Steep Rock, Manitoba is a beautiful destination known for its stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque hiking trails. Here’s a plan for a weekend trip to Steep Rock:
Day 1:
Morning:
Start your journey early from your location to Steep Rock, Manitoba. It is recommended to have a car for easy transportation.
Enjoy the scenic drive up Highway 6, there are some incredible roadside attractions and fascinating stops along the way.
Check out our tour “See Highway 6” with 8 spots that are worth the stops!
Afternoon:
Arrive in Steep Rock and check into your accommodation. There are various options available in and outside of Steep Rock, including cottages, lodges, and campgrounds, depending on your preference. We recommend Elm Point Camp & Ride or Steep Rock Beach Park.
Head to Steep Rock Beach Park, located on the shores of Lake Manitoba. This beach offers sandy shores and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. There is a day entry fee to the park but you will have access to a beautiful beach, food, picnic shelters (available for daily rentals), cooking pits, and picnic tables — a beautiful place to spend a day. Check out this map of the park.
Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, enjoying the tranquility and the breathtaking views of the limestone cliffs.
Evening:
Enjoy a delicious dinner at the Steep Rock Beach Park Café, which is available for lunches and dinners, or an ice-cream cone. Their General Store is equipped with fun treats and almost everything else you may have forgotten. Alternatively, you can head over to the HappyRock Kitchen for a meal with a view!
After dinner, consider taking a sunset pontoon boat tour of the Limestone Cliffs on Lake Manitoba. This will allow you to witness the beautiful colors of the sky reflecting on the water and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Text or phone Elm Point Campground at (204) 930-8309 or email elmpoint@mymts.net to set up a pontoon tour!
Day 2:
Morning:
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe or by preparing a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic spots.
Lace up your hiking boots and head to Steep Rock Cliffs and Caves. This natural wonder is a must-see, offering stunning views of the cliffs, hidden caves, and the vast expanse of Lake Manitoba. Take your time exploring the trails and marveling at the unique geological formations. Use this map to navigate your day!
Afternoon:
Consider packing up a picnic and enjoying it at a scenic spot like Fairford! Don’t forget your fishing tackle, sunscreen, blanket, and maybe a book!
Take the drive out to Fairford, a popular fishing spot only 30 minutes outside of Steep Rock. Even if you’re not an angler, it’s a great place to relax, take in the scenery, and pelicans, or perhaps try your hand at fishing.
Evening:
Tonight is the night for some food over the fire or a BBQ (possibly some fish you may have caught earlier in the day). If it’s clear skies and not too many bugs, maybe toast up some smores over the fire too!
If the weather permits, try stargazing in a special spot, such as atop the Limestone Cliffs, and be mindful of your step. This area can be dangerous at any time of day. If you made it in time, you can watch the sun go down over the lake. Once it’s dark, due to the lack of light pollution, this spot makes it an ideal location for observing the night sky and spotting constellations. If you’re a photography buff, this is your chance for that picture-perfect moment.
Day 3:
Morning:
Enjoy a peaceful morning walk along Little Steep Rock Trail in Steep Rock, taking in the serene atmosphere and indulging in the natural surroundings.
If you’re up for more adventure, consider renting a canoe or kayak. Elm Point Camp & Ride offers rentals. Paddle along the shoreline, explore hidden coves, and enjoy the serenity of the lake.
Afternoon:
Take some time to relax on the beach or go for a swim before starting your journey back home.
If you have time, you can also visit nearby attractions, such as the Narcisse Snake Dens, which is known for its large population of garter snakes. If you’re an art lover, stop just south of Grahmdale and take in the Lemiez Statues an outdoor art exhibit created by Armand Lemiez at the age of 72, which resulted in the 21 concrete sculptures, which have become his legacy.
Remember to pack essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable clothing, hiking gear, and a camera to capture the beautiful moments. Enjoy your weekend getaway to Steep Rock, Manitoba!
