From the shores of Hudson's Bay, to the southern border of Manitoba, there are many wonderful surprises for the outdoor enthusiast. Its 649,950 square kilometers encompass vast tracks of permafrost and tundra in the north countless lakes and streams in the more temperate regions and areas of forest the size of some countries. A great deal of Manitoba's best is set aside for parkland. Over 29,000 square kilometres in all, with endless variations and possibilities for backcountry experiences are endless.
Try backpacking the famous Mantario Trail from Whiteshell Provincial Park, where you can hike from 3 to 6 days on the longest backpacking trail in western Canada, before you hit the Rockies. The trail is 60 km of rugged Precambrian rock and forest. Whiteshell is a 2800 square kilometres wilderness park, with great backpacking and plenty of hiking , cross-country ski and mountain biking trails along with lots of canoe routes.
Further west, you can mountain bike on some 100 kilometers of trail in Riding Mountain National Park, where you'll find everything from a challenging day ride to an over night trip on one of the longer routes like the multi-use North Escarpment Trail. This trail, and many others in the park have wilderness camping for the mountain biker who doesn't mind doing the packhorse thing.
Riding Mountain is 436 meters above the surrounding prairie and is an oasis for backcountry enthusiasts, but contrary to popular belief, it's not the highest point in Manitoba. That distinction belongs to the 831 meter high Baldy Mountain in Duck Mountain Provincial Park. This beautiful park, has 73 lakes with excellent canoeing opportunities.
For an overview on Manitoba, click on the map.
