The Lake of the Woods region is made up of Kenora, Minaki, Morson, Nestor Falls, and Sioux Narrows. The region is part of Sunset Country and is known right across the country for its breathtaking natural beauty. Lake of the Woods is a popular destination all year round for outdoor enthusiasts and for anglers, but there are many other bodies of water in the area that make for great fishing, and other adventures. If you’ve never been to the Lake of the Woods Region, it’s one of those once in a lifetime experiences, even if you come back year after year, which you just might!
1. Cruise Lake of the Woods
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2. See the giant muskie
You can’t visit Kenora and not stop to see Husky The Muskie. The huge Muskie statue stands proud over the harbour area just by downtown Kenora, in the gorgeous McLeod Park. Be sure to snap a photo with the massive, forty foot tall iconic fish! If you’re looking for Husky the Muskie gear, head downtown, as some of the shops carry t-shirts and sweaters.
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3. Sleep right on the lake
What could be better than exploring the Lake of the Woods from the very waters of the lake itself? Ontario Wilderness Houseboats, based out of Morson, on the east end of the lake, offers houseboat rentals so you can spend your days, and your nights taking in the wonders of the area. The angling opportunities on Lake of the Woods are pretty much unparalleled, so be sure to bring your gear. The waters of the lake are perfect for swimming. The lake is dotted with islands and has such a unique shape that you can literally spend days exploring and not see everything. Take in the impressive homes built on the shoreline and on the islands. Spend a few hours watching for nesting bald eagles, or take in the world-renown sunsets, all right from the lake.
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4. Fish to your heart’s content
Lake of the Woods is known country-wide as a premium sport fishing destination. Trophy sized muskie in or over the fifty inch range aren’t unheard of. Large pike and large walleye are common. The lake is also an excellent smallmouth and largemouth bass fishery. It might surprise you to learn that the crappie fishing on the lake is also very good, and they’re actually a lot of fun to fish for. Since Lake of the Woods is such a popular fishing destination, the traffic on the lake and the sheer size of the lake might be a little intimidating if you’re a first timer. There are plenty of outfitters right on the lake, or close by, as well as guiding services that can help you make the most of your fishing trip. Whether you have your own boat or not, or whatever species you’re looking to fish for, a good guide will be able to take you to some great hot spots.
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5. All aboard!
Even if you don’t think you’re a history buff, you’ll probably enjoy visiting the Lake of the Woods Rail Road Museum. The museum isn’t hard to find. It’s located just a few minutes from the downtown area in Kenora, right by Norman Beach. The museum has real segments of real trains outside the building. In addition to learning all about the history of the rail road in the area, you can see the large collection of model trains. The museum is sure to be a hit with people of all ages, though children should especially love all that the museum has to offer!
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6. Shop ‘til you drop
Kenora is a popular tourist destination, especially in the warmer months, with the spring and summer being the busiest times. If you’re in the area for fishing or camping, whether you’ve just stopped off the highway to do a bit of exploring, or whether you’re staying for a family getaway, you can’t miss downtown Kenora. There are all the normal little touristy shops with souvenirs and Lake of the Woods gear, but there are also some independent style shops that you have to see. Northwest Ontario might be known for its excellent fishing and beautiful landscapes, but it should also be known for its artistry. There are many independent artists and artisans in the area. In the shops downtown you’ll often be able to find anything from paintings and sculpture to jewellery and books by local authors available for display or for sale. Keep your eyes peeled for the murals painted on the sides of buildings in and around the area!
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7. Take a Brewery Tour Lake of the Woods Brewing Company
If you’re looking for a great dining spot while you’re in Kenora, you can’t miss the Lake of the Woods Brewing Company. Located in downtown Kenora, they don’t just offer great food. You can also take a tour of the brewery to see how it’s all made, (it’s quite inexpensive!) and there’s a shop onsite so you can stock up on some great Lake of the Woods and Lake of the Woods Brewing Company gear. The beers brewed here can be found in many of the beer stores all across Northwest Ontario. Try the famous blueberry ale!
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8. Find your Muse
People of all ages will love visiting The Muse. Located in Kenora, the Lake of the Woods Museum and the Douglas Family Centre is so much more than just a beautiful building, though it is, in itself, a work of art. Take in the many different exhibitions at the centre throughout the year. The museum has a vast and an impressive collection of over 25,000 items. Most help tell the story of the incredible history of the area. The center offers lessons and other events and programming throughout the year, so be sure to check their website for their many exciting offerings.
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9. Visit Nestor Falls
Just off Highway 71, located an hour and a half south of Kenora, is Nestor Falls. The town might be small, but it does boast a quaint waterfall. You can see the falls right off the highway. The Nestor Waterfall is surrounded on one side by a picturesque park. It’s the perfect place to stop on your journey to or back from Kenora, or if you happen to be passing through the area, it’s worth taking a small detour to see the falls. The falls are located only about a twenty minute drive from Sioux Narrows, so if you’re staying in the area, you might want to take a drive out to see it. The park is the perfect place for you to have a picnic lunch or dinner and is generally a nice, quiet place just to escape and unwind.
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10. Shop Matiowski Famer’s Market
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11. Rock out during Harbourfest
Harbourfest is touted as the biggest music festival in northwest Ontario. Featuring Canadian bands and performers, the festival is held every summer. This year the festival runs from July 31-Agu 2nd. While you might not want to come just for the festival, you may want to plan your trip around being in the area during this time. Located right by Kenora’s beautiful harbour area, it really is a once in a lifetime experience.
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12. Visit the site of a world famous bridge
Sioux Narrows is located just under an hour from Kenora. It’s situated along the east shore of Lake of the Woods, which kind of puts into perspective just how massive the lake truly is. While Sioux Narrows might be known for the incredible scenery and countryside it’s situated in, as well as the ever popular Lake of the Woods, it might come as a surprise to learn that it actually boasts a uniquely historical landmark. The bridge in Sioux Narrows was once the longest single span bridge in the whole world. The bridge was constructed of wood originally and has since been rebuilt. The new construction in 2007 did reuse some of the timbers from the original bridge. The area is gorgeous just for sightseeing, relaxing, and walking. On the one side of the bridge there’s a beautiful park.
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13. Go on a blueberry hunt
It might seem a little strange to just put blueberry picking as an activity in the region, but if you’re ever visited the area, you’ll know just how plentiful the delicious wild blueberries are. Just past the Lake of the Woods Region, there is even a festival dedicated entirely to blueberries. If you’re visiting during the summer months, you can’t not stop and search for a patch. There really isn’t anything like tasting wild blueberry for the first time. They grow pretty much everywhere too! You can find them simply by pulling off the highway and looking for the plants. Oftentimes, the patches are so dense that you’ll be able to spot the berries from a distance. You can literally spend days or weeks picking every day, all day, and still not run out of spots. If you just don’t want to get out there and pick, the farmer’s market in Kenora will often have vendors selling berries, but it will cost you around fifty to sixty dollars for a four litre ice cream pail full.
14. See a unique house
The Mather-Walls house is home to the Lake of the Woods Historical Society and an interpretive display with information on the historical Mather family. The family played a significant role in the development of the larger area. It’s not just history buffs or architectural lovers that can enjoy the house. Everyone, no matter age or interest, can come and see the beautiful home and maybe even learn something new.
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15. Discover something new
If you want to learn all about the history of the area, you can’t miss the Lake of the Woods Discovery Centre. The centre houses the visitor information centre, but it also has different season exhibits, interactive displays, and a theatre with one hundred seats. The centre has picnic benches outside which overlook the beautiful Lake of the Woods. Outside the building there are also interpretive signs. The centre’s building itself is quite impressive and definitely worth seeing.
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16. Explore a glassy wonderland
Located in Kenora, the Fragile Glass Studio is a must see. Not only is it located in an amazing church which is over one hundred and twenty years old, the studio itself has all sorts of neat and unique items to see. Many of the items in the store are handcrafted right in Kenora while others are imported from around the world. Whether you’re looking for a gift, something unique, or just browsing to see all the incredible works of art, you’ll be sure to enjoy stopping in.
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17. Rushing River Provincial Park
Located only fifteen minutes from Kenora, the Rushing River Provincial Park has become a favorite for families and individuals alike. It’s best known for its sandy beaches, beautiful campgrounds, clear waters perfect for swimming and fishing, hiking trails, and the exciting programs offered throughout the season. The park is also incredibly popular as a gateway to some spectacular canoe routes. The area is incredibly scenic and filled with opportunities for wildlife spotting and bird watching. The park is also a popular winter destination, especially for the cross country ski trails.
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18. Hit the trails
The Lake of the Woods area offers some of the most beautiful and scenic countryside you’ll ever encounter. It’s no wonder that the trails in and around the city of Kenora and the lake are incredibly popular. Whether you’re an avid hiker to someone who prefers are more leisurely walk, there is sure to be a trail that’s just perfect for you. There are over nine different trail systems in and around the Lake of the Wood region. If you consult the website, you can find out more information about which trail is the right one for you.
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19. Take a swing at a golf course
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20. Explore, fish, and paddle the day away
Just a short distance from Kenora lies the beautiful and pristine inland Black Sturgeon Lake. The lake is known for its pristine waters. The lake is the perfect fishing destination, especially if you want to fish the area but are intimidated by the size of Lake of the Woods. Canoe and Kayak enthusiasts will love paddling on the lake, but Black Sturgeon also has access into the exciting Winnipeg River system. The lake is perfect for just spending a day away or enjoying a quieter escape in the area. Like most of northwest Ontario, the scenery truly is unrivalled. If you want to stay right on the lake, be sure to check out the Log Cabin Inn Bed & Breakfast. It’s truly amazing!
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21. Stay in a yurt
Located forty-five minutes from Kenora, is the incredible Minaki Yurt Adventures. Surrounded by rocky outcrops, sparkling waters, and boreal forest, the area truly is nature’s playground. The trail systems in the area are expansive and scenic, perfect for anyone from the beginner to the advanced hiker. The yurts themselves are absolutely fantastic. There are four different styles to choose from and they’re all located in different spots. Some are further back from the parking area and are an adventure in themselves to reach. If you’re looking for a different kind of experience which can be enjoyed year round, this one is a must!
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22. Try a Fly In
If you’ve never tried fishing from a fly in outpost, there’s really nothing like it. The Nestor Falls Fly In Outposts offer you a few different outposts to choose from. Generally, the advantage of choosing an outpost is that the spot you’ll be taken to is far more secluded and can only be reached, most times, by a small plane. The outfitter will have their camp and boats set up on spot on one of these remote lakes or rivers, and you fish from there. Fishing in these more remote locations is quite an experience. Not only is the quality and quantity of fish usually better due to the low fishing pressure, it’s also a much quieter, more serene experience. Often, you can fish your whole trip without seeing any other boats on the lake. Even if you’re just a beginner angler and you’re not sure that you’re up to the challenge of a fly in outpost, you shouldn’t discount it. Most outfitters have guides available, and the experience really is one of a kind. In the Nestor Falls area, the remote lakes have spectacular muskie, lake trout, walleye, perch, pike, and smallmouth bass fishing.
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23. Learn all about the history of fishing
The Northern Ontario Sports Fishing Centre opened its doors in 2012 in Sioux Narrows and has since had visitors from all over the world. The building itself is quite a work of art, but what’s inside is truly fascinating. The three carved totem poles are simply breathtaking. The building is home to some interesting exhibits that contain antique fishing equipment, vintage motors, and two vintage fishing boats. The Centre supports local artists and is proud to display paintings and works for sale. The Centre’s collection of artifacts is always growing due to generous donations. Located right in downtown Sioux Narrows, just off of Lake of the Woods, the Centre is definitely worth making the trip out to see.
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24. Try out a tournament for toothy critters
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25. Buy a new piece of art
The Sioux Narrows Arts Festival is held every year, generally at the beginning of August. The festival is an exciting day that people of all ages can enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a new piece of art or just want to take in the displays of many talented local artisans, it’s sure to be an experience. There are events planned at the festival for people of all ages, and there are also performances by local musicians. If you’re in the area at the beginning of August, it’s well worth planning your trip to take in the festival.
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26. Compete for the biggest bass
Held in the third week of September, the Crow Lake Classic is a popular bass tournament held on Crow Lake, right near Nestor Falls. The tournament is an exciting one. Dubbed “The Biggest Little Bass Tournament in Sunset Country,” people look forward to the tournament all year. The tournament is limited to under fifty teams, so if you think you’d like to give it a try, you should register in advance.
27. Visit the Goodwill Geyser
Experience a unique Kenora sight by visiting the Goodwill Geyser in McLeod Park. This geyser erupts every hour and can reach up to 75m tall summer from 8am to 11pm during the summer months. There’s nothing in the area quite like it!