Boreal trails, Shield rock, 300 species
Two provincial parks, heritage trails through dam ruins, wild blueberry picking on granite ridges, and some of the best birding in Manitoba. All within an hour of Lac du Bonnet.
Where to hike
From heritage park walks to backcountry routes, the trail options around Lac du Bonnet span every difficulty level and time commitment.
Old Pinawa Dam Provincial Heritage Park
Manitoba’s first hydroelectric generating station operated here from 1906 to 1951. Today the ruins sit in a forested gorge beside the Pinawa Channel, creating one of the most photogenic heritage sites in the province. Multiple trails loop through the park, ranging from short interpretive walks along the dam ruins to longer forest trails. The exposed Canadian Shield rock, rushing water, and crumbling concrete infrastructure make for dramatic scenery in every season. In winter, the frozen cascades are stunning. Free admission year-round.
Highlights: Historic dam ruins, Pinawa Channel views, Shield rock gorge, interpretive signage, photography opportunities year-round.
Nopiming Provincial Park
Nopiming (“in the wilderness” in Anishinaabemowin) is eastern Manitoba’s largest undeveloped park, covering over 1,400 square kilometres of boreal forest, Canadian Shield, and pristine lake country. The park offers everything from short interpretive trails to multi-day backcountry routes. For day hikers from Lac du Bonnet, the trails near Tulabi Falls and along Beresford Lake are the most accessible. The park sees far fewer visitors than the Whiteshell, which is part of its appeal. Campgrounds at Bird Lake, Black Lake, Tulabi Falls, and Beresford Lake.
Highlights: Tulabi Falls, Beresford Lake trails, old-growth boreal forest, backcountry camping, remote lake access, moose habitat.
Blueberry Rock Trail
A local favourite, Blueberry Rock Trail winds through boreal forest over exposed Canadian Shield granite. The trail name comes from the wild blueberry bushes that carpet the rock outcrops in summer — if you time it right (typically late July to early August), you can pick as you hike. The elevated rock sections provide views over the surrounding forest canopy and are a rewarding payoff for a moderate climb.
Highlights: Wild blueberry picking (late July), Shield rock viewpoints, boreal forest, moderate elevation gain.
Whiteshell Provincial Park
The Whiteshell is Manitoba’s most popular provincial park, and its northern access points are a short drive from Lac du Bonnet. The park offers extensive trail networks around its major lakes, including well-maintained paths at Caddy Lake, West Hawk Lake, and the Mantario Trail (a challenging 63-km backcountry route). The Whiteshell’s combination of Shield geology, boreal forest, and clear lakes makes it a premier hiking destination in central Canada.
Highlights: Caddy Lake tunnels (by canoe), West Hawk Lake crater, Mantario Trail, petroforms, campgrounds.
Agassiz Provincial Forest
Located just off PR 317, the Agassiz Provincial Forest provides accessible forest trails close to town. In winter, the forest hosts 11 km of groomed cross-country ski trails maintained by the local community. In summer and fall, the same area offers pleasant hiking through mixed boreal forest. A quiet, uncrowded alternative to the provincial parks.
Highlights: Close to town, forest walking, 11 km groomed XC ski trails in winter, wildflowers, mushroom habitat.
Local Forest Trails
Several informal trails and forest roads around Lac du Bonnet provide easy walking and casual hiking without the drive to a provincial park. These range from maintained community paths along the river to logging roads that penetrate the boreal forest. They’re ideal for morning walks, dog walking, and low-key exploration. Ask locally for current favourite routes — they shift with logging activity and trail maintenance.
Highlights: River walks, forest roads, wildflower viewing, mushroom foraging (for those who know what they’re picking).
What you'll see
The intersection of boreal forest, Canadian Shield, and river systems creates habitat diversity that supports exceptional wildlife populations.
Birds (300+ species)
Eastern Manitoba sits at the intersection of boreal, prairie, and parkland ecosystems, creating exceptional biodiversity. The region supports over 300 bird species across the year, making it one of Manitoba’s premier birding destinations. Notable species include bald eagles (common along the Winnipeg River), great blue herons (nesting colonies on the lake), osprey, American white pelicans, common loons, various woodpecker species, boreal chickadees, and a diverse array of warblers during spring and fall migration.
Moose
Moose are present throughout the boreal forest around Lac du Bonnet, particularly in Nopiming Provincial Park and the forests north of town. Sightings are most common at dawn and dusk near wetlands, lake edges, and forest clearings. Spring and early summer are the best times for viewing, as moose frequent roadside ditches for mineral licks. Maintain a safe distance — moose are unpredictable and can be aggressive, particularly cows with calves.
White-tailed Deer
Deer are abundant in the mixed forest and agricultural edges around Lac du Bonnet. You’re likely to see them on drives through the area, particularly at dawn and dusk. The yards (winter concentration areas) in the region support healthy populations.
Black Bears
Black bears inhabit the boreal forest throughout the region. Sightings are uncommon near town but occur regularly in the provincial parks. Bears are generally wary of humans and will avoid contact. Secure food and garbage when camping or hiking in bear country. Berry season (July and August) increases bear activity along trails.
Bald Eagles & Osprey
The Winnipeg River corridor supports nesting pairs of both bald eagles and osprey. Watch for eagles soaring over the river or perched in tall snag trees along the shoreline. Osprey dive for fish on the river and lake throughout the summer. Both species are regularly visible from the cabin properties.
Beaver & Other Mammals
Beaver are common on the Lee River and smaller waterways, with lodges visible from the water. Other mammals you may encounter include red fox, river otter, mink, snowshoe hare, and red squirrels. Timber wolves are present in Nopiming Provincial Park but rarely seen.
Birdwatching by season
Eastern Manitoba is a birding hotspot. Here's what to look for throughout the year.
Spring (Apr\u2013May)
Peak migration. Warblers move through in waves. Waterfowl return to open water. Loons arrive on the lakes. Great blue herons establish nesting colonies. Woodcock perform aerial courtship displays at dusk.
Summer (Jun\u2013Aug)
Breeding season. Bald eagles and osprey feed young. Common loons carry chicks on their backs. Warblers sing from the boreal canopy. Great gray owls hunt at forest edges. Hummingbirds visit feeders and wildflowers.
Fall (Sep\u2013Oct)
Southbound migration brings shorebirds and raptors. Hawks and eagles ride thermals along the river corridor. Geese and ducks stage on the lake before heading south. Boreal species like crossbills and pine grosbeaks become more visible.
Winter (Nov\u2013Mar)
Resident boreal species: boreal chickadees, gray jays, ravens, woodpeckers. Snowy owls occasionally appear in open areas. Evening grosbeaks and pine siskins visit feeders. Great gray owls hunt at forest edges and roadsides.
Gateway to two provincial parks
Lac du Bonnet sits between Whiteshell Provincial Park to the south and Nopiming Provincial Park to the north — a strategic base for exploring both.
Whiteshell Provincial Park
Manitoba's most-visited provincial park, the Whiteshell covers 2,729 square kilometres of Canadian Shield landscape. From Lac du Bonnet, the northern park access points are 30 to 45 minutes south. Highlights include the Caddy Lake tunnels (navigable by canoe), West Hawk Lake (a meteorite crater — the deepest lake in Manitoba), and the Mantario Trail for serious backcountry hikers.
The park offers campgrounds, beaches, interpretive programs, and well-maintained trail networks. A Manitoba parks vehicle permit is required.
Nopiming Provincial Park
Less developed and far less crowded than the Whiteshell, Nopiming offers a wilder experience. The park covers 1,429 square kilometres of boreal forest, Shield rock, and pristine lakes. The name means "in the wilderness" in Anishinaabemowin, and it delivers on that promise.
From Lac du Bonnet, the park entrance is approximately 45 minutes north. Tulabi Falls and the Beresford Lake area are the most accessible day-trip destinations. For paddlers, the park offers backcountry canoe routes with designated campsites on remote lakes.
Guided adventures
Local operators who can help you explore the backcountry with expert knowledge of the terrain.
Blind Adventures
Accessible outdoor adventure experiences designed so everyone can enjoy the wilderness. Guided hiking, canoeing, and nature experiences adapted for participants of all abilities.
Nopiming Lodge
Canoe and kayak access to remote trails deep in Nopiming Provincial Park. The lodge serves as a base camp for backcountry exploration — paddle in, hike the interior trails, paddle out.
Wildlife viewing tips
Knowing when and where to look dramatically improves your chances of memorable wildlife encounters.
Best Viewing Times
Birding: May through June is peak — spring migration brings waves of warblers, waterfowl, and shorebirds through the region.
Fall colours: Mid-September to early October. The boreal forest mix of birch, poplar, and tamarack creates striking contrast against evergreens.
Moose: Early morning or dusk in Nopiming Provincial Park. Look near wetlands, lake edges, and forest clearings. Spring roadside mineral licks are reliable spots.
Where to Look
Bald eagles: Along the Winnipeg River, especially near dam areas. Watch for them soaring or perched in tall snag trees along the shoreline.
Moose: Nopiming Provincial Park is the most reliable area. Drive slowly on Highway 314 at dawn.
General rule: Dawn and dusk are always best. Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife — never approach or feed animals. Moose with calves and bears in berry season can be particularly unpredictable.