Sometimes you don’t want to swim or paddle — just bob. Luckily, in Saskatchewan, there’s Little Manitou Lake, a unique destination where your head will always stay above the water.
Cree for “great spirit,” Manitou Lake is located less than two hours from Regina and is unlike anything else in North America.
What makes Little Manitou so special?
While the serene view from this sunny day hot spot has healing powers of its own, the water in Little Manitou Lake has been enjoyed by people hoping to relieve symptoms of illness or who are in need of some R&R.
In fact, legend has it that these restorative properties were discovered by a group of First Nations people, some of whom were suffering from smallpox and fever.
In addition to this, visitors are able to give their arms and legs a much-needed break from working as hard as they do.
“The amazing salt water of Little Manitou Lake is definitely the source of this magic,” writes Watrous Manitou Beach Tourism.
“The lake is spring and ground water fed and evaporation over centuries has created water that has an amazingly high mineral content. Float effortlessly – even suspended vertically – as you chat with your friends!”
In between beach visits?
Little Manitou Lake is THE spot, but there’s so much more to the area.
Here, in addition to two public beaches and magical water, there is a pretty lively town that surrounds it.
If you’d like to stay for a good time and a long time, hit their dance hall, the art gallery, a very popular beach bar called “Mike’s,” a bird sanctuary, a mini golf course, or their drive-in theatre!
Hotels, campgrounds, inns, and rental homes are plenty, plus there’s no shortage of restaurants and cafes — but plan ahead!
There’s really nothing else like it on this side of the border, so it can get pretty busy in the summertime.
After all, when the sun’s in the sky, there’s no cooler place to beat the heat than Little Manitou Lake.
Where: Directions
