Reindeer Lake, Cariboo Travel Guide

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Discover Reindeer Lake: A pristine Canadian wilderness with world-class fishing, stunning scenery, and a unique meteorite crater.

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Reindeer Lake

Reindeer Lake, straddling Saskatchewan and Manitoba, is a vast glacial lake renowned for its pristine waters, untouched wilderness, and world-class fishing. Explore its numerous islands, hidden coves, and the unique Deep Bay, a meteorite impact crater steeped in local legend.

A brief summary to Reindeer Lake

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Reindeer Lake.

Bring insect repellent, especially during the summer months, as mosquitoes and other biting insects can be abundant.
Pack layers of clothing, as the weather can change quickly and temperatures can vary significantly, even in summer.
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (June or September) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
If you're interested in fishing, check the regulations and obtain the necessary licenses before your trip. Reindeer Lake is a catch-and-release lake.

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Explore Reindeer Lake on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Reindeer Lake, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

The most common access point to Reindeer Lake is via Highway 102, which terminates at the community of Southend on the lake's southern end. From La Ronge, Saskatchewan, drive approximately 217 km northeast on Highway 102. The highway is generally well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles. There are gas stations in Missinipe, Mile 81 and Mile 136. From Southend, you can access various points on the lake by boat.
Flying

Several lodges on Reindeer Lake, such as Reindeer Lake Lodge, have private airstrips. Check with your chosen lodge for flight options and landing information. Reindeer Lake Aerodrome (CRL7) is located on a small island near Reindeer Lake Lodge. The gravel runway is 4,045 feet long. Reindeer Lake Lodge was one of the first fishing lodges to install a Transport Canada approved GPS instrument approach. Floatplanes are another option, providing access to more remote areas of the lake.

Discover more about Reindeer Lake

Reindeer Lake, a sprawling glacial lake on the border of Saskatchewan and Manitoba, Canada, offers a true escape into the wild. As the second-largest lake in Saskatchewan and the ninth largest in Canada, its sheer size is impressive. The lake's name is derived from the Algonquian name for caribou.The lake's indented shoreline creates a maze of bays, peninsulas, and countless islands to explore. The landscape is dominated by the Boreal Forest, with birch and pine trees lining the shores. Reindeer Lake is known for its clear, deep waters, making it a haven for anglers and nature enthusiasts alike.One of the most unique features of Reindeer Lake is Deep Bay, a large, circular bay formed by a meteorite impact approximately 99 million years ago. This geological wonder plunges to a depth of 220 meters, significantly deeper than the lake's average depth, creating a unique aquatic environment. Local Cree legends tell of a monster residing in Deep Bay that pulls animals through the ice in winter.Reindeer Lake has a rich history, serving as a vital transportation route for fur traders in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Hudson's Bay Company and the Northwest Company both established trading posts on the lake, though few lasted long-term. Today, the lake is sparsely populated, with the communities of Southend, Kinoosao and Brochet located on its shores.Visitors to Reindeer Lake can enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. In winter, the lake transforms into a snowy playground for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Several fishing lodges and outfitters provide guided excursions and accommodations for those seeking a wilderness adventure.