M-(modern) N-(non-modern) Showers/*Coin-operated Showers Trailer Sanitary Station Recycling Depot Beach Playground Beaudry Provincial Park N Beaver Creek Provincial Park 10 N $14.70 Birds Hill Provincial Park M * $12.60-$19.95 Camp Morton 19 N $14.70 Camp Morton Cabins 14 M $ Camp Morton Yurts 6 M $51.52 Grand Beach Provincial Park M $14.70-$18.90 Gull Harbour ** M $14.70-$19.95 Hecla Cabins 19 M $ Hnausa Beach Provincial Park 5 40 N $14.70-$18.90 Lake St. George Provincial Park 28 N $14.70 Lundar Beach Provincial Park 7 26 M $18.90-$23.10 Norris Lake Provincial Park 15 N $10.50 Pembina Valley Provincial Park N St. Norbert Provincial Park N Stephenfield Provincial Park ** M $14.70-$19.95 Stephenfield Yurts 6 M $51.52 Trappist Monastery N Provincial Park Watchorn Provincial Park N $10.50-$14.70 Winnipeg Beach 120 M * $22.05 Fishing Hiking Trail in Park Cycling Trail in Park Golf Course (within 15 minute drive) Disability Accessible Concession / Store Laundromat Boat / Canoe Rental Boat Launch Group Camping Available Seasonal Camping Available Fall Camping Program Reservations Accepted Nightly Fee Range Visit other Star Attractions in the Interlake Tourism Region by visiting the following websites interlaketourism.com or travelmanitoba.com **Available on some sites. Campsites have a picnic table and firepit. Drinking water is available. Maximum stay is 21 nights. Yurts and cabins have a maximum stay of 14 nights. Rates and services are subject to change without notice

21 Tales from the Campfire Call of the Wild O ur canoe floats quietly downstream somewhere between New Pinawa and first Pinawa, along the Channel. The remnant earthen dike of the fore-bay encircles a vast marsh of swamp weeds, tall stepping herons, heads barely visible above the grass, a lone loon announced only by its hauntingly familiar notes, a mother deer and two fawns skittishly prancing up the berm and silence. Around a slow bend of the lazy river, suddenly, like some ancient crumbling Roman ruin, the wall of the Pinawa Hydro Dam reaches across the river. We pull into a muddy landing, inches from the top of a natural water slide. Is it well worn from all the use it gets from fun-seekers or is this too nature slowly eroding the hard granite rock into a smooth slide? The water picks up new energy as it courses over the sloping shelf, rushes under a walking bridge, strangely out of place beside huge monoliths, which no longer attest to man s engineering skills but simply rise out of the water like natural formations. New plants spring up everywhere; a few solo trees erupt from the stone work. Nature is reclaiming its own and resistance seems futile. A new beauty surrounds the place and water washes it clean. Only a few tourists are around and black bears take the opportunity to fatten themselves on the plentiful harvest of acorns, scampering across an open pitch, almost as if sneaking from bush to bush to avoid the tourists. Majestic oaks, planted early in the last century to surround the town-site, now serve to beckon bears, birds and squirrels to a late summer picnic. Pinawa Dam Provincial Park We prepare our own supper around a regulation park fire-pit and it feels a little out of place. Our fire is warm and safe against the gathering chill of approaching winter. A snake startles us as it fleas our intrusion into his space. It is only a garter. It won t hurt. The evening is gentle and graceful in this place and the bustle of a large city that once relied on this insignificant dam to run its trams and brighten its lights is overshadowed and distant. As we pack the canoe on the back of the truck, store the baskets of food and drink into the back seat, a crow sits on a branch high above us and observes us with cocked head. We drive slowly towards the gate but not before the black bird calls to us, almost as a glad send off before the remnants of Old Pinawa crumble into the darkness. As submitted by Rudi K. 22

22 Eastern Region Voyageur Trails Amisk Trail - Whiteshell Provincial Park To many outdoor adventurers the forested and granite-ridged Canadian Shield is the very heart of Canada. Manitoba s Eastern Region offers easily accessible, but still pristine Shield country. Paddle for an hour or a week, take a short family stroll or tackle an epic backcountry trek, cool off in the heat of summer, warm up your winter, or peer into history through fascinating ancient rock petroforms. Campsites, comfortable and roomy yurts, rustic cabins and luxury lodges give you a base to enjoy the parks of the Eastern Region. 23

23 Eastern Region Atikaki Provincial Park Established 1983 Atikaki (pronounced ah-tick-ah-kih) means country of the caribou and is home to an amazing array of plants and animals. When you re ready for the classic wilderness experience, Atikaki is waiting for you. Let a short flight or canoe take you to this magnificent wildlife haven. With over 600 km (372.8 mi.) of interconnected waterways, stay for days or weeks. The Bloodvein, a Canadian Heritage River, is one of the most magnificent examples of shield country anywhere. Wonder at the ancient rock paintings along with their meanings unsolved to this day. The Pigeon River dishes out the thrill of whitewater rafting, chutes and standing waves, all set in a pristine northern wilderness. As there are no designated campgrounds, camp at an existing site, usually marked by a primitive fire ring. Visitors should be familiar with wilderness travel. For those seeking more comfort, full-service lodges and outcamps are available. To get to this unspoiled oasis you must choose an indirect route by chartered aircraft or the overland route through Wallace Lake Provincial Park on PR 304. During high water levels, canoeists can travel from Wallace Lake up to the Broadleaf River to Aikens Lake. Crow Duck Falls - Whiteshell Provincial Park Tulabi Falls - Nopiming Provincal Park Birch Point Provincial Park Established 1961 This small campground is nestled along the shores of Lake of the Woods. A boat launch lets you access superb fishing throughout the year, June is the best time to try your hand at landing a monster walleye. Or have a winter adventure on the ice looking for a northern pike catch of a life time. The campground has basic sites in a beautiful setting. Pick a lakefront site for a view of the moon rising over the lake as frogs call in the background. During the day, take a stroll in the campground amongst cedar and willow as you look for wild cucumbers. Birch Point Provincial Park is located on Lake of the Woods. To get here from Winnipeg travel south on PTH 12, turn left on PR 308, turn east past Moose Lake Campground until you reach Birch Point Provincial Park. Manigotagan River Provincial Park Established 2004 This park is Manitoba s 80th provincial park and was officially designated December 1, This mostly backcountry park is a corridor stretching 45 kilometres (28 miles) from Nopiming 24

24 Eastern Region Provincial Park to just outside the community of Manigotagan. Canoeing through the park from the northeast the landscape changes from craggy rock ridges, jack pine and lichen to lush stands of poplar, ash and elderberry near the mouth of the river. Wildlife like black bear, woodland caribou and timber wolves abound along the shorelines and wilderness surround the first-come, first-serve backcountry sites. From Winnipeg, follow PTH 59 north to PR 304 to community of Manigotagan (170 km/105.6 mi). Continue along PR 304 east towards Bissett (88 km/54.7 mi). Near Bissett, there is a small access road leading to Caribou Landing, the closest canoe launch to the new park. Manitoba Eco-Network has developed an exciting interactive web-based GIS mapping tool for the Manigotagan River. This digital map can be viewed online and is a valuable resource for trip planning. Users can zoom into the map to retrieve pictures and locations of rapids, portages and campsites. The map also provides interesting facts about the river, trip planning and emergency information. You can find the map at Moose Lake Provincial Park Established 1961 Located south of the Whiteshell, Moose Lake Provincial Park is well known as the home of a provincially rare stand of white pine trees. The park is a great location for families. It offers picnic shelters, play areas, a horseshoe pitch and volleyball court. A long scenic beach is perfect for sandcastle-building or just a leisurely stroll. Fishing is also a popular pastime in the park with a boat dock and launch near Whiteshell Provincial Park the campground. A nearby grocery store and resort are two further conveniences. The campground offers basic and electrically serviced sites. Wildlife is plentiful in this area, so be on the lookout and you will be sure to see many animals. If you are lucky you may spot the park s namesake the magnificent moose. The park is located 160 kilometres (99 miles) southeast of Winnipeg. Travel south on PTH #12 and then turn left onto PR #308. Nopiming Provincial Park Established 1976 Rocks, lakes and trees dominate the landscape in this natural park. Home to the southern-most herd of Manitoba s threatened boreal woodland caribou, Nopiming is an accessible wilderness. Get away from it all and experience nature first hand. Nopiming offers four main canoe routes with designated backcountry camping areas. Bird River and Manigotagan River are popular with canoeists. Routes range from 35 km (21.7 mi.) to 55 km (34.2 mi.). 25

25 Eastern Region Anglers are lured by the northern pike, walleye, smallmouth bass, then drawn back by the wilds of Nopiming. Hike the Walking on Ancient Mountains Trail or visit Tulabi Falls. Four campgrounds and three private lodges offer a base of exploration. Leaving Winnipeg, follow Hwy. #59 north to Hwy. #317, east to Hwy. #11, north to PR 313, east to PR 314 leading to Bird Lake at the south end of the park. PR 314 takes you north through the park. Pinawa Dam Provincial Park Established 1985 A skeleton of Manitoba engineering awaits you at Old Pinawa. Concrete and steel contrast with granite and pines for an extraordinary view. The site of the first yearround hydro-electric production reminds us of how far we have come in a century. Old Pinawa Dam once produced the energy used by the bustling turn-of the century Winnipeg. Walk on, around and through the dam s remains; which have survived time and even target practice by the Canadian military. A walk around the self-guiding trail leads you through the construction, heyday, and demise of this historical benchmark. The nature trails give St. Malo Provincial Park Meditation Lake - Whiteshell Provincial Park you a different view of the dam from across the channel. A favourite spot for picnics, be sure to bring your camera as red fox, white-tailed deer and Red-winged Blackbirds abound around the water s edge. Pinawa Dam can be found northwest of Pinawa or northeast of Lac du Bonnet on PR 520. From Winnipeg, follow PTH 59 north to PTH 44, east to PTH 11, north to PR 211, east to PR 520 and north 8.0 km to the park. St. Malo Provincial Park Established 1962 St. Malo is a wonderful watery getaway nestled next to a historic Francophone community. With two beaches, playgrounds, mini-golf, canoe, paddleboat and inner-tube rentals, this park provides a great escape from the summer heat. Enjoy the lake views from the trails or hike through an aspen-oak parkland. Choose from basic or electrically serviced campsites spreading out from the beach, in the aspen trees or along the shores of the reservoir. Leaving Winnipeg, travel south on Hwy. #59, 64 km (39.8 mi.). 26

26 Eastern Region Whitemouth Falls Provincial Park Established 1974 This park is a poplar day-use site for fishing and picnicking. The scenic falls provide a nice backdrop for family outings or an afternoon fishing off the shore. In spring, goldeye run at the bottoms of the falls and northern pike can be caught all season long. American White Pelicans are frequent visitors. Find them basking on the rocks or splashing in the pool made by the running water. Fire pits and a playground are nestled among the oaks making this a perfect resting place to have a bite of lunch. Be on the look out for Manitoba s provincial bird, the Great Gray Owl, a year-round resident in the area. Whitemouth Falls is located 90 km (56 mi.) north east of Winnipeg, just north of the community of Seven Sisters Falls. To get here follow Hwy #44 east to Hwy 11, turn north on Hwy. 11, turn east on PR 307 until the town of Seven Sisters Falls. The access for the park is on the north side across from PR 408. Whiteshell Provincial Park Established 1961 You could spend years exploring Whiteshell Provincial Park and still not experience it all. The Whiteshell is a pine-scented, natural playground with rushing rivers, plentiful wildlife, rugged ridges and clear deep lakes. Enjoy the sandy beaches, tennis courts, cozy cabins and luxurious resorts, marinas and the 18-hole Falcon Lake Golf Course, one of the province s best. Drop a fishing line in the hundreds of lakes and rivers. Learn about the natural world at the Alfred Hole Goose Sanctuary and Visitor Centre, Whiteshell Natural History Museum, Whiteshell Fish Hatchery and West Hawk Museum. When you re ready Whiteshell Provincial Park for a challenge, the arduous, 60 km (37.2 mi.) Mantario Hiking Trail will be waiting. Three major canoe routes and over a dozen hiking and biking trails extend through the park. As part of the Trans Canada Trail, the Whiteshell Multi-use Trails offer hikers, runners, cyclists and cross-country skiers routes for exercise and exploration. Eleven campgrounds plus a variety of accommodations, provide facilities for all users. Winter in the Whiteshell is beautiful and thrilling. Cross-country ski and snowmobile trails start from trailheads all over the park. At Falcon Lake, you ll find a biathlon track, skating, tobogganing and downhill skiing areas. Leaving Winnipeg, follow Hwy. #1, 126 km (78.3 mi.) east to Falcon Lake and West Hawk Lake. Additional points of entry to the park include PR 307 at Seven Sisters Falls and Hwy. #44 at Rennie. 27

27 Eastern Region Parks/Campgrounds # of Basic Sites # of Electrical Sites # of Electrical/Water Sites # of Full Service Sites 50 Amp. Electrical Service Available Picnic Shelters Washrooms M-(modern) N-(non-modern) Showers / *Coin-operated Showers Trailer Sanitary Station Recycling Depot Beach Playground Fishing Hiking Trails Cycling Trails Golf Course (within 15 minute drive) Disability Accessible Concession / Store Laundromat Boat / Canoe Rental Boat Launch Group Camping Available Seasonal Camping Available Fall Camping Program Reservations Accepted Nightly Fee Range Nopiming Provincial Park Whiteshell Provincial Park Atikaki Provincial Park Birch Point Provincial Park 26 N $10.50 Manigotagan River Provincial Park Moose Lake Provincial Park N $10.50-$14.70 Beresford Lake 19 N $14.70 Bird Lake 29 N $10.50 Black Lake 52 N $14.70 Tulabi Falls 36 N $10.50 Pinawa Dam Provincial Park N St. Malo Provincial Park M $14.70-$18.90 Whitemouth Falls Provincial Park N Betula Lake 14 N $14.70 Big Whiteshell Lake M $12.60-$17.85 Brereton Lake 21 8 M $12.60-$16.80 Caddy Lake 26 M $12.60 Falcon Beach ** M $14.70-$22.05 Falcon Lakeshore ** M $14.70-$19.95 Nutimik Lake ** M * $12.60-$17.85 Nutimik Lake Yurts 10 M * $51.52 Opapiskaw M * $12.60-$16.80 Otter Falls M * $12.60-$16.80 West Hawk Lake ** M * $12.60-$19.95 White Lake 37 M * $12.60 Visit other Star Attractions in the Eastern Tourism Region by visiting the following websites eastmantourism.ca or travelmanitoba.com **Available on some sites. Campsites have a picnic table and firepit. Drinking water is available. Maximum stay is 21 nights. Yurts and cabins have a maximum stay of 14 nights. Rates and services are subject to change without notice

28 Backcountry Camping and Canoeing Explore the Backcountry by Paddle or Foot... A re you looking for a vigorous backcountry adventure in life s great outdoors? Backcountry hiking, canoeing and camping can be an exciting experience in our many provincial parks. Several provincial parks offer backcountry excursion opportunities including the 60 kilometre Mantario Hiking Trail in Whiteshell Provincial Park and the 35 kilometre canoe route on the Manigotagan River. In addition to long, multi-day hiking and canoeing routes, many provincial parks have shorter, one-to-10 kilometre hiking and self-guiding trails suitable for day hikes. Here are a few simple tips to make your backcountry trip more enjoyable: Prepare and plan. Before leaving on your trip, be sure to draft a trip plan that shows when and where you re going and your expected date of return. Leave this with a responsible person. Divide the equipment between members of your group to share the pack load. Ensure you are familiar with basic survival skills and techniques. Observe weather forecasts. Be prepared for changing weather conditions. Check with the local park office about trail conditions and any information that you may be required to leave with them. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife. While spotting wildlife, such as black bears, can be a highlight of your backcountry trip, it is important to stay safe. Take only pictures, leave only footprints. Please pick up litter to help keep our parks green. Whiteshell Provincial Park 30

29 Northern Region Paint Lake Provincial Park Land of the Northern Lights Pisew Falls Provincial Park Wekusko Falls Provincial Park Northern Manitoba s parks give you convenient access to the wilderness heart of Canada s North. Explore rugged landscapes and clear lakes teeming with trophy-sized fish. Hike or paddle to mighty waterfalls and rapids. Spend sunny days on the beach and at night enjoy the shimmering beauty of the Northern Lights. Listen for wolves while watching for woodland caribou, moose and waterfowl. Visit the museums and historic sites to learn more about the Aboriginal people, fur traders and miners who helped settle this vast frontier. 31