Explore the Beauty of Lake Katherine through a Guided Experience in Riding Mountain National Park
At Giiwe, an Original Original accredited Indigenous tourism operator, we are proud to expand our offerings on the shores of Lake Katherine (Zhaaboomin) in Riding Mountain National Park by hosting two distinct, meaningful land-based experiences. Whether you want to slow your stride and explore the vibrant living history of the land, traditional storytelling, plant knowledge, and birch bark biting on our Walking Stories: A Lake Katherine Experience, or channel your personal reflection into artwork led by Aaron McKay during our Paint the Land: Lake Katherine Reflections creative sessions, each journey offers a welcoming space for connection and shared understanding. Read on below to learn more about each of these guided experiences and reserve your spot!
Walking Stories: A Lake Katherine Experience
Join us on a guided tour around Lake Katherine, also known as Zhaaboomin by the Anishinaabek. When we invite you to walk along the shore of Lake Katherine, we are inviting you to do more than observe nature—we are inviting you into a home. On this Indigenous-led guided walking tour, going home means slowing your stride to match the deep-rooted rhythms of the territory. Together, we will discover a living history in a vibrant land that has sustained the Anishinaabek since the beginning.
What you will experience:
Stories and the Land: Connect with cultural stories and traditional plant knowledge. See the trail as a living resource and teacher.
The Heartbeat at the Arbour: Gather at the Powwow Arbour to hear the stories behind sacred regalia and feel the connection of the drum.
Birch Bark Biting: Participate in this Indigenous art form, where intricate, symmetrical stories are bitten into paper-thin bark with incredible focus.
Mapping Ancestral Footprints: Compare modern trails with historical maps to see the enduring legacy of those who have protected this space for generations.
Guided Tour Fees: $45.00 (tax included) per person (Minimum of 3 people required and maximum of 10 people per tour). Please indicate if you are a family group larger than 4 people in your submission.
If you are representing a secondary school, please inquire about specialized school fees.
Be sure to check out our online shop to support Giiwe and authentic Indigenous tourism!
Walking Stories: A Lake Katherine Experience Registration Form
Paint the Land: Lake Katherine Reflections
What does the land mean to you?
Join us on the shores of Lake Katherine for a meaningful evening of reflection, storytelling, and artistic expression. Led by Aaron McKay, this guided experience invites you to connect with the land and explore the history and culture of the region.
Your journey begins with a scenic storytelling walk leading to a bajiishkaogaan (tipi). Along the way and in the bajiishkaogaan, you will listen to perspectives of Anishinaabe culture and a history of Riding Mountain National Park. Guided by Aaron, you will then channel your connections to the land onto canvas, creating a unique piece of artwork to take home—a lasting personal memory of your time here.
Whether you are a local resident or visiting from afar, this experience offers a peaceful, creative space to slow down and reflect.
Activity Details
Session Guide: Aaron McKay
Location: Lake Katherine, Riding Mountain National Park
Dates: Saturdays in August (August 8, 15, 22, and 29)
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: $56.00 per person (taxes included)
Supplies: All paint, brushes, and canvas materials are provided—just bring your open mind and creativity!
Group Size: limited to 10 spots per session to ensure a welcoming, personal environment.
How to Reserve Your Spot
Spaces are limited. Select your preferred August date from the options and complete the registration form to secure your spot!
Location: Lake Katherine, Riding Mountain National Park
Date: Saturday, August 8
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Lake Katherine, Riding Mountain National Park
Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Lake Katherine, Riding Mountain National Park
Date: Saturday, August 22
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Lake Katherine, Riding Mountain National Park
Date: Saturday, August 29
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Important Information for Your Trip
Inclement Weather: In the event of heavy rain or other inclement weather, painting activities will be moved to the Paul Huntinghawk Memorial Powwow Arbour or rescheduled.
Refund Policy (Painting Experience): Please note that all sales are final and refunds are not offered, as registration funds are directly used to purchase individual painting supplies and materials in advance of each session. We appreciate your understanding!
Park Fees: Be aware of daily visitor fees for Riding Mountain National Park.
Visitor Centre: Stop by the Riding Mountain National Park Visitor Centre for up-to-date information, trail conditions, and to inquire about any specific guided programs or workshops happening during your visit.