10 exciting adventures to have in Manitoba this winter

Posted January 16, 2023 | Author Breanne Sewards

Winter is a season that beckons to be explored. Experience one of these 10 exciting adventures that get to the heart of winter and we're sure you'll uncover a new love for the season.

1. Surround yourself with winter scenery in Turtle Mountain

Turtle Mountain Adventure Huts | Turtle Mountain Provincial Park

Winter adventure is literally steps away during a stay at Turtle Mountain Adventure Huts. These minimalistic, off-grid huts have everything you need for getting closer to nature while also staying comfortable. Each hut comes equipped with a wood-burning stove, solar lights, a cooking area, storage racks for gear and a sleeping space. Each hut also has a dedicated outhouse, wood storage fire pit, deck, outdoor gear storage and picnic table. Whether you're looking for peace and quiet, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, this is the perfect place to clear your mind and explore the great outdoors.

2. Have an overnight ice fishing experience

Kannuk Outdoors | Lake Winnipeg

Have an ice fishing adventure like no other with Kannuk Outfitters. Book an overnight in their new 'ice castle' on frozen Lake Winnipeg and stay comfortable and close to all the action. Trips include professional guide service, pop-up style ice shacks, bait, propane and heaters, a hot lunch and all the equipment you'll need to reel in the big one. This is your chance to catch a true trophy!

3. Witness the magic of the northern lights

Nanuk Operations | Churchill

Check this natural phenomenon off your bucket list on a trip up to Churchill during the height of northern lights season. Nanuk Operations offers both multi-day and single evening aurora tours that take you closer to the aurora borealis. Warm up in the comfort of a yurt nestled in the boreal forest and view or photograph the show without light pollution. Multi-day tours include activities like dog-sledding and visits to local historic sites while add-ons like night snowshoeing are available for the single evening tours.

4. Take a snowmobiling tour in the north

Bakers Narrows Lodge | Bakers Narrows

Have the ultimate northern winter adventure at Bakers Narrows Lodge. Situated on the shores of Lake Athapapuskow, the well-equipped cabins are within close proximity to all the ice fishing action your heart could desire. Choose between guided ice fishing packages or try something different on a deep powder snowmobiling tour. By night, gear up and head outside for star gazing while keeping an eye out for the northern lights.

5. Book a downhill skiing getaway

Holiday Mountain | La Riviere

La Riviere is the place to go for downhill winter fun! Open since 1959 as Manitoba's first ski resort, new owners are now rejuvenating the property while keeping all the family-friendly vibes. Holiday Mountain is also Manitoba's only skiing resort with on-site accommodations. There are a number of private a-frame cabins available to rent for a reasonable nightly price, located conveniently close to the slopes.

6. Pair an overnight with fat biking

Northgate Trails | Dauphin

Dauphin’s Northgate Trail System is just as exciting in the cold months, when over 20 kilometres of trails come to life with fat biking and rustic overnight stays. Decipher Wilderness Experiences offers a great Introduction to Cycling package which includes a one night stay at Northgate Microcabins, a fat bike, gear essentials (helmet, backpack, water bottle), an intro lesson designed to give you confidence on the trails and an optional guided tour.

7. Join a fishing village

Lockport

You've never been to a village quite like this! Situated atop the frozen Red River, the Lockport Fishing Village makes ice fishing easy, with accessible roadways and 26 free ice fishing spots - first come, first serve! Families can head to the public skating rink in between fishing sessions, with outdoor warming stations and bathrooms on site.

8. Skate for brunch

RAW:Almond | Winnipeg

If you weren't able to get your hands on tickets to the coveted return of RAW:Almond, fear not. This year, RAW:Almond is bringing back its à la carte brunch for three weekends throughout the winter. Skate or walk up to enjoy delicious breakfast fare from Crumb Queen and Dem Hoagie Boyz - no tickets required. Brunch runs January 28 to 29, February 4 to 5 and February 11 to 12 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

9. Glow in the Exchange District

Exchange District | Winnipeg

From January 21 to March 21, Lights on the Exchange - Allumez le Quartier, will bring artistic expressions to Winnipeg's historic Exchange District. Drawing inspiration from festivals like Luminothérapie in Montréal and Fête des lumières in Lyon, the inaugural festival matches history with stunning art installations.

10. Become a winter explorer

Wilderland Adventure Company | St. Malo Provincial Park

Immerse yourself in Manitoba's wild history on the Winter Explorer Tour with Wilderland Adventure Company. This family-friendly winter adventure combines learning and activity in the beautiful setting of St. Malo Provincial Park. Embark on a snowshoe or hiking trek through winter trails to find Winter Outpost Camps, where a guide will share drink, food and stories of the historic Canadian fur trade.

About The Author

Hey! I'm Breanne, Editorial Content Specialist for Travel Manitoba. First to jump in the lake and last to make it down the River Trail. Lover of croissants, cats, and croissant-shaped cats. Got a story idea? Email me at bsewards@travelmanitoba.com.

Editorial Content Specialist