Cross Canada Road Trip: Manitoba
- Lyn (aka Jazz)
- Sep 1
- 8 min read
My epic solo cross-Canada road trip continues eastward into Manitoba. It felt like just a moment ago that I was cruising through the vast, golden fields of Saskatchewan. But as I crossed the provincial border near Moosomin, the land began to transform. The flat, sweeping vistas of the prairies started to roll, and I could feel a new rhythm in the air—a shift from the wide-open expanse to a landscape dotted with pockets of forest and the promise of water. I'd officially made it to Manitoba, the "keystone province," and the heart of Canada.
This is the fourth article in a series of cross-Canada road trip articles, based on four different trips taken over the past six years. Through the prairie provinces (Saskatchewan and Manitoba), my route sticks pretty close to the Trans-Canada Highway.
Need a refresher on the journey so far? You can catch up on how this epic trip began in my introductory post: Introduction and Overview of a cross-Canada road trip.
Or dive into the travel guides for the provinces I’ve already explored:
Table of Contents
A Glimpse into Manitoba's History and Heart
Manitoba is a land of great significance, with a rich history that stretches back millennia, serving as the ancestral home of Indigenous peoples. It was a pivotal site in the 19th century, serving as the backdrop for the Red River Rebellion, an uprising led by Louis Riel that ultimately led to the creation of the province in 1870. This rich past is woven into its vibrant Métis culture, which was born from the fur trade and Indigenous heritage. It is characterized by its distinctive art, music, and a strong sense of identity.
Geographically, Manitoba is a province of contrasts, transitioning from the open plains to vast boreal forests, rolling terrain, and an incredible number of lakes—over 100,000 in total, including the immense Lake Winnipeg. The climate is just as dramatic, swinging from hot, sunny summers to cold, snowy winters. Economically, the province has grown from its roots in the fur trade to a modern focus on agriculture, mining, and manufacturing.
Cross Canada Road Trip Routes Manitoba
Route 1: The Trans-Canada Highway (The Quickest)
This is the route for those who want to get across the province efficiently while still hitting some key historical and cultural landmarks. The entire drive across the province on this route takes approximately five hours without stops. It’s a straightforward drive that takes you from the Saskatchewan border straight to the Ontario border, with a few must-see stops along the way.
Nature-Based Adventures
Brandon
Take a relaxing stroll through the Brandon Riverbank Discovery Centre, a beautiful park area right on the Assiniboine River with walking paths. Paddlers will enjoy the opportunity to rent a canoe or kayak. Novices can feel safe in the paddling cove while those with more experience can go further into the Assiniboine River. Bird nerds will be thrilled with the viewing opportunities and variety of species that can be spotted in the park.
Portage la Prairie
Stretch your legs and pack a picnic to enjoy in Island Park, a peaceful oasis located in the middle of Crescent Lake that is a great spot to spend a full day. Beyond the lovely park setting you'll also find a water park, disc golf, tennis courts, and extensive gardens. You can also rent a kayak to paddle on the lake.
Winnipeg
Just outside the city, you can find a quiet natural escape at Beaudry Provincial Park that features a river bottom forest. River bottom forests grow along the edges of rivers and depend upon spring floods for nutrients, creating very diverse habitats attracting many plant and animal species. Beaudry Provincial Park includes beautiful walking paths with tall trees entwined by wild grapevines.
History, Culture, and Charming Towns
Brandon
Step into history at the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum, a National Historic Site dedicated to Canada's role in training Allied aircrews during WWII. This is the site where almost all allied pilots and flight crews trained. Explore the vintage aircraft, vehicles, and countless artifacts that bring this crucial piece of Canadian history to life.
Beside the Museum is the Royal Canadian Air Force World War II Memorial, a moving memorial listing the names of the over 19,000 airmen and women who died during the second World War. Standing before Wall, the sheer number of names hits you first, but noticing the shocking youth of those who perished is a profound and sobering reminder of the immense sacrifice made by so many young men and women.
Portage la Prairie
The living history site at the Fort la Reine Museum features a replica of the original 1738 fur trading post, which served as a crucial base for early French-Canadian explorers. You'll find numerous heritage buildings, vehicles, and trains that showcase the local history.
Winnipeg
Manitoba's capital city is a historical and cultural hub. Begin your exploration at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, a striking architectural masterpiece where you can walk up the glowing alabaster ramps and learn about global human rights struggles and victories.
The Oodena Celebration Circle is a deeply meaningful amphitheater at The Forks National Historic Site, designed to honour the Indigenous peoples who have gathered at this site for over 6,000 years. Its name, an Ojibwe word for "heart of the community," reflects its purpose as a central meeting place. The circle features sculptural guideposts that function as a celestial observatory, aligning with the solstices and constellations, while its central fire pit is used for ceremonies and celebrations. It is a powerful space that blends historical reverence with art and astronomy, inviting both cultural reflection and personal contemplation.
The Forks Market is a bustling, two-level public market offering a vibrant mix of food, retail, and local charm. Housed within what were once stables for railway pioneers, the market has been transformed into a modern-day gathering place. You can wander through its halls to find everything from artisan ice cream and locally roasted coffee to gourmet meals and fresh produce. It's the perfect spot to grab a bite, shop for unique souvenirs, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere where the Red and Assiniboine rivers meet.
Then, connect with the city's past by visiting the remnants of Upper Fort Garry, a major Hudson's Bay Company post and the site of the Red River Rebellion. The city has grown up around this site so little of the original fort remains but it is still worth a short visit
Finish with a peaceful walk along the Riverside Walk. Alternatively, consider taking a boat tour for a waterside view of the city. (stay tuned for a future in-depth article focussed on Winnipeg coming later this fall)
St. Norbert
The St. Norbert Provincial Heritage Park is where Riel and the Mètis planned the early Mètis Resistance. It is a quiet and scenic park that offers a glimpse into a once-bustling settlement on the banks of the Red and La Salle Rivers. The site was a key community for the Métis people, including Louis Riel's family, and it brings together several historic homes that tell the story of the area. Visitors can take guided tours of the restored Bohémier and Turenne Houses, which represent the distinctive French-Canadian and Métis architecture of the time.
Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities
As you enter the province, the landscape shifts from the flat prairies of Saskatchewan to the gentle, rolling hills of the Pembina Valley. Take a moment to appreciate this subtle but beautiful change.
The quirky charm of Portage la Prairie makes for great photos. Don't miss the iconic World's Largest Coca-Cola Can and the picturesque Dutch-style windmill located within the scenic Island Park.
The city of Winnipeg offers a variety of photo ops, from the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, the Forks National Historic site and the stunning views found along the Riverside Walk.
Route 2: The Scenic Route (Slightly Off the Highway)
If you have a bit more time and want to see more of what Manitoba has to offer, this route is for you. It branches off the Trans-Canada and adds some significant side trips that are well worth the additional two to three hours of driving time.
Nature-Based Adventures
The detour to Selkirk takes you into the Interlake region, which is a gateway to countless lakes and parks. Be sure to stop at Oak Hammock Marsh, a globally recognized wetland perfect for birdwatching and hiking along over 30 kilometers of trails. You can also visit Stonewall Quarry Park, where you can hike around a man-made lake and explore the old limestone quarry.
Near Steinbach, you can find a quiet natural escape at Rosenthal Nature Park, which has walking trails and a constructed wetland that attracts migratory birds and local wildlife. For more adventurous hikers, the Crow Wing Trail—part of the Trans Canada Trail—is nearby and offers opportunities for biking and hiking.
History, Culture, and Charming Towns
This route includes all the stops on the Trans-Canada route, but with two significant additions.
Selkirk
Take a side trip north to visit Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site, near Selkirk. It's the only stone-walled fur trade post in North America that has been preserved intact. Here you can explore the impressive buildings, learn about its history as a Hudson’s Bay Company stronghold and the first training base for the North West Mounted Police, and see the very spot where Treaty 1 was signed in 1871.
Steinbach
Head south on a detour to the Mennonite Heritage Village, a living history museum that tells the story of Mennonite immigrants who settled in Manitoba. Wander through a recreated 19th-century street village, see a fully operational Dutch windmill, and explore the heritage buildings. Be sure to stop at the Livery Barn Restaurant to sample traditional Mennonite fare.
Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities
The drives to Selkirk and Steinbach take you through different rural landscapes, offering a new perspective on the province.
In Selkirk, head to the waterfront to see the bronze sculpture "Perilous Crossing," which captures the dramatic history of the fur trade. You can also wander through the city's old downtown, where murals on Manitoba Avenue East tell stories of the community and make for a colourful backdrop.
Another truly unique and dramatic photo op, is the Senkiw Swinging Bridge south of St. Malo. It crosses the Roseau River and provides a fantastic view of the steep Roseau River Valley.
Final Thoughts
The road across Manitoba is a journey through a changing landscape, from the golden prairie fields to the gentle rolls of the Pembina Valley. It’s a road full of rich history and vibrant culture. I hope this guide helps you plan your own journey through the province, whether you take the quick route or opt for a scenic detour. Next week, we move into the incredible province of Ontario with many, many road trip choices.
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Oh I think I would go for the first route (even though your gorgeous picture of the Crow Wing Trail is enough incentive for me to plan a detour). The architecture in Winnipeg intrigues me endlessly. Just look at the Fort with the brutalist panel build in the background. For a second I thought this is somewhere in Spain! I also love the Cola Can, very unique and makes for a great Insta stop and the cuved indigenous installations for stargazing.
Carolin | <a href="https://solotravelstory.com/">Solo Travel Story</a>
I really feel like I'm along for the ride on this wonderful cross country adventure. Never having been to Manitoba it was great to learn a little more about it. Beaudry Provincial Park looks like my kind of place, especially being able to walk through that tree lined path. I might also have to fall for the gimmick that it is and visit the giant Coca cola can. The Hudson's Bay related historic sites look really fun to explore, much like our Fort Langley, and I'm a sucker for an quaint old town or village
I'm really enjoying this series, you cram so much in! The Human Rights Museum sounds right up my street-I'm not usually a museum person but this one will be super important. Looking forward to the next part of this road trip.
Laura
www.insidelaurashead.com
After reading this I can see why people fall in love with Canada. I love a road trip so Canada has definitely got to go on my future travels list.
The hiking trails look great and the Trans Canada Trail has got me intrigued although crossing Canada on foot might be a step too far!!