2016 Ontario Sunset Country Travel Guide 2016 Ontario's Sunset Country Travel Guide | Page 25
Out on the Lake
Living offShore
Fed by rivers throughout the region,
Lake of the Woods, along with it’s
14,500 plus islands, is as multifaceted
as it is large. Made famous for harbouring giant muskies, this lake is a
favourite fishing destination the world
over. But this is only the beginning.
There's a wide variety of things to do,
from paddle boarding, to kayaking and boating, there's something for everyone.
Imagine, gentle waves rocking you
awake and the red glow of a spring
sunrise as you step out and onto the
veranda, surrounded by miles of lake
in every direction. Make it happen by
renting a houseboat in Kenora, Sioux
Narrows or Morson. If you would like
to explore Lake of the Woods with all
the comforts of home, houseboating is for you.
Beacons of History
A Walk Down Main Street
Two iconic landmarks make their
home in Kenora. Established in the
mid 60s, the Lake of the Woods Museum seeks to consolidate this area's
rich history by creating awareness
about the land's cultural diversity. The
MS Kenora adds to this theme, transporting passengers to the past on a
scenic voyage, cruising past historical points such as the Devil’s
Gap on Lake of the Woods.
There are little gems to be found
everywhere in the great white north,
you just have to know were to find
them. Taking the time explore the
downtown areas of northern communities will reveal many little shops
that offer unique apparel and gifts
perfect for anyone who’s looking for
something a little different. Pick up locally made products like
mocassins, wild rice or jewelry.
Fish Tales
For a day or a night
Officially opened in 2012, the Northern Ontario Sports Fishing Centre
(NOSFC) in Sioux Narrows is one of
the world’s only facilities dedicated
to fishing in Northern Ontario. A
shinning relic of local heritage, the
NOSFC has stories from locals that
paint a picture into the history of
Sioux Narrows. A supporter of local art, the centre also features
stunning totem poles carved by local entrepreneurs.
Northwestern Ontario is famous for
its beautiful, expansive Provincial
Parks. Parks such as Rushing River 20
kms SE of Kenora, and Sioux Narrows Provincial Park & Caliper Lake
in Nestor Falls are just a few in a long
list of beautiful campgrounds. Spend
the day at the beach or set up a tent
under the stars so that you can absorb the fully bounty of
Northwestern Ontario.
COMMUNITIES
Kenora A tourism destination unto itself, Kenora offers an
incredible array of things to do and see. Take a cruise on the MS
Kenora or relax on one of 5 sand beaches. If you need to shop or
want to eat out, there is a good selection of places where you can
do that as well. With its location on the northern shore of Lake
of the Woods, Kenora markets itself as North America’s Premier
Boating Destination. Lake of the Woods has over 14,500 islands
making it one of the most interesting of all lakes to explore. Kenora is also known for its many special events celebrated during the
summer months under the “White Cap Pavilion”. If you’re looking
for something really unique check out the Matiowski Farmer’s
Market held every Wednesday during the summer months.
visitkenora.ca
Minaki A true “resort community”, Minaki is located on the
incredible Winnipeg River. This area offers excellent fishing for
a variety of species. Adventure seekers can go canoeing, rock
climbing or hiking and the area around Minaki has a number of
really nice campgrounds.
Morson “Island Splendour” is how Morson promotes itself and
for good reason – there are countless islands on this part of Lake
of the Woods and arguably, the best muskie fishing is in this area.
The Morson area also has a number of attractions such as the
Tomahawk Lighthouse and a 9-hole golf course.
lakeofthewoodstourism.ca
Nestor Falls Located on the shores of Lake of the Woods,
Nestor Falls is another true tourist town as tourism is the main
economic activity in the area. The town is a float plane base for
many fly-in operations and the fishing in the immediate area is
legendary. Definitely take the time to stop and see the falls where
Crooked Pine Lake empties into Lake of the Woods.
snnf.ca
Sioux Narrows Located in the heart of Lake of the Woods,
Sioux Narrows epitomizes the term “tourist town”. This picturesque community offers access to the central part of Lake of the
Woods and hosts a number of bass fishing tournaments each
summer. See the Sioux Narrows Bridge and make sure you stop
in at the Northern Ontario Sport Fishing Centre. Some of Sunset
Country’s best souvenir/gift shops are located in town.
snnf.ca
2016 Sunset Country Guide | 25