July 2020 Update

When I initially posted this, I had no idea of the traction or traffic that it would get. I also had no idea the affect it would have on the residents of Pine Docks.

In the past few months I have received several messages from Pine Dock residents. While most of them have been kind and respectful, they have informed me that some of the tourists visiting their community have not been. Acts like leaving garbage everywhere and trespassing are taking place way to often. One resident even told me that she walked out to her cabin one day and there was a stranger sitting on her front porch. This kind of behavior is unacceptable.

The Pine Docks community (most of them anyway) request that people no longer travel to their remote town. To them the caves are sacred and they feel, and rightly so, that too many people have not respected them. It’s like the old saying, a rotten apple spoils the whole barrel, and that is what has happened here.

While I plan on leaving this post up to showcase the beauty of Manitoba, which I believe is something all Manitoban’s should get to see, I am echoing the request that people do not travel to Pine Docks to see the caves. I also request that when people talk about this wonderful place, you remind them of the wishes of this community.

I have updated this post, removing the reference on how to legally access the cave, as well as removing all highway numbers that could be used to locate the caves.

Hopefully this reminder, as well as my post updates, will be enough to let the residents of Pine Docks return to a peaceful life.

Sincerely,

Shayne

Original Post

Pine Docks Manitoba is a small and remote fishing community located along the shores of Lake Winnipeg. The highway to Pine Docks is a winding gravel road that takes people on a scenic drive through forests, farm land and along the shores of Lake Winnipeg.

The total distance from Winnipeg to Pine Docks is over 200 kilometers, which takes about two and half hours by car.

Pine Dock Caves

Near the town of Pine Docks lies one of Manitoba’s best kept secrets, the Pine Docks Caves. Along the Lake Winnipeg shoreline a break in the limestone rocks forms a huge crevice.

When walking around near the caves, it is paramount that hikers watch their steps as they trek through the trees because a 20 foot drop into the crevice appears unexpectedly at your feet.

There is one spot where a small metal beam acts as a makeshift bridge over the crevice. A trail follows along the top of the crevice, eventually providing a way down to the water, and access inside the cavernous rocks.

Near the water, the limestone has been eroded by crashing waves, creating huge caverns. The small smooth stones on the ground provide a makeshift beach, perfect for adventurous skinny dippers.

The giant crevice resembles something out of an apocalyptic movie. The rock walls, block out all sound, including the wind, waves, and birds. It’s eerie.

The temperature changes too. The warm summer weather disappears and is replaced with a cool autumn like atmosphere. Between the moss covered walls, and the dropping temperature, it creates a unique and mystical experience.

Travelling to Pine Dock Caves

For those wishing to explore the Pine Dock Caves, there are some precautions and warnings that the Pine Docks community would like you to be reminded of.

There are no gas stations, public washrooms, or places to buy food. The drive to Pine Docks should be undertaken with precautions. The gravel highway is not always in best shape. The cell service is incredibly spotty, and there is a lack of amenities once you pass Riverton. Do not trespass. The caves are on public land, but the property between the caves and the highway is private and should not be crossed. The owner of this property does not appreciate people walking across or parking on his land. Always mind your surroundings and watch your steps. These caves are beautiful, but can also be dangerous. From the top to the bottom is about 20 feet in height. The cracks in the limestone rock appear suddenly. Do not leave garbage behind or “tag” anything. Take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints. This is a small community and not a tourist destination. The people here do prefer their privacy, so please respect that. The fallen rocks have a tendency to move. The caves are made from limestone, which has a tendency to shift. Walking to close to the rock edges can cause them to collapse. Extreme care should be taken while visiting.

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