Hunt Lake Trail, Manitoba

The Hunt Lake is a great trip to get out on a day trip which offers exceptional hiking right beside West Hawk Lake. This 12.6 km (return distance) offers an out and back hike which passes through Cedar groves beside Hunt Lake before ascending up a high ridge which drops into via sharp cliff faces into West Hawk Lake. The trail follows the shoreline of West Hawk Lake into Indian Bay where a shelter marks the end of official trail.

Originally Hunt Lake trail was a loop which continued and turned south into Ontario before returning to the trail head. We have used the trail to access Indian Bay and then bush-waked back to Hunt Lake. Wilderness Supply has also organized trail runs which utilized Hunt Lake trail. The trail is fairly steep in places and moves over rocky, rough terrain. Hiking poles are a good idea to provide yourself with extra stability. Ensure that you have proper footwear that offer good stability for this rough granite trail that has lots of ups and downs.

Hunt Lake trail is accessible in the winter, but remember to take snow shoes as the westerly winds off West Hawk Lake tend to drift deep snow onto the trail. Once West Hawk freezes solid it can be used for the the return portion of the journey. However, ensure that you have confirmed the ice thickness as West Hawk being Manitoba's deepest lake can take a little bit longer than other area lakes to freeze.

Access

Reach the trail head beside Hunt Lake by turning off Highway 1 towards West Hawk Lake. When you reach Highway 44, turn right at the stop sign and continue until you see the trailhead sign.