thompson manitoba tourism

• 1.1 Climate
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 3.1 By public transit
• 3.2 By taxi
• 4.1 The Spirit Way Walkway
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 11 Stay healthy

Thompson , a city North of 53 in Manitoba , the largest city in northern Manitoba, and the third largest in the province. With a population of about 13,000 (2016), Thompson is the hub of the north. About 35% of the population is Indigenous.

The modern history of Thompson began in 1956 when a major ore body was discovered. The community was founded in 1957 following an agreement with the Government of Manitoba and Inco Limited. Thompson is a planned community and is named after Inco's chairman, John F. Thompson. The population has been estimated as high as 26,000 residents prior to the recession in the 1970s.

Thompson came to be known as "The Hub of the North", as it functions as a centre for politics and commerce in the region. However a decline in population occurred during the following decades, levelling off around 13,000 people.

Its most prominent local industry is the mining, milling, smelting and refining of nickel. Aside from Vale Ltd., Manitoba Hydro, Calm Air, MTS and the provincial government employ the majority of the people in Thompson.

Thompson is marked by a subarctic climate. Monthly means range from −23.9 °C (−11.0 °F) in January to 16.2 °C (61.2 °F) in July. Though a majority of the annual precipitation of 509 millimetres (20.0 in) falls from June to September, winter is by no means devoid of precipitation. Snow falls mainly from October to May, with generally small accumulation in June and September, totalling 187 centimetres (74 in) per year.

Thompson is 761 km from Winnipeg via Highway 6, 384 km from Flin Flon via Highway 6, 10 and 39. From the Minnesota/Manitoba border via Highway 6, 101 and 75, it's 870 km.

• Mahikan Bus Lines , (bus depot) 936 Sherbrook Street , ☏ +1-204-677-4181 . Operates bus routes in Manitoba . ( updated May 2022 ) Service to Thompson from Winnipeg (9.5 hours away) including a stop in Cedar Grove (4.5 hours away). Operates two days per week. Same day transfer available at Cedar Grove for travel to and from The Pas and Flin Flon . Travel time to Thompson from The Pas is 7.5 hours and from Flin Flon is 9.5 hours.
• Maple Bus Lines , (bus depot) 27-15 Selkirk Ave , ☏ +1-204-289-4154 , toll-free: +1 833 339-4197 . Scheduled service to Thompson from Winnipeg (8.75 hours, operates overnight). ( updated Nov 2019 )
• Thompson Bus , ☏ +1 204 939-3991 . Overnight bus to Winnipeg from Thompson (9.5 hours, $75) and daytime bus from Cross Lake (3 hours, $50). ( updated May 2022 )

By public transit

Thompson's public transit service is provided by Grey Goose Bus Lines ( ☏ +1 204-677-0360 ). There is also one designated handivan, Thompson Handivan Service ( ☏ +1 204-677-3478 ). There are 2 regular routes, Eastwood and Westwood, and an overload bus for before and after school service for R.D. Parker Collegiate. Hours of operation are M-Th 7:30AM-6:10PM, F 7:30AM-9:10PM, Sa 11AM-6:10PM, no Sunday service.

Thompson Transit operates two bus routes, which meet up at the Plaza Mall and Southwood as transfer points.

• The Eastwood route stops at Plaza Shopping Centre ( transfer point ), City Centre Mall, Eastwood School, Princeton Towers, Highland Tower, Thompson General Hospital, Southwood ( transfer point ) and Wal-Mart.
• The Westwood route stops at Plaza Shopping Centre ( transfer point ), Burntwood School, Norplex Pool, Southwood ( transfer point ) and R. D. Parker Collegiate.

Taxi service is provided by: Driftwood-Nickel City ( ☏ +1 204-677-6000 ), North Star Taxi ( ☏ +1 204-778-3333 ), and Thompson Cabs ( ☏ +1 204-677-6262 ).

The Spirit Way Walkway

The Spirit Way Walkway highlights 16 points of interest with historical, cultural, geological, industrial, artistic, and scenic perspectives.

Take a brisk walk downtown past the post office, the liquor mart and the homeless shelter. See some of Manitoba's finest in action.

• Aviation Tribute , Mystery Lake Rd . Tribute to Lambair and Northern Aviation. Rebuilt Norseman float plane on banks of Burntwood River.  
• Bailey Bridge , Behind City Hall . Restored section of World War II bridge designed by Sir Donald Bailey. Point of Interest along Spirit Way walkway.  
• Howling Wolves Rockface . Start of Canada's largest rockface sculpture. A Spirit Way point of interest.  
• Tribute to Commerce . A unique scenic viewpoint separating wilderness and urban life, old fur trade routes, and modern shopping malls. A Spirit Way point of interest.  
• 55.733046 -97.854997 1 Heritage North Museum , Princeton Dr & Mystery Lake Rd , ☏ +1 204-677-2216 . Start of Spirit Way pathway. A beautiful log cabin building housing northern artifacts. A Manitoba Star Attraction.  
• Bateman Mural Viewpoint , 4 Nelson Road . Official viewpoint for largest lighted mural in the world.  
• 55.736709 -97.847704 2 Bateman Wolf Mural , 274 Princeton Drive . Canada's largest photo real mural. Only mural of a Robert Bateman painting. Largest lighted mural in the world. A stunning masterpiece that can be seen a mile away.  
• 55.745445 -97.846034 3 Tribute to Northern Firefighters , 30 Thompson Drive . The most unique statue in North America dedicated to Northern Firefighters. A tribute to municipal firefighters, forest firefighters, water bomber pilots, helitac crews, and mine rescue teams. A Spirit Way Point of Interest.  
• GPS Wolf Hunt , along Spirit Way pathway . 35 wolf statues in Thompson. 7.5 ft (2.3 m) high. 5500 lbs (2500 kg). Painted by northern artists. Part of a GPS Wolf Hunt to track down 49 statues in Churchill, Thompson and Winnipeg. Get your GPS Wolf Hunt Passport to start the Hunt and receive your personalized certificate.  

Thompson has a large retail sector, providing such things as clothing for all ages, a pet store, jewellery stores, travel agencies, vehicle dealerships, and grocery stores.

• 55.74248 -97.856528 1 Northern Inn & Steak House , 104 Hemlock Cres , ☏ +1 204-778-6481 . Su-Tu 7AM-4PM, W-Sa 7AM-9PM . Steakhouse. ( updated Jan 2018 )
• Hub , 111 Churchill Dr , ☏ +1 204-778-5630 . Daily 11AM-10PM . ( updated Jan 2018 )
• 55.742227 -97.84748 2 Santa Maria Pizza & Spaghetti House , 11 Station Rd , ☏ +1 204-778-7331 . 24 hours . Italian restaurant with pizzas, burgers, sandwiches and pasta. Can meet passengers travelling by train at the train station. Deliveries start at 11am. ( updated Sep 2021 )

• 55.746132 -97.857931 1 YWCA of Thompson , 39 Nickel Road , ☏ +1 204-778-6341 , [email protected] . Single shared bath/private bath $64/79; double shared bath/private bath $75/90. Continental breakfast included . ( updated Apr 2017 )
• Super 8 by Wyndham Thompson , 180 Thompson Dr ( from the south: once in Thompson, Highway 6 will become Mystery Lake Rd, continue to the 4th set of traffic lights and take a left onto Thompson Dr N, it is roughly 500 m from the lights; from the airport or the north: go south on Highway 6 into town, Highway 6 will become Mystery Lake Rd. in the town, at the first traffic light you will take a right onto Thompson Drive N, from there it is only about 500 m; from the train station: take Station Rd south, continue until you come to Mystery Lake Rd, which will be the second set of traffic lights, take a right, then a left at the next set of lights onto Thompson Dr N, from there it is only about 500 m ), ☏ +1 204-778-0040 , toll-free: +1-800-454-3213 . Free WiFi, fitness centre. Doubles $96-116 . ( updated Apr 2017 )
• 55.745359 -97.854745 2 Thompson's Best Value Inn & Suites ( Lakeview Inns & Suites ), 70 Thompson Dr , ☏ +1 204-778-8879 , toll-free: +1 877-355-3500 . Check-in: 3PM , check-out: noon . In the downtown business district. Free deluxe continental breakfast, free high-speed internet, free DVD movies, fitness centre. Wheelchair accessible rooms. Doubles $115 . ( updated Apr 2017 )

The local newspaper, the Thompson Citizen , is published on Wednesdays. A free newspaper, the Nickel Belt News , is distributed on Fridays.

Stay healthy

55.735449 -97.856721 1 Thompson General Hospital is in the southern part of the city.

• Kwasitchewan Falls
• Continue by train or car east to Gillam

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There's a lot of great parks, trails, courts and more around Thompson. Check them out below!

Parks and Trails: Our recreational green spaces.

Sports and Courts: Grassed and paved courts and fields specifically for sports.

Arenas and Skating: Information about C.A. Nesbitt and Gordon Beard Arena programs, and our outdoor skating rinks.

Thompson Regional Community Centre: Information about Thompson's largest indoor recreation facility.

Local/Regional Attractions: Prominent recreational attractions, operated independently or at arms-length from the City of Thompson.

Your Opinion Matters. Tell us what you think !

Current Fire Rating: Low

Fires may start easily and spread quickly but there will be minimal involvement of deeper fuel layers or larger fuels.

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Registration, search and i like to..., garbage & recycling day 2.

Friday, June 14 is garbage and recycling Day 2 in the Burntwood area.

25 Best Places And Things To Do in Thompson, Canada

Thompson, Canada, located in the province of Manitoba, is a picturesque destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Surrounded by stunning wilderness and boasting a rich cultural heritage, Thompson provides visitors with a range of activities and attractions. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Thompson, Canada:

1. Mystery Mountain Winter Park

Image Source: https://thompsononline.ca/the-thompson-local-news/169184

If you’re visiting during the winter months, Mystery Mountain Winter Park is a must-visit destination. This ski resort offers a variety of winter sports activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, there are slopes and trails suitable for all skill levels. The park also provides equipment rentals and lessons for those looking to learn or improve their skills.

2. Heritage North Museum

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g154953-d877696-Reviews-Heritage_North_Museum-Thompson_Manitoba.html

Learn about Thompson’s history and cultural heritage at the Heritage North Museum. This museum showcases exhibits that delve into the region’s Indigenous heritage, fur trade history, and mining industry. Explore displays of artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits that provide insight into the area’s past and the lives of the people who called it home.

3. Paint Lake Provincial Park

Image Source: https://www.travelmanitoba.com/directory/paint-lake-provincial-park/

Located a short drive from Thompson, Paint Lake Provincial Park is a pristine outdoor paradise. The park encompasses the beautiful Paint Lake, which offers excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. Hike along the park’s trails, enjoy a picnic by the lakeshore, or simply relax and soak in the natural surroundings.

4. Spirit Way

Image Source: https://www.travelmanitoba.com/directory/thompson-spirit-way/

Spirit Way Thompson is a captivating outdoor art exhibit in Thompson, Manitoba. Stretching over two kilometers, it features stunning statues of wildlife and indigenous culture, showcasing the region’s rich history and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the trail, admire the intricate sculptures, and immerse themselves in the spirit of Thompson’s vibrant community.

5. Boreal Discovery Centre

Image Source: https://www.thompsoncitizen.net/local-news/boreal-discovery-centre-organizing-family-feud-and-farmers-market-in-september-4293790

Visit the Boreal Discovery Centre, an interactive interpretive center dedicated to the boreal forest ecosystem. Learn about the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the region through interactive exhibits and educational programs. The center offers guided nature walks and bird-watching opportunities to experience the wilderness up close.

6. Thompson Zoo

Image Source: https://www.thompsoncitizen.net/local-news/city-hopes-to-see-more-than-just-new-wolf-enclosures-at-thompson-zoo-4281415

For animal lovers, a visit to the Thompson Zoo is a must. This small, community-run zoo provides a home for various northern Canadian species, including black bears, wolves, lynx, and muskoxen. It’s a great place to observe and learn about these animals while supporting conservation efforts.

7. Burntwood River

Image Source: https://www.thompsoncitizen.net/archive/burntwood-river-4275741

Enjoy a peaceful canoe trip or fishing excursion along the scenic Burntwood River. The river winds its way through the Thompson area, offering breathtaking views and a chance to spot wildlife such as moose, beavers, and bald eagles. There are outfitters in the area that can assist with canoe rentals and provide guidance on the best routes.

8. Thompson Golf Club

Image Source: https://www.thompsongolfgroup.com/about/portfolio

Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the Thompson Golf Club, a beautiful 18-hole golf course nestled amidst picturesque surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, this well-maintained course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience. Enjoy a round of golf, take in the scenic views, and embrace the tranquility of the surroundings.

9. Thompson Farmer’s Market

Image Source: https://williamsonsource.com/thompsons-station-farmers-market-returns-homestead-manor/

If you happen to be in Thompson on a weekend during the summer months, make sure to visit the Thompson Farmer’s Market. Here, you’ll find a vibrant array of fresh produce, local crafts, baked goods, and more. It’s an excellent opportunity to support local artisans and farmers while sampling delicious treats and experiencing the community spirit.

10. Tobogganing

Image Source: https://globalnews.ca/news/1766844/winnipeg-will-not-ban-tobogganing/

Tobogganing in Thompson offers exhilarating winter fun for visitors of all ages. With its snowy landscapes and well-maintained hills, Thompson provides the perfect backdrop for thrilling toboggan rides. Whether you’re zooming down the slopes solo or enjoying a group adventure, tobogganing in Thompson is a fantastic way to embrace the winter season and create lasting memories. Bundle up, grab your sled, and get ready for a thrilling descent down the snowy hills of Thompson.

11. Aurora Borealis Viewing

Image Source: https://rove.me/to/manitoba/northern-lights

Thompson is located within the Aurora Belt, making it an ideal location for witnessing the captivating Northern Lights. During the winter months, the clear night skies offer a prime opportunity to witness the dancing colors of the auroras. Join a guided tour or venture out to nearby dark sky areas for an awe-inspiring display of nature’s beauty.

12. Cross-Country Snowmobiling

Image Source: https://www.travelmanitoba.com/manitoba-north/things-to-do/snowmobiling/thompson/

Embrace the winter wonderland of Thompson by engaging in cross-country skiing or snowmobiling. The region offers well-groomed trails that cater to both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. Glide through the snowy landscapes, surrounded by serene forests and breathtaking views.

13. Wildlife Viewing

Image Source: https://www.travelmanitoba.com/manitoba-north/things-to-do/wildlife-viewing/

The region surrounding Thompson is teeming with wildlife, providing ample opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts. Join a guided tour or venture out on your own to spot majestic creatures such as moose, black bears, wolves, and various bird species. Capture memorable moments as you observe these animals in their natural habitats.

14. Thompson Community Centre

Image Source: https://www.richmond-news.com/in-the-community/thompson-community-centre-gym-gets-a-facelift-3094970

If you’re seeking indoor activities, visit the Thompson Community Centre. This multi-purpose facility features an ice rink, gymnasium, and fitness center. Enjoy ice skating, join a fitness class, or participate in a friendly game of basketball or volleyball. The community center offers a range of programs and activities for people of all ages and interests.

15. Dog Sledding

Image Source: https://www.nathab.com/blog/ethical-dog-sledding-arctic/

Experience the thrill of dog sledding in the pristine winter landscapes surrounding Thompson. Join a guided dog sledding tour and learn to mush a team of energetic huskies through the snow-covered trails. It’s an exhilarating adventure that allows you to appreciate the bond between humans and these incredible sled dogs.

16. Ice Fishing

Image Source: https://www.travelmanitoba.com/manitoba-north/things-to-do/ice-fishing/

During the winter months, many lakes in the Thompson area freeze over, providing a perfect opportunity for ice fishing. Join a guided tour or venture out on your own to drill a hole in the ice and drop a line. Experience the thrill of catching fish such as northern pike, walleye, or perch while surrounded by the serene winter landscapes.

17. Cross-Country Mountain Biking

Image Source: https://cyclingmagazine.ca/mtb/2019-provincial-cross-country-and-marathon-calendar/

If you’re an avid mountain biker, Thompson provides excellent trails for cross-country biking. Explore the rugged terrains, challenge yourself on the singletracks, and take in the scenic views as you navigate through the wilderness. Rent a bike from a local outfitter and embark on an adventurous cycling journey.

18. Horseback Riding

Image Source: https://backcountrycanadatravel.com/best-horseback-adventures/

Explore the wilderness surrounding Thompson on horseback. Join a guided horseback riding tour and meander through scenic trails, forests, and open fields. This immersive experience allows you to connect with nature, enjoy the company of gentle horses, and admire the beauty of Thompson’s landscapes from a unique perspective.

19. Mystery Lake

Image Source: https://alchetron.com/Mystery-Lake,-Manitoba

Mystery Lake, nestled in Thompson, Manitoba, is a picturesque destination that captivates visitors with its natural beauty. The tranquil waters of the lake provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and peaceful walks along its shores. Surrounded by scenic trails and abundant wildlife, Mystery Lake offers a serene escape where visitors can immerse themselves in nature’s wonders and create lasting memories.

20. Enjoy Snowman-Building Competition

Image Source: https://www.briellenj.gov/parks-recreation/slideshows/2021-snowman-contest

The Snowman-Building Competition is a delightful winter event that brings joy and creativity to visitors. Held in Thompson, Manitoba, participants showcase their artistic skills by crafting unique and imaginative snow sculptures. From towering snowmen to whimsical creations, the competition fosters a festive atmosphere and friendly competition, inviting visitors to embrace the winter wonderland and join in the fun-filled celebration of winter’s magic.

21. All Terrain Bear Hunts

Image Source: https://canadaintherough.com/outfitter/all-terrain-bear-hunts/

All Terrain Bear Hunts offer an exhilarating and unforgettable experience for visitors seeking adventure in the wild. Located in Thompson, Manitoba, these hunts provide the opportunity to track and hunt bears in diverse terrains, including forests, mountains, and open fields. Guided by experienced professionals, participants can immerse themselves in the thrill of the chase while appreciating the natural beauty of the area.

22. The Miner Monument

Image Source: https://www.northpine.com/blog/2021/04/27/last-broadcast-tv-signal-in-thompson-manitoba-goes-off-air/

The Miner Monument in Thompson, Manitoba, stands as a tribute to the city’s rich mining heritage. The monument honors the contributions of the mining industry and the dedicated miners who played a vital role in shaping the community. With its striking design and symbolism, the Miner Monument serves as a reminder of Thompson’s history and the resilience of its hardworking mining community. Visitors can admire the monument, reflect on its significance, and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s mining legacy.

23. Thompson lake

Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thompson_Lake_(Manitoba)

Thompson Lake, located near Thompson, Manitoba, is a serene and picturesque destination for visitors seeking natural beauty. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, the lake offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying peaceful moments in nature. With its clear waters and scenic vistas, Thompson Lake provides a tranquil escape where visitors can unwind, immerse themselves in outdoor activities, and appreciate the serene charm of this idyllic setting.

24. Thompson City Hall

Image Source: https://www.thompsoncitizen.net/local-news/arena-concession-operator-signs-four-year-lease-with-the-city-6492377

Thompson City Hall serves as the administrative hub of the city, welcoming visitors with its central location. This civic center houses various municipal offices and departments, offering services and information to residents and visitors alike. With its accessible and helpful staff, Thompson City Hall provides a welcoming environment where visitors can seek assistance, engage with local government, and gain insights into the community’s governance and services.

25. Highland Tower

Image Source: https://www.thompsoncitizen.net/local-news/no-smoking-weed-inside-these-thompson-apartments-after-legalization-say-owners-and-managers-4290743

Highland Tower is an iconic landmark in Thompson, Manitoba, offering visitors panoramic views and a unique perspective of the city. Standing tall, this tower provides a vantage point to admire the surrounding landscape and enjoy breathtaking sunsets. With its observation deck, visitors can experience a memorable and elevated sightseeing experience, capturing the beauty of Thompson from above.

Places and Things To Do

Explore more places and things to do:

Visit Manitoba's Thompson: The 'Hub Of The North'

Thompson is the end of the road for those traveling to the vast boreal forests of Manitoba and is the gateway to the north.

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Thompson - the "hub of the north", attractions & what to do inside thompson, attractions & provincial parks outside of thompson.

Even though Canada is the second-largest country in the world, the vast majority of Canadians live within 100 miles of the USA border. Most of the country just isn't hospitable and is mostly uninhabited. Venture into the northern reaches of the vast Canadian provinces, and one will find very few urban areas. But these regions are stunning wilderness zones and paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Thompson is the largest town in the Northern Region of Manitoba and is called the "Hub of the North." Manitoba is not always high on people's bucket lists of places to visit, but attractions include the 'other' Great Lake of Lake Winnipeg . Additionally, Manitoba is famous for being one of the best places in the world to go on a polar bear tour (and perhaps even see the young cubs).

Thompson is a young city, having been founded in 1956 as a mining tour. It is located 761 kilometers or 473 miles north of the main provincial city of Winnipeg. It is now the "Hub of the North," servicing the surrounding communities. Many of the small communities in the vast region are only accessible by air or by winter roads.

• Founded: 1956
• Population: 13,700
• Location: 761 Kilometers Or 473 Miles North Of Winnipeg

It is located in the heart of the vast Canadian boreal forest and is connected to the rest of Canada by a paved highway as well as by the Thompson Airport and a railway. It is also a gateway to the far-flung community of Churchill on the shores of Hudson Bay. The road does not continue on to Churchill, but the railroad does. Churchill is a place where people and polar bears live side by side .

In the 1950s and 1960s, Thompson boomed as a mining town. Large nickel deposits were found in the area, and in 1961, it opened the first integrated nickel mining-smelter-refining plant in the Western Hemisphere. It has the second-largest nickel-producing operation in the world.

Thompson had been planned to have a population of 8,000, but by 1971, it had boomed to 19,000 residents (although it may have peaked at 26,000). The town was a later boom-bust story - although mining operations continue today.

Related: You Can Travel Through The Northwest Passage With This Tour

Spirit Way:

One of the attractions in the town is the Spirit Way in downtown. It is a 2-kilometer or 1.25-mile long walking and biking pathway that leads to 16 points of interest that explore the art, heritage, culture, geology, scenery, and industry of Thompson. It also has 56 painted wolf statues.

Heritage North Museum:

Another attraction is the Heritage North Museum . It introduces visitors to the Aboriginal peoples of Northern Manitoba as well as the natural history of the fur trade and mining in the area. Learn about native animals and fossils. See a Boreal forest diorama and wooly mammoth tusks. The museum is made up of two log structures, an open-air blacksmith shop, Institutional Archives, and a visitor information booth.

Millennium Trail:

The Millennium Trails is a 15-kilometer or 9.3-mile-long hiking and biking loop around the city. Parts of the crushed rock trail pass through boreal forest and is open year-round. In the winter, it is used for cross-country skiing.

Related: Visiting Nordkapp: The Frozen Northernmost Point Of Norway Deep In The Arctic

Thompson is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It is the end of the highway and more or less the farthest one can drive into the northern Manitoba wilderness (although it is possible to drive the Dempster Highway all the way to the Canadian Arctic in the Yukon and Northwest Territories).

It boasts hundreds of kilometers of snowmobile trails (there's a lot of snow in these northern climes). There are a few provincial parks in the area, like the Paint Lake Provincial park, Sasagiu Rapids Provincial Park, and the Pisew Falls Provincial Park. Pisew Falls are viewable with a short 0.5-kilometer trail to a platform. Another waterfall in the area, the Kwasitchewan Falls, is the highest waterfall in Manitoba.

Pisew Falls:

• Height: 13 Meters or 43 Feet
• Season: Year Round

In the summer, visitors can explore the boreal forests by camping, staying in rustic cabins, kayaking, and hiking.

Lucky visitors can also watch the northern lights from Thompson (or at least out of the town, away from the light pollution). Winter activities include snowmobiling, ice skating, tobogganing, and ice fishing.

The best way to visit the Canadian High Arctic is with an expedition cruise .

Travel Tips & Stories from British Columbia and Beyond

Top 5 Things to do in Thompson, Manitoba

Northern Manitoba may be scenically spectacular, but what I also discovered is that the people of Thompson are truly remarkable. When I briefly visited late July, they embraced me with open arms like a long lost friend and invited me along on a wonderfully thoughtful tour, sharing with me their love and passion for the city they’re proud to call home. I was truly taken aback by their generosity and kindness. It’s a shame that Thompson is so often undermined as a tourist attraction, but believe me, it’s far beyond a mining town. I learned that there’s a lot going on for Thompson if you’re willing to give it a chance.

So with that in mind, here are my top five things to do, based on my personal experiences this summer in what’s one of Manitoba’s most underrated destinations.

1. The Heritage North Museum

When you’re first learning about the destination you’re visiting, I always like to start at the very beginning with its history. I instantly fell in love with the Heritage North Museum as soon as I stepped through the doors. Incorporated in 1990, the Heritage North Museum tells the story of Thompson’s natural history, its indigenous Cree culture, as well as how the City of Thompson came to be .  I didn’t fully appreciate, for example, that nickel was discovered in the area as recently as 1956, and because of that, Thompson was purposely built as a community for INCO, the local nickel mine. The museum is very much about the people who shaped Thompson as it is about its environment. It’s packed with fascinating exhibits and is displayed in a thoughtful manner.

My museum interpreter, Doreen, was a treasure trove of factual information and anecdotes. Of course, naturally, she’s a retired school teacher who used to teach in Thompson, with some of her own students’ school work now a part of the exhibits. Also be sure to check out the gift shop as they sell a lot of beautiful local artwork.

2. Spirit Way

Spirit Way is quite possibly the best way to experience Thompson while on foot. Consisting of a 2.5km self-guided walking and biking trail, Spirit Trail takes you from the North Heritage Museum and leads you to 16 points of interest along to way, ending up at the Miles Hart Bridge. To walk along and experience the entirety of Spirit Way normally takes 2-3 hours.

While I only visited several of points of interest, all of them offer either a scenic viewpoint or a cultural point of interest, such as a statue, a memorial, or a piece of artwork. All of them have in-depth information, offering various perspectives on the point of interest. I found it a fun and immersive way of getting to know Thompson while enjoying the fresh air and the natural surroundings. Some of my most memorable stops along the way include the Robert Bateman wolf mural viewpoint (which is the largest photo-real mural in Canada!), the stroll though the Boreal forest, and the monument to Northern Firefighters and rescue personnel.

I should also mention that I truly lucked out during my visit because I got a tour from local ambassador Volker Beckmann, whose charisma and passion for Thompson is infectious. His stories about how Thompson secured the Wolf Mural is amazing, and he really brought to life every stop of Spirit Way. Although there are currently no organized tours (yet), there’s plenty of information at each stop, although you can can always purchase an Official Spirit Way Guide Book to provide you with even more.

3. Wolves Along the Way

There are 49 whimsical concrete wolf statues in Winnipeg, Churchill, and Thompson, and 35 of them are located in Thompson alone! Most, if not all of them, are located along the Spirit Way, hence “ Wolves Along The Way “. What’s really cool is that if you’re into geocaching or if you have a GPS, you can follow along on a “GPS wolf hunt” with the goal of tracking down the mystery title of each. All you have to do is buy a GPS Wolf Passport and then find the titles of all 49 wolf statues to become the GPS Wolf Tracker Master! For people visiting all three cities, this is a must!

Each wolf statue has its own story and is sponsored, and then painted by an artist. Often there’s a story behind the painting. For example, one of the wolves at the Heritage North Museum was painted with a floral motif. It was pretty, but didn’t stand out in my mind, until I discovered that the wolf was sponsored by an elderly man who used to volunteer at the museum. His wife used to grow beautiful flower gardens, and when she died, he sponsored a wolf in her memory, and planted flowers around the wolf in her honour. Now that he has died, the staff at the museum tend to his flowers in both their memories.

Coincidentally, local painter Jasyn Lucas was just so happened to be touching up the paint on his wolf when I visited. Jasyn’s an extremely talented local painter whose canvas painting of the Northern Lights was given to me as a gift by the staff at Tourism North earlier in the morning. His artwork’s also for sale at the museum.

4. Pisew Falls

When I first laid eyes on Pisew Falls, I thought I had transported myself to the Rockies. Located an hour’s drive south of Thompson, the waterfall was roaring and was unlike anything I had ever expected to see in Manitoba. Surrounded by lush forest, the greenery was also an unexpected treat. Although many come here for elaborate hikes, you can take the boardwalk trail to the front of the falls to admire their beauty. There’s also a short trail that takes you over a suspension bridge to a lookout point behind the falls. This is an absolute must for nature lovers.

5. Paint Lake Provincial Park

Located a 35 minute drive south of Thompson is Paint Lake Provincial Park . Though my time there was fleeting, I got to experience Paint Lake for about an hour via Sea-doo – my first time sea-dooing. Apparently I only saw a small part of the lake during my hour – it’s that  big.

It was Marion Morberg, the President of Spirit Way Inc. who invited me into her home and took me out on this exhilarating journey. She first gave me a second pair of pants, a toque, a waterproof jacket, and gloves to wear. It felt ridiculous, but out on the water, it made sense. At times we were flying 50 miles an hour over the vast lake… it’s like riding a motorcycle, but on water! We braved a downpour for part of our journey, but part way through the sun came out, and with it rainbows. All the while, there were eagles and waterfowl and the magnificence of nature all around us. I can only imagine what it could be like to go camping here!

I might have only spent one night in Thompson, but the people and the place left a mark on me. A visit to Thompson will change the way you perceive the north, and may expand your preconceived notions of Manitoba as a province. I know it had that effect on me.

A big thank you to Volker, Marion, Colleen, Tanna, Doreen, and everyone whom I met during my time in Thompson. My Jasyn Lucas painting is a constant reminder of my wonderful day exploring Thompson with all of you. 

You might also enjoy:

The 50th Annual Manitoba Stampede

Visiting the Royal Canadian Mint

Riding, Relaxation & Culinary Delights at the Elkhorn Resort

The Newly Renovated Rijksmuseum

It was a pleasure to meet Robyn. All volunteers at Spirit Way Inc try to reflect our love of living in the North. There are so many fascinating things to see and experience if the traveler takes the time. We pride ourselves that this is not “canned” tourism. It’s real life in an urban centre surrounded by rugged, beautiful wilderness and friendly residents.

It was a pleasure showcasing just a few of the sights Thompson has to offer. Remember to take your children, grandbabies, & guests out for a walk or drive so they too can appreciate our great city and features of the forest…

born and raised in Thompson. Will always be my home no matter where I find myself living.

This was/is a wonderful complement to Thompson. I spent 10 years in Thompson back in the 70’s and remember it fondly. I was fortunate to visit Thompson back in June/2013 but did not do some of the top 5 things Robyn did but will definitely consider them on my next trip!!

Handy tips!! I will be going to Thompson next month and got about nine to ten hours to kill between arriving on the Greyhound and the departure of the train. I won’t have a car so the falls and jetskis can’t be reached, but I’ll make sure to do the Spirit Way and visit the museum.

Hope you enjoyed the Netherlands (where I’m from, ha)!

Pisew Falls, is excellent, along with every thing else. I miss Thompson, worked at INCO for just over thirty years. Thompson was excellent to me.

While in Thompson, I have been out at Pisew Falls, snapped a photo, had it enlarged, and it is hanging in my family room here at my home, in Winnipeg.

Once again all extremely well done.

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Exploring Manitoba’s Attractions, Wildlife, Transportation, and Sports

Manitoba is a unique travel destination known for its diverse attractions, abundant wildlife, reliable transportation, and exciting sports and entertainment options. In this article, we will explore some of the best places to visit, wildlife to see, transportation options, and sports and entertainment activities in Manitoba.

Manitoba is a prairie province located in the heart of Canada. It is known for its natural beauty, friendly people, and vibrant culture. Moreover, exploring Manitoba’s natural wonders and cultural sites is a popular pastime amidst its diverse offerings. However, for those seeking an alternative avenue of entertainment , online gambling presents an intriguing option. As Manitoba embraces its rich tapestry of leisure activities, delving into online gambling can add an exciting dimension to one’s recreational pursuits.

With so much to see and do, it’s important to have a good understanding of the attractions, wildlife, transportation, and sports options available in the area.

Places and Attractions in Manitoba

Manitoba is home to many beautiful parks, waterfalls, and other natural wonders , as well as a variety of cultural and historical sites. Here are some of the top places and attractions to check out during your visit:

Maclean Park

Maclean Park is a popular recreational area in Thompson, Manitoba. It features playgrounds, picnic areas, walking trails, and scenic views of the Burntwood River. The park is named after James Maclean, a former Mayor of Thompson who played a key role in developing the area.

Waterfalls in Manitoba

Manitoba is home to many beautiful waterfalls, including Pisew Falls, Kwasitchewan Falls, and Rainbow Falls. These natural wonders are great for hiking, picnicking, and taking stunning photos.

Thompson List

The Thompson List is a comprehensive guide to things to do and see in Thompson, Manitoba. It includes information on local attractions, shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Boreal Address

Boreal Address is an eco-tourism destination located in Manitoba’s boreal forest. It offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and diversity of the region’s wildlife and natural landscapes.

Northern Inn Thompson

Northern Inn Thompson is a top-rated hotel in Thompson, Manitoba. It offers comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and a convenient location near local attractions and restaurants.

Liquor Mart Thompson

Liquor Mart Thompson is a popular destination for wine, beer, and spirits in Thompson, Manitoba. It offers a wide selection of products at competitive prices.

International Wolf Center

The International Wolf Center is an educational and research center dedicated to wolves. It offers visitors a chance to learn about these magnificent creatures and their importance to the ecosystem.

Thompson Capital

Thompson is the largest city in northern Manitoba and serves as the regional hub for transportation, healthcare, and education. It has a rich history and culture, with many local festivals, museums, and landmarks.

Manitoba Tourist Attractions

Manitoba is home to many must-see places, including the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Assiniboine Park Zoo, and the Manitoba Legislative Building. These attractions offer visitors a chance to learn about the province’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

Brandon Manitoba Points of Interest

Brandon is a city located in southwestern Manitoba. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful parks, and vibrant downtown area. Some of its top attractions include the Brandon University Art Gallery, the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum, and the Riverbank Discovery Centre.

Tundra Buggy Tours

Tundra Buggy Tours offers visitors a unique way to experience Manitoba’s wildlife and landscapes. The company offers a range of tours and packages that allow you to see polar bears, beluga whales , and other wildlife up close.

Thompson Manitoba Newspaper

The Thompson Citizen is a local newspaper that provides news and information about the community of Thompson, Manitoba. It covers a range of topics, including local events, politics, and sports.

Wildlife in Manitoba

Manitoba is home to many different species of wildlife, from large predators like wolves to small mammals like squirrels and rabbits. Here are some of the top wildlife-related topics to explore during your visit:

Wolf Research

Manitoba is home to a thriving population of wolves. Ongoing research projects are aimed at understanding these animals’ behavior and ecology, with the goal of promoting their conservation and management.

Brown Female Wolf

The brown female wolf is a subspecies of the gray wolf that is found in Manitoba. It is known for its brown or reddish-brown coat and can be found in the boreal forests and tundra regions of the province.

Manitoba Wolf

The Manitoba wolf is a subspecies of the gray wolf that is found in Manitoba and other parts of North America. It is known for its large size and powerful build, and it plays an important role in the ecosystem as a top predator.

Wolves Co Uk

Wolves Co Uk is a UK-based wolf conservation organization that is dedicated to protecting and preserving wolf populations around the world. The organization provides educational resources and supports research projects aimed at understanding and conserving wolves and their habitats.

What Does a Black Wolf Look Like

Black wolves are a subspecies of the gray wolf that have a black coat. They are relatively rare in Manitoba and are most commonly found in forested areas.

Wolf’s Paw

Wolf’s Paw is a wolf sanctuary located in Manitoba. It is dedicated to providing a safe and natural environment for wolves and educating the public about these animals and their importance to the ecosystem.

Transportation in Manitoba

Whether you’re traveling within the city or exploring the countryside, Manitoba has plenty of transportation options to choose from. Here are a few of the top choices:

Grey Goose Bus Lines

Grey Goose Bus Lines is a reliable and affordable transportation option in Manitoba. The company offers routes throughout the province and provides comfortable and safe travel for passengers.

Grey Goose Bus Winnipeg

The Grey Goose Bus Winnipeg terminal is located in the heart of the city and offers convenient schedules and routes to destinations throughout Manitoba.

Thompson, Manitoba

Thompson, Manitoba is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. In this section, you will find some of the top things to see and do in Thompson.

Thompson in the Park

Thompson in the Park is a popular recreational area in Thompson, Manitoba. It features playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails and is a great place to enjoy the outdoors.

Northern Art

Thompson has a thriving art scene, with many local artists and galleries showcasing a variety of styles and mediums. Northern Art is a local gallery that features works by both established and up-and-coming artists.

Lakeview Hotel Thompson

Lakeview Hotel Thompson is a comfortable and convenient hotel in Thompson, Manitoba. It offers modern amenities, a fitness center, and a restaurant and bar.

Thompson Talk

Thompson Talk is a local news and events website that provides up-to-date information on the community of Thompson, Manitoba. It covers a range of topics, including local news, sports, and entertainment.

Sports and Entertainment

From hockey to geocaching, there are plenty of exciting activities to enjoy in Manitoba. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top sports and entertainment options available in the province.

The NHL is a popular professional hockey league in North America. Each team has a unique name and history, and these names often reflect the team’s location or cultural heritage.

NHL Teams Names

There are 32 teams in the NHL, each with its own unique name and history. Some of the most popular teams include the Montreal Canadiens, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the Winnipeg Jets.

Mysterynet MB CA

Mysterynet MB CA is a website dedicated to mystery-themed entertainment in Manitoba. It features puzzles, games, and interactive experiences for visitors to enjoy.

Mun Workshop

The Model United Nations Workshop is an educational program that teaches students about global issues and diplomacy. The program is offered in Manitoba and provides students with the opportunity to develop their critical thinking and communication skills.

Geocaching Winnipeg

Geocaching is a popular outdoor activity that involves using GPS coordinates to find hidden caches. Winnipeg has many great geocaching spots, including parks, nature reserves, and historical landmarks.

I Did It All

I Did It All is an adventure sports company in Manitoba that offers a range of exciting activities, including bungee jumping, skydiving, and ziplining.

Spirit is an outdoor adventure company in Manitoba that offers a variety of experiences, including canoeing, kayaking, and hiking. The company is dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship and responsible tourism.

Dr. Guindi Winnipeg

Dr. Guindi is a sports medicine specialist in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He provides expert care to athletes and active individuals, helping them to recover from injuries and improve their performance.

Final Words

Manitoba is a diverse and exciting travel destination with something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring natural attractions, learning about wildlife, or enjoying sports and entertainment activities, there are plenty of options to choose from. By knowing more about the places to visit, wildlife to see, transportation options, and sports and entertainment activities available in Manitoba, you can make the most of your trip and have a memorable experience.

• Central Plains
• Eastern Manitoba
• Interlake Region
• North Manitoba
• Parkland Region
• Pembina Valley
• Western Manitoba
• Things To Do
• Places To Stay
• Parks-Places

Thompson, Manitoba, Canada Travel

Manitoba travel & adventure guide, on the banks of the burntwood river.

Thompson, Manitoba, Canada is situated on the banks of the Burntwood River, surrounded by boreal forests and thousands of wilderness lakes. Thompson is a commercial hub and a transportation, retail and industrial centre servicing the northern communities of Manitoba, Canada, also known as the Grass River Corridor.

Activities, Adventures, Attractions, Things To Do in Thompson, Manitoba

Attractions, adventures and activities most enjoyed in and around Thompson and the surrounding areas include golfing, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, swimming, canoeing, hunting, boating, water skiing, camping, picnicking, flightseeing, birdwatching, xc skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, snowboarding and fishing (including ice fishing) for northern pike, lake trout, walleye and perch.

Parks, Trails, & Places to Explore in Thompson, MB, Canada

A few of the more popular activity and sightseeing destinations located in and around Thompson Manitoba includes the Mystery Mountain Winter Park, Millennium Trail, Spirit Way Pathway, Pisew Falls Provincial Park, Paint Lake Provincial Park ,  Wapusk National Park and MacLean Park.

Thompson, Manitoba Accommodations, Services and Amenities

Places to stay, services and amenities important to travelers in and around Thompson Manitoba includes accommodations (fishing lodges, hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, vacation homes, cottages, inns, hostels, outfitter camps), campgrounds, tours, guides, outfitters, big box stores, restaurants, laundromat, coffee shops, grocery stores, pubs, liquor store, banks, gas station, gift stores, and internet services.

Thompson, MB Natural Attractions, Art, Historical Sites, & Culture

The most visited natural sightseeing attractions, historical sites and cultural venues in and around Thompson Manitoba includes the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), Heritage North Museum, Boreal Discovery Center, King Miner Statue, Spirit Way Wolves and the Wolf Mural.

Transportation Services and How to Get to Thompson Manitoba

Transportation services getting to and from and around Thompson, Manitoba include taxi, bus, rail, floatplane, airplane charters, and the Thompson Airport.

Come Explore Vacations in Thompson , Manitoba, Canada

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• Communities
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• Restaurants

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9 of the Best Manitoba Road Trips You Need to Take! (for 2024)

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Compiled by the Road Trip Manitoba team

Last updated on January 18, 2024

If you’re looking to see more of Manitoba, Canada, a road trip is the best way to do so. We didn’t name our site “Road Trip Manitoba” for nothing… road trips are our favourite way to travel! Whether you’re after a scenic drive along one of our magnificent lakes, a short but beautiful drive just outside of Winnipeg, or an epic northern road trip across Manitoba, we’ve got you covered.

Get ready, because you’re likely to see forests, lakes, waterfalls, wildlife, roadside attractions, and much more on your Manitoba road trip adventure.

And let’s face it: there is nothing more freeing and more exhilarating than driving along a beautiful highway, the wind from the open window through your hair, your favourite playlist on the radio. Sometimes, we forget just how gorgeous this incredible province truly is, and that’s why heading out on a road trip always reminds us how many things there are to do in Manitoba . For first-time visitors, we promise there’s a lot more to Manitoba than you might think.

Read on for our favourite Manitoba road trips, as well as a few general tips about driving in the province.

Land Acknowledgments

Manitoba is made up of Treaty 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 Territory, as well as communities that are signatories to Treaty 6 and Treaty 10. Manitoba is home to the original lands of the Anishinaabe, Anish-Ininiwak, Dakota, Dene, Ininiwak, and Nehethowuk peoples, as well as the homeland of the Métis peoples.

The Most Scenic Manitoba Road Trips

We couldn’t possibly fit every single one of our fave Manitoba road trips into one article, but we sure did try our best! Here are a few of our favourite scenic drives in Manitoba.

Riding Mountain National Park

Riding Mountain National Park definitely deserves its spot on this list, and it’s one of those Manitoba road trips that is stunning no matter what time of year you visit. In fact, winter is actually our favourite time to travel to Riding Mountain National Park!

Where to start/end

Neepawa to Dauphin, driving through Riding Mountain National Park.

If you took Highway 10 straight through Riding Mountain National Park from Neepawa to Dauphin without stopping, the 148-kilometre route should only take you about an hour and a half. However, we highly recommend staying for at least two nights in Riding Mountain National Park. This way you can experience the beauty and wonder of the area.

We’re including both Neepawa and Dauphin as part of this journey, as there’s a lot to see and do in each. But sandwiched between the two is stunning Riding Mountain National Park, one of Manitoba’s ultimate gems. In summer, take advantage of beautiful Clear Lake for swimming and canoeing; for winter, ice skate on the lakes skating trails, rent a fat tire bike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski in the park. During any season, the park is filled with incredible hiking and walking trails through the vast forest. These hikes range from the beginner level to the more advanced, and are some of the best hiking trails in Manitoba.

Also make sure to explore the town of Wasagaming, where you’ll find plenty of cool shops, restaurants, and places to stay.

Please note that your time in the park is not covered by the provincial parks permit, as you’re in a national park. You’ll need to purchase a daily pass for every day that you’re in the park (although the fee isn’t necessary if you’re simply passing through). You might want to consider an annual pass or a Parks Canada Discovery Pass , which covers all national parks in Canada for one year. More information about the fees for visiting Riding Mountain National Park can be found here .

Road Trip Highlights

• Take a tour of the Farmery Brewery in Neepawa.
• Visit the Margaret Laurence home in Neepawa to learn about the Canadian literary legend.
• Visit Deep Bay in Riding Mountain National Park and find out why it gets its name.
• Hike Bald Hill, one of the more challenging hikes in the province, for an unbelievable view.
• Walk either the short or the long loop of the Brûlé Trail; it’s perfect for families. The Kinosao Trail is another great option for a short and manageable hike.
• Check local Northern Lights forecasts for a chance to see the dancing lights in the sky; Clear Lake Boat Cove is a popular spot to watch them. (Check out our article full of tips for viewing northern lights in Manitoba .)
• Go bird watching at Ominnik Marsh.
• Visit the Lake Audy Bison Enclosure to see these magnificent creatures as they wander the prairies.
• Head to Dauphin’s Ukrainian Heritage Village for a taste of Manitoba’s past.

River Road Provincial Heritage Park

For a short but sweet Manitoba road trip, spend a few hours driving down River Road in St. Andrews, Manitoba. Found just outside Winnipeg, this road trip makes for a lovely summer afternoon adventure along the Red River, especially when combined with a visit to Lockport.

Lockport to Larter’s at St. Andrew’s Golf and Country Club.

On paper, this road trip is only about ten kilometres and can be done in ten minutes. That being said, we recommend taking your time on this road, as there’s so much to see and do. We guarantee you’ll want to keep stopping for photos along the way!

Highlights of the road trip

• Grab lunch at one of Lockport’s famed diners; we love Sonia’s Stand, the Half Moon Drive-In, or Skinner’s.
• Take in the views of the St. Andrews Lock and Dam and the Lockport Locks.
• Visit the St. Andrews on the Red Anglican Church for a photo stop.
• Wander through the gardens at the Captain Kennedy Tea House.
• Take in the winding river views from one of the many picnic table stops along River Road
• Still interested in other things to do in the area? Head back the way you came to visit Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site. Here you will learn how people lived on the land as trappers and traders in the 1850s.
• Want to head a little further? Make your way to Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail, an absolutely stunning walk (one of our fave Manitoba hiking trails ) that’s both stroller and wheelchair accessible.

Whiteshell Provincial Park to Pinawa Dam Provincial Park

Without a doubt, Whiteshell Provincial Park is one of our favourite places in the entire province. It just so happens to be one of our favourite Manitoba road trips, too! And if you’re after some of the best campgrounds in Manitoba , Whiteshell Provincial Park is the place to be.

It’s also a fantastic location for canoeing and kayaking, so those who love the water will feel right at home. Tack on a visit to Pinawa Dam Provincial Park and you have one of the best tours of Eastern Manitoba possible.

Falcon Lake to Pinawa Dam Provincial Park.

Again, this is a case of what the map says versus what we actually recommend. While Falcon Lake and Pinawa Dam Provincial Park are technically only about an hour’s drive apart, we recommend spending at least a few days exploring the area, especially if you’re camping and/or canoeing. But no matter how you see Whiteshell Provincial Park and the surrounding area, we guarantee you’ll fall as deeply in love with it as we are.

• Hike the Top of the World hiking trail at Falcon Lake for some of the best views of the entire park. It’s one of the best hikes in the province in autumn due to the beauty of the changing leaves all around you.
• Spend some time at West Hawk Lake for its fun restaurant options, a fantastic beach, and excellent hiking trails, including Hunt Lake Trail.
• Take a peaceful canoe trip through the Caddy Lake Tunnels on Caddy Lake.
• Brereton Lake is one of Manitoba’s most beautiful lakes; there are lots of options to stay, camp, and eat around here, and it’s a terrific lake for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
• Rainbow Falls makes for an excellent photography stop.
• Pine Point Rapids has a variety of hiking options depending on your skill level, but no matter which route you choose, you’ll quickly see why it’s one of Manitoba’s most beloved hiking areas.
• Walk to Seven Sisters Falls for a view of the cascading water.
• Spend the afternoon at Pinawa Dam Provincial Park to soak up the views; it’s also a great picnic spot! And if you’re up for it, go tubing down the river for a relaxing way to finish your road trip.
• Want to tack on even more to this epic Manitoba road trip? Head up to Tulabi Falls and spend a few days camping and taking in the spectacular views.

Interlake Region North

The Interlake Region is one of our top Manitoba road trips. Do we sound like a broken record yet? We told you it would be difficult to narrow this list down! This gorgeous region along Lake Winnipeg is all about the beaches and the culture, especially when you spend some time in the community of Gimli. Make your way to Hecla Grindstone Provincial Park for gorgeous scenery and wildlife spotting.

Winnipeg Beach to Hecla Grindstone Provincial Park.

The distance from Winnipeg Beach to Hecla Grindstone Provincial Park should only take about an hour’s drive without any stops, but we recommend spending at least two to three days minimum to explore the area.

• Winnipeg Beach is a charming town that has both a great beach to laze on as well as plenty of spots to eat and shop in town. For dog owners, there is also a dog beach that makes for an incredibly fun day out.
• Why visit one beach when you can visit many? Check out Matlock, Whytewold, and Ponemah to find your favourite of all the Interlake beaches, some of the best beaches in Manitoba .
• Take some time to learn about Gimli’s Icelandic culture. This includes visiting Viking Park, the New Iceland Heritage Museum, and/or the annual Icelandic Festival every August. There are also lots of fantastic restaurants in Gimli !
• Walk along the Gimli Seawall Gallery; bonus points if you have an ice cream when you do so.
• Visit the Arnes Farmers Market, held on weekends in summer.
• Walk the Lighthouse Trail on Hecla Island for one of the most photogenic spots in Manitoba.
• Visit the Grassy Narrows Marsh in Hecla Grindstone Provincial Park for excellent bird watching and a peaceful walk along the boardwalk.
• Stay at the Lakeview Hecla Resort for a relaxing getaway that features a spa, fantastic dining options, and access to beautiful shoreline (some of the best Manitoba beaches ) and hiking trails.

Parkland Region

Don’t sleep on the Parkland Region of Manitoba; it’s one of the most diverse and dynamic parts of the province! In fact, Swan Valley is one of Road Trip Manitoba founder Brenna’s favourite regions in all of Manitoba. The most beautiful time to explore this region is in summer when the canola fields are in their peak yellow glory.

Russell to Swan River

Russell to Swan River takes about two hours driving in total, but we recommend at least three days to explore all that Swan Valley and the Parkland Region have to offer.

• Explore the charming town of Russell, and make sure to say hello to Arthur the Bull (a statue and fun photo stop).
• Visit the Inglis Grain Elevators National Historic Site to take in this iconic image of Manitoba’s prairie roots; they’re some of the few remaining rows of grain elevators left in Canada.
• Spend some time in Asessippi Provincial Park. This gorgeous area, known for its skiing in winter, is perfect for mountain biking and hiking in summer.
• Visit Baldy Mountain, the highest peak in Manitoba at 831 metres above sea level. You can choose to hike to the peak or simply climb the viewing tower.
• Go hiking on the Blue Lakes Trail, a gorgeous trail through forests that takes you past both the East Blue Lake and the West Blue Lake, two of the most brilliantly turquoise lakes in Manitoba .
• Stay on Wellman Lake in Duck Mountain Provincial Park for excellent boating, swimming, and fishing opportunities.
• Explore Swan River, a vibrant little town, and the surrounding area. Make sure to check out the incredibly fun “Magnet Hill” (you need to see it to believe it!)

Pembina Valley

When the full view of Pembina Valley comes into view, you might forget you’re in notoriously flat Manitoba! This road trip is all about exploring some of the highlights of Southern Manitoba, including the cities of Morden and Winkler. End the trip in beautiful Pembina Valley Provincial Park, where excellent hiking and camping prevails.

Altona to Pembina Valley Provincial Park.

To drive directly from Altona to the Pembina Valley Provincial Park only takes about an hour, but of course, we recommend stopping as much as possible along the way. Add some of the other towns in Southern Manitoba to extend this road trip for as long as you want.

• Wander through Altona’s Gallery in the Park to check out the work of local Canadian artists.
• Explore the restaurants in Winkler, including one of the province’s best diners: Charley B’s.
• Check out Morden’s Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre to learn all about Manitoba’s dinosaur past
• Relax on Colert Beach.
• Take in the views over Pembina Valley in Pembina Valley Provincial Park on a hike or a camping trip.

Winnipeg to Thompson

If you want to see a huge portion of Manitoba in one trip, consider driving from Winnipeg to Thompson . The road trip up the MB-6N is adventure enough, but you can always add an additional journey to Churchill onto the route for an even more memorable trip. Along the way, you’ll spend most of your time along Lake Manitoba, as well as a few of our lesser-known (yet equally as stunning) smaller lakes, waterfalls, and a night in a boreal forest.

Winnipeg to Thompson.

From Thompson, you can then continue your journey to Churchill , making this one of the most all-encompassing trips in Manitoba. Although you can’t drive from Thompson to Churchill, you can take the train or fly.

Driving from Winnipeg to Thompson will take about seven to eight hours without stopping, but we recommend taking at least a few days in order to see as many sights along the way as possible.

• Stop in Lundar Beach Provincial Park, where you can explore a lesser-known Manitoba beach as well as birdwatch in the local marshlands.
• Head to Steep Rock on the edge of Lake Manitoba, where you’ll find one of the province’s most popular spots for photography due to its stunning rock formations.
• Spend time at Little Limestone Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in all of Canada; the limestone at the bottom of the lake causes it to change colours frequently, meaning you might catch it when it sparkles a vibrant turquoise.
• Stop in Pisew Falls Provincial Park to see one of the province’s most jaw-dropping waterfalls.

• Stay at family-run Paint Lake Lodge in the middle of a boreal forest.
• Explore all of the things to do in Thompson , Manitoba’s “Hub of the North”.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, take the train or a flight to Churchill to continue your journey through Northern Manitoba’s most untouched terrain; polar bears and beluga whales await!

Western Manitoba

There’s so much to see and do in Western Manitoba that it might feel impossible to fit it all into one for your Manitoba road trips. But this loop, taking you from Spruce Woods Provincial Park to Souris to Brandon to Portage la Prairie, is a pretty good introduction to all that the region has to offer! This road trip is particularly great for those who have a week or more to explore.

Spruce Woods Provincial Park to Portage la Prairie, passing through Souris and Brandon.

If you drove without stopping, this loop would take about three hours. But we recommend spending at least a week exploring each of the many stops along the way! Spruce Woods Provincial Park alone is worth a couple of days of your time.

• Spruce Woods Provincial Park is often noted as one of Manitoba’s best adventure playgrounds, and is definitely worth at least a day or two of your time for hiking, sightseeing, and camping. Hogsback Trail is a good place to start in the park.
• Spirit Sands, found within Spruce Woods Provincial Park, is a sight to behold. It’s not often you find a desert in the middle of the prairies, complete with sand and cacti! Avid hikers will love the trail to Devils Punch Bowl.
• Stop in Souris to cross the Souris Swinging Bridge, explore beautiful Victoria Park, and to try to spot one of the free-roaming peacocks in town.
• Relax on Oak Lake Beach to swim, bird watch, or golf nearby.
• Make your way to Grand Valley Provincial Park to explore a lesser-known Manitoba park; the Buffalo Chase Trail is worth a couple of hours.
• Head to Brandon, Manitoba’s second-largest city, for museums, restaurants, street art , a walk around the Brandon Riverbank, and more (see our full guide on all the things to do in Brandon for ideas).
• Drive from Manitoba’s second-largest city to its fifth, and enjoy all the things to do in Portage la Prairie . Spend some time getting to know the city and make sure to catch a sunset on Delta Beach.

Northern Manitoba

Even though a lot of people focus on sightseeing in Southern Manitoba, we believe there’s just as much (or even more!) beauty in the north. If you choose to take a road trip through Northern Manitoba, we guarantee an adventure. With remote provincial parks and a rugged beauty you have to see to believe, consider taking a Northern Manitoba road trip on your next holiday.

The Pas to Flin Flon.

The Pas to Flin Flon is only about 1.5 hours driving, but again, we recommend taking your time and/or tacking this Northern Manitoba road trip onto another road trip we’ve mentioned; this would combine nicely with the Parkland Region road trip, for example. You can also head northeast and include Snow Lake, then make your way on to Thompson and then Churchill.

• Explore The Pas’ Indigenous history and culture; the Sam Waller Museum is a good place to start.
• Head to Clearwater Lake Provincial Park for crystal clear waters and plenty of hiking and camping to keep you busy for days.
• If you have the time for a detour, head northeast to Wekusko Falls Provincial Park for stunning views over the region as well as fishing, hiking, and so much more.
• Spend a few hours in Cranberry Portage to visit the Cranberry Portage Heritage Museum and the Irvin Head Gallery to see some of Manitoba’s most exquisite Indigenous carvings.
• If you like fishing in Manitoba , Bakers Narrows is the place you want to be; it’s known for its excellent fishing all year round, although canoeing and kayaking is also popular here.
• Discover dynamic Flin Flon, named after a science fiction character named Flintabbatey Flonatin (yes, we’ve been excited to type that for a very long time). There are tons of things to do in Flin Flon, so take your time and get to know the city over a few days.

Tips for Driving in Manitoba

While we’ve listed a few suggested timelines for some of these best Manitoba road trips, everything comes down to how long you want to spend exploring as well as any possible road conditions that may pop up unexpectedly. We don’t expect you to (nor do we recommend you to) drive the entire road trip in one straight shot; the whole point is to stop, take your time, and soak up as much of beautiful Manitoba as you can. In other words… be prepared to go slowly, and to take lots of photos!

In general, Manitoba road conditions are fairly good, although you’ll definitely experience bumpy roads and potholes, especially the further you get from the bigger cities. Many highways are only one lane, and it’s important to always use proper passing techniques when driving. Of course, if there is construction – a common occurrence in Manitoba, especially in summer – you’ll need to take extra precautions as well as plan for some extra time on the road.

Driving in winter in Manitoba can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to driving in snow or on icy roads. Make sure that the car you’re driving has the proper tires for the weather conditions (snow tires or all-weather tires) and always check the weather conditions before you head out on your trip. You might need to take it a lot slower than the recommended speed limit if there is a lot of snow, ice, or rain on your road trip.

The speed limit in much of rural Manitoba ranges from 90 to 110 kilometres per hour, but the specific speed limit will be clearly marked. Speeding tickets are common in the province, so it’s important to stick to the designated speed limit; they’re put in place for our safety, after all.

Impaired driving is an extremely punishable offense in Manitoba, not to mention how dangerous drinking and driving is for the driver, their passengers, and everyone else on the road. We can’t stress it strongly enough: don’t drink and drive.

It may seem obvious, but you need a valid driver’s license to drive a vehicle in Manitoba. If you don’t have a Canadian driver’s license, you’ll need to check if an International Driver’s Permit is needed. American driver’s licenses are usually accepted in Canada, but you should always double-check if any other documentation is needed to drive in Manitoba if your license is from outside Canada.

If you have any other concerns about driving in Manitoba, you can always check Manitoba’s road laws and driving regulations .

Renting a Car for Manitoba Road Trips

If you want to rent a car in Winnipeg for your Manitoba road trips, there are a few companies that offer car hires. Enterprise, Avis, Hertz, and U-Drive Car Rental are all found in Winnipeg, with a few locations around the city for convenience (including at the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport).

In many other Manitoba cities, such as Brandon, Portage la Prairie, and Dauphin, you’ll find a few car rental options. Most companies will allow you to rent a car in one location and return it in another, i.e. you can rent the car in Winnipeg but return it in Brandon.

Purchasing a Provincial Parks Permit

If you’re going to enter any provincial parks on your Manitoba road trips, you’ll need a provincial parks permit. You can choose from a daily pass, a three-day pass, or an annual pass. Considering there are 92 provincial parks in Manitoba – many of which are included on this list – we think the annual pass is a pretty good deal! For more on park permits in Manitoba, and to purchase a pass online, click here .

If you plan on doing any fishing while in Manitoba, you must purchase a fishing license .

Planning to spend some time in the province’s capital before hitting the road? Don’t miss our guide on all the great things to do in Winnipeg . (Also, check out our article on our most beloved restaurants in Winnipeg , Winnipeg coffee shops , and Winnipeg bakeries as well!)

And if you’re making ANY drive in the province, don’t forget to download our FREE Road Trip Manitoba bingo cards to amp up the fun! Also, check out this extensive list of travel games to play during downtime along the way.

Brenna Holeman (she/her) has adventured to over 100 countries but is incredibly proud to call Winnipeg home. Brenna spent 16 years travelling solo around the world, living in Copenhagen, Edinburgh, Osaka, Antigua, and London, England. Once a writer and editor for Expedia UK, she is a co-founder of Road Trip Manitoba and also runs This Battered Suitcase , one of the most trusted and respected travel blogs in the world.

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We're here to help you plan your Manitoba vacation with real, local advice!

• Destination Guides
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We've created FOUR Manitoba specific bingo games to make your road trip even MORE fun. Included are some insider tips on what to see and eat in the province!

Our monthly newsletter is full of ideas for fun things to do in Manitoba, PLUS you get a *FREE* road trip bingo cards!

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Navigation Options

• Snowmobiling
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The Thompson Trailbreakers snowmobile club maintains 385 kilometres of trail systems in this region. The trail along Highway 6 connects to the Snow Lake Sno-Drifters trail system.

Explore Thompson's trails with club maps from the Thompson Trailbreakers and the Snow Lake Sno-Drifters . Daytrip options include a combination of trails and backcountry riding:

• Take the trail to Paint Lake, then backcountry along the Grassy River to Kwasitchewan Falls. Continue to Sasagiu Rapids for lunch, return on the trail system.
• Take the trail to Gilliam and the Kelsey Generating Station (please call ahead to make arrangements for food and fuel at 204-778-1120)
• Take a daytrip along the designated trail to Snow Lake, or spend the night in Snow Lake for an overnight option)

Pre-arranged snowmobile tours (including rentals) are available out of Sasagiu Rapids Lodge—contact directly to book.

• Sasaqiu Rapids Lodge starting at $89 for a 3-hour rental
• Nickel City Motors (repairs, open Saturdays)
• Parsons' Sales and Services

Restaurants:

• Boston Pizza Thompson
• Paint Lake Lodge

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