I came home to Manitoba from New Zealand for a 6-week visit and one of the things on my list was to visit this place called Steep Rock. I heard you could kayak there and there were big rocks, that was about it, and yes, that is enough for me to want to go somewhere! So my best friend, Marci and I packed up and part of a long road trip from Little Limestone Lake stopped at Steep Rock for a very unexpected beautiful surprise!
History
Steep Rock is a small community on Lake Manitoba about 3 hours north of Winnipeg. The town was built on farming and mining. Settlers in the area worked hard to build themselves a life and grow a small sustainable town. There are houses still at Steep Rock over 100 years old. The area is rich in Canadian history and many descendants of the settlers who occupied the area still live and visit the area today. It is a place that is very dear to their hearts.
It’s something we should keep in mind when visiting places especially small ones like Steep Rock. It is not just a tourist attraction. It is more than that. This is a place were the ancestry was not lost and it is so crucial as visitors to respect the locals and the area.
The morning we arrived was dull and cloudy. The lake, still beautiful looked just like a typical Manitoba lake under the dim lit sky and dark waters. The wind was picking up and had us contemplating whether we wanted to put the kayaks in the water.
The area wasn’t too busy and since we had spent all afternoon on Little Limestone Lake the previous day we decided to leave the kayaks zipped up, and put our walking shoes on. We followed the little trail from a cool beach café and it wasn’t long before we were looking down to the edge of the water. The rocky cliffs along the east shore were a site to see. Over time water has eroded the limestone edging forming steep drops and caves.
The sun started to make its way out eliminating the water with greeny blue tones. Here we were in Manitoba feeling like we’re somewhere tropical. It didn’t take us long to find out what brings people to Steep Rock. After walking along the cliffs and down on shore, we parked our chairs made lunch, sat in the water and caught some sun. It was absolutely beautiful and all throughout the day there we kept saying out loud how much we couldn’t believe we hadn’t been here before and that we couldn’t believe all this was in Manitoba.
The ‘island’
You can kayak to the island which is really just a small strip of land and actually covered with poison ivy. I wouldn’t suggest getting off on the island and the best place to kayak would be along the shore to see the formations of the caves.
There are lots of things to do at Steep Rock that we didn’t get to but going for a walk, sitting by the water was more than enough. We did go to the far end of the beach which is great for families, groups or just to dip your toes in. It was a nice sand beach instead of the pebbly rocks along the cliffs. So much easier to wade in the water! It is a very small community and they do have a café with some food and drinks but no grocery store.
Steep Rock is a total gem! There is pretty much something for everyone and I’m still surprised it has taken me so long to explore the area! It was so nice to just drive up, walk 5 minutes and be wowed! If this isn’t an inspiration to explore your own backyard I don’t know what is! We all dream of big travel and adventures but if you open your mind and just do a little research you will find little beauties like Steep Rock in your own home.
Living across the world from my best friend, this was such a great way to spend time together. We both will certainly remember this trip and can’t wait to go back!
What you need to know!
How to get there
– 2.5 hours north of Winnipeg on Hwy 6, turn onto west on Hwy 239
Camping
– rates and reservations can be made here
– there is no grocery store
Walking
– walking along the cliffs is a very easy walk and certainly family friendly
Kayaking
– you can rent kayaks with http://www.thesteeprock.com/
Steep Rock is a lovely place to explore but still home to many people. Stay on marked paths, not people’s property and if you’re unsure just ask a local! It is our job to keep this world beautiful so please, leave only footprints.
Have you been to Steep Rock!? What was your favourite part?!
Save to read again!
Rick W.
We agree with you Steep Rock is a gem and well worth a visit. We rented one of the cottages listed on AirBnB from Peter the owner of the cafe kayak rental kiosk on the beach. The cliffs are amazing and we brought our own kayaks to explore the shoreline. The island is also very interesting and we got out to walk along the cobble beach and out along the gravel spit. There is a very large bald eagle nest on the north side of the island and we got close to the two parents and one of the large juveniles who was already fledged and flying. There is a small historical park in town with signs and pictures telling the story of this place- the limestone quarry, winter commercial fishing and the cream boats. There is an old steam locomotive and quarry shovel digger there for the kids to climb on. The nearby quarry is water filled now with hiking and quad trails around it. On windy days kayaking on the quarry is an alternative. The beach park and campground north of town is also worth a visit but has a $7 entrance fee. The sandy beach is great for swimming and there is a small restaurant there. Our cabin rental 7 km east of town was great and could sleep upto 7 people- nice kitchen, bathroom, living room and veranda with BBQ and hammocks. There was a nice fire pit and a barn with ping pong table. Satellite tv as well but no wifi and limited internet coverage. . A great retreat.