The Town of Leaf Rapids is a picturesque, park-like community located in the Norman Region of the province. The town of 1500, is 200 kilometres northwest of Thompson, the region's largest urban centre, and 975 kilometres north of the City of Winnipeg.
The natural beauty of the forest is preserved within the town site, and members of the community never find themselves far from the wilderness.
History
Leaf Rapids is situated in the northern Manitoba area of the Canadian Shield. The landscape of the area is rugged and beautiful. Outcroppings of Precambrian rock dot the area, giving a unique atmosphere of something almost out of this world. The land is covered with thousands of lakes both small and large. An endless network of rivers and streams connects the lakes providing miles of waterways to travel. Between the lakes and along the streams, lie towering pines and spruce forests so thick in places that travel through them is nearly impossible. For miles around Leaf Rapids, the area is a virtual paradise of pristine, untouched wilderness.
The town site was carved out of this wilderness between 1971 and 1974, to serve the employees of the newly opened Ruttan Mine. The mine was originally owned by Sherritt Gordon Mines, but was sold to The Hudson Bay Mining and Smelting Co. in 1987. Hudson Bay Mining and Smelting Co. ceased operations of the Ruttan Mine on June 28, 2002.
Economic Base
Leaf Rapids is laid out in a semi-circle of residential bays surrounding the unique Town Centre Complex. The mine that gave rise to the town employs many of the residents. Numerous town businesses provide secondary and maintenance services to the mine and its related operations. A small light industrial area on the north end of town contains many of the businesses, as well as additional shopping outlets and food service establishments.
Tourism is an important part of the Leaf Rapids economy. The wilderness areas surrounding the town provide endless opportunities for sports and recreation activities for the outdoor enthusiast.
Major Attractions
During the summer months, Leaf Rapids is alive with visitors from as far away as the Southern United States. Air services from southern points, such as Winnipeg, make the town a hub for lodges and outposts on the many lakes in the area. Hunters and fishers can fly in from the south, stock up on supplies, and board a small floatplane destined for one of the hundreds of fantastic hunting or fishing spots the area has to offer. Many local operators can provide guests with the chance to land trophy Northern Pike, Walleye and Lake Trout. For a more family oriented outing, Leaf Rapids has camping and tenting facilities available, as well as, a safe sandy beach for an afternoon of quiet relaxation. For boaters and canoeists, there are miles of crystal-clear river and streams to travel and explore.
Summer or winter, Leaf Rapids is a photographer's delight. Unsurpassed photo opportunities abound throughout the untouched wilderness the area has to offer. During the winter months, the area surrounding Leaf Rapids is criss-crossed with numerous cross-country ski and snowmobile trails. The thought of an afternoon outing through the areas beautiful backwoods should raise the pulse of any winter sports enthusiast.
A popular attraction held in early March, The Leaf Rapids Winter Carnival provides 10 consecutive days of fun and activities for the whole family. For residents,
The Town Centre Complex is a one-stop recreation experience housing stores and restaurants, the school and library, the hockey arena and curling rink, a gymnasium, a theatre and Exhibition Centre.
