The Town of The Pas and Neighboring Opaskwayak Cree nation are commonly referred to as "The Gateway To The North". Located on Highway 10 just over 600 kilometers north of Winnipeg, the two communities and surrounding area have a population base of approximately 13,000. Accessible by road, bus and rail, the community also features a.m. and p.m. flights to Winnipeg
Opaskwayak Cree Nation is one of the most affluent and progressive native populations in all of Canada. With a land base of almost 15,000 acres the band is very progressive in its economic, education and recreational development. Its economy and educational ventures include the Otineka Mall, Gordon Lathlin Memorial Centre, Band Offices, Joe A. Ross School, the new $8 million Kikiwak Inn and the OCN Community Centre. OCN proudly celebrates Opaskwayak Indian Days each summer during the month of August-a celebration of the history and pride in the aboriginal culture.
The Pas itself has a highly diversified economy including agriculture, forestry, fishing, tourism, and educational/health services. The famous Tolko, Manitoba is world renown for its pulp and paper production and has a work force of over 900. Keewatin Community College, with a total enrollment of over 3,000, is the north's focal point for post secondary education. Recreational opportunities range from indoor swimming and bowling to some of the top fishing and hunting in the West. The highlight of the area is beautiful Clearwater Lake, one of the three true blue lakes in the world. Each year during the third week of February, The Pas celebrates during the Northern Manitoba Trappers' Festival-the longest running festival in the province and second longest running festival in the country.
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