North of 53 Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of North of 53 in Manitoba, Canada with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to eat, and more!


Introduction to North of 53

Nestled in the heart of Manitoba’s Prairies, North of 53 is a stunning travel destination that boasts of a plethora of natural attractions, rich history, and unique culture. The area is named after the 53rd parallel that marks the border between Canada and the United States, and is home to several indigenous communities that offer a glimpse into their rich heritage. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, North of 53 is the perfect destination for you.

List of Places to Visit in North of 53

North of 53 is replete with fascinating places to visit that offer a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and historical attractions. Here are some of the must-visit spots:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Manitoba Museum: This museum houses several exhibits that showcase Manitoba’s history and culture, including the Nonsuch ship that brought the first European traders to the region.

  • The Trapper’s Festival: Held annually in the town of The Pas, this festival celebrates the history of the fur trade in the area. Visitors can participate in various activities, including dog sled races, ice sculpting competitions, and more.

  • The Sam Waller Museum: Located in The Pas, this museum is dedicated to the history of the town and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the fur trade, mining, and the indigenous culture.

Natural Attractions of North of 53: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Clearwater Lake Provincial Park: This breathtaking park is home to Clearwater Lake, known for its crystal-clear water and sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking in the park.

  • Grass River Provincial Park: This park covers over 5,100 hectares of pristine wilderness and is home to several picturesque lakes and rivers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, canoeing, and wildlife watching in the park.

  • The Pas Husky Trail: This trail is a popular destination for dog sledding adventures during winters. It spans over 40 kilometers and offers stunning views of the surrounding forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North of 53

North of 53 is known for its stunning nature trails that offer picturesque views and exciting adventures. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:

  • The Clearwater Lake Trail: This 10-kilometer trail is located in Clearwater Lake Provincial Park and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding forests.

  • The Bakers Narrows Trail: This 7-kilometer trail is located in Bakers Narrows Provincial Park and offers scenic views of the Bakers Narrows.

  • The Cranberry Portage Trail: This 8-kilometer trail is located in Cranberry Portage and is a popular destination for biking.

Best Things to Do in North of 53: Activities and Tours

  • Experience the indigenous culture: North of 53 is home to several indigenous communities that offer immersive cultural experiences, including traditional dances, storytelling, and crafts.

  • Dog sledding: Visit during winters to experience the thrill of dog sledding on the Pas Husky Trail.

  • Fishing: North of 53 is known for its excellent fishing grounds, including the Clearwater Lake, Grass River, and the Churchill River.

Week-Long Itinerary for North of 53

Day 1: Visit the Manitoba Museum in Winnipeg and explore its exhibits showcasing the history of the province.

Day 2-3: Visit The Pas and attend the annual Trapper’s Festival, held every February.

Day 4-5: Explore the natural attractions of North of 53, including Clearwater Lake Provincial Park and Grass River Provincial Park.

Day 6-7: Experience the indigenous culture and visit the Sam Waller Museum in The Pas.

Food and Drink Scene of North of 53

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bannock: A traditional indigenous bread made with flour, baking powder, and water.

  • Pickerel: A freshwater fish found in the lakes and rivers of North of 53, known for its delicate and flaky texture.

Local Beverages

  • Saskatoon Berry Wine: A fruity wine made from the Saskatoon Berry, a local northern berry.

  • Manitoba Beer: Several breweries in Manitoba produce craft beer that showcases the distinct flavors of the region.

Where to Stay in North of 53: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Pas: The town of The Pas offers several accommodation options, including hotels, motels, and guesthouses.

  • Clearwater Lake Provincial Park: The park has several campsites that offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding forests.

What to Buy in North of 53: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade crafts: Several indigenous communities in North of 53 sell handmade crafts, including dreamcatchers, beaded jewelry, and moccasins.

  • Saskatoon Berry Jams and Syrups: These sweet treats are made from the Saskatoon Berry, a local berry found in North of 53.

Local Culture and Customs of North of 53

The indigenous culture is an integral part of the North of 53. Visitors are expected to respect their customs and traditions. It’s also important to note that hunting and fishing are an important source of livelihood for many residents in the area.

Best Time to Visit North of 53

The best time to visit North of 53 is during summers, from June to August, when the weather is pleasant, and the outdoors are in full bloom. However, winters in North of 53 offer unique experiences, including dog sledding and ice fishing.

Do’s and Don’ts of North of 53

Do:

  • Respect the indigenous culture and traditions.

  • Embrace the outdoors and indulge in outdoor adventures.

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the environment in any way.

  • Ignore safety guidelines while participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in North of 53

North of 53 is generally safe for visitors. However, it’s important to take precautions while participating in outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and dog sledding.

Health in North of 53

Visitors must carry their essential medications and first-aid supplies as medical facilities in the area are limited.

Getting to North of 53: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North of 53

  • The Pas Airport
  • Flin Flon Airport

Bus Stations Near North of 53

  • The Pas Greyhound Station
  • Flin Flon Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car rentals: Car rentals are available in Winnipeg, which is the nearest major city to North of 53.

How to Get Around in North of 53

A car is the most convenient mode of transport to explore North of 53. However, visitors can also rent bicycles or participate in guided tours to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from North of 53: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

North of 53 is surrounded by several other exciting destinations that are worth exploring, including the city of Winnipeg, Riding Mountain National Park, and the town of Flin Flon.

Conclusion

North of 53 is a hidden gem in the heart of Manitoba’s Prairies that offers a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and historical attractions. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat amidst nature or a thrilling adventure, North of 53 is the perfect travel destination for you.

Shore-fast ice on Hudson Bay at Cape Churchill, Wapusk National Park Shore-fast ice on Hudson Bay at Cape Churchill, Wapusk National Park The boreal forest near Thompson outside your train window The boreal forest near Thompson outside your train window Shower polar bears with love only from a safe distance Shower polar bears with love only from a safe distance


    Pisew Falls Provincial Park
    The Pas
    Thompson