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Winter! A pristine, white world of snow, ice and hoar frost. In northern Manitoba it lasts from November to mid - April. That's the season when "northerners" participate in unique activities that millions of people in warmer climates never experience!
But doesn't the cold bother you, some one may ask? It doesn't have to! With the latest technology in clothing and sporting equipment winter can be a fun and warm time. It's the season to enjoy life in a way that can't be had in the summer. All surrounded by the beauty of snow-laden evergreens and Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) dancing magically in the night skies.
Thompson is a contemporary city in an urban setting in the heart of the Canadian wilderness. One can participate in outdoor winter activities in the day and enjoy all the creature comforts inside in the evening. Thompson offers the best of both worlds in a beautiful setting of green, blue and white.
Activities in winter that many enjoy are numerous. Snowmobilers can roam on hundreds of miles of trails on frozen lakes or through groomed forested routes. Riding is unlimited! Check with the local snowmobile dealers for tips, advice, and the best routes.
Skiing and snowboarding are a passion in the North, and there are challenging slopes and trails at Mystery Mountain Winter Park.
Try winter camping with an outfitter or tour a winter trapline. Many native people trap and fish for their livelihood, and they can show you how their ancestors have worked in the North for thousands of years.
Ice fishing is a different way of trying a summer activity. Book a guide, or check with the Department of Conservation for the best lake to cut a hole! Try snowshoeing or tobogganing. Or just have a snowball fight! Always take your camera along to capture the white winter beauty of the north.
There are also indoor activities that are fun to do - from curling, hockey, ringette, figure skating to swimming at the Norplex Pool, or taking in the concerts at the Letkemann Theatre.
Winterfest is Thompson's weekend carnival in February - full of fun, contests, displays, entertainment, and the north's largest children's festival. The Munn Cup Hockey Tournament is held every Easter with hundreds of 10-12 year olds coming to compete. For snowmobilers the Cross Country 100 in March and Hill Drags and Snocross at Mystery Mountain in April provide lots of exciting action. Downhill ski and snowboard races are held that offer challenge in a scenic setting. Thompson often hosts great regional and provincial curling bonspiels. They all make for great winters!
Mystery Mountain Winter Park is one of Manitoba's best winter recreation facilities. It overlooks Mystery Lake and boasts 18 alpine ski runs, over 12 km of cross-country ski trails, Manitoba's longest snowboarding half-pipe, and a snowtubing lift for all ages.
The Thompson Zoo houses northern wildlife such as wolves, bears, and lynx at various times. It also includes "exotic" southern barnyard animals such as donkeys and sheep. Everything from a quack to a growl with a northern flavour!
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