Widgawa: Nature's Gateway.
About Widgawa Lodge
Over a Century of History, Hospitality & Natural Beauty. Discover the rich history and natural beauty of Widgawa Lodge.
Gold Rush Beginnings
The Origins of Widgawa Lodge
Nestled in the heart of the La Cloche Mountains—one of the oldest mountain ranges in North America—Widgawa Lodge boasts a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Named "La Cloche" (French for "bell") due to the ringing sound of its white quartzite rocks when struck, the range was historically used by First Nations as a signaling system. In 1911, James and Charles Bousquet struck gold on nearby Howry Creek, sparking a rush of prospectors eager to stake their claims. The Manitoulin and North Shore Railway, which began operating fully in 1913, provided access to the area, with West River Village—just a few hundred meters from Widgawa—serving as a key stop along the route. Whether you’re paddling across pristine lakes, hiking scenic trails, or relaxing in our rustic yet modern cabins, Widgawa Lodge offers something for everyone. Whether you’re paddling across pristine lakes, hiking scenic trails, or relaxing in our rustic yet modern cabins, Widgawa Lodge offers something for everyone.
A Journey of Discovery & Transformation
Widgawa Lodge Through the Ages
- 1911 – James & Charles Bousquet discover gold at Howry Creek.
- 1913 – The Manitoulin and North Shore Railway begins full operation with a stop at West River Village.
- 1934 – Burton Herbert Green purchases the land from the Crown.
- 1943 – Jack Swinton Wilson, a famed prospector, acquires the property for $2,500 and operates the lodge as a resort owner.
- 1964 – Killarney Provincial Park is established, protecting the region’s beauty.
- 2003 – Widgawa Lodge becomes the official Highway 6 Access to Killarney Provincial Park
- 2025 – Widgawa Lodge continues to welcome adventurers seeking a peaceful wilderness escape.
Notable Guests & Cultural Influence
A Place of History & Inspiration
Widgawa Lodge has played host to an array of distinguished guests, including U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who held a secret meeting here. Renowned artist A.J. Casson, a member of the celebrated Group of Seven, was a frequent visitor, capturing the breathtaking landscapes in his paintings. The Group of Seven successfully petitioned to protect the region from logging in the 1920s, leading to the establishment of Killarney Provincial Park in 1964. Today, over 800 documented painting locations from the group are found throughout Killarney and its surroundings.
Continuing a Century-Old Tradition
Widgawa Lodge Today
By the 1950s, as gold reserves dwindled, Widgawa Lodge continued to thrive as a popular hunting and fishing retreat. As the decades passed, it became a beloved summer vacation destination and later expanded its services as an outfitter for Killarney Provincial Park, providing permits and canoe rentals for backcountry adventurers accessing the park from the west via Highway 6.Whether you’re paddling across pristine lakes, hiking scenic trails, or relaxing in our rustic yet modern cabins, Widgawa Lodge offers something for everyone.
For over a century, Widgawa Lodge has remained a cherished destination, operated with early dedication from the early owners: the Greens, the Wilsons, the Barretts,to the many owners over the years to now the Henrys. Today, its current caretakers continue to uphold a tradition of warm hospitality, offering everything needed for an unforgettable wilderness getaway. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, Widgawa Lodge invites you to experience the timeless beauty and unspoiled nature of this historic retreat.Whether you’re paddling across pristine lakes, hiking scenic trails, or relaxing in our rustic yet modern cabins, Widgawa Lodge offers something for everyone.
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