The Ultimate Manitoba Road Trip: Exploring Lake Winnipeg, Gimli & Hecla Island

Manitoba often gets unfairly labelled as a province you can just speed through on the Trans-Canada Highway, but heading north toward Lake Winnipeg will reveal an entirely different experience. Between the beautiful views of Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park, the Viking heritage of Gimli, and the peaceful cedar paths of Brokenhead Wetland, the Interlake offers something for everyone. 

If you love wide-open skies, fresh-caught pickerel, and rich history, this is the perfect classic Canadian getaway. 

Looking for places to visit in Manitoba on your road trip adventure? Keep reading!

Trip Logistics: Getting There & Getting Around 

Planning your trip starts with choosing how you want to get to Manitoba. Because the region is best experienced by car, your starting point will determine whether you’re in for an epic cross-country drive or a quick flight followed by a rental car pickup.

Travelling From Toronto to Manitoba

If you are starting out from Toronto or southern Ontario, flying into Winnipeg is the quickest option. Direct flights run daily and take about 2.5 hours. From there, renting a vehicle straight from the airport will get you on the road and heading north to start your road trip in no time.

Driving from Toronto to Manitoba is a classic Canadian cross-country adventure and takes about 22 to 24 hours. I recommend taking the route through northern Ontario, travelling along the rugged shores of Lake Superior. If you plan to tackle this drive, check out my full guide: 2-Day Thunder Bay to Winnipeg Road Trip for the best scenic lookouts, meal stops, and overnight breaks along the way.

Getting Around the Interlake

Once you arrive in the province, having your own vehicle is an absolute must. Finding your way between secluded beaches, provincial parks, and historic towns will require a little more flexibility than public transit offers, but it is truly the best Manitoba road trip route for travellers who love exploring at their own pace.

The roads throughout the Interlake are generally well paved, flat, and easy to navigate. Keep in mind that once you venture onto island trails or into the provincial parks, cell service can be spotty. Downloading your Google or Apple Maps offline ahead of time is the best way to keep your navigation stress-free.

Stop 1: Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park

When you spend hours driving through Manitoba, it’s easy to forget just how flat the land can be in the prairies, until suddenly, everything shifts. Pulling up to the big Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park sign and catching the first glimpse of the open water dotted with small islands was an incredible surprise, and a view I’ll never forget! 

Crossing to Hecla Island was easily one of the coolest parts of the drive. The road almost vanishes right beneath your tires into Lake Winnipeg, leaving the mainland behind. The moment you arrive, you’ll feel your whole body relax. The combination of gentle water lapping the shore, green plants all around, and the sounds of birds makes the entire park feel so peaceful. 

Not only is the area a great spot to get lost in nature, but it also holds so much history. From the ancient Anishinaabe legends of medicine men and sunken ships to the Icelandic pioneers who named the island after Mount Hekla, it’s a gold mine of fascinating stories for a history buff like myself. I recommend reading about the area before you go. This Interlake Parks history from Manitoba Sustainable Development is a great place to start. 

Here are a few stops I highly recommend while you’re visiting the island:

Seagulls Restaurant & Lounge 

The scenic drives in Manitoba are incredible, but everyone knows that a major part of any road trip is the places you stop to eat along the way. After all, the food tells you a lot about a location. For those visiting the island, a great spot for a tasty lunch is the Hecla Island resort’s Seagulls Restaurant & Lounge. 

They have an amazing menu to choose from regardless of the time of day, from fresh omelettes and skillets for breakfast to Lake Winnipeg’s finest seafood dishes and other delicious entrees. We both ordered fish and chips made with a popular Manitoba fish: pickerel. The service was super friendly and welcoming. 

Sitting out on the patio, we took in the pretty view around us, including small ponds with cute little bridges and freshly cut grass. It reminded me of a golf course in a way. 

Walk the Hecla Village Trail 

While there are several different trails found on Hecla Island that you can explore, one that really stood out to me was the Hecla Village Trail. This self-guided trail was so much fun. It takes you through the village, with historic buildings, monuments, and informational plaques that show you what life was like for the pioneers who once lived here. As we explored, I couldn’t help but notice that it was so quiet that it felt like I was in an old western film. 

While every stop along the trail was fascinating, two really stood out to me: the Hecla Lutheran Church and the Hecla Schoolhouse. 

Hecla Island Lutheran Church and Cemetery

Faith was a cornerstone for early Icelandic settlers in the area, making this historic church a staple of the community. When planning for the church began, there were early disagreements about which doctrine it should follow: Lutheran or Unitarian. In the late 1870s, Unitarian Reverend Pall Thorlakson left the settlement for North Dakota, claiming it would fail and taking 18 families with him. The remaining community eventually came together and built the first Hecla Island Lutheran Church on the site in 1890, which was later replaced in 1927.

While the building, now known as the Hecla Island Community Church, no longer hosts traditional services, it is still used to host weddings and community events. While visiting the site, we saw a bench by the church with a plaque that was very touching. It read: “If tears could build a stairway and thoughts a memory lane, I’d walk right up to heaven and bring you home again.”  

Hecla Schoolhouse 

Just a little further down the trail, you’ll find the historic Hecla Schoolhouse, a two-room building that operated on the island until 1970. Just like faith, education was another big priority for early Icelandic settlers. They started teaching the next generation in homesteads in 1880, eventually moved to a one-room schoolhouse in 1889, and then to an expanded building in 1922.

Today, the schoolhouse operates as an interpretive center, complete with original wooden desks, chalkboards, and historic displays that offer a fun glimpse into pioneer school days for the younger settlers.

I really enjoyed sitting at one of the vintage desks. It reminded me instantly of my school days. Naturally, Gordana and I could not resist acting a little silly. In addition to some good laughs, being there sparked memories for Gordana about attending school herself with multi-age children (grades 1-4), and her teacher was none other than her own mom! It made visiting the schoolhouse feel a little more special and personal.  

Hike to the Lighthouse 

I believe that no trip to visit Manitoba (or, more specifically, Hecla Island) is complete without seeing the iconic Hecla Lighthouse. It’s an easy 30-minute road-trip trail that winds through the forest before opening up to the Instagram-worthy views of the lighthouse peninsula.

The lighthouse once served an incredibly important role for those travelling in the area, guiding ships through the narrows of Lake Winnipeg. There are actually two historic lighthouses standing on the site: the original wooden structure built in 1898, and a second, taller lighthouse built in 1926.

Unfortunately, I learned all about this from others who experienced it firsthand, as the lighthouse was under renovation and the trail to it was closed. It’s on my list to see it for myself next time I visit.

Gull Harbour Lighthouse Inn 

For our first night, we stayed at the Gull Harbour Marina & Lighthouse Inn. Positioned right on the water, at the northern tip of Hecla Island, it puts you just minutes from the local beaches, hiking trails, and the marina, making it the perfect “home base” for exploring the island.

The rooms are comfortable, cabin-style accommodations. With no Wi-Fi available, it’s a great place to relax and unplug. You’ll have a coffee maker and a mini-fridge, but no stove. While there are on-site convenience stores like those you’d find at a campsite or gas station, things can be a little pricey. I recommend bringing a cooler with your own groceries and road trip snacks.

The best part of staying here was the morning. Nothing beats waking up to a cool breeze drifting through the window off the lake, birds chirping, and the sound of the waves lapping against the shore. Sitting on the porch with my morning coffee, surrounded by total quiet, was one of the most peaceful moments of our entire Manitoba road trip.  

The Lighthouse Inn Restaurant & Lounge 

For dinner that evening, we ate at The Lighthouse Inn Restaurant & Lounge. Located right on the water, it was the ideal relaxed, casual atmosphere for unwinding after a long day of driving and trail walking.

The food hit the spot. Gordana ordered the pan-fried pickerel, and it was incredible! It was so fresh that it tasted like it had been pulled from Lake Winnipeg just moments before arriving at the table. Meanwhile, after eating lots of bison and pickerel in Winnipeg, I needed a break and opted for spaghetti. It was the perfect comfort food to wrap up the first night.

Stop 2: Gimli & New Iceland 

After leaving Hecla Island, our next major stop was the lakeside community of Gimli, Manitoba. Named after the “Home of the Gods” in Norse mythology, this charming town on the western shore of Lake Winnipeg is often called the historic heart of New Iceland. I could quickly tell that it’s the kind of community where everyone knows everyone, and everyone lives together like one big family.

Gimli has a beautiful beach for those dreaming of a beach vacation. When the weather is warm, everyone is out enjoying it, and for good reason!

One thing I want to warn you about is the amount of fish flies, as they call them. There are so many! Scientifically, they are known as mayflies, and they’re called shadflies in North Bay (which we learned on a recent trip there). At first, we tried to get them off, but it was impossible. After a little while, we did not mind them at all.

To us, the flies felt extremely overwhelming. However, every time we spoke with a local, they told us that the amount of flies we were seeing was “nothing.” They said that one year they needed to move all the flies with a front loader. One local even joked that if you accidentally eat them, they’re really high in protein. That year, they said that there were so many flies around that the area actually started to smell like fish.

Islendingadagurinn (Icelandic Festival of Manitoba)

If you are looking for things to do in Manitoba during the August long weekend, you will be arriving right in time for Islendingadagurinn, the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba. This festival has been celebrated continuously since 1890, making it one of the oldest ethic festivals in North America.

During the Gimli Icelandic Festival, the town transforms into an incredible celebration of Nordic culture, music, food, and family traditions. From Viking reenactments to modern waterfront concerns, the whole town comes together to honour its pioneer roots.

New Iceland Heritage Museum

If you want to learn about and understand the Icelandic roots that run through this region, I recommend visiting the New Iceland Heritage Museum. Open year-round, the museum is a great spot for anyone planning to visit Manitoba with children! Even as “big children,” Gordana and I had a lot of fun dressing up in Viking outfits and learning about the history.

The exhibits bring the history of pioneer life in the area to life, including a full-size early canvas tent, a pioneer log cabin, an interactive painting, and a permanent geological exhibit featuring volcanic rocks from Iceland.

Beyond the exhibits, what really stood out was the incredible community spirit. During the festival, locals of all ages volunteer their time, welcoming back family and friends travelling to Gimli from all over. The whole place feels like one giant, town-wide family reunion.

Gimli Viking Statue

Standing watch over the shores of Lake Winnipeg since 1967 is the town’s iconic guardian, a 15-foot Viking statue. The monument was originally built to celebrate Canada’s Centennial and cost $15,000. It was designed by Gissur Eliasson from the University of Manitoba and constructed by the talented sculptor George Barone. It’s a great photo op for anyone visiting the area.

Visit the Viking Village

Set up on Harbour Park Hill during the Gimli Icelandic Festival, the Viking Village offers a hands-on step back a thousand years into early Norse history. It brings ancient Iceland to life with skilled, passionate re-enactors dedicated to researching, crafting, and accurately demonstrating day-to-day village life. They showcase a wide range of items, from tools and textiles to Viking-era metalwork.

We loved chatting with the re-enactors and hearing about how people survived and thrived during that time. Seeing everyone in full period gear really made us feel like we were there in the moment.

Keep in mind during your visit that authentic crafting involves real open fires, sharp tools, and active demonstrations. Mind the safety ropes, always ask before touching displays, and keep a close eye on any children. The village also closes briefly during scheduled combat shows, reopening right after the dust clears so you can keep exploring.

Magnús Classic Gimli Strongman

Another part of the festival worth visiting is the Magnús Classic Gimli Strongman competition, which is hosted right by the Viking Statue. Athletes from around the world gather to compete in some brutal events, like the Deadlift Medley, Fingal’s Fingers, and the Natural Stone Load Series, all vying for an invite to the Magnús Ver Magnússon Strongman Classic in Iceland.

I had never seen anything like this in person and had no idea what to expect, but I ended up loving it! The weights were so massive that it was hilarious to see the crew use an actual forklift just to haul them back to the starting line for the next competitor.

The intensity of the events made each one a nail-biter. We were worried the whole time about a possible injury, and that worry turned terrifying when one contestant collapsed to the floor and didn’t move. Thankfully, he had only hurt his leg, and it was nothing serious, but it certainly made for an unforgettable experience.  

Kris’ Fish & Chips

For lunch, we swung by Kris’ Fish & Chips. Originally opened in the early 1990s by local commercial fisherman Kris Olson. The spot was a favourite for many locals, including Jeff and Candy Badger and their family. When the chance arose to take it over in 2003, they stepped up to keep the fish shop’s traditions alive. It’s the go-to spot for fresh local catch paired with delicious golden homemade fries.

A quick word of advice: start lining up long before you actually get hangry, because the line out the door gets wild!

Once we got our order, the wait made total sense! I had Lake Winnipeg pickerel fish and chips, and it was hands-down the best fish and chips I ate in Gimli, even ranking high on my overall best list! The fish was incredibly fresh, light, and flaky, encased in a crisp batter that hit every mark. The wait in line is well worth every bite.

Viking Battle Demonstration

As I mentioned, the Viking Village temporarily closes each day for combat shows and reopens afterward. These Viking battle demonstrations showcase Viking Age weapons, tactics, and historic fashion.

Going in, I expected a Medieval Times tournament-style battle. Instead, the re-enactors took a more comedic approach that had the entire hill laughing. Whenever a participant was “slain” on the field, the crowd had to shout out together to magically bring them back to life. It was silly, lighthearted entertainment, and a lot of fun.

During my time at the festival, I sat down to talk with Jenna Boholij, a Past President of Islendingadagurinn who has dedicated over a decade to organizing the event, including developing the new website. We chatted about everything from the festival’s roots and modern rebranding to iconic traditions like the “Get Dinged” ceremony and the annual Vingólf Beverage Gardens.

Stay tuned for the upcoming podcast episode featuring the full interview with Jenna, the perfect pair to this Manitoba travel guide!

Interlake Brewing Co.

To wrap up our day in Gimli, we headed to Interlake Brewing Co. Right in the heart of town, this family-friendly craft brewery features 12 rotating taps, live music, and an upbeat, welcoming vibe.

We grabbed a table up on the rooftop patio just as the sun was setting. Since I had been on a bit of a bison kick since arriving in Manitoba, I decided to lean into the theme and ordered the bison burger paired with a cold, crisp lager. It was amazing! Gordana sipped a refreshing mocktail and dug into tasty, local pickerel fish tacos. The meal was an absolute win all around.

However, the real showstopper came on the drive back north along Highway 8 toward our stay on Hecla Island. The sun dipped right toward the horizon, and because the prairies offer open, uninterrupted sightlines, the entire sky transformed into a stunning fiery red. It was hands-down one of the most beautiful sunsets we have ever witnessed.

Rockin’ Gimli Harbour Concert Series

If you are not quite ready to call it a night after dinner, on Saturdays throughout the summer, you can catch an outdoor show at the Rockin’ Gimli Harbour Concert Series. This free series brings together a fantastic lineup of local and regional bands, covering a range of genres including rock, country, and classic hits. It offers a great alternative to heading straight back to your bed, letting you hang around the shore a little longer and enjoy the sunset in style.

Stop 3: Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail

For the next stop on our Manitoba road trip itinerary, head south along Highway 59 to the Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail. Located northeast of the Brokenhead Ojibway Nation, near Scanterbury, this protected 1,240-hectare ecological reserve is home to a calcareous fen, one of North America’s rarest wetland ecosystems. Here, you’ll find rich cedar bogs, carnivorous pitcher plants, delicate sundews, and nearly thirty species of native orchids!

Walking the trail is a beautiful way to relax and recharge. At under 2 KM, the route is pretty flat, making it extremely accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and walkers of any age. The gentle breeze moving through the tree canopy, the sound of birds chirping, and the smell of cedar created one of the most peaceful atmospheres I’ve experienced.

Throughout the walk, you’ll come across decorative interpretive plaques that talk about balance and purpose, providing affirmations translated into English and Ojibwe. You’ll also see interpretive displays that explain the wetland’s natural and Indigenous importance. Please respect the cultural and ecological sensitivity of these natural habitats along the trail during your visit.

Stop 4: Pineridge Hollow & The Village (Birds Hill Border) 

Pineridge Hollow is a beautiful stop just outside of Winnipeg, on the border of Birds Hill Park. Here, they have a great wedding venue, tons of little shops, and dining options. It feels almost like a little man-made town. This is the perfect final stop to decompress before heading to the airport for your flight home.

Take a stroll through the forest trails that wind through the property, visit the petting farm (if you’re visiting during the warmer months), or grab a snack at the on-site bakery. You can even kick back and enjoy a cold beer or cocktail at The Square Bar if you know you need to pass some time before you need to be at the airport. It’s a cute little place!

Tips & Tricks to Road Trip Manitoba Like a Pro

Travelling across the prairies and into lake country is a great experience, but a trip like that does call for a bit of smart planning. A few practical strategies will help you stay comfortable, avoid headaches, and travel like a seasoned pro.

• Download Offline Maps Before Hitting the Highway: Cell service gets spotty once you branch off toward coastal backroads, marshes, and provincial parks, so save your Google or Apple Maps offline before leaving Winnipeg.
• Pack a Dedicated Road Trip Cooler: Cabin rentals and park lodges don’t often have full kitchens, and remote camp stores can be pricey. A cooler packed with cold drinks, basic groceries, and trail snacks will keep you flexible and fed.
• Purchase Your Provincial Park Pass Online in Advance: Parks like Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park require a daily vehicle permit. Buy and print your pass through the Manitoba government e-licensing website before leaving home to skip entrance booth lines.
• Fill Up Your Tank Early and Often: There are far fewer gas stations when you travel north of Gimli, and small rural gas stations often close early. Top up your tank when you hit the halfway mark instead of gambling on an empty needle.
• Watch for Wildlife at Dawn and Dusk: Flat prairie highways make cruising easy, but moose and deer often wander close to the shoulder at twilight. Keep your high beams ready and scan ditches carefully.

Manitoba Is So Much More Than a Drive-Through Province

Don’t miss out on the welcoming towns and scenic spots this often overlooked province has to offer. I put together this Manitoba road trip guide because the Interlake made me quickly fall in love, and I’m sure you will too. 

From quiet morning coffees on Hecla Island to the vibrant energy of Gimli’s Icelandic Festival, this trip is the perfect chance to pack the car, gather your loved ones, and let the province surprise you. 

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