Kenora is surrounded by dozens of trail systems that wind their way through tens of thousands of KM2 of crown land. Each trail is awesome in its own way but here are our top picks.
Vernon Nature Trails
Just a few minutes from central Kenora is one of the most spectacular nature areas. The Vernon Nature Area is so much more than just a park. With dozens of KMs of trails split into numerous different zones, explore everything from massive stands of 100+ foot tall pines, forests of ferns, and marshlands. Lookout Trail also leads you up to 2 granite cliffs that offer amazing views over the lake while the Wetlands Trail will let you get up close and personal with the lake. In addition to car parking on McKenzie Portage Road, if you visit in the summer, you can use the public dock for unique access while during the winter snowmobile tracks lead you in.
Kenora Urban Murals
A little different than the nature that Kenora is famous for, the urban Mural trail is a must-do. With over 20 murals spreading through the historic town centre, each corner offers an insight into the history of the city. Stretching back 8000 years, the history of Kenora is packed full of stories from the past. From the logging days to the introduction of motorboats and even murals dedicated to the First Nations communities, take the time to walk through the amazing visual timeline of the city!
Tunnel Island
Splitting the several communities that comprise Kenora, Tunnel Island offers hundreds of KM's of trails. As a traditional gathering place for over 8,000 years, the massive island is relatively untouched offering some of the best landscapes in town. The island is owned as a partnership between the city of Kenora and the several First Nations groups that once held the area and is dedicated to its shared use for all.
The Great Trail
The Great Trail stretches from coast to coast to coast making it one of the longest trails in the world. Made up of hiking, biking, canoeing, and even sailing, the mixed-purpose trail is perfect for any outdoors person. Even if you aren't thinking of completing the whole route (kudos to anyone who ever has) the part that crosses through Kenora is amazing. While the original is a multi-week-long canoeing section, alternative routes take you on gorgeous hikes. Take a look here to see what sections would be in your comfort zone!
Rushing River Provincial Park
Rushing River Provincial Park is just 30 minutes from Kenora and is part of the greater Eagle-Dogtooth Provincial Park. The sprawling park offers camping, fishing, canoeing, and some great hiking. The river descends a set of rapids giving it its name. These rapids offer great photo opportunities as well as the ideal spot for a nice picnic. The provincial park has many amenities and a great beach so make sure you give yourself some time to properly explore it! While they may not be very long, there are several great hikes within the park making it a full-day adventure.
Mink Bay Trails
West of central Kenora is the entrance to the urban trails of Mink Bay. This 4.5KM trail meanders its way through boreal forests, past lakes, over creeks and eventually takes you on a full tour of the town of Keewatin. One of the best parts of the trail is the offshoots that allow you to explore the different types of forests in the area or understand the history of the town. From Slabtown way, which takes you to massive piles of sawdust dating back 150 years that foxes love to live in, to Mink Bay Rapids Trail with its bridge over the rushing river, there is a lot more to see than one may expect.
Expert TIP: by staying at Wild Woods Hideaway you have direct access to the trails thanks to a feeder path!
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