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Winter Adventures |
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 Fresh white snow sculpted into winter’s finest designs, crisp clean air, the warmth of the sun on your face, the scent of jack pine—all beckoning you to a Whiteshell adventure. Winter is an exciting season to discover one of Manitoba’s premier outdoor recreation playgrounds.
Located only one and a half hours from Winnipeg via Highway #1, PTH 44 or PR 307, the park offers a great cure for the winter blues. Picture your own winter adventure in the Whiteshell…whether gliding along some of the 70 kilometres of groomed cross-country ski trails or sledding over the 250 kilometres of groomed snowmobile trails. Imagine patiently waiting for the big catch while ice fishing, swooshing down the ski slopes, getting back to nature on horseback or horse-drawn sled, breaking trail through fresh snow by snowshoe or testing your skills with winter camping in the solitude of the backcountry. It could be as simple as leisurely watching the magic of the northern lights as they dance across a star-filled sky from the comfort of a rented cabin. Whatever your winter interests, you’re bound to find something that suits your sense of winter adventure in Whiteshell Provincial Park.
If you haven’t been to the Whiteshell in the winter, it’s time to give it a try. To those who have… welcome back to a Whiteshell winter adventure.
Please read on and use this publication to help plan your next visit. Be sure to use the map on the other side to guide you along the trails and to the many services.
With over 270,000 hectares of picturesque Precambrian shield country, the park offers many choices to stage your adventure. If you approach the park from the south near Falcon, West Hawk or Caddy lakes, you will find a superb mix of commercial services and amenities from two townsites and great trail systems spreading out into some of nature’s finest landscapes. Snowmobilers will find a variety of challenging terrain, ranging from jack pine forests to rugged snow-capped granite ridges. Two trails from Falcon Lake lead to West Hawk (16 or 22 km). Another will take you from Falcon to Mud Lake and then back to the Falcon Ridge Ski Area (16 km), or set you on a return trip from Falcon to Snake Lake (20 km). Cross-country skiers will find a variety of groomed trails at West Hawk Lake (4.5 km), McHugh Lake (9 km), Falcon Lake (4 km), High Lake (7.5 km), Falcon Ridge Ski Area trails (12.5 km), the Falcon Lake Golf Course trail (4 km), and the South Whiteshell multi-purpose trail (12 km, of which 7.5 km is groomed).
If you choose the central portion of the park near Rennie, Brereton, Jessica, White or Big Whiteshell lakes, a vast winter paradise beckons you from the doorstep of your comfortable resort accommodation. Cross-country ski the groomed trails at the Alf Hole Goose Sanctuary (7 km), Inverness Falls (8 km) and Jessica Lake (15.4 km), where you’ll find routes suited to everyone from novice to expert.
 For snowmobilers, an extensive network of trails leads you to spectacular scenic overlooks, any photographer’s delight. From Rennie, trails lead into the park to Otter Falls (68 km), Beauchemin Lake and back (39 km), Elma (32 km), Big Whiteshell Lake and back (80 km) and Falcon Lake (34 km).
A visit to the northern portion of the park brings you to the popular winter recreation areas of Otter Falls, Dorothy, Nutimik and Betula lakes. Glide along the Otter Falls ski trail (10 km), and be sure to bring your camera along if you choose to ski the Pine Point cross-country ski trail (6.5 km). The ice formations over the rocks where water normally flows in warmer weather is a must see. Snowmobilers will take delight in the groomed trails from the town of Seven Sisters Falls to Otter Falls (15 km) or the trip from Otter Falls to Rennie (68 km).
While enjoying your outing in the Whiteshell, you’ll find you are not the only one savouring a winter adventure. Listen and watch for signs of wildlife. The distant howl of a majestic wolf, the nibbled bark of shrubs where deer and snowshoe hares have stopped for a snack, a snow angel made where a ruffed grouse spread its wings or the air holes in the snow signalling the presence of tiny snow dwellers such as voles. Winter is truly alive with activity in Whiteshell Provincial Park.
If snowmobiling and cross-country skiing adventures aren’t enough for you, try your hand at some of the many other activities beckoning the winter enthusiast.
Downhill Skiing
The Falcon Ridge Ski Area is conveniently located at the east end of Falcon Lake. The opening date for downhill skiing depends on snow conditions. The ski area is open weekends and holidays during the season. Group bookings are accepted for mid-week and must be made two weeks in advance. Dates and hours of operation are subject to change, depending on snow conditions.
In addition to skiing, the facility offers snowboarding and tubing.
Snowshoeing
Whiteshell offers a unique experience in snowshoeing. Consider the better part of the park’s backcountry – – yours to explore. Keep a watchful eye as you tramp through the woods – you may be lucky enough to see a moose, white-tailed deer, snowshoe hare or ruffed grouse.
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is a popular winter activity throughout the Whiteshell. Most of the fish sought during the summer, (walleye, lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, and northern pike) are still waiting to be caught beneath the winter’s ice cap. Try your hand at Falcon, West Hawk, Camp, Lyons, Bear, Brereton, Jessica, Big Whiteshell and George lakes, some of the most popular spots. Remember that a fishing licence is required when ice fishing and can be purchased from businesses within the park.
 Horseback Riding and Sleigh Rides
Falcon Beach Riding Stable and Guest Ranch offers winter horseback riding and sleigh rides.
Automobile Touring
Another way of enjoying the Whiteshell is from the warmth of your vehicle. Take a couple of hours and travel the scenic drive through the park. Start the adventure at either Seven Sisters Falls at the north end of the park, at Rennie near the central portion of the park or off the Trans-Canada Highway in the south, near Falcon Lake and West Hawk Lake. Make sure to stop at one of the restaurants or coffee shops along the way for refreshments.
Special Events
- Beaver Days Winter Carnival at Falcon/West Hawk lakes – Second weekend in February.
- Rennie Winter Carnival – February
- Whiteshell Community Club (Falcon Lake) – Curling bonspiels throughout February and March. Call 1-204-349-2201 for more information.
- Southeast Whiteshell Volunteer Fire Department Snowmobile Poker Derby--third weekend in February.
Please remember that a park vehicle permit is required year round for all motor vehicles in Whiteshell Provincial Park. Permits may be purchased from Manitoba Conservation offices and local businesses.
 Connecting snowmobile trails act as a magnet, bringing visitors to Whiteshell Provincial Park from as far away as Ontario, Michigan and Minnesota.
From the south, across the border or from southeastern Manitoba, you enter the park on the Can-Am Trail or along a 32–kilometre trail from Elma to Rennie.
From the east, you can come along trails groomed by northwestern Ontario snowmobile clubs that intersect with Whiteshell trails at High Lake near Falcon, or use an access trail maintained between Ingolf, Ontario and West Hawk Lake.
From the north and west, you can snowmobile the trails of Pinawa, Agassiz, and Lac du Bonnet, which are groomed by the SNOPALS Snowmobile Club, entering the Whiteshell trail network from the town of Seven Sisters Falls.
As destination snowmobiling increases in popularity, so likely will the number of pleasure seekers coming to the park. You won’t be disappointed. Come, plot a course that includes the Whiteshell, and plan to stay a weekend or more. You’ll enjoy a variety of terrain over the long distance and find some comfortable places to spend the night.
Blue Ribbon Trails
Trails marked with a blue ribbon are not SNOFUND trails. These trails are trapping trails and are not intended for public use. Professional trappers in this area depend on these trails for part of their income. By using these trails you are compromising their livelihood.
Trails marked with a blue ribbon are not groomed. Snow and ice conditions are not monitored. You are risking your machine and personal safety by riding them. These narrow trails often dead-end and personal safety cannot be guaranteed if you choose to ride them. Trail use is not authorized.
A map has been provided in the warm-up shelters to help you plan your trip on designated trails. We thank you for your help and cooperation.
After a full day of winter fun, there’s nothing like relaxing in front of a crackling fire, recalling the day’s activities, while enjoying a fine meal and preparing for the next day's adventures. Choose from a variety of lodging options to suit your mood. They range from rustic to the most modern and offer all the amenities. Other services available to help make your winter visit as pleasant and safe as possible are restaurants, grocery stores, gas and service stations, trail warming shelters (with wood-burning stoves), public phones and an ambulance service.
If you need information, you’ll find that park offices are open on weekdays during the winter. See the following service listing in this guide or check the Manitoba Accommodations and Campground Guide for more information on commercial services.
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Snowmobilers’ Code Of Ethics
- I will be a good sports enthusiast. I recognize that people judge all snowmobile owners by my actions. I will use my influence with other snowmobile owners to promote fair conduct.
- I will not litter trails or camping areas. I will not pollute lakes or streams.
- I will not damage living trees, shrubs, or other natural features. I will go out only when there is sufficient snow so that I will not damage the land.
- I will respect other people’s property and rights.
- I will lend a helping hand when I see someone in distress.
- I will make my vehicle and myself available to assist search and rescue parties.
- I will not interfere with or harass hikers, skiers, snowshoers, ice anglers or other winter sports enthusiasts. I will respect their rights to enjoy our recreational facilities.
- I will know and obey all federal, state/provincial and local rules regulating the operation of snowmobiles in areas where I use my vehicle. I will inform officials when using public land.
- I will not harass wildlife. I will avoid areas posted for the protection or feeding of wildlife.
- I will stay on marked trails or marked roads open to snowmobiles. I will not snowmobile where prohibited.
- from Manitoba Conservation, Snowmobile Training Manual -
We want you to enjoy your visit and have fun in the park. While you are here, please play it safe so you can come back to enjoy the Whiteshell over and over again. Weather can change quickly, so be prepared. Think ahead and plan your outing carefully.
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Winter Safety Tips
- Before you take off, check your equipment.
- Let a responsible person know where you are going, when you are leaving and when you expect to return.
- Maintain your snowmobile and cross-country ski equipment.
- When estimating time for the trip, make an allowance for the slowest member of the group who sets the pace for the others.
- Make sure the group stays together. Verify by making frequent headcounts.
- Take time out for rest, food, water, toilet breaks and adjusting equipment.
- Watch out for signs that members of your groups are tiring or experience any other changes in physical condition.
- Dress appropriately for the weather. Be prepared for sudden changes in temperature.
- Watch the weather carefully. If it worsens, head back to your starting point or get to a shelter.
- Be aware of weather warnings, and remember to include the wind-chill when planning your trip.
Signs of Frostbite and Hypothermia
 Frostbite results when the skin freezes, particularly on fingers, feet and face (ears, nose and cheeks). First the area turns red, then greyish white. To treat frostbite, gently warm the affected area with body heat. Do not massage the affected area as this may result in damaging the skin cells. Do not rub with snow or apply direct heat. If necessary, remove gloves or boots and warm hands and feet inside your jacket.
Hypothermia is the dangerous lowering of body temperature, which causes loss of normal body functioning. It can happen even on relatively warm days. Be on the lookout for signs of hypothermia, which can include shivering, confusion and clumsiness in the early stage.
Forget the myth that alcohol warms up a chilled person. It opens the blood vessels and removes the feeling of chill, but it does nothing to increase body heat. Instead it can increase the risk of hypothermia. With alcohol, you may feel warmer, while your body chills dangerously.
Dressing Right
With high-tech winter wear and proper layering, winter comfort is easy. Start with polypropylene and thermal underwear that releases moisture while retaining heat. Add other heat retentive layers. Avoid cottons and sweatshirts, which retain moisture and make you feel clammy and cold.
Good snowmobile wear contains material that retains heat, releases moisture and resists both water and wind. Consider a buoyant suit with reflective trim for night visibility. Carry extra clothing, socks, boot liners and mitts for layering. A helmet and face shield combat cold and hazards. Waterproof, insulated boots and leather snowmobile mitts provide the best warmth and protection.
When cross-country skiing, wear layers of loose-fitting clothes, permitting you to remove some when working hard, and to put on more layers when resting. Warm hats, mittens and socks (preferably wool) are essential. Wearing a hat will reduce heat loss through your head. Carry an extra pair of mittens and socks so that a dry pair is available. Woolen socks can be pulled over ski boots for added insulation on very cold days or if sidelined in an emergency.
Basic Survival Kit
While enjoying the remote areas of the park, you can easily ski, snowshoe or snowmobile beyond immediate help. A basic survival kit can be packed and brought with you in case of an emergency. These packs can be added to for longer journeys (see the information provided on snowmobiling and cross-country skiing for additional items). A basic repair kit has been included with both the cross-country skiing and snowmobiling sections. It’s a long haul if your equipment breaks and you are unable to fix it.
- waterproof matches, disposable lighter or flint
- candle
- pocket knife (Swiss Army type)
- aluminum foil (1 m x 1 m; 3 ft. x 3 ft.) for cooking, insulation, making containers
- two sugar cubes
- two heavy-duty plastic bags for shelter
- compact folding saw
- whistle for emergency communicationlter
- roll of 2 in. waterproof tape for first aid, patching, binding and tying
- soup that can be cooked in its own container. .
- 9 m (30 ft.) of thin nylon cord
- 1 m (3 ft.) of electric wire. Use it for tying and making handles for foil cookware.
- high energy foods like chocolate or dried fruit
- compass (make sure you know how to use it before you leave on your trip)
- an insulated aluminized safety blanket
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Cross-country Ski Safety
- Dress appropriately for the weather. The objective is to stay warm and dry to prevent frostbite or hypothermia.
- Plan your outing carefully, choosing trails that suit your level of ability.
- Before you depart, check local snow conditions. For current information, contact your local Manitoba Conservation office. Check for closures in the case of competitions, and reschedule your outing accordingly.
- Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.
- Ski with a partner whenever possible.
- Observe the one-way travel directions to avoid colliding into other skiers.
- Step off the trail when resting or adjusting equipment.
- Know your limits; don’t over exert yourself.
- Stay on designated trails.
- Bring along a variety of waxes and a scraper for changing snow conditions.
- Keep to the right so faster skiers can pass on the left.
- Carry out all garbage.
- Remember to bring your repair and survival kits.
- Let Manitoba Conservation staff know of any hazards you encounter.
Cross-country Ski Repair Kit
- cord
- wire
- pliers
- knife
- screwdriver
- emergency ski tip
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Snowmobile Safety
 Snowmobiling requires constant care, caution and attention. For this reason, do not drink and drive. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair your perception and judgement, slow your reaction time and limit your ability to control your sled at critical moments. Operating your machine under the influence of alcohol puts your life and the lives of others in danger. It is punishable under the Criminal Code of Canada and can put both your driver’s licence and insurability at risk.
Drowning is the leading cause of snowmobile fatalities. When operating snowmachines across frozen lakes, stay on the designated trail. Do not stop until you reach shore. If you hit slush, do not let off the throttle. If you are following someone who hits slush, veer off to make your own path. If you are crossing unfamiliar lakes and rivers that are not part of the designated trail system, ask area residents whether a safe track across the ice exists. As a rule of thumb, "If you don’t know, don’t go.”
A final safety tip – check your fuel tank to ensure you can get to the next fuel stop.
Snowmobile Trail Rules
- Do not drive at high speeds.
- Do not exceed the recommended speed of 60 km/h on straight-aways and 30 km/h or slower on corners.
- Slow down for reduced visibility, regulated speed limits, caution areas and deteriorating sledding conditions.
- Always wear your helmet.
- Keep to the right half of the lane on all trails.
- Do not cross over the centre into the oncoming lane. It is dangerous and unlawful.
- Watch for groomers on trails at all times.
- Do not travel off the marked trail.
- Be alert to dangerous conditions, which can occur at any time.
- Report dangerous drivers or unsafe conditions.
- Be aware that open liquor is illegal in any public area.
- Use caution on trails--slow down and enjoy.
- Do not leave your snowmobile on the trail. If it breaks down, pull if off to the side.
- When meeting oncoming traffic on a lake, keep to the right.
- Lake travel at night requires slower speeds. Hidden obstructions like docks, bridges and marker buoys are difficult to see.
- It is easy to become disorientated in snow squalls and darkness. If you lose your way, stop until you regain your sense of direction. Leave your machine running so your lights can be seen.
- Signal your intentions.
- Carry out your garbage.
 Snowmobile Repair Kit
- spare belt, spark plugs
- manufacturer’s tool kit
- extra wrenches, nuts and bolts sized to your sled
- tow rope and pry bar
- duct tape and wire
- extra ignition key
- work gloves
- flashlight
Caution !
Ice conditions can change daily. The marking of a trail on the map does not suggest that ice travel or crossings are safe. Ask several local people, visit our Web site www.manitobaparks.com or contact your local Manitoba Conservation office for information on present ice conditions before doing any river or lake riding.
Caution !
Sometimes trail locations marked on this map are relocated during the winter. The map should be used as a trip-planning guide only. Follow the trail markers or the groomed track.
Caution !
 Ride single file at a safe distance and at a sensible speed to ensure your safety and that of others.
The SNOFUND is Manitoba’s user-pay snowmobile trail pass system. It requires snowmobilers who choose to ride on a designated SNOFUND Snowmobile Trail to purchase a trail pass (SNOPASS).
As a dedicated fund, all of the money raised through the sales of SNOPASSES goes back into snowmobiling. The SNOFUND Program provides financial assistance to maintain existing trails, develop new ones, construct and upgrade trail shelters, purchase and install trail signs, produce regional trail maps of the designated trail system and cover the operational costs of the SNOFUND Program.
A SNOPASS is legally required to ride on designated SNOFUND snowmobile trails. RCMP and Manitoba Natural Resource Officers actively patrol the trails and enforce the requirement for a SNOPASS. All Whiteshell Provincial Park snowmobile trails are designated as SNOFUND trails. For more information or trail condition reports, call Snowman Inc. (Snowmobiles of Manitoba) at 1-204-940-SLED (7533) or visit the Web site at http://www.snoman.mb.ca.
This map has been published from information deemed correct and available at the time of publication.
 We may have missed a trail or some other relevant item for this year’s map. If so, let us know and we’ll consider putting it on next time. Your assistance will allow us to keep up with the many changes taking place on the trails, so we can continue to offer you the most up-to-date trail map possible.
We assume no responsibility or liability for discrepancies, errors or omissions that may appear, or for actual conditions on the indicated trails at any time.
All distances are approximate. The map is intended as a general guide only. Please follow designated trail signage.
For more information and trail condition reports please contact the numbers on the front of the map or visit our Web site at www.manitobaparks.com
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Park maps
Revised October 2004
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- Winter Adventures
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