Imagine floating effortlessly on the surface of a lake, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature. Welcome to Little Manitou Lake, often called “Canada’s Dead Sea” due to its exceptionally high mineral content, making it one of the most buoyant bodies of water in the world.
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Located approximately 115 km southeast of Saskatoon in the province of Saskatchewan, this unique natural attraction offers a wide range of activities and experiences. You can enjoy floating in the mineral-rich waters, explore local attractions, savor dining options, and choose from various accommodations.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Little Manitou Lake is a perfect destination, offering a unique experience that can’t be found elsewhere in Canada. This guide will walk you through the top picks for things to do, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this remarkable lake.
Discover Canada’s Dead Sea: The Unique Properties of Little Manitou Lake
Little Manitou Lake, often referred to as Canada’s Dead Sea, boasts an intriguing combination of salt and minerals. This unique saline body of water was formed during the last ice age, making it a remarkable natural phenomenon in the northern hemisphere.
The Science Behind the Buoyancy
The lake’s water is characterized by its high salt and mineral content, including Epsom and Glauber’s Salts, along with other elements that contribute to its therapeutic properties. It’s almost five times saltier than the Atlantic or Pacific Oceans, making it the world’s seventh most saline body of water.
The high mineral content affects the water’s density, allowing visitors to float effortlessly. This buoyancy is not just a novelty; it’s also associated with various health benefits, including relief from skin conditions, muscle aches, and stress reduction.
Little Manitou Lake’s ecosystem is distinct from freshwater lakes due to its high salinity, creating a unique place in Saskatchewan’s natural landscape. For many years, it has attracted visitors seeking therapeutic benefits, establishing it as a natural wellness destination.
Float Effortlessly in the Mineral-Rich Waters
The mineral-rich waters of Little Manitou Lake provide a surreal floating experience unlike any other lake. You can float effortlessly, enjoying the unique sensation of the saline water supporting your body. Unlike regular freshwater lakes, the buoyancy here is remarkably high, making it a fun and relaxing experience.
Best Times for Swimming and Floating
Summer is the ideal time to visit Little Manitou Lake for swimming and floating, with comfortable water temperatures from June through early September. For the best experience, consider floating during the early mornings or weekday evenings to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.
When you visit, don’t forget to bring fresh water to rinse off after swimming, as the minerals can dry on your skin. Facilities are available near Burger Buoy, including a changing building with showers. Floating in the lake is free, making it an accessible activity for all visitors.
Paddleboard Adventures with Gourmet Picnics
Paddleboarding on Little Manitou Lake is an adventure like no other, featuring guided tours with gourmet picnics. The region is now offering these unique paddleboard tours that stand out from standard paddleboarding experiences by including a hearty charcuterie board picnic with a bottle of wine on a beach.
You meet the crew down by the dock next to the Manitou Reflections Project on the main road, where you gear up with lifejackets and paddleboards. The tour involves paddling about a kilometer across the lake to a sandy beach near a distinctive rock formation at the base of the valley hills. This iconic rock design, created years ago by a local resident, is now a landmark feature of the lake.
Guided Tours and Self-Guided Options
The paddleboard adventure includes a gourmet picnic experience featuring locally-sourced charcuterie boards from Oda Coffee + Wine Bar, complete with meats, cheeses, crackers, fresh salad, and desserts like mini cheesecakes. You have the option to choose guided tours or explore the lake on your own with self-guided paddleboarding.
For those who prefer a guided experience, the tour operators provide paddleboards and lifejackets, and you can enjoy the scenic views while learning about the area’s unique features. The best times for paddleboarding tours are during the summer months when the weather is warm and the water is calm.
Whether you choose a guided tour or self-guided paddleboarding, Little Manitou Lake offers an unforgettable experience. With its serene waters, scenic landscapes, and gourmet delights, it’s a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Relax at Manitou Springs Resort and Mineral Spa
Manitou Springs Resort and Mineral Spa is a haven for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation near the famous Little Manitou Lake. You can unwind in their heated mineral pools, which are open to both hotel guests and day visitors.
Indoor and Outdoor Mineral Pools
The resort features two pool options: a larger indoor pool and an outdoor pool, both filled with mineral-rich water similar to that found in Little Manitou Lake. The water is loaded with salts like Epsom and Glauber’s Salts, along with at least 12 other elements, creating a therapeutic experience akin to the famous pools in Bath, England.
You can enjoy a relaxing soak in the warm waters, surrounded by a serene atmosphere. The outdoor patio serves drinks on weekends, making it a perfect spot to catch a few rays and unwind after your soak.
A day pass for non-hotel guests costs approximately $24 (as of 2023), and the pools are open until late, around 11 PM. Visiting both Little Manitou Lake and the resort pools allows you to experience the mineral waters in different settings, making for a well-rounded visit to this health-focused town.
As a couple or with family, you’ll find the Manitou Springs Resort and Mineral Spa to be an excellent choice for relaxation. The town’s reputation as a health destination attracts visitors from across the province, all drawn to the therapeutic benefits of the mineral waters.
Catch a Movie Under the Stars at the Drive-In Theater
Catch a movie under the prairie sky at the Salty Cinema Drive-In Theater, a rare gem near Manitou Lake. As one of only four remaining drive-in theaters in Saskatchewan, it offers a unique and nostalgic experience. During the summer evenings, watching a movie under the stars is a magical experience, especially when the sunset creates a twilight atmosphere.
Weekend Entertainment for the Whole Family
The drive-in theater is a perfect destination for a fun family outing. You can position your vehicle to back in and open the hatch for optimal viewing. The Salty Cinema Drive-In Theater often features double features of classic and cult films, providing excellent entertainment value. It’s an activity that kids of all ages can enjoy together.
On summer days, you can combine a visit to the drive-in with other activities in town. For example, spend the day floating in Manitou Lake and then catch a movie in the evening. On Sundays, the drive-in parking lot transforms into a local flea market, attracting vendors from around the area. You can find unique souvenirs to take home.
To plan your visit, check the current movie schedule on the drive-in’s Facebook page, as listings change regularly throughout the summer days. This way, you can enjoy a fun-filled day and evening in town with your family and friends.
Explore Local Art Galleries and Creative Experiences
Discover the artistic side of Saskatchewan by exploring the galleries and creative experiences around Little Manitou Lake. The area is home to a vibrant community of artists inspired by the prairie landscape.
Workshops and Cultural Activities
The Manitou area offers a variety of creative experiences, including drawing lessons with renowned artist Michael Gaudet at G-G’s Gallery & Gifts. Participants can explore local flora in Wellington Park and learn techniques like negative space drawing.
Visitors can also enjoy the public pizza oven in Wellington Park, where they can cook pizzas while enjoying the surroundings. Afterward, a stroll up to the labyrinth is a great way to finish the afternoon, making for a well-rounded tour of the area’s cultural offerings.
For art enthusiasts, the Little Manitou Art Gallery is a must-visit, featuring work from over 150 regional artists. The gallery is owned by local artists Sarah McKen and Clayton Cave, who create unique sculptures and hand-carved goods. On weekends, the gallery often hosts live music, enhancing the cultural atmosphere.
Combining art tours with other activities provides a perfect balance of relaxation and cultural enrichment, giving visitors a deeper connection to the area beyond its natural attractions.
Hiking and Nature Trails Around Little Manitou Lake, Saskatchewan: Best Things to Do
Explore the natural beauty surrounding Little Manitou Lake through its extensive network of hiking and nature trails. The area offers diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to prairie grasslands, making it a unique part of Saskatchewan.
Wildlife Viewing and Photography Opportunities
The trails around Little Manitou Lake are not just for hiking; they also offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. You can spot various bird species, small mammals, and native plants that thrive in this ecosystem.
The best times for nature photography are during the “golden hours” around sunrise and sunset, when the light creates dramatic effects on the lake and surrounding terrain. Additionally, the area’s relatively low light pollution makes it excellent for stargazing and astrophotography at night.
When hiking, it’s essential to wear recommended footwear, bring sufficient water, and consider safety precautions for the varying terrain. The trails also connect various attractions around the lake, allowing you to create personalized hiking routes that incorporate other activities like visiting art galleries or stopping at local cafes.
Where to Eat: Top Dining Options in Manitou Beach
You’ll discover a mix of local flavors and dining spots in Manitou Beach that are worth trying. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a more upscale dining experience, this charming town has something to offer.
Local Cuisine and Specialty Foods
Manitou Beach is home to a variety of eateries serving local cuisine and specialty foods. Mike’s Beach Bar is a popular spot for pub-style grub and a patio beer, with the added fun of a game of volleyball. Just next door, Oda Coffee and Wine Bar serves up tasty breakfast bowls and coffee on their beachfront patio, making it a great place to start your day.
For a sweet treat in the evening, head to Manitou Mini-Mart for their extra-large helpings of ice cream. If you’re looking for morning pastries, Watrous Bakery in the nearby town is a great option, offering delicious donuts and longjohns.
Many of these dining establishments use locally-sourced ingredients, showcasing the agricultural bounty of this part of Saskatchewan. The price ranges vary, from budget-friendly quick bites to more upscale dining experiences, making Manitou Beach an accessible day trip for city dwellers seeking a change of pace and unique dining experiences within an hour‘s drive from major cities like Saskatoon.
Accommodation Options for Every Budget
From budget-friendly camping options to luxury resorts, Manitou Beach has something for everyone. You can choose to camp at the Regional Park, which offers a more rustic experience, or opt for something more luxurious like The Lake House at Manitou.
Diverse Accommodation Choices
The Lake House at Manitou is a recently renovated farmhouse that offers spectacular sunset views from its balcony. If you prefer to stay in nearby Watrous or in a city like Saskatoon, which is about an hour away, there are also various options available, including the Delta Hotels by Marriott Bessborough or the Alt Hotel Saskatoon.
Accommodations in Manitou Beach cater to different types of travelers, whether you’re looking for family-friendly places with a lot of amenities, romantic getaways for couples, or convenient locations for those primarily interested in the lake. Some accommodations offer package deals that might include spa services or golf course access, potentially providing better value for multi-day stays.
It’s recommended to plan your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Plan Your Perfect Visit to Little Manitou Lake
To make the most of your visit to Little Manitou Lake, understanding the seasonal variations and available activities is key.
Tips for a Memorable Trip
The summer months (June through early September) offer the warmest water temperatures and the most activities, making it the peak season. However, spring and fall provide a serene experience with fewer crowds. We recommend a stay of at least a couple of days to fully experience the area, with 3-4 days being ideal for enjoying both lake activities and exploring surrounding attractions like the prairie landscapes of Grasslands National Park.
Plan your trip around special events like the Saturday Farmer’s Market and weekend events at Danceland. With its unique blend of natural wonders, cultural attractions, and recreational activities, Little Manitou Lake offers an experience found in few other places in the world.
The above is subject to change.
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