The Pas Travel Guide

Discover The Pas, a scenic destination in Manitoba, Canada. Our travel guide includes a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink spots, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to The Pas

Located in the north of 53 in Manitoba, The Pas is a scenic destination in Canada that offers a unique mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and local flavors. The town is situated on the Saskatchewan River and surrounded by lush forests, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

List of Places to Visit in The Pas

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sam Waller Museum: A fascinating museum showcasing the cultural history of the region and its people. From the indigenous cultures to the fur trade and railroad history, the museum offers an interactive exhibit and educational programs.
  • The Pas Heritage Village: A living museum highlighting the lifestyle of early settlers in The Pas. The village is an open-air museum with historic buildings, a schoolhouse, church, and other historic landmarks that tell the story of early life in the region.

Natural Attractions of The Pas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Clearwater Lake Provincial Park: A beautiful park with endless natural beauty featuring Clearwater Lake, a popular spot for boating and fishing, and hiking trails with scenic views of waterfalls, forests, and wildlife.
  • Rocky Lake: A serene spot for kayaking and canoeing, surrounded by lush forests.
  • Opasquia Provincial Park: A remote wilderness park that offers camping, fishing, hiking, and incredible wildlife sightings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of The Pas

  • The Rotary Trail: A beautiful trail along the Saskatchewan River with stunning views and scenic spots perfect for picnics.
  • Clearwater Lake Circuit Trail: This moderate trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, offering breathtaking views of Clearwater Lake.

Best Things to Do in The Pas: Activities and Tours

  • Northern Lights Tours: The Pas is located under the Aurora Oval, making it the perfect spot to witness Northern Lights. Guided tours are available during the season.
  • Snowmobiling: The Pas has a network of over 500 km of groomed snowmobile trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Fishing: A popular activity in the area, The Pas has access to lakes and rivers with a vast variety of fish, including Northern Pike, Trout, and Walleye.

Week-Long Itinerary for The Pas

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore The Pas Heritage Village
Day 2 Visit Sam Waller Museum
Day 3 Hike the Clearwater Lake Circuit Trail
Day 4 Fishing in Clearwater Lake
Day 5 Canoeing in Rocky Lake
Day 6 Snowmobiling
Day 7 Witness Northern Lights

Food and Drink Scene of The Pas

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bannock: A traditional indigenous frybread served with savory or sweet toppings.
  • Pickerel: A popular fish caught from nearby lakes and served grilled or fried.

Local Beverages

  • Saskatoon Berry Wine: A local specialty produced from the region’s Saskatoon berry.
  • Craft Beer: The Pas has a growing beer scene, and a variety of micro-breweries are popping up in the area.

Where to Stay in The Pas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Wescana Inn: A modern hotel with all the necessary amenities, located in the heart of The Pas.
  • Rocky Lake Resort: A peaceful retreat nestled on Rocky Lake, offering private cabins with a view of the lake.
  • Northern Wings Bed & Breakfast: A cozy bed, and breakfast with comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast service.

What to Buy in The Pas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Fur Clothing: The Pas has a long history with the fur trade, and it’s still an essential part of the local economy. You can find a variety of fur clothing in The Pas, from gloves to coats.
  • Beadwork: Traditional indigenous beadwork is an integral part of The Pas culture and heritage. Look for contemporary designs and beautiful beaded jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of The Pas

The Pas has a rich cultural history, with a diverse population including indigenous peoples and early settlers. Respect for the land and environment is an essential part of The Pas culture, and visitors should be mindful of local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit The Pas

The Pas has a range of activities year-round, making it an excellent destination at any time of the year. Northern Lights are visible from September to April, while summer (June to August) is perfect for fishing, hiking, and wildlife sighting.

Do’s and Don’ts of The Pas

Do:

  • Respect local culture and traditions.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the region.
  • Try local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb wildlife.
  • Ignore safety protocols in outdoor activities.
  • Disrespect the indigenous culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in The Pas

The Pas, like any other Canadian town, is relatively safe. In remote areas with wildlife, follow safety rules, such as not leaving food outside and keeping a safe distance from wild animals.

Health in The Pas

The Pas has a hospital and clinics that provide medical services. However, it is advisable to carry a traveler’s medical insurance and speak to a healthcare professional if you have any specific health concerns.

Getting to The Pas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near The Pas

  • The Pas Airport: Located 6 km southeast of The Pas downtown, the airport offers flights to Winnipeg.

Bus Stations Near The Pas

  • Greyhound: The Pas is on the Greyhound route to Winnipeg.

Other Options

  • Car rental: There are a few car rental companies in town.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available in The Pas, and most operate 24/7.

How to Get Around in The Pas

The Pas is a walkable town, and most attractions are within walking distance. Taxis are readily available for longer distances, and car rental is an option for exploring the region.

Where to Go Next from The Pas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Flin Flon: A small Canadian mining city with a rich history and scenic beauty, a three-hour drive from The Pas.
  • Churchill: Known as the Polar Bear Capital of the world, Churchill is a popular destination for wildlife sightings, especially polar bears and beluga whales.

Conclusion

The Pas is not only an ideal destination for adventure lovers but also for those seeking to immerse themselves in a unique cultural experience. This Manitoba town is rich in history, natural beauty, and local flavors, making it a must-visit for tourists looking to explore Canada’s charming charm.

link= link= link= link= link= link=