Explore your own backyard with tips from local experts and insiders

As Manitobans have explored close to home over the past 18 months, we’ve rediscovered our own province. From well-known attractions to off-the-beaten-path delights, the abundance of things to see and do provides plenty of room for further exploration. We asked local insiders for their tips to help you uncover Manitoba’s hidden gems.

Jaime Manness – Hike Manitoba

“On the eastern shore of Lake Manitoba, Steep Rock is a true natural wonder. It boasts white pebble beaches, dramatic cliffs and beautiful blue water. The sunsets here are undeniably among the best in the province. Wander the trail along the cliffs or follow the posted map directions to explore trails around the quarry. Be cautious though: There are no emergency services and cell service is limited.”

Christa Bruneau-Guenther – Feast Café Bistro

“I love being in the outdoors and on the land of our great province as much as possible. At Little Limestone Lake, about five hours north of Winnipeg, the water changes different shades of blue throughout the day. The visually stunning backdrop is the perfect spot for a brisk hike, all-season camping and water sports during warmer months. The turquoise water makes you feel like you’re in the Caribbean!”

Carol Cassell – Mapping Winnipeg

“In Winnipeg, the Blue Bomber-themed playground at 401 Linden Ave. features stadium seats and is a great play spot for little fans. Equally awesome is Jumpstart Playground on Poseidon Bay. It’s fully accessible with double-wide ramps and a roller slide that eliminates static electricity, giving children living with cochlear implants a tactile, auditory experience that won’t compromise hearing devices.”

Bartley Kives – A Daytripper’s Guide to Manitoba

“Manitobans who consider Lake Winnipeg a featureless inland sea must visit the stunning archipelago of Kasakeemeemisekak Islands. On the east side of the lake, north of Manigotagan, this tangle of rocky islands sits on the Canadian Shield. Launch your kayak or canoe at Rice River and spend a day flitting between islands, while spying bird species like pelicans, herons, osprey and cormorants, along with playful river otters.”

Jillian Recksiedler – Travel Manitoba

“Sadly, Manitoba has an incredibly short changing-of-the-leaves season, but when it does arrive, there is no better way to view autumn’s vibrant colour palette than by soaring above the spectacular Pembina Valley at HyWire Zipline Adventures. Located about 30 minutes west of Morden, Hywire offers a truly one-of-a-kind, super-exhilarating experience for adventurous folks and families—young and old alike!”