Kayaking in Manitoba (part 1)

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 23/07/2025 (238 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Manitoba’s waterways are made up of more than 100,000 lakes connected by a vast network of rivers that reach into every corner of the province. They are natural passageways between wilderness places and urban spaces, and everything that lies in between. Kayaking is a great way to spend time outdoors, discover different parts of Manitoba, and learn some interesting history along the way, too.

Old Pinawa Dam — now a Provincial Heritage Park — opened in 1906 as the first hydroelectric generating station on the Winnipeg River. It powered streetcars, homes, and businesses in the early 20th century, servicing the growing city to the southwest, until its last generator was finally removed in 1951. Over time, the abandoned site slowly morphed into eerie concrete ruins reminiscent of ancient Roman aqueducts. It’s quite an unbelievable sight, right here in the heart of Manitoba.

To reach this astounding place by kayak, there are options for different access points along the Pinawa Channel. Whatever distance you choose to cover, the ultimate reward at the end of it is being able to enter through the dam’s narrow passages and emerge into the calm waters contained within, all the while surrounded by stone walls and structures. It is bizarre, beautiful, and totally Zen, all at the same time.

The highlight for me was floating through a tunnel created by symmetrical overhead arches, and coming out the other end to find myself in a surreal ‘jungle’ scene complete with waterfalls streaming down from above. The whole experience is astounding, and a must-see spot for paddlers, hikers, bikers, photographers, and basically everyone.

In Whiteshell Provincial Park, the famed Caddy Lake Tunnels that connect to South Cross and North Cross Lakes offer a ride that’s scenic and thrilling. There are entry points at Green Bay Resort, and a public boat launch near Caddy Lake Campground. From there, make your way toward the two historic tunnels created by railway crews in the early 20th century. Blasted through ancient rock, the tunnels reveal echo-filled passages, hidden lakes, and cliff-lined shores. Side effects from this adventure may include animal sightings, witnessing bald eagles in flight, and experiencing your own special dose of wilderness magic.

The Boyne River flows gently through the heart of Carman — hometown of NHL legend and Hockey Hall of Fame inductee Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Balfour. I can imagine him as a young boy skating on this very river in the heart of winter. In summer, it’s a lovely spot for day-tripping, and convenient to get to at just over an hour from Winnipeg. There are two launch points — one at the Trestle Bridge, and the other in Ryall Park. Once afloat, the winding route meanders under footbridges and alongside leafy-green neighborhoods, offering a peaceful prairie paddle accented by ducks, songbirds, turtles, and the occasional local resident waving from shore.

In the town of Souris, southwest of Brandon, the river launch at Victoria Park offers easy access to the slow-moving Souris River. Beginning near the iconic swinging bridge, kayakers can drift past scenic cliffs, open meadows, and towering cottonwoods. Wildlife is abundant, with the possibility of seeing deer, muskrats, beavers, and more. The river’s gentle pace and natural beauty make it ideal training ground for beginners, as well as anyone looking to unwind on the water in solitude.

MORE TO COME: My next Travelations will share more about kayaking spots in Manitoba, including boat launches right inside the City of Winnipeg.