Take a Trip to Treaty Two and Stay in a Turtle Shell

Why you need to visit Riding Mountain National Park in Autumn.

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In the autumn of 2023, my husband and I escaped to our very own turtle shell, in Treaty Two territory. We traveled west to Riding Mountain National Park to stay in Manitoba's newest Turtle Village, an Indigenous owned, sustainable experience. We were ecstatic to learn that we would be able to bring along our beloved fur companion. Hazel #HereForHazel. I knew that autumn would be the perfect time for this getaway. A time where the air is cool and crisp, the changing colours of nature are out in full force, and there are warm days followed by cool nights. It's a beautiful mirage of the season.

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Cozy Number Eight

We stayed in pet friendly Turtle Shell # 8. These micro spaces focus on sustainability while offering the opportunity to connect with nature. They were so beautifull! There's an impressive heat source, lighting and USB chargers to help you connect, even for when you intend to unplug. There's even a Murphy bed to expand your space inside! With stunning views looking into the forest complimented by amenities of home, you won't want to leave.

In the morning, we enjoyed an outdoor cookout and made our classic bonfire breakfast bowls. I always say it and I'll say it again, food tastes better outside.

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Beauty on the Boardwalk

We spent Saturday afternoon finding new places to explore. There was one place in particular that had been on my list for some time. One of those places that you drive by often, but never stop. For no reason in particular, just that you're en route to another destination. We drove to Glen Beag and hiked the Clear Lake North Shore Trail. As it was autumn and many leaves had fallen, there was still so much colour to be found and seen. The water was still and the reflection on the shoreline was lovely. The most beautiful feature that intrigued me were the wooden stairs to head down to the trail and the hidden winding wooden boardwalk on the trail. No signs the boardwalk was there, but a beautiful feature to be enjoyed by those who came across it. As usual, Hazel lead the way and she too stayed warm in her seasonal sweater. She's a curious one who always needs to be down the trail first. I often think it's her way of scouting things out to say "yes mom and dad, it's safe."

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The Cup is Always Half Full

We wanted to go for a hike and were looking for something short and sweet to occupy our afternoon and to end the day. We went to Brule Trail! It was a crisp and chilly Saturday afternoon, so a hot beverage pick me up to go from the Lakehouse is always a must. Brule Trail is close to Wasagaming, so this trail is a fun top up for any day adventure.

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Love at Lake Audy

I've spent much time in and driving through Riding Mountain National Park my whole life. In that time, I've only spent a handful of times visiting the Lake Audy Bison Enclosure, and those few times... I've never seen bison up close. Much of it relates to time of day, season, herd movement and chance. It wasn't until this autumn visit that the time finally came. It was a bit of a drive down winding gravel roads, but the scenery.. was beautiful. Golden larches sticking out amongst the forest... it's sure something to see. We finally crested our vehicle around the bend and there they were, the bison! It's strongly encouraged to approach with your vehicle, slowly, and most importantly to stay in your vehicle at all times for safety. There they were in multiples. The herd was there grazing, sleeping, and curiously staring. We rolled down the windows in our vehicles and I stared in awe, absolutely ecstatic at the chance to photograph these big Manitoban beasts. We stayed for a while, in awe as we made our way down the road and out.

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It was a beautiful weekend, as always in Riding Mountain National Park. Staying in a comfortable, sustainable, Indigenous off grid accommodation, coupled with time spent out in nature with wholesome tastes and treats. I highly recommend a trip out to Treaty Two Territory in Manitoba during the autumn season.

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