A visit I made to Churchill as Minister of Environment and Climate confirmed that we live in a beautiful province. I was delighted to be in Churchill to inform residents that our PC Government is taking action to remediate the former Churchill Rocket Range.
Here are some photos from the former rocket range. It was a huge opportunity.
Nestled on the western shore of Hudson Bay, Churchill stands as a remarkable outpost of human civilization in the midst of the Canadian Arctic wilderness. This small and remote town, with its unique location and abundant wildlife, has captured the imaginations of travellers and nature enthusiasts from around the globe.
I was amazed from the moment we started to land on a massive runway built to be a backup location for a NASA Shuttle landing. You could land any sized plane in on that runway. Here is a photo from the pilot’s view.
We all know that Churchill is known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.” What we learned is that Churchill sits at the convergence of three distinct ecosystems: the boreal forest, tundra, and marine environments. The town’s isolation and challenging climate have forged a resilient community that thrives amidst the raw beauty of nature. Churchill embraces its small-town charm and prides itself on its deep-rooted history and Indigenous heritage. What I admired most was the passion the people in Churchhill have for their community.
Did you know that Churchill is home to the World’s only Polar Bear Jail and yes it is exactly as you would think, but with extremely careful care to ensure their safe return to the wild.
One of Churchill’s most famous attractions is the annual polar bear migration. Each fall, hundreds of polar bears gather along the shores of Hudson Bay, waiting for the ice to form so they can venture out to hunt seals. This natural phenomenon draws wildlife enthusiasts and photographers from all corners of the world, eager to witness these majestic creatures up close. Various tour operators provide safe and responsible excursions, allowing visitors to observe the bears in their natural habitat while respecting the delicate Arctic ecosystem.
Being there is July, we were told you could commonly find polar bears lying by the ocean side enjoying some sunshine and taking little dips in the water to keep cool. Now, I’m no photographer, but here are a few of mine
Beyond the charm of the people and captivating polar bears, The Northern Lights are a big draw to our province’s north, also known as the Aurora Borealis. This ethereal light show paints the night sky with vibrant colours, transforming the dark, cold winter nights into a mesmerizing dance of green, purple, and pink hues. The remote location and minimal light pollution make Churchill an ideal destination for witnessing this celestial spectacle during the winter months.
Unfortunately, we did not witness the Northern Lights on this trip. It wasn’t without trying, but it was still fairly light after 11:30 pm. But, we did see what the commuinty refers to as Miss Piggy. I was told a cargo plane took off from the airport in the late 1970’s and had engine failure. The pilot was able to get back on land and came to a stop exactly where the plane sits today. Good news, all people aboard lived.
Churchill’s coastal location provides ample opportunities for exceptional wildlife encounters. During these summer months, the waters of Hudson Bay become a feeding ground for beluga whales, offering people a chance to witness these gentle, white marine mammals in their natural habitat. I spoke to people who were visiting from various places around the world, and each one of them told us, “You simply must go see the whales.” So, I did. We took a guided boat tour, and it was an unforgettable experience, as curious belugas often approach the boats. Simply breathtaking, a memory that will last forever.
Click here to see a short, unprofessional, video from the brief time we spent on the Churchill River and the Atlantic Ocean.
The region surrounding Churchill is home to Indigenous peoples, including the Inuit and Dene, and has been for thousands of years. The community embraces and celebrates its Indigenous heritage. There are many opportunities to learn about the rich culture, traditions, and connection to the land through art, storytelling, and local experiences.
Churchill is a unique and enchanting destination that offers unparalleled opportunities to witness some of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. From the polar bear migration to the graceful beluga whales and rich Indigenous culture. It really has something to offer every adventurous traveller seeking an authentic experience. There is so much to share, it would be best to visit yourself. The trip does not have to be expensive. You could drive to Thompson and catch the train for around $70 per person. Spend a few nights,
During our visit, we gain a deeper appreciation for the fragile beauty of our provinces and the country’s northern wilderness and the importance of preserving it for generations to come.