A Restful, Refreshing Weekend Awaits to Recharge in Whiteshell Provincial Park

Posted December 11, 2023 | Author Desiree Rantala

Whisking away for a wondrous weekend in Manitoba is closer than you think, and it begins in Whiteshell Provincial Park. Head to the eastern area of Manitoba this winter season where the food is hot, the hiking trails are in abundance, and the snow crunches beneath your feet. Sign yourself up to enjoy a restful, refreshing weekend to recharge in Whiteshell Provincial Park.

Welcome to the Whiteshell

The month is December and to your surprise, you're still waiting for more snow. Excitement builds as the holiday season is around the corner, with dinner plans and gatherings on the horizon. But amongst the hustle and bustle, you long for a quieter, slower paced opportunity to make memories with a loved one amidst the busyness of family get togethers.

Pack your bag for a last minute, let's just go, weekend away! Text your best friend, call up your mom, or opt in for a solo adventure. Leave behind the city traffic or the neighbourhood barking dog for a quieter, calmer pace. Welcome to the Whiteshell!

Where To Stay?

Hotel at Falcon Lake | Falcon Trails Resort

Begin your weekend away with a Friday night check-in to the tucked-away emerging accommodation, The Hotel at Falcon Lake. Enjoy a comfortable night's rest while sleeping in before your weekend day of excursions! Seeking out cozy cabin vibes? Check out Falcon Trails Resort just down the road.

Cool Outside, Cozy Inside

Beauty in Abundance

Falcon Trails Resort | Whiteshell Provincial Park
It's cool outside, but always cozy inside at Falcon Trails Resort. Begin your Saturday morning by stopping by for a visit! Just a short drive from the hotel, head to Falcon Trail Resort's Owl Wing Nordic Centre and order a hot beverage to-stay from their hand-crafted coffee menu. Order a London fog, or try a cappuccino! It's hard to miss the homemade baked goods and treats of the day. Gander at local art creations and snag a nearby trails map. Pull up a chair near the window and enjoy the adornment of nature in play. With a deck peering over expansive trees and a soon to be frozen lake in the distance, the ultimate winter scene is upon you.

Enjoy visits from nearby woodland friends where an active bird feeder keeps the smallest of guests occupied. Blue Jays, chickadees, and squirrel friends...only to name a few. The warm glow of Falcon Trails Resort's interior is a comforting contrast to the cool hues from the outside with a cozy fireplace, wooden interior, and hot beverages. On your way out, check out their collection of gifts and merchandise.

Wander in
West Hawk Lake

It's Worth The View

Dragon Fire Trail | West Hawk Lake | Whiteshell Provincial Park
After easing into a slow morning, it's time to pick to pick up the pace. But only a little bit! Take a drive to West Hawk Lake for a visit to Dragon Fire Trail. This 1.1km in and out trail presents beautiful scenery and vast picturesque vantage points. Although a short distance in nature, there is considerable elevation. Slow and steady wins the race to the top for three different viewpoints. Find nearby trail plaques to learn about the history of the area, take in the view, and get your body in motion. Don't forget to capture the moment!

Savoury Sips & Slurps

Hi-Point Restaurant | West Hawk Lake | Whiteshell Provincial Park
After a well-spent excursion on the trail, it's time to eat! Lunch will take you to Hi-Point Restaurant in West Hawk Lake for a homemade, hot meal. Open year-round, it's a local favourite and visitors love it. A seasonal sparkling beverage, sizzling soup, and a hearty sandwhich will go the distance for you! Pair their classic french onion soup with a gluten-free reuben on rye. A pickle on the side is always a bonus! Splurge a little and have fun; you deserve it.

Unexpected, Beautiful Moments

West Hawk Lake
After a full and flavourful meal, take some time to drive around West Hawk Lake and explore the new-to-you area! Unexpected, beautiful moments are often the ones we remember most. Take in the changing of the seasons, and you never know who will stop by for a friendly hello! On this particular day, an homage to winter presented itself as we captured the farewell to a previous season. The open water on the lake, the sand still in view, with snow and icicles beginning to take hold on the shoreline. If you wish, take these moments to pause and practice mindfulness, or meditation.

Hop on over to
The Hotel at Falcon Lake

Evening Escapades

The Hotel at Falcon Lake | Whiteshell Provincial Park
Your day of comfort continues as it transitions into evening escapades! Stop by the Black Bear Tavern for appetizers and games. Take on a round of chess, sneak in a game of go fish, or try your hand at crib. Order the salt and pepper wings along with a side of fries and basil mayo. If you're a sports fanatic, catch the game on the big screen! Sink into the couch, enjoy a sip of wine and watch the flames flicker in their wood burning fireplace.

Dining Delight

1964 Restaurant | Hotel at Falcon Lake | Whiteshell Provincial Park
Delightful dining awaits upstairs at 1964 Restaurant. Italian cuisine and an impressive inventory of wines from abroad will keep your palette curious. Begin your meal with warm, in-house seasoned baked bread with truffle oil and balsamic for dipping. The appetizer of all appetizer's arrives next with the ultimate Italian charcuterie board. An assortment of cheeses, antipasto and varied cured meats on a wooden board...shaped like the country of Italy. How suiting! Take advantage of the vast pasta offering and try the carbonara or tagliatelle con vongole!

Bites and Treats To Go

Hotel at Falcon Lake | Whiteshell Provincial Park
The morning has come, but not without another sound nights sleep in with a coffee and good book read in bed. If time is on your hands, enjoy a mouthwatering munch of breakfast at The Den. Stay to try their early riser platter or if you're itching to get going, order a breakfast bun to go.

Upon checkout, step into The Hotel at Falcon Lake's gift boutique for takeaway treats. Relish in assortments of candles, decor, jewelry, and houseware items.

The Wilderness is Calling

Through the Trails, Through the Trees

Falcon Creek Self-Guiding Trail | Whiteshell Provincial Park

Just when you thought the weekend is over, there is always room for one more adventure. Find yourself trekking through the trails and through the trees as you depart. The final stop on your restful weekend away takes you across the #1 highway to Falcon Creek Trail. This 2km looped trail is a beautiful self-guided excursion that will have you winding through the wilderness. The trail is adorned with picturesque winter scenes, and trail features for that optimal 'I was here' insta-worthy capture. Take in the fresh air and aroma of wild brush, and hear your feet crunch through the snow beneath. Hear the smallest of sounds from rustling branches to birds in flight.

The wilderness is calling, and it's prying you away for a much-needed restful, refreshing weekend to recharge. Breathe in the outdoors in Whiteshell Provincial Park.


Travel Manitoba staff was hosted by Explore The Whiteshell, who did not review or approve the content of this story.

About The Author

Hey there, I'm Desiree! I've lived in Manitoba my whole life. I love a great slice of pizza, photography and exploring our beautiful province. I'm passionate about storytelling. Have an idea for adventure? Let me know! drantala@travelmanitoba.com

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