Just a short drive away lies an oasis of fun and adventure for the whole family. Lake of the Woods, Ontario, Canada is a renowned playground that boasts some of the best fishing, boating, swimming, paddling and sightseeing that you’re likely to encounter anywhere.
With over 14,000 island and 65,000 miles of shoreline Lake of the Woods is impressive. It is a body of water that is vast and varied. The ecological diversity and new opportunities for exploration are endless. From the shore line of the Sable Islands and Big Travers, to the tea coloured waters of Sabaskong bay and the crystal clear depths of Whitefish Bay, to the unique beauty of Clearwater Bay and the dense pines by Kenora, the exploration opportunities are all different and equally exciting. The varied ecological areas of Lake of the Woods also make for varied and exciting fishing opportunities.
This region is known for its wide-open boating expanses, world-class multi-species sport fishery, miles of hiking trails, unique culture, and natural attractions waiting to be discovered when you least expect it. After a day of exploring or out on the water, or deep in the boreal forest, you can wind down by taking in the laid-back urban atmosphere of Kenora’s restaurants, or the unique and memorable boutique shops of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls. With so much to see and do, experiencing Lake of the Woods is the vacation of a lifetime for the entire family.
This summer we invite you to come fall in love with Lake of the Woods.
Itineraries
We’ve compiled some of the best ways to experience Lake of the Woods, whether you’re spending the day in Kenora or Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls, either on land or on the lake. Check out our detailed itineraries that include everything from favourite activities, amazing local shops, where to get your morning coffee, and how to learn more about our Lake, our culture, and our history.
Planning a day trip to Kenora? We’ve compiled a fantastic list of how to spend a day on the Lake in Kenora and how to explore and sightsee downtown. Is your adventure planned for Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls? Check out these ways to spend your day on the Lake or exploring on land.
Trails
Lake of the Woods is a dream come true for hikers, walkers, bikers and trail-lovers of all sorts. Our local trail systems are ever-evolving and weave through urban landscape, quiet wetlands and wilderness, varying structures, terrain, distances and usages.
The Kenora and Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls recreational trails offer an outdoor experience for all your senses. See the great northwest in all its glory, savour the sights and sounds of the Boreal forest, and keep your camera ready for the variety of wildlife you’re likely to encounter in their natural habitat.
Download our trail brochures to get started!
Fishing
Get out on the water—or even the closest dock—and enjoy some of the best freshwater fishing in Canada. Kenora’s waters are home to a diverse range of fish species. Catch walleye, northern pike, and lake trout, as well as small and largemouth bass, muskie, perch, sauger and whitefish. And while the fishing on Lake of the Woods is incomparable, the Kenora area is home to over 10,000 other fishable lakes and rivers.
With your bait and tackle in hand, rent a boat or hire one of Kenora’s many fishing guides to take you out to the hottest fishing spots. No experience on Lake of the Woods is complete without a full day of fishing.
On the Lake
Lake of the Woods is our greatest attraction, and there are many different ways to explore.
Canoeing and kayaking allows you to glide peacefully along the water and get up close to the mesmerizing shoreline of Lake of the Woods. This is a great way to see the lake as it allows you to spend time with a group of people and simply enjoy the area’s amazing wildlife and scenery.
Alternatively, if you are looking to put your feet up and enjoy Lake of the Woods hop on the M.S. Kenora cruise line. The fully licensed boat will take you through the Northern part of Lake of the Woods.
Events
There is always something happening in Kenora and Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls, whether it’s in the height of the summer heat or the chilliest days of winter. We have incredible open-air markets, more fishing tournaments than you can shake a stick at, plus some amazing arts and music festivals that you won’t want to miss.
Check out some of the best-known events—Harbourfest, Kenora Bass International, Moose ‘n Fiddle Festival—but be sure to check out visitkenora.ca for more regional events and the SNNF Community Events Guide to see what’s happening in Sioux Narrows – Nestor Falls this summer.
