A Family Adventure on Lake of the Woods

Yellowbird Lodge and Totem Resorts have what you want if you're looking for an all-season family vacation destination in Northwest Ontario, Canada.

Adventures in Sioux Narrows, Ontario

Breanne Jada

By Breanne Jada Breanne Jada is an avid outdoorsperson and influencer from Grunthal, Manitoba.

March 10, 2025

There's something magical about discovering a destination that perfectly balances rustic charm with modern comfort, especially when travelling with family. Our recent trip to Ontario's Lake of the Woods region, where we experienced the hospitality of Yellowbird Lodge and Totem Resort, proved to be precisely that kind of magical discovery.

The fireplace at Yellowbird Lodge. — Fireplace at Yellowbird Lodge.

Welcome to Yellowbird Lodge: Where Hospitality Meets Comfort

We knew we were in for something special when we pulled into Yellowbird Lodge. The staff greeted us with genuine warmth that went beyond typical hotel pleasantries—they treated us like long-lost family members returning home. This became evident in countless small gestures throughout our stay, including their thoughtful attention to our children, ensuring they always had quarters for the arcade games, and keeping the excitement alive even during downtime.

Breakfast at Yellowbird Lodge — The food choices are wonderful and it tastes even better!

The accommodations at Yellowbird Lodge captured precisely what you'd hope for in a northern retreat. Our room embodied that coveted cottage aesthetic – cozy yet spacious, with comfortable beds that promised deep rest after long days of adventure. The attention to cleanliness was impressive, and the entryway was perfectly designed for kicking off those fishing boots and settling in for the evening. These thoughtful touches transform a simple room into a true home away from home.

Yellowbird Lodge in Sioux Narrows, Ontario — The incredible interior perspective at Yellowbird Lodge.

One of the unexpected highlights of our stay was the dining experience. The restaurant at Yellowbird Lodge offers an extensive menu that caters to every palate, but the quality sets it apart. As someone who has sampled Caesar cocktails across Canada, I can confidently say their Totem Caesar ranks among the finest I've ever tasted. Each meal served was a reminder that great food enhances every vacation experience.

Snowshoe trails near Nestor Falls, Ontario. — Family activities included a trip to Nestor Falls to go snowshoeing.

After active days, the lodge's amenities proved invaluable. The hot tub and sauna became our favourite spots for unwinding, offering the perfect combination of relaxation and recovery. There's something particularly satisfying about soaking in a hot tub surrounded by Ontario's natural beauty, letting the day's adventures settle into cherished memories.

The Hot tub at Yellowbird Lodge. — Relax in the whirlpool at the end of a fun-filled day.

Adventures with Totem Resort: From Crappie Fishing to Ice Castle Luxury

Our experience took an exciting turn when we partnered with Totem Resort for a guided fishing expedition to Nestor Falls. As first-time crappie anglers, we couldn't have asked for a better introduction to this unique fishing experience. Our guide's expertise was evident in finding the fish and making the whole experience accessible and enjoyable for everyone in the family. The joy on our children's faces as they reeled in their catches was priceless, and we're already planning our return for more crappie fishing adventures.

The author with a nice black crappie caight through the ice on Lake of the Woods. — The author with a Lake of the Woods black crappie!

However, the true pinnacle of our trip was our stay in one of LOTW Ice Sleepers on Lake of the Woods. When you think of ice fishing, luxury might not be the first word that comes to mind, but these ice castles redefine the entire experience. Imagine having all the comforts of a home – a full kitchen, bathroom, television, and even a cozy fireplace – surrounded by the raw beauty of a frozen lake. The addition of Starlink internet connectivity meant we could share our experiences in real time while still feeling wonderfully removed from the everyday world.

Luxury ice castles on Lake of the Woods. — Fishing in comfort in a luxury ice sleeper.

The ice castle experience transformed what could have been a cold, challenging activity into an unforgettable family adventure. We fished well into the night, warm and comfortable inside our temporary home on the ice. The children were especially thrilled by the novelty of it all – fishing, playing games, and enjoying hot chocolate by the fireplace all while floating on a frozen lake.

Perhaps the most memorable moment came at sunrise. Waking up to the soft pink and orange hues of dawn spreading across Lake of the Woods, with the promise of the morning bite ahead, created a scene that seemed almost too perfect to be real. The early morning fishing proved as exciting as promised, making for an ideal conclusion to our ice castle adventure.

Lake of the Woods Ice Sleepers - luxury ice fishing trips.

More Than Just a Destination

What makes the combination of Yellowbird Lodge and Totem Resort so special is their ability to create experiences that appeal to every family member. Whether you're an experienced angler, a comfort-seeking traveller, or a child experiencing the thrill of fishing for the first time, these establishments understand how to cater to your needs while maintaining an atmosphere of authentic northern hospitality.

Activities at Totem Resorts in Sioux Narrows. — Enjoy a game of pool and a cool beverage at Yellowbird Lodge.

The seamless blend of outdoor adventure and indoor comfort, coupled with staff who genuinely care about making your stay memorable, creates an environment where families can focus on what matters most – spending quality time together and creating lasting memories.

For families looking to experience the best of what Ontario has to offer, this combination of Yellowbird Lodge and Totem Resort provides an exceptional foundation for adventure. Every aspect of our stay exceeded expectations, from the comfortable rooms and excellent dining at Yellowbird to the guided fishing trips and luxury ice castles of Totem Resort. Finding destinations perfectly balancing outdoor adventure with family-friendly comfort is rare, but these establishments have mastered that delicate balance.

Fun on the snowshoetrail. — Company along the snowshoe trail!

We packed up to head home and discussed when we could return. Some destinations are simply worth revisiting, and this is one of them. Whether planning a summer fishing trip or a winter ice fishing adventure, these resorts offer experiences that will delight every family member and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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About Breanne Jada

My heart belongs to the outdoors—where endless horizons meet big skies, and every day brings a new adventure waiting to be discovered. As a mother, outdoor enthusiast, and content creator, I've discovered the perfect harmony between nurturing family bonds and fostering deep connections with nature. My story is one of a passion for the outdoors, love for family, and a burning desire to inspire others to step outside and create their own adventures.

From my earliest memories, quality time outdoors with family has been woven into the fabric of my life. Growing up, our family was always camping and quading, creating countless memories in the fresh air. However, my passion for hunting and fishing came later in life, sparking a self-taught journey of discovery that continues to this day. Through trial and error, determination, and a willingness to embrace new challenges, I've built my outdoor skill set from the ground up. This drive to continuously expand my horizons has shaped my approach to both parenthood and my professional endeavors, giving me a unique perspective that I'm passionate about sharing with others.