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escape routes
Oak Hammock Marsh
Photography: Oak Hammock Marsh, Winnipeg Beach, Gimli, Hy-Wire Zipline, Caddy Lake tunnel and sunset, Falcon Lake from Travel Manitoba
Three unforgettable day trips from Winnipeg, each offering its own blend of adventure, scenery and small town charm
By Laurie Hughes
Water Calls
Southern Manitoba’ s beaches offer an easy antidote to city heat. Follow the full itinerary or simply choose your favourite destination and spend the day stretched out beside the water, all within an hour of Winnipeg.
WHAT TO DO
BIRDS AND BOARDWALKS Begin the day with a wetlands adventure just twenty minutes north of the Perimeter via Highway 8 and Highway 220, stopping at Oak Hammock Marsh. Spanning 36 square kilometres, this remarkable marshland provides habitat for more than 300 bird species and offers excellent wildlife viewing along its winding boardwalks and grassy trails. Watch for birds perched among the reeds while squirrels dart through the tall grass nearby. Scenic lookout points and designated picnic areas make it easy to linger awhile. For the best perspective, head to the grass-covered rooftop of the Wetland Discovery Centre and take in panoramic views before exploring the exhibits inside. The onsite café provides a welcome refuelling stop with hearty options like wild rice burgers and bowls of bison chili savoured while overlooking the marsh itself. Visitors can explore the trails free of charge or purchase admission for access to the boardwalk and Wetland Discovery Centre.
BEACHY KEEN A short drive farther north brings beach lovers to one of Lake Winnipeg’ s classic summer destinations. Winnipeg Beach combines sugar-soft sand, shallow water and the nostalgic charm of a historic resort town complete with espresso drinks, ice cream and boardwalk strolls. Spend the afternoon windsurfing, swimming, people-watching from the promenade or simply stretching out beneath the sun. On Saturday evenings, the bandstand comes alive with open-air concerts that add a little extra summer magic to the shoreline.
6 322
Marsh
17
1
Gimli
7
Oak Hammock
231
67
8
9
Winnipeg Beach
206
212
59
Winnipeg
12
213
15
ciao! / summer / two thousand twenty-six 11