OUR COMMUNITIES - Waskaganish

Where You Are An Honoured Guest In A Friendly Community

You don't have to go far to discover the past in Waskaganish. A short walk to the historic and majestic Rupert River brings you to the original fur trading post that operated for some 300 years. In fact, Waskaganish, which means "Little House," got its name from the description given by our ancestors to the buildings of the trading posts. Local historians at the Waskaganish Cultural Institute are documenting our past and everywhere in the community you will discover the "living history" that is contemporary Cree culture.

If adventure is what you seek you can travel by freighter canoe along the coast and to the islands, but we recommend the use of an experienced guide who knows the channels, shoals, tides and weather of the bay. Nature enthusiasts and photographers will find an abundance of subjects as this is one of North America's premier areas for migratory birds. In fact, a 1995 survey showed a record for the number of species seen in one day in northern Canada.

Our territory is also known for its inland waterways. The Rupert was a traditional highway to the interior, and now every summer a "canoe brigade" led by local elders takes Cree youth up the river for 28 days, teaching them about the land and our way of life. The river is also the site of an important annual event, when families gather at the first set of rapids to harvest sea-going whitefish and trout. You may even be able to time your visit to correspond with these, or one of our other traditional events. Our local tourist office will be happy to provide more information.

Whatever your main interest, in any season, Waskaganish is a friendly community so join with us to experience history, culture and the place we live.

THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO GO...

Tourism Offices

Waskaganish Tourism

Whatever your interest, in any season, Waskaganish is a friendly community so join with us to experience history, culture and the place we live. For more information about travelling here please contact:

Raymond Blackned
Waskaganish First Nation
P.O. Box 60
Waskaganish (Quebec)
J0M 1R0

Accommodations

Kanio Kashee Lodge

Most of the 24 rooms in this lovely lodge have picture windows with a view of the Rupert River. An enormous stone fireplace offers a place for you to warm yourself and relax after a day of exploring, fishing, or bird watching. We also offer conference and banquet services.

Restaurants

Jacob's Restaurant

The menu of this family restaurant ranges from dinner specials to North American favourites such as hamburgers, hot dogs, and barbecue chicken. The restaurant seats up to 35 people, and take-out meals are also available.  Tel: 819.895.8821   

Kanio Kashee Restaurant

Savour both North American and traditional Cree cuisine while looking out over the Rupert River. Seasonal specials include fresh local fish and goose cooked over an open fire. The restaurant has seating for 60 to 70 people.

Artisans and Shops

Red Willow Arts and Crafts

This is the place to find those coveted leather moccasins, gloves, carvings, and other genuine hand-made goods.  Manager Susan Moses also carries a variety of craft supplies for artisans, such as leather goods, beads, and fur.Tel: 819.895.2205   

Harry Whiskeychan

Harry learned to work with his hands at an early age but in those days it was impossible for him to realize this knowledge and skill would someday help him become a celebrated Cree craftsman.

Tim Whiskeychan

Tim Whiskeychan works in a wide variety of mediums as he explores new ways to express his interpretations of Cree aesthetics using acrylics, watercolours, airbrush, stained glass, collage, etchings prints and cut steel panes.Tel: 819.895.8163    E-mail: tim_whiskeychan@hotmail.com

Stores and Supplies

Waskaganish Northern Store

This store is a landmark in the area with a history that extends back three centuries. You can find everything from furniture and clothing to hardware and groceries at this historical depot. Tel: 819.895.8865   

Diamond Grocery Store

Owner Stanley Diamond stocks a variety of groceries along with hardware goods for cooking and camping.Tel: 819.895.8858   

Gas Stations

Trans-Arctic Gas

You can purchase your fuel and oil here for either car or boat. Tel: 819.895.8900