Top Things to do in Whiteshell Provincial Park
The 6 Best Free Things to do in Whiteshell Provincial Park, Whiteshell Provincial Park
Discover the best top things to do in Whiteshell Provincial Park, Manitoba including Pine Point Trail, Bannock Point Petroforms, Rainbow Falls, Hunt Lake Hiking Trail, Falcon Lake, McGillivray Falls Self-guiding Trail.
1. Pine Point Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 12 reviews
Reviewed By BrittanyMExplores - Winnipeg, Canada
I completed this hike on the morning of June 20 2020. I arrived at 7:30 AM and was the first one there and enjoyed having the entire trail to myself for most of the hike (just passed a few groups on the way back). When I returned to the parking lot at 10:30, it was starting to fill up but the trail didn't feel busy at all on my way back. The hike begins on a wide path through the forest and arrives at a junction. I always take the trail to the right (the self-guiding 2.7 km one), as it's more scenic and interesting in the terrain. The other path is a wide, straight trail through the forest that also arrives to the first rapids and there is no elevation on that one. The scenic trail travels through a mix of forest and climbs over the rocky face of the Shield. There is a short, offshoot trail leading to a lookout point along the way, where there were beautiful views of the forest! There were quite a few muddy sections of the trail as you get closer to the first rapids... Make sure to bring extra socks and wear waterproof footwear! At the first rapids, there is a small warming hut with a wood stove. It's a nice place to enjoy a snack! There's also picnic tables on the rocks. The rapids were beautiful! The second loop is 2.8 km and is lesser traveled than the first section of trail and it's my favourite portion of the hike as it is very scenic! This section is slightly more challenging with more ups and downs over the rocks. It leads to Acorn Falls first and then Viburnum Falls. Both are gorgeous and offer pretty views! There were some fallen trees across the trail at various points, but they were easy to navigate. The mosquitoes were absolutely HORRENDOUS when I hiked here. I had to wear my bug head net to escape their attacks. Would highly recommend lots of bug spray and a bug net if you have. It was definitely helpful. There is an outhouse at the beginning of the trail and at the first rapids. I hiked the full 9 km loop and it took me roughly 3 hours to complete with some photo/snack stops along the way. Pine Point is one of my favourite hikes in the Whiteshell and I love the variety of terrain and landscapes and pretty views along the way. The natural beauty is amazing.
2. Bannock Point Petroforms
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 16 reviews
Reviewed By BrittanyMExplores - Winnipeg, Canada
I visited the Bannock Point Petroforms for my first time this weekend. This is a historical site that is a sacred area for Indigenous peoples. From the parking area, it was a short walk through the forest to arrive at a wide open area on the rocky landscape surrounded by forest. There were various collections of the formations made with large rocks that were scattered around the area. There wasn't really a designated trail once you get to the open area, but there were pieces of cloth tied to the trees to guide you through. The formations resembled turtles, humans and snakes and are believed to be prehistoric and left behind by Indigenous peoples long ago. People had left various offerings of cloth, wood carvings, tobacco, plants and coins on a large rock near the trailhead and around the various formations. It was really interesting to wander around this area and appreciate the formations and the people who created them. It was very peaceful and serene here. Please be respectful of the area, as it is a sacred site. It is encouraged to bring an offering. There was some background information on the trailhead sign, but I am interested to do my own research and learn more about the history and stories of this place. Would recommend visiting!
3. Rainbow Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 25 reviews
Reviewed By Gass1 - Winnipeg, Canada
We took a camping lot on white lake. The lake itself is nothing special, has a small sandy beach and basic services. About a ten minute walk from the camping ground you will get to the rainbow falls. A nice small water fall, around 5.5 feet in hight and 8 feet wide. No sandy beaches all stone and rock structure. The water is shallow, and the water bed is rocky as well. But it’s nice to get your back massaged while standing under the splashes of the fall. A quick jump from the top of the fall must not be missed. Despite the area can be reached walking, it has a parking area. Its good to combine it with a trip to the area wouldn’t be worth to drive that far only for the falls
4. Hunt Lake Hiking Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 21 reviews
Reviewed By TnJAdvents
Absolute amazing hike. Very challenging hike with lots of elevation changes, rock climbing, mud jumping, etc. Very scenic views along some parts of the trail. Took us 5 hours to complete with frequent photo taking and beverage stops. Highly recommend.
5. Falcon Lake
6. McGillivray Falls Self-guiding Trail
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 21 reviews
Reviewed By TnJAdvents
One of many nice hiking trails in the Whiteshell. Some elevation changes and a variety of changes from climbing rock to bush to lakefront trails. Perfect trail for its moderate difficulty and distance. Later in the season so the ‘falls’ were a little underwhelming but still a great time. We did the hike backwards so to get a lead-up to the falls. Recommend you do it that way. Take the trail to the left of the sign board to do in reverse.
