Gilbert Plains: A Hidden Gem in Manitoba

Nestled in the heart of Manitoba, Gilbert Plains is a small community that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor recreation. With its pristine lakes, scenic trails, and friendly locals, Gilbert Plains is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Manitoba.

Attractions

Gilbert Plains is home to a number of attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Here are some of the top attractions in the area:

Gilbert Plains Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the area, with exhibits on everything from farming to First Nations heritage.
Gilbert Plains Country Club: Golf enthusiasts will love this 9-hole course, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Gilbert Plains Community Park: This park features a playground, picnic area, and walking trails, making it the perfect spot for a family outing.
Lake Dauphin: This beautiful lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming.
Riding Mountain National Park: Just a short drive from Gilbert Plains, this park offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and stunning vistas.

Natural Wonders

Gilbert Plains is surrounded by natural beauty, with rolling hills, pristine lakes, and lush forests. Here are some of the top natural wonders in the area:

Lake Dauphin: This large lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, with crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches.
Riding Mountain National Park: This park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including moose, elk, and black bears, as well as stunning vistas and hiking trails.
Duck Mountain Provincial Park: This park features rugged terrain, dense forests, and sparkling lakes, making it a popular spot for camping and hiking.

Festivals

Gilbert Plains is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from local culture to outdoor recreation. Here are some of the top festivals in the area:

Gilbert Plains Agricultural Fair: This annual fair celebrates the area's agricultural heritage, with livestock shows, exhibits, and entertainment.
Gilbert Plains Honey Festival: This festival celebrates the area's thriving honey industry, with honey tastings, beekeeping demonstrations, and more.
Gilbert Plains Winter Carnival: This winter festival features ice skating, snowshoeing, and other outdoor activities, as well as live music and entertainment.

History

Gilbert Plains was established in 1884, when the Canadian Pacific Railway was built through the area. The community was named after Gilbert McMicken, a prominent businessman and politician who played a key role in the development of the region. The community was officially incorporated as a village in 1907, and has since grown into a thriving hub of agriculture, tourism, and culture.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, learn about local history and culture, or simply relax and unwind, Gilbert Plains has something for everyone. With its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and vibrant festivals and events, this hidden gem in Manitoba is a must-visit destination.

Sources

"Gilbert Plains, Manitoba." Travel Manitoba. https://www.travelmanitoba.com/places-to-go/northern-manitoba/gilbert-plains/
"Gilbert Plains Museum." Gilbert Plains Museum. http://www.gilbertplainsmuseum.com/
"Gilbert Plains Country Club." Golf Manitoba. https://golfmb.ca/courses/gilbert-plains-country-club/
"Lake Dauphin." Manitoba Fisheries. https://www.gov.mb.ca/sd/fisheries/fishinfo/lakes/dauphin.html
"Riding Mountain National Park." Parks Canada. https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/mb/riding
"Duck Mountain Provincial Park." Manitoba Parks. https://www.gov.mb.ca/sd/parks/popular_parks/western/duck.html