Communities
Lake of the Woods
Welcome to one of the most dramatic, mysterious and surprising lakes in the world – Lake of the Woods. From the deep clear water and rugged landscape of the Canadian shield at its north end, to the inviting woods, shallow water and sandy bottom at its south end, nature has worked wonders here to create a year-round natural paradise for vacationers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Lake of the Woods and the surrounding areas comprise one of the natural wonders of North America. With over 14,000 islands and more than 105,000 kilometers (65,000 miles) of shoreline – more shoreline than Lake Superior, the waterways of the lake and the surrounding wilderness offer anglers & hunters an endless variety of opportunities to experience the wonder of the region.
Just 60 kilometers (35 miles) from the American border – a 45-minute drive – Morson guards the edge of untamed wilderness. Its many lodges are a Mecca for naturalists, photographers, bird-watchers, campers and those who come simply for the unforgettable experience of a shore-lunch of fresh-caught Walleye.
Kenora sits on the north shore of the lake like a jewel in a crown. Those with a taste for shopping will find themselves in vacation paradise as they discover the many local arts and crafts available in a variety of unique shops. Discover the beauty of the area with a tour by boat, plane, or even helicopter.
For those whose interests lean to adventure or exploration, a short jaunt to the north will lead to Minaki, a small village on the shores of the Winnipeg River. For fishing, hunting, hiking, or simply relaxing in one of the many quality resorts and campgrounds in the area, Minaki offers an unforgettable vacation experience.
On the eastern shore of the lake sits Sioux Narrows. Vacationers will relish the small-town charm of this natural landmark as they enjoy world-class resorts, camping, RVing, shopping, dining, golf and more. The historical single span wooden bridge has been replaced, but its signature wooden trusses have been incorporated into the new bridge. Sioux Narrows is a vital link connecting the United States and southern Lake of the Woods with the City of Kenora and beyond.
A little to the south, those seeking an experience of the true wilderness will find it at Nestor Falls, a beautiful resort community and the perfect base to launch the outdoor adventure of a lifetime. Nestled in a maze of small lakes, Nestor Falls has a reputation as one of the finest hunting and fishing destinations in North America, and is widely regarded as the place for fly-in fishing.
From the rustic charm of Morson, to the thriving centre of Kenora, to the tranquility of Minaki in the north, to Sioux Narrows and Nestor Falls – Lake of the Woods has something for everybody who visits!
www.lakeofthewoods.com
1-800-535-4549
Morson
The shorelines and islands surrounding our community are largely undeveloped. Travellers can marvel at much of the same scenery that the first explorers saw when they discovered this island-studded gem in the centre of the continent. Local rock paintings depict the life of the area’s earliest inhabitants. Nestled on the south-eastern shore of Lake of the Woods, only 35 miles north of the Canada-US border, are the communities of Morson and Bergland. Amenities of over thirty businesses ensure that visitors never want for necessities. Our restaurants, stores and businesses offer a variety of choices for your vacationing pleasure.
For hearts that wish to experience true wilderness, Morson is a Mecca for naturalists, hikers, anglers and hunters. Although the tranquil wilderness presses in from all sides, camping, full-service RV sites, the charm of a rustic cabin, the privacy of a houseboat, a comfortable housekeeping cabin or an all inclusive American plan vacation are awaiting you.
Once you reach Morson, the stresses of everyday life give way to the easier choices – Would you like to fish, hunt, go for a swim, golf, hike, go bird watching, pick wild berries, visit a favourite restaurant, or simply sit back and relax? Morson is located in the “island belt” of the lake which makes fishing an unmatched pleasure; the rocky shores, marshy inlets and countless sandy bays are a one-stop spot for walleye, smallmouth and largemouth bass, muskie, northern pike, lake trout, crappies and perch. If you have never experienced a shorelunch, this is a meal you won’t want to miss. There is nothing that will compare to fresh fish prepared over an open fire and served with all the trimmings! The islands are also a great place to find a stretch of sandy beach; indulge in the warm sand, cool water and more often than not the privacy of your very own beach for the day. New for 2009 is a public day-use park with swimming beach and picnic area located on Frenchman’s Rock Road.
Lake of the Woods is truly a sportsman’s paradise – hunting here is among the finest in the world. Wild rice bays are feeding grounds for flocks of mallards and teal, wood ducks and rafts of bluebills are available to the sure-eyed hunter. Grouse are plentiful and are sport for the small game hunters who seek them out. Moose, deer and bear roam the forests of the islands and the fields on mainland. Make sure to have your camera ready to get your best shot!
Along with your fishing pole, don’t forget to pack your golf clubs to play 9-holes at the Spruce Creek Golf Course. Our communities host several annual events throughout the year that add fun for the spectator as well as the participant. The Morson Bass International fishing tournament, August 28 & 29, 2010, also includes a free kid’s fishing tournament, family activities and entertainment. Other community events include a Family Fun Day, dinners, First Nation’s Pow-Wows and ice fishing derbies all welcome visitors. See events calendar for specific dates and contact information or the website for more details.
Visit Morson, stay awhile, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime. The lake and the surrounding wilderness remain, for the most part, untouched and unchanged by the hands of either humans or time. Visitors can rediscover Lake of the Woods the way the first explorers encountered it many years ago.
For Morson travel information:
www.lakeofthewoodstourism.ca
1-807-488-5905
Nestor Falls
Situated approximately 60 miles north of the border towns of International Falls, Minnesota and Fort Frances, Ontario, Nestor Falls is in the midst of literally dozens of lakes on a picturesque corridor of pre-Cambrian granite and magnificent conifers offering some of the most diverse angling opportunities to be found in mid North America.
These lakes are teeming with Canada’s most sought after game fish with angling opportunities that include large and small mouth bass, bullhead, crappie, walleyed pike, northern pike, lake trout and the magnificent musky. The musky in these lakes has become a fish of such grandeur that the Nestor Falls area is known to many as the musky capital of the world. As a result, many fishermen and fish biologists anticipate the next world musky to be produced in the Nestor Falls area.
Much like fishing, hunting opportunities abound for deer, black bear and moose with bow and arrow, muzzleloader or centre fire rifle. For the shot gunner, ruffed and sharp tail grouse and woodcock frequent the wooded coverts. Numerous species of waterfowl are found in the many weedy bays, swamps, beaver ponds and rivers.
Not only is Nestor Falls a fisherman’s delight and a hunter’s Valhalla, it offers all of the amenities. From water fun to exploration adventure, outdoor activities are only as limited as your imagination. It is a painter or photographer’s paradise. Breathtaking scenery and bountiful wildlife punctuated by spectacular sunsets with fantastic hospitality.
Our falls, between Lake Kakabikitchiwan and Sabaskong Bay on Lake of the Woods range from a forty foot falling mass of water to a mere trickle, depending on precipitation and season. In either case, the photo opportunities are numerous and access is easy, as they can be viewed from an overlook area just fifty yards from Highway 71.
For those with private aircraft, Nestor Falls boasts its own hard surfaced 3,800’ by 100’ airstrip.
In the winter, the quiet, serene beauty brings different activities… pull a fighting fish through the ice – an experience not to be missed… curl on one of the last natural ice rinks left in Canada… snowmobile areas inaccessible in summer or… bring your cross-country skis and unwind in the silence. Don’t let winter keep you away. We await your visit and wish to make your vacation a memorable one in enchanting Nestor Falls.
NESTOR FALLS
Where you can experience small town hospitality combined with world class service!
Something for everyone:
Fishing • Shopping • Wildlife • Boating • Hiking • Parks • Swimming • Canoeing • Tennis • Mini-Golf • Dining • Hard Surfaced Airstrip
Full service resorts, fly-in outposts, tent sites and everything in-between. Stay and enjoy the safe and relaxing atmosphere.
For More Information Contact:
Sioux Narrows/Nestor Falls Tourism Services
www.livethelakelife.ca
1-800-501-4430
The Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls
www.siouxnarrows-nestorfalls.ca
(807) 226-5241
Sioux Narrows
With its clear pristine waters sparkling in the tranquil glow of the sunset, the eastern glacier carved shores of Lake of the Woods invites you into the warm magical community of Sioux Narrows. Rich in history, the town centre is the site of a legendary Indian battle between the invading Sioux and the local Cree and Ojibway; Famously known as a sportsman’s paradise, offering some of the finest freshwater fishing that captivates the most exquisite of fishermen; and wealth of nature, with the vast abundance of flora and fauna to enthrall the most discriminating of outdoor enthusiasts . We invite you to come, explore, and discover …
Approximately 90 miles north of the International border and 50 miles south of Kenora on Hwy 71, located on the eastern shores of Lake of the Woods, the cozy town of Sioux Narrows is where all the magic begins. The crystal clear waterways are a fishermen’s haven for walleye, northern pike, musky, smallmouth and largemouth bass, and lake trout; as well as a vacationer’s retreat to swim and relax on one of the many pristine sandy beaches.
Our rugged boreal forest nestled within the Canadian Shield is abundant with deer, bear, moose and duck to test the most avid of hunters. Enjoy scenic hikes through our woods rich with nature, a round of golf on our 9-hole golf course, or some fine dining and shopping in many of our community’s gift stores and boutiques. Vacationers will find everything they need within an easy reach from world-class resorts, houseboat rentals, camping, RV Parks, and much more. Truly something for everyone.
The site of the Sioux Narrows bridge, was the site of a famous Native battle and massacre between the local Cree and Ojibway tribes against the Sioux. The aggressive and dominating Sioux were secretly ambushed and defeated by the Cree and Ojibway at the narrows, hence the name Sioux Narrows.
A new bridge was completed in 2007 to replace the original wooden bridge that was once the longest single span wooden bridge in the world. With its signature wooden trusses incorporated into the design, the new bridge preserves the look and historical significance of the magic in Sioux Narrows.
For Sioux Narrows travel information:
www.livethelakelife.ca
1-800-501-4430
Sioux Narrows
Experience small town hospitality with world class service!!
Something for everyone:
Fishing • Shopping • Wildlife • Golfing • Hiking • Parks • Boating • Canoeing • Events • Swimming • Dining • Grass Airstrip
Full service resorts, houseboats, campsites, RV Parks, and everything in between. Come, stay, and experience this tranquil relaxing atmosphere.
For More Information Contact:
Sioux Narrows/Nestor Falls Tourism Services:
www.livethelakelife.ca
1-800-501-4430
The Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls
www.siouxnarrows-nestorfalls.ca
(807) 226-5241
Kenora
For those who have traveled in the rugged and beautiful country that surrounds the Lake of the Woods, the City of Kenora can come as quite a surprise. Nestled in a glorious sweep on the north shore of the Lake of the Woods, Kenora is a vibrant slice of city life, culture, and bustle that has somehow, almost miraculously been transported into a pristine wilderness setting.
Kenora is rich in history and culture. From the voyageur fur trade routes, a frontier village known as Rat Portage (reference to the muskrat) sprang up. The voyageur canoe routes were followed by a network of land trails that developed into roads and in the mid 1880’s, the railroad. This brought industry to Rat Portage including logging, saw mills, gold mines, and flour milling. In 1905, the village fathers decided a name change was needed as more businesses arrived – and they chose the name KENORA – KE from their sister town of Keewatin, three miles to the west, NO from the village of Norman also just west, and RA from Rat Portage. Kenora’s unique past is narrated through 21 murals painted on buildings, many of which are historic, throughout the city’s core.
For the visitor who wishes to experience the natural beauty of the area in comfort and style, Kenora offers accommodations and amenities to fit any budget or desire. Kenora provides visitors a variety of activities to experience. The weekly farmers’ market abounds with garden veggies, home baking, preserves, jams & jellies, and crafts. Enjoy the live entertainment under the tent on the Harbourfront. The Canada Day celebrations, Harbourfest, and the antique car show are crowd pleasers. To keep the shopper happy, a myriad of unique shops, boutiques, galleries, pubs and restaurants await you.
Kenora is a sportsman’s dream …walleye, muskie, northern, small and large mouth bass, duck, deer, moose, bear … they are all here waiting for you. Kenora offers “top notch” fishing and hunting services including lodging, fly in services, bait and tackle, and guides. Experience the succulent taste of a “shore lunch”.
Explore the Lake of the Woods and the many surrounding lakes in a rented boat, canoe or kayak. An aerial tour in a float plane is a thrill! Challenge the Canadian Shield – go camping, hiking, or biking. For the golfing enthusiast, Kenora sports two 18 hole courses. To learn more about local history, visit the Lake of the Woods Museum and the Railroad Museum.
And did we mention winter – the best “snow on earth” for ice fishermen, snowmobilers, down hill and cross country skiers. The possibilities are endless! Visit Kenora and make your adventure a lifetime of memories!
For Kenora travel information:
www.kenora.ca
1-800-535-4549
Minaki (Kenora North)
North of Kenora, on the shores of the Winnipeg River, lies Minaki – the place the Ojibway call the beautiful country (mee-naw-keeg). The village of Minaki with its surrounding lodges and campgrounds is a vacationer’s dream, and yet in the breast of this comfortable stillness beats an untamed heart that belongs to the wilderness.
Leave your cares behind and prepare to feast your eyes on the clearest skies you have ever seen. Plan to hike, cycle, ski or snowmobile a network of breathtaking trails along placid lakeshores or rocky ridges. Ready your self for some of the best fishing to be found anywhere – Minaki’s nearby waterways abound with walleye, muskie, northern pike, and bass. For the hunter or watcher of wildlife, the northern woods promise a sizeable population of deer, black bear, and moose.
Accommodation is available year-round, with facilities and services ready to take care of adventurers, families, or casual tourists. Whatever your vacation goals – whether you’re flying in to a secluded lodge, or boating or driving up from Kenora – Minaki is a place as friendly as it is captivating, as welcoming as it is adventurous, a place to which you will want to return again, and again.
For Minaki travel information:
www.lakeofthewoods.com
1-800-535-4549
