This scenic road trip offers one of the best day trips to enjoy the mighty Winnipeg River. It commences in the town of Beausejour, where rich agricultural traditions give away to the rugged Canadian Shield.

This summer, we're featuring an amazing collection of road trips that will help you explore every corner of Manitoba. The Water, Water Everywhere road trip takes you along the water's edge of the historic Winnipeg River located on Treaty 3 territory, in eastern Manitoba. Take one part of the itinerary for a day trip, or combine them for a multi-day trip.

Part Two

Hiking & biking in Pinawa

Travel east of Beausejour for 55 km to Pinawa, nestled where PR 211 ends along the scenic shores of the Winnipeg River. Pinawa is a hub for outdoor recreation in all seasons because of the town's public waterfront and extensive network of trails, which are part of The Trans Canada Trail.

One of the most popular routes is the Ironwood Trail, which commences at the town beach (where you'll also find family favourite inflatable waterpark Hoopla Island every summer). The trail encircles the town and offers beautiful views of the area's granite ridges, mixed forests and calming waters. Be on the lookout for wildlife such as deer, beavers, turtles along the shore, and plenty of birds overhead. This trail connects to Pinawa Channel Heritage Walk, where a photogenic suspension bridge spans the iconic channel. On the other side of the bridge, the trail plunges deep into Canadian Shield wilderness.

Bike rentals are available at Pinawa Motel for those who prefer covering ground by two wheels.

Pinawa Dam Provincial Heritage Park

Built in 1906, Pinawa Dam was Manitoba's first hydro-electric generating station and was crucial to providing power to a burgeoning Winnipeg at the turn of the 20th century. Turning off the power in the 1950s, the dam is now a popular heritage park and day trip destination. The site is located just 10 kms from town, and includes self-guided walking trails around the concrete monolith to learn the engineering history. Consider packing a picnic and setting up on the flat granite rocks by the rapids to dip your toes while you lunch.

Play the Channel

Whether you choose kayak, canoe, SUP, or the ever-popular inflatable tube or raft, floating the Pinawa Channel is a must-do summer activity in Manitoba. Plan to spend 2-3 hours navigating the lazy river as it gently pulls you downstream from the launch near the golf course to the suspension bridge. To make it easy, visitors can book a tour time and equipment with companies Float and Paddle and Pinawa Unplugged Eco-Tours.

Part Three

Family fishing in Lac du Bonnet

Continue on your road trip to the neighbouring town only 25 kms away, the lovely Lac du Bonnet. With over 60 kilometers of nearby lakes and rivers, Lac du Bonnet is a popular, multi-species hotspot for both experienced and newbie anglers. Even if you don't own a boat to get out on the water, there are endless accessible shoreline spots where you can cast your line for a few hours. Head into town and cast a line from the lovely town pier, while the kids play off the dock at the town beach. Or drive just out of town on PR 313 to fish from the shore beside the Lac du Bonnet Bridge.

Turn your fishing afternoon into an overnight adventure by renting a cute family cabin at Granite Recreation Park off Cape Coppermine Road in the Lee River area. The resort also features GiGi's drive-in restaurant, a convenience store, seasonal RV campground and boat launch, making it the perfect all-inclusive getaway to fish around Lac du Bonnet.

Where to stay en route

Hotels: Pinawa Motel, Wilderness Edge Resort (Pinawa)

Unique stays: Hidden Haven Tiny Cabins (Pinawa), Lazy Days Lodge (Lac du Bonnet), L'Eau Calme Resort (Pinawa)

Campgrounds: Great Woods Campground (Beausejour), Relax Ridge (Pinawa)