Basic Human Goodness

It is becoming rare for strangers to open their homes to travelers, but Hank and Kim did just that.  After not finding accomodations last night in Snow Lake, I was prepared to curl up on the small town street for the night.  As Hank was talking on the phone to someone about the cost of the other Inn and their prices, the next comment was, "would you like to stay at our house?"  Hank said if I didn't mind riding with him out to the new mine, then he would take me to their house for the night.  Thus, a midnight ride out to one of the local mines, some friendly conversation, and a quick, well-witted tour of the small town of Snow Lake.

Hank and Kim

After curling up in the warm bed, I quickly fell asleep.  The morning rain assisted in making the decision to make my way back to Winnipeg, although Kim welcomed me to stay longer to experience Snow Lake.
Snow Lake is a small mining town with 2 Inns, several minds (gold, zinc, copper, etc.) and very friendly people.  This is a true outdoorsman's paradise with lakes connecting to each other full of fish (I hear the ice fishing is good also), wild life everywhere, and miles away from everything.

Snow Lake with my guide, Hank

For all of those kayaking enthusiasts, this is untamed wilderness ready to be explored with miles of lakes to explore.  Kim, Hank and I spoke about how they would make wonderful tour guides and Hostel owners, with Kim commenting that since she had so many bedrooms, she would love to do that.

Hank talking about his 36 years of Mining.

Hank took me to see the Mining Museum, the best part being having Hank as a tour guide.  He worked in the mines here for 36 years and provided detailed, funny stories about the things we saw in the museum, including him pointing out how he used to drive the small train, what it was like going up and down in the cage, and true life of working down below in the darkness of the mines.

For anyone desiring to get away and explore the outdoors, I recommend a visit to Snow Lake, but come prepared.  The weather changes quickly from warm to cold (today it is about 16 Degrees Celcius).  Bring rain gear, your kayak (or see about renting one in Winnipeg and bringing it with you on the bus), camping gear, etc.  Currently there are no places to rent things, but I'm sure Hank and Kim would be happy to assist you in locating these things, not to mention very happy to have you visit with them.  I would recommend a gift of $25 Canadian, per night, for the pleasure of staying in their friendly and inviting home.

Kim and helpers at her store.

Hank and Kim, together now for 26 years, made my adventure North a delight, especially with their friendliness and good natures.  Kim is Ojibwa, which means she is part of Canada's First Nation (I like the wording of this assembly of Canada's aboriginal tribes, as it seems correct, they were here before the white settlers took their lands).  She loves to travel and can tell you about fun places to visit throughout Canada.  She has a backpacker's heart, so I wouldn't be surprised to see a small Hostel developed by her and Hank here in Snow Lake.  Hank enjoys staying put, but oh the stories he tells.

Drawing of the Mine operation.

Hank would make a great tour guide of the area, especially if the mines resume their tours down into their operations underground (Hank shared that they used to do it but only for groups).  He also makes a great shuttle driver; he currently  runs the Grey Goose van to deliver mostly express packages, but hopefully before long more and more backpackers will to brave the northern Manitoba lakes wilderness areas will grace his van.

Core samples from the mine.

Don't be surprised, if you get invited to their house, if you get to meet any number of children they foster from troubled situations, as Kim is actively involved in several aspects of First Nation activities.

Just some NOTES:

1. Make sure you bring cash, as the ATM's don't always work here.  
2. Bring everything you will need - food, camping gear, kayak, etc. 
3. Don't be shy about asking Hank or Kim about staying at their home.  
4. Stay for a few days, even if the weather is bad, it changes.

Maybe one day someone will open a kayak and bike rental here, as this is the place to be outdoors.  Hank even told me about an old railway that was removed and now you can hike between Snow Lake and Flin Flon (this sounds like a great hike and camp trip).  

Final NOTE:  Be sure to visit Kim's store in the main part of town for gifts, a massage, reflexology, have your nails done (ladies), or even to get a tan.  The store also houses the Grey Goose package office and is located at 100 Elm Street, Snow Lake, Manitoba.

Thank you Hank and Kim for renewing my faith in the basic human goodness.  Blessings to you as you help others, such as myself, to visit, learn and explore your wonderful part of the world.  I'll be back to visit, but better prepared to stay.