Oak Hammock Marsh - Manitoba

As we drive up to the interpretive center the first thing that strikes us all is the building. Almost like a modern bunker set into the marsh. Lucy looks at it and tells me how cool it looks but really once we get inside then you see the real magic.

From a long glass wall of window looking out over the marsh to the display showing the animals of the marsh this center is packed with great activities for the family. We roll up to reception and book onto a voyager canoe paddle while the girls excitedly try to name all the animals in the display.

​We set off into the center and the girls dart around each area. They explore sensory activities, look through microscopes and make nests. As we walk around trying out each new activity and learning about the ecosystem in the marsh it ready to see that this place is getting it right. Our girls are engaged and excited and almost sad when we say we have to head outside to meet our canoe guide. However that doesn’t last long once they get out and the paddle shed doors open. 

​After a short safety talk we are handed our paddling gear. Lucy and Tilley almost lose their mind when they find out that they too get mini paddles and can help push the canoe along. They spend the next 5 minutes practicing paddling while walking back and forward waiting for the other in the group to don their gear.

​We make our way down to the dock with our canoe guide Abby and all hop into the big voyager style canoe. Paddle in the water we move off and Abby tells us about the marsh and its history while she steers the boat through the reeds, around the banks and past a few muskrat nests. Lucy and Tilley paddle eagerly and surprisingly we only have one dropped paddle (which is quickly scooped up by our guide and handed back).  

​As we turn in to the dock there is a muskrat sitting over between the reeds which is a perfect finish to an enjoyable and fun paddle. We head up the dock and hand back our gear then after snack it’s time to head back home. So looking for somewhere to go that’s close to Winnipeg. Try Oak hammock marsh it’s educational, active and most of all so much fun.

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