BEFORE YOU DEPART

PRE-TRIP INFORMATION FOR WILDERNESS NORTH FLY-IN TRIPS

Planning a wilderness adventure at Wilderness North starts well before you board the floatplane. This guide gives you everything you need to know before your trip: travel logistics, packing essentials, cabin access, and what to expect on arrival so that your journey is seamless and memorable.

PRE-TRIP INFORMATION FOR WILDERNESS NORTH FLY-IN TRIPS

BEFORE YOU DEPART

Confirm Your Booking and Location

Once your booking is confirmed you will receive a detailed confirmation with your destination lodge or outpost information, arrival and departure dates, scheduled flight times, and important contact details. Double check all guest names, arrival dates, and any special requests.</p

How to Get to Our Base in Armstrong or

Our Guest Services Center and base is located in Thunder Bay at 531 Shipyard Dr., with easy access from Thunder Bay International Airport. From the airport you can drive to Armstrong for your floatplane pick up. We recommend allowing sufficient travel time if driving or arriving a day early.

Driving Distances

We publish a detailed driving distances map to help you plan your route if driving to the base or picking up supplies.

View Driving Distances
BEFORE YOU DEPART

PACKING GUIDE AND BAGGAGE GUIDELINES

PACKING GUIDE AND BAGGAGE GUIDELINES
PACKING GUIDE AND BAGGAGE GUIDELINES

Preparing properly for a fly in wilderness trip is important. Flight seats are limited and we require soft sided bags and weight limits. Please pack smart and efficiently.

  • BAGGAGE WEIGHT ALLOWANCES BY LOCATION

    Each lodge and outpost has its own baggage limit based on aircraft capacity and flight distance. Please review the limits for your destination and pack accordingly.

  • Weather in northern Ontario can change quickly. We recommend bringing:

    • Layered clothing
    • Fleece or insulated mid layer
    • Waterproof jacket and pants
    • Warm hat, gloves, extra socks
    • Comfortable boots for docks and trails
    • Quick dry clothing
    • Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a sun hat
    • Bug protection
    • Refillable water bottle
    • Flashlight or headlamp
    • Extra batteries or a power bank
    • Identification
    • and travel documents
    • Personal medications

FISHING AND HUNTING GEAR (IF APPLICABLE)

FISHING GUESTS

Bring rods, reels, tackle, and your favourite lures or flies. Ensure gear is padded and labelled. Boats and depth finders are provided at lodges, but specialty items should be brought from home.

HUNTING GUESTS

For moose hunting, bring a properly cased firearm or bow, valid licenses, safety clothing. waterproof boots, and field dressing gear. Contact us if you need help with export requirements or special arrangements.

FISHING AND HUNTING GEAR (IF APPLICABLE)

ARRIVAL AT THE FLOATPLANE BASE

When you arrive at our base:

  • Park in the designated guest parking area
  • Check in at the Guest Services Center at 531 Shipyard Dr.
  • Staff will weigh and load your luggage and confirm your flight details
  • You will receive a safety briefing before boarding
ARRIVAL AT THE FLOATPLANE BASE

Arrival Through Thunder Bay Airport (Miminiska Lodge Only)

Guests travelling to Miminiska Lodge will arrive through Thunder Bay Airport (FBO). Most guests choose to fly/drive into Thunder Bay the night before their scheduled departure to ensure a smooth and stress free start to their trip.

Overnight Stay in Thunder Bay

You are welcome to stay at a hotel of your choosing, or our team can arrange a room for you at the Valhalla Inn, which is conveniently located near the airport. Many guests prefer this option for ease and comfort before the early morning departure.

Departure to Miminiska Lodge

Before arrival you will receive your confirmed flight time. On the morning of your trip, make your way to Thunder Bay Airport FBO Terminal at the time provided. Our team will meet you there, collect and load your luggage, and guide you through check in before you board your flight to the lodge.
The flight to Miminiska Lodge is a scenic and memorable part of your experience, giving you aerial views of lakes, rivers, and northern forest as you travel deeper into remote wilderness.

Planning Your Return Flight Home

When booking your return flight from Thunder Bay, we recommend choosing an evening departure. Weather conditions in northern Ontario can occasionally cause delays, and an evening flight provides a comfortable grace period to ensure a smooth connection home.

Arrival Through Thunder Bay Airport (Miminiska Lodge Only)

DURING YOUR FLIGHT AND ARRIVAL

Your flight into your lodge or outpost is part of the experience. Expect views of remote forests, winding rivers, and clear northern lakes.
Once you land:

  • You will be greeted by lodge staff or hosts
  • You will receive a safety orientation
  • Cabin or lodge access will be provided
  • Staff will help unload gear and answer any questions
DURING YOUR FLIGHT AND ARRIVAL

WEATHER, CONDITIONS, AND SAFETY

Northern Ontario weather can shift quickly. Expect warm afternoons, cool mornings,
and potential rain.
Tips:

  • Dress in layers
  • Keep waterproof gear accessible
  • Follow wildlife safety practices
  • Wear life jackets while boating
WEATHER, CONDITIONS, AND SAFETY

FINAL CHECKLIST

  • Lodging confirmation and flight schedule
  • Rods, reels, or hunting gear
  • Valid passport or travel documents
  • First aid kit and medications
  • Fishing or hunting licenses if required
  • Snacks and personal items
  • Clothing layers and waterproof jacket
  • Printed map or directions
  • Life jacket or personal flotation preference

QUESTIONS OR SPECIAL REQUESTS

If you have dietary needs, equipment questions, or special requests, our Guest Services team is here to help.

CONTACT OUR TRIP PLANNERS