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Photo courtesy of manitobaexplored.com |
It is hard to categorize the best thing about Manitoba’s vast wilderness. With a landscape extending from the northern borders of South Dakota and Minnesota to the Arctic environs of Hudson Bay, Manitoba’s natural wonders come in many forms. The rolling geography is host to thousands of lakes, notable amongst them Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Winnipegosis. With so much water, it’s only natural that Manitoba is an angler’s paradise. Walleye, northern pike, and white bass are just a few of the fish lurking in the waterways.
The matrix of rivers and waterways ensures that water-sports recreation goes beyond the rod and reel. Kayak touring, canoeing, and boating opportunities abound, with everything from day outings to lengthy adventures waiting in the waves. The more adventurous may want to try whitewater kayaking or rafting on the swift rivers. For those more in tune with land adventures, epic road biking unfolds on Manitoba’s bucolic countryside. Mountain bikers will revel in the undulating trails found in the provincial parks. Hikers and campers have a seemingly unlimited number of lakeside campgrounds to explore; many of the greatest campsites are well within the visual reach of the mythical northern lights.
Winter is when Manitoba really comes alive. Starting at the northern most reaches bordering Hudson Bay, the chilly temperatures of the winter months transform the province into an unparalleled wonderland. Tourists come from all over the world to visit the famous polar bear sanctuary in Churchill, where the great white bear migrates to feed on the fish and seal that thrive in the southern shores of Hudson Bay. Specially modified tundra buggies let you get up close and personal with nature’s heartiest predator.
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Photo courtesy of James Dziezynski |
Closer to the cities, you’ll find great expanses of open land ideal for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The crystalline touch of the Arctic gives the boreal forests a wild and exhilarating presence. Snowmobile tours let you makes tracks into the true north, returning in time to warm up at one of the many cozy lodges. Cross-country skiers will find both groomed trails and fresh powder in abundance. Despite the low elevations, Manitoba even offers snowboarding and skiing with such local favorites as Holiday Mountain and Mystery Mountain.
As with most of Canada, Manitoba’s wilderness is truly wild, with wolves, moose, polar bear, elk, fox, and more calling the northern climes home. For those ready to experience the clean air, clear water, and untamed beauty of Manitoba, endless possibilities await in this land that is glorious and free.
Last Updated: Mar 8th, 2006 - 09:48:38
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