Below is a list of frequently asked questions about Red Lake, Ontario. If you have further questions about visiting Sunset Country such as crossing the US/Canada border, items you can or can't bring into Canada, fishing & hunting licenses, and types of accommodations, please visit the Sunset Country FAQ page. If you have further questions about traveling in Red Lake and Northwestern Ontario the Ontario's Sunset Country Travel Association. We can be reached toll-free at 1-800-665-7567 or locally at 807-468-5853 or you can email us your questions.
Where is Sunset Country?
Sunset Country is located in the Northwest corner of Ontario, Canada. We are bordered to the south by Minnesota and to the west by Manitoba. Our eastern border is just west of Thunder Bay.
Where is Red Lake?
Red Lake is located at the end of Highway 105. The town is situated on the shores of Howey Bay. If you are driving from the U.S., the easiest way to get to Red Lake is to go through the International Falls/Fort Frances border. Go east from Fort Frances on Highway 11 for approximately 30 km (18 miles), then head north on Highway 502. If you would like to stop in Dryden for supplies, then when you reach Highway 594, turn right (east) to Dryden. After getting a bite to eat or supplies, head back west on Highway 17 until you reach Highway 105. If you don't need to go into Dryden, as turn left (west) when you get to Highway 594 and head towards Vermilion Bay for 45 km (28 miles). At Vermilion Bay, take Highway 105 north 172 km (106 miles) to the Municipality of Red Lake. Vermilion Bay has fuel, giftshops and bait & tackle stores.
From Winnipeg, you'll take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1 in Manitoba and Highway 17 in Ontario) and go east for about 305 km (182 miles) until you reach Vermilion Bay. At Vermilion Bay, take Highway 105 north 172 km (106 miles) to the Municipality of Red Lake.
If you're driving from Thunder Bay, you'll take the Trans Canada Highway 17 and go west 385 km (230 miles) until you reach Vermilion Bay. From the junction of Highway 17 & 105, take Highway 105 north 172 km (106 miles) to Red Lake.
How do I get to Sunset Country?
Sunset Country is less than a day's drive from many US Midwest cities. There are three border crossings from Minnesota: Baudette, International Falls, and Pigeon River. All main highways and roads in Sunset Country are paved. If you are flying, you can fly into Winnipeg, MB, Thunder Bay, ON or International Falls, MN. From the airport, you fly Bearskin into Red Lake or can rent a car or van or use a shuttle service. Your tourist outfitter should be able to give you suggestions on the easiest way to Red Lake from your home city.
Can I fly into Red Lake?
Bearskin Airlines has scheduled air services to the Red Lake Airport with convenient connections to Air Canada, and WestJet. Charter and personal flights can also land at the Red Lake Airport. Red Lake has a 5000' paved runway. Visit the CANPASS website for information on Canadian customs and immigration or call 1-888-226-7277.
What are the speed limits in Ontario?
Speed limits are posted in kilometers. Speed limits on the main highways in the area are usually 90 km/hour or 55 mph. Please follow the posted speed limits and watch for wildlife.
- 25 mph = 40 km/hr
- 35 mph = 57 km/hr
- 50 mph = 80 km/hr
- 55 mph = 90 km/hr
- 62 mph = 100 km/hr
Where can I get maps of the area?
You can order a Free Travel Guide & Map of Sunset Country, which has a large pull-out map that shows all of Northwest Ontario (Accommodations & Lodging are dotted on the area map.) You can purchase more detailed maps of the area at www.canadamapsales.com. Hydrographic Charts, Angling Maps, and Topographical Maps are available. You can also phone Canada Map Sales 1-877-627-7226 to find out which maps are available for the lakes you will be visiting.
What is the average temperature in Red Lake?
Here's the average temperature in Red Lake.
What's the current weather in Red Lake?
Here's the current weather in Red Lake.