New Restrictions on What You Can Bring into Canada
Keep up to dates with the changes.
By Erin Rody
Experience an Indigenous Gathering Place in Northwest Ontario
Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung is a National Historic Site located along Rainy River. Today, many events take place here and it is still very much a gathering place.
Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung (sometimes referred to as Manitou Mounds) is a National Historic Site located along the Rainy River. With the tallest burial mounds in Canada and the second-tallest in all of North America, the site holds historic significance to many. Located only 65km from the headwaters is the Mississippi River, Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung was the centre of a vibrant continent-wide trading network. Here, people gathered to trade, share, celebrate, and mourn. Come and explore over 8,000 years of history through our eyes!
Declared a national historic site in 1969, the “Place of Long Rapids” encompasses over 4km of shoreline and was once home to numerous villages and campsites, as well as at least 17 burial mounds.
Today, Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung is still a gathering place. The staff works hard at offering many events such as beading classes, blanket making and ribbon skirt making workshops, Moonlite skis and so much more. Keep up to date with these wonderful events by following Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung on Facebook.
Watch a video of Dream Catcher making at the Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung. Maybe the next time you can join in yourself.
What to do at Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung
- Explore the museum yourself
- Book a tour of the museum
- Eat at the restaurant (open seasonally)
- Explore the trails (hike, bike, ski, snowshoe)
- Book a guided tour of the trails
- Birdwatch
- Host a meeting or event
- Attend a public workshop or event
- Support local artists at the gift shop
The museum/interpretive area within the Centre guides people through the history and Anishinaabe life. From the knapping of stone tools to the development of treaties, and even the presence of residential schools, the exhibit walks the visitor through history. To get more site-specific details during the spring/summer/fall seasons, visitors can book a guided tour (walking or golf cart) where a Cultural Heritage Interpreter will join them and share their knowledge of the history of the mounds and the people who lived here.
Year-round the Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung Historical Centre plays host to a range of events, workshops, annual events and exhibits with many open to the general public. The site also has a variety of spaces including the meeting space in the Centre, the Cabin, Roundhouse, and outdoor spaces, available to rent out for personal or event purposes. With a restaurant on-site, open for a period through the spring/summer/fall seasons, and an option for large group/event catering during the closed period, planning a full day at the site is an easy option.
Listen to Amik as she teaches us about the Roundhouse:
The site holds many options for those looking for a greater outdoor experience. During the spring, summer, and fall the 7k trail provides the perfect leisurely hike or bike (rentals available at the Centre) with stunning lookouts over the river, the mounds, and the oak savannah prairie, home to many rare plants. During the winter months, 5 km of the trails are groomed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing (rentals available).
Whatever your interests, Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung has something for you.
Follow their Facebook page for the daily “Anishinaabemowin Phrase of the Day”.
For more information on Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung Historical Centre
Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung Historical Centre
Website: manitoumounds.com
Email: mounds.rrfn@bellnet.ca
Telephone: 1-807-483-1163
How to Get There to Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung Historical Centre
From Fort Frances to Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung:
The drive from Fort Frances is an easy 40 km (38 mi) ride which takes around 45 minutes. Take Highway 11 west for about 55 km (34 mi) until you see Shaw Road. Turn left on Shaw Rd and go 2.9 km, then turn left onto River Rd for 1.7 km until you arrive at Ross Rd and the Centre.
From Rainy River to Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung:
The drive from Rainy River is only a 30-minute, 40 km (25 mi) ride. Take Highway 11 east for about 35 km (22 mi) until you see Shaw Road. Turn right on Shaw Rd and go 2.9 km, then turn left onto River Rd for 1.7 km until you arrive at Ross Rd and the Centre.
From Kenora to Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung:
Take the Trans-Canada Hwy/ON-17 E about 20 km east to the junction of Hwy 17 and Hwy 71. Turn right and go south on Hwy 71 for 154 km (96 mi) until you reach Highway 11. Turn right on Highway 11 W for 15.5 km (10 mi) until you see Shaw Road. Turn right on Shaw Rd and go 2.9 km, then turn left onto River Rd for 1.7 km until you arrive at Ross Rd and the Centre.
Recommended Articles
Is the 1,400 Kilometre Drive to Northwest Ontario For a Fishing Trip Worth it?
It depends if you want to catch hundreds of fish a day or not!
6 Ways to Get Your 10,000 Steps This Fall
Strap on your fitness tracker and hike one of these beautiful trails in Northwest Ontario.
Top 5 Reasons You Should Be Fishing in Morson, Ontario
Looking for somewhere new to fish? Check out this hidden gem on Lake of the Woods.
Has not having a passport kept you from vacationing in Canada?
It's easier to get than you may think!
Discover The Winnipeg River
From fur traders to trophy anglers, the beauty hasn't changed.
Enjoy Sunset Country's Fall Colours on Your Next Road Trip
Goodbye summer, hello autumn!
Fishing in the Fall?
Here's some walleye fishing tips as the weather cools down.
6 Reasons to Book a Fall Vacation to Sunset Country
Sunny days + cool nights + zero bugs = heaven on Earth.
10 Reasons to Avoid Ontario
Haters of wilderness, wildlife, and quiet: best steer clear.
A Guide to Sunset Country Museums
15 places to discover history on your next visit to Ontario's Northwest.
5 Amazing Sights You Can Only See By Boat
From mermaids to boat-in museums, the Northwest corner of Ontario has some of the coolest sights to see on water!
Fall Fishing Tips
As the weather cools down, the fishing heats up in Sunset Country!
5 Essential Boreal Experiences in Ontario's Sunset Country
Freshwater fishing, forest hiking, and sunset views await in this pristine paradise
5 Obscure Facts About Northwestern Ontario: Were You Aware of These?
Here are 5 facts that most people don't know about Sunset Country.
Outdoor Medicine
Here's why experiencing the natural world is good for you—and your health.
A Guide to Bringing Your Pets on Vacation to Canada
Here's what you need to know to enjoy a relaxing getaway with your favourite furry friend.
Heading Across Canada?
Here's what you need to know about Sunset Country (from the giant moose statues to the even bigger waterfalls)
There's more than just fishing in the Red Lake Region
Although the fishing's pretty good too!
Going fishing in Ontario?
Your lodging has just the boat you need!
Outdoor Adventure in Ontario's Northern Paradise
On the links, on the trails, and on the water–discover why Kenora has it all this fall!
Planning A Family Fishing Trip to Canada
Fall is the time to look ahead to warmer times—and the best time to plan for your next summer trip!
Tips from a Fishing Legend
Big Bass, Walleye, Muskie and So Much More
Going Fishing in Canada?
Get the answers to your questions
What makes Wabigoon such a great lake to fish?
Well for one, it has potential for the next world record muskie!
Search Sunset Country
Chasing Sunsets on Lake of the Woods
I've spent the last 11 summers cruising and fishing on Lake of the Woods. Here are my favourite images from the past decade—islands, shorelines, wildlife, and best of all: the sunsets.
Big Canadian Bass in Sunset Country
American influencer and angler Krysten Potega ventures north on her first trip to Canada—and can't believe the size of the bass up here!
Want to out fish your husband?
Take part in the Women's Week at Grassy Narrows Lodge!
Cougar Controversy?
More evidence these elusive beasts live in Ontario.
Get a Line on Lasting Ice Fishing Memories
Check out these tips for a day on the ice that brings the family together.
5 Interesting Facts About Wolverines
Solitary, hungry, and vicious! Learn more about these amazing creatures.
The Fascinating History of Ice Fishing in the North
The early days of ice fishing were a far cry from today's luxury ice castles.
The Incredible Snowflake: Facts and Figures
Is every snowflake really unique? Learn more!
Fall's Magical Transitions
What's behind all the changes?
Summer Festival and Event Calendar Sunset Country 2024
Pow Wows, the Walleye Cup, dog shows, markets, and more!
Want to see what you missed during muskie opener?
Be prepared to pick your jaw off the floor!
Think you could live off-grid in the middle of the wilderness?
Join Connie Larson as she recounts the start of her life on a 5-acre island.