In the heart of the prairie province of Manitoba, far away from any oceans, there is a place where stories of sunken ships and magical islands are told, where the rhythm of life has been shaped by water and fishing for generations. Not many know this place, yet it has so much beauty to offer! Its name is Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park.
About 190 km and a 2-hour drive north of Winnipeg, Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park is in the southern part of the vast Lake Winnipeg, just before the narrow strait that divides the lake in two. It consists of the Grindstone Peninsula and a series of islands that stretch between the eastern and western shores of the lake, including the large Hecla Island, the undisputed centerpiece of the park! Upon arrival via the causeway that connects the mainland to the island, visitors are warmly welcomed by a lighthouse typical of the region.
In 1876, an Icelandic community settled on Hecla Island to start a new life after they had experienced natural disasters and famine in their homeland. Many of the Icelanders left the region in the 1960s, but they left behind a rich cultural legacy and a name: Hecla Island was named after one of Iceland’s most famous landmarks – the volcano Mount Hekla.
Today, the history of the Icelandic settlers is still told in the small community of Hecla Village. A walking trail leads through the past of the small lakeside settlement, stopping at several century-old buildings, including a small Icelandic museum.
But the cultural heritage of Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park goes back much further. With names like Black Island and Drumming Point, many of its islands bear the legacy of the Anishinaabe medicine people who once called this area home, leaving behind various cultural relics.
The park not only preserves the cultural heritage, it also protects the natural beauty of the region. Its landscape is shaped by a rugged world of islands with limestone shorelines, secluded beaches, dewy meadows, lush forests, and wetlands. These diverse habitats provide home for a wide variety of mammals and bird species, including black bears, moose, wolves, and an impressive colony of beautiful American white pelicans. It’s truly a spectacle when these majestic birds, with their enormous wingspans, noisily take to the skies!
A 25-km network of hiking trails winds through the expansive Grassy Narrow Marsh, a vast wetland area. Boardwalks and protected observation decks offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars!
Hecla Island is largely uninhabited. Apart from Hecla Village, there is Gull Harbour Marina, offering 70 slips that can accommodate all sizes of water craft. Visitors without their own boat can rent kayaks and jet skis or charter the Li'l Viking. This 35-foot express cruiser comes with a two-person crew and a skipper.
In the evenings, hungry adventurers are spoiled with freshly caught walleye at the Lighthouse Inn's restaurant. There are also accommodations right on site: twelve cozy guest rooms with lake view, as well as a standalone cabin with a patio, fire pit, and BBQ, offering a comfortable bed for the night.
Another option for your stay is the more secluded Lakeview Hecla Resort, offering a wonderful view of the Gull Harbour Bay. It’s the perfect base for endless days of adventure and discovery on Hecla Island.
Activities include long hikes along the scenic limestone coastline. The Lighthouse Trail will take you right to the old Hecla Lighthouse – probably the most photographed landmark of the park.
Alternatively, you can rent a bike right at the hotel’s front desk to explore the region's flora and fauna on two wheels. Or how about hitting the links for a round of golf on the nearby 18-hole golf course? The area is also known as a hot spot for fishing.
The island's rugged coastline opens up to white sandy beaches in two places, each inviting a refreshing dip in the lake: Gull Harbour Beach at the northern tip of Hecla Island and Sunset Beach on the western shore of the island. The latter is best visited towards the end of the day, as – as the name suggests – it offers a truly spectacular sunset. Here, where the prairie gradually transitions into the Canadian Shield, it is less touristy, a bit windier and cooler than the beaches to the south of Lake Winnipeg. But the beauty of the varied landscape and the unspoiled natural experience more than compensate for the lack of a beach bar!
After an adventurous day in nature, those seeking relaxation can unwind with rejuvenating treatments at the Salka Spa and indulge in a delicious dining experience at Seagulls Restaurant in the Lakeview Hecla Resort.
With its tranquil world of islands, Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park is a wonderful alternative to the hustle and bustle of many overcrowded destinations and remains a true hidden gem!
Further information on Manitoba can be found at www.travelmanitoba.com.
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