Perfectly picturesque! Top 7 most photographed locations in Manitoba
Get your camera ready! You’ll be snapping away as you explore this true Prairie treasure.
The province of Manitoba is not only a spectacular place to enjoy on average 316 days of sunshine per year, it’s also the perfect location for your next Canadian adventure.
Nicknamed the keystone province, this area showcases true Canadian beauty. From waterfalls and hiking trails to stunning architecture and wildlife.
Let’s countdown some of the top photographed spots in Manitoba!
7. RIDING MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
At almost 3,000 square kilometres, there is a ton to explore inside Riding Mountain National Park. Hike, canoe, camp or even golf! You can do it all.
Clear Lake is a sure highlight with fantastic swimming and fishing conditions. The fishing community agrees that catching a walleye is always a nice find! As for swimming, travellers say that Clear Lake is very enjoyable due to its sandy beaches. The main beach near Wasagaming has change rooms, washrooms and an outdoor shower making a beach day even more comfortable.
After a relaxing day at the beach, you can take a nice stroll down in the resort township of Wasagaming where the streets are lined with boutique shops and many dining options for travellers.
This park is a year-round destination with gorgeous summer sunshine, serene winter scenes, and jaw-dropping fall colours.
Photo Credit: Stino Scaletta, Clear Lake/Submitted
TWN Photo tip: The fall colours start to appear in this region about three weeks into September. Wear a bright coloured jacket to really allow your photos to pop!
6. OAK HAMMOCK MARSH
Are you ready to explore the wetlands? Oak Hammock Marsh is a must-do experience for many who love examining birds, critters, and plants of this important ecosystem.
There are over 30 kilometres of trails that allow you to explore the 36-square kilometre marsh. Put on your waders and get in deep or use the boardwalks to view it from above. If you’re an experienced paddler, consider renting a canoe and exploring on the water.
Before you visit the marsh, go online and download their checklist of things to look for and photograph. It outlines various types of wildlife you will find here like small mammals and reptiles, along with many plants of the marsh.
Photo Credit: Travel Manitoba
TWN Photo tip: Think waterproof! Have your phone or camera in a plastic cover when not in use, just in case!
5. SAINT BONIFACE CATHEDRAL
This is a top spot for snapping pictures of historic architecture in Winnipeg. This historic cathedral, a symbol of Manitoba’s Francophone community on the east side of The Red River, opened originally in 1905 but was destroyed by fire in 1968. It was rebuilt in 1972, combining the façade of the old cathedral and a new, modern structure built within the walls.
The site’s cemetery is also the final resting spot of famed Métis leader and founding father of Manitoba, Louis Riel.
Photo Credit: Travel Manitoba
TWN Photo tip: The cathedral looks stunning at night and is beautifully lit! However, if you go during the day, make sure the sun is shining directly on the building -- essentially behind you -- as you take the photo. This will allow you to avoid dark shadows and a “backlit” effect.
4. PISEW FALLS PROVINCIAL PARK
Many people don't realize that Manitoba, considered a Prairie province, is home to many waterfalls! Pisew Falls Provincial Park, located deep in Manitoba’s northern boreal forest near Thompson, has been noted as, “one of Manitoba's best views” by travellers.
Credit: Google Maps
If you are feeling adventurous, tourists have hiked the challenging trail from Pisew to Kwasitchewan Falls, which is the province’s tallest waterfall at 14 metres. Be sure to be prepared to make this 22-kilometre return trail an overnight camping adventure.
Photo Credit: Debbie Oleschak/Submitted
TWN Photo tip: Slow shutter speed is the way to go in order to get soft romantic photos of waterfalls.
3. DUCK MOUNTAIN PROVINCIAL PARK
This provincial park, located in Manitoba’s parkland region, is 1424 square kilometres, and if you drive too far west, you’ll end up in Saskatchewan!
Travellers have commented that this park is extra peaceful as some of the lakes only allow canoes and kayaks -- no motorboats. It’s a true natural experience!
Some of the best hikes include Baldy Mountain, the highest peak in Manitoba, and the Blue Lake and Glad Lake trails. Hikers should be aware, however, that bears are present in this area.
This region boasts the highest elevation in Manitoba at about 650 metres. You can also downhill ski here in winter.
TWN Photo tip: If you really want that “bird’s-eye view” photo, Baldy Mountain trail is your best bet! Travellers have also commented that this area has great cell reception too, which is perfect for posting directly on social media.
2. CLEARWATER LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK
Tropical vacation or northern Manitoba? It’s tough to spot the difference considering how blue the water is! Clearwater Lake Provincial Park near The Pas is a very popular attraction for locals in the summer, especially for beach lovers.
This park has various landscapes from the sandy white beaches to the scenic rocky caves. It’s a particularly popular spot for campers, whether you are on a couple’s getaway or family vacation. This park is ideal for exploring Manitoba’s picturesque boreal forest and northern communities.
Whether you want to hike, fish or paddle this provincial park allows you to do it all.
Photo Credit: Travel Manitoba
TWN Photo tip: Bring a tripod so you can get a group shot in the beautiful blue waters of Clearwater Lake or the rocky caves and crevices.
1. CHURCHILL:
Churchill takes our top spot for photographed locations in Manitoba. This destination is highly recommended for those seeking polar bears, beluga whales or the aurora borealis. This tiny community on the western Hudson Bay has an abundance of stories to tell!
Photo Credit: The Weather Network
It’s known as the polar bear capital of the world because the bears migrate through this area in the early fall. During this season, the polar bears are returning to the bay knowing it will soon freeze and deliver great conditions for hunting seals.
Photo Credit: Kim Dalberg/Submitted
TWN Photo tip: Get in a kayak and be patient! That’s the key to capturing amazing photos of the belugas in the summer. There are multiple tours that can safely guide you to the hot spots.
Bonus photo tip: Our viewers constantly tell us that Manitoba is home to some of the best sunsets!
Photo Credit: @PatriciaGarrod02 in Winnipeg, Manitoba
Manitoba has many types of outdoor adventure! It will be tough to pick where you want to start in this gorgeous Canadian province. Happy trails!