Things to do in the Spring at Inverness Falls Resort

When spring arrives at Inverness Falls Resort, there’s an energetic tension in the air. It’s the season of the awakening, where the iron-grey ice of winter gives way to the rushing blue of the river, and the first vibrant greens of the boreal forest begin to sprout. A spring getaway in Whiteshell Provincial Park offers a front-row seat to the park’s transformation, paired with Inverness Falls’ comfortable and relaxing accommodations.

Inverness Falls Resort sits on the north end of Brereton Lake, an approximately three-by-five-mile stretch of water with a diverse bottom of rock and weed beds. In Brereton, you can catch walleye, northern pike, perch, black crappie, and smallmouth bass. Mid-to-late May through June is a fantastic time to fish for walleye, while northern pike are particularly excellent for eating when pulled from the cool spring waters.

We offer several ways to get on the water. You can rent our 16ft boat to explore the deeper parts of the lake, or take advantage of our complimentary rowboats, pedal boats, canoes, or kayaks. Fishing from our two lake docks can be especially rewarding, with all five major species within casting distance.

For a more secluded experience, the stream meandering through our property, which joins the Rennie River, is a peaceful spot. We have encouraged catch-and-release fishing in this stream for years, helping support healthy populations of Northern Pike and Perch, with walleye occasionally found below the falls.

Spring hiking and biking offer a unique way to experience the trails. The air is crisp, everything is new and reborn, and you can see far into the forest, noticing things you usually miss under the heavy foliage. The nearby trails provide a variety of ways to explore, whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or a longer ride.

The Trans Canada Trail passes right by the resort, leading toward Cabin Lake and beyond through the blooming backcountry. The stretch to Cabin Lake is approximately 18.6 km out and back (9.3 km one way) and offers a great mix of hiking, with portions suitable for biking.

From the stop sign, follow the trail as it parallels the paved road before veering onto the old Cabin Lake Road, originally constructed by lumber companies during the area’s logging days. The first 4.7 km are suitable for biking and lead to a bridge overlooking the Rennie River, which makes for a great picnic spot or a natural turnaround point for those not wishing to complete the full route. Beyond the bridge, the remaining 4.6 km are for hiking only.

At Cabin Lake, take in the scenery, enjoy a snack, or even try your luck fishing for walleye before making your way back.

In winter, these trails are a guest favourite for skiing, but come spring, they open up for hiking and biking adventures. Winding through a Red Pine Plantation and lined with crocuses in early spring, the Inverness Trails are a beautiful addition to your spring activities.

Trail conditions and accessibility vary from year to year. For the most up-to-date information, please stop by the office, and we’ll be happy to help.

Taking off from Chalet Road, the River Trail winds down to and along the Rennie River. This short, 1km trail offers big rewards scenery-wise, with opportunities to spot river otter and returning Trumpeter swans in springtime.

Connected to the River Trail is the Amisk Trail, a 4.3 km loop. Its upper section also follows the Rennie River, while the remainder travels through forest and rock outcroppings. Interpretive signs along the way offer insight into the area’s natural and cultural history.

A local note: the Amisk Trail is dedicated to Walter Danyluk, who grew up in Rennie and went on to become a forester and the first Director of Manitoba’s Parks Branch.

Both trails are designated for hiking only.

For those seeking a bit more rugged adventure, the journey to Mud Turtle Lake is a worthwhile experience for paddlers, hikers, and anglers alike!

Borrow one of our canoes or kayaks and paddle across Brereton Lake—roughly an hour’s journey—to the Mud Turtle portage. From there, a 45-minute hike through the woods leads you to Mud Turtle Lake, a deeply secluded destination where you can fish for northern pike and bass, enjoy a picnic, or simply take in the beauty of the area.

Watching the Whiteshell bloom with life is a special thing. As the snow begins to melt, buds dot the branches and pops of colour appear along the trails and shorelines. In early spring, we’re treated to the first signs of the season as prairie crocuses open, sometimes even peaking through a blanket of snow.

Not long after, bright yellow marsh-marigolds begin to grow in wetter areas and roadsides, while early blue violets and clusters of golden alexander bring even more colour to the forest floor. Wild strawberry plants start to bloom with delicate white flowers, and along the shoreline, wild iris start to emerge, adding soft splashes of purple near the water’s edge.

If you’re interested in learning more about the flora that grows near the resort throughout the seasons, explore our Wildflower Guide.

In the Whiteshell, you’re likely to share your visit with local wildlife. Spring is a remarkable season for birdwatching, with swans, pelicans, blue herons, and birds of prey returning to the area. Around the resort grounds, you may also see river otters, deer, foxes, and other wildlife moving through the landscape.

For some, it just isn’t a getaway without a bonfire. Our two riverside bonfire areas set the scene for gathering with your group after a day of relaxation or adventure. It’s where stories are shared, and new memories are made, while cool spring air keeps you close and the stars shine brightly above the glow of the embers.

While there is much to do right here, we recommend a few short drives to enhance your spring getaway in Whiteshell Provincial Park.

Alfred Hole Goose Sanctuary: The sanctuary is a hub of activity in spring as Canada Geese return home. The interpretive centre offers insight into the sanctuary’s history and the biology of the geese, while the surrounding grounds and 2.5 km trail provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Rainbow Falls: A visit in spring is a must. The falls are stunning, the trail is short but engaging, and the offshore fishing stand offers a peaceful place to cast a line while watching pelicans and geese.

Bannock Point Petroforms: Visiting in spring is a wonderful way to experience one of the park’s most unique cultural sites. Experience the ancient rock arrangements in the shapes of animals, humans, and geometric forms laid into the granite by Indigenous people long ago. It’s an easy, fascinating stop that pairs well with other spring hikes.

Pine Point Rapids Trail: This scenic hike follows the Whiteshell River to a series of rapids and falls, with two loop options to choose from (8 km or 5 km). The trail winds through forested sections, over rocky inclines and declines, and rewards hikers with spectacular river views along the way.

Fishing: In the Whiteshell, you’re never far from a great fishing spot. Within 30 to 45 minutes, you can reach nearly all of the park’s road-accessible lakes. Our Guest Information Package includes a helpful guide to Whiteshell lakes and the fish species found in each, along with a list of great offshore fishing locations to explore.