Thanks to Harlan at Red Lake Outfitters, my plans are just about finalized for my first WCPP trip in June 9th. I haven't been this excited about a trip in a long time.

My plan is to drive from the Twin Cities and stay in Red Lake the night before my trip. I had also planned on staying in Red Lake after my trip. But then I thought maybe if I am out of the park early enough, I might get a 2-3 hour jump on the 10+ hour drive back to Twin Cities.

Are there any clean and reputable motels between Red Lake and Ft. Francis? I would prefer to avoid Dryden. Maybe Kenora, Sioux Narrows, Nestor Falls?

Also, Hwy 71 or 502 to 17? The drive difference looks to be within 12 minutes of each other. I would gladly give up 12 minutes to have a more scenic drive or to avoid the view (and smell) of pulp mills.

Any insight on motels or highways is appreciated.

Kevin

what do you have against Dryden? you sound like you want to make good time, so why would you drive somewhat out of the way to get to Kenora while Dryden is right on the way, plus 502 won't have any traffic while 71 will be bumper to bumper in comparison, 71 will have better selection although at a greater cost

you ain't gonna find anything between Dryden & Ft. Francis except moose

I much prefer 502 but everyone has their preference

quote ZaraSp00k: "what do you have against Dryden? you sound like you want to make good time, so why would you drive somewhat out of the way to get to Kenora while Dryden is right on the way, plus 502 won't have any traffic while 71 will be bumper to bumper in comparison, 71 will have better selection although at a greater cost


you ain't gonna find anything between Dryden & Ft. Francis except moose


I much prefer 502 but everyone has their preference


"

I have nothing against Dryden. Just looking for suggestions for another town with a place to stay maybe 2 or 3 hours south of Red Lake.

I'm not concerned about "making good time". Just hoping to cut my 10+ hour of drive time home from Red Lake. If I could get a 2 to 3 hour jump on my drive the night that I exit the park, then it will make the drive home more tolerable the next day.

I've stayed at the Super 8 in Kenora a couple of times. It is a decent place to sleep ... continental breakfast is a bit skimpy.

There is a pretty good restaurant across the parking lot from the motel.

I think it is probably quicker to use the 17A bypass to get to the center of town, rather than 17. Turn on to Highway 658 and head south until you reach the roundabout that puts you on Main Street (go left on to Main, which is also Highway 17). Main turns into Second Street and the Super 8 will be on your left just a bit down the road (its up on a slight hill).

But, I gotta tell ya ... its a bit of a hike from Highway 105. (I only stop here when I come through Winnipeg.)

dd

I've stayed at the Holiday Inn in Dryden. Very nice hotel, good restaurant and service is really good. A little spendy, but after a week or so in the woods, it's really nice. I go up to Red Lake every year, and I'd suggest taking 502, good road, no traffic, and very scenic.
You won't smell the pulp mills, or at least I haven't. Dryden is an interesting little town, and if you've forgotten something, you can pick it up there (usually)

Good luck

Thanks everyone for the insight.