After the completion of the Northwestern Ontario portion of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1882, explorers travelled to hamlets along the railway then paddled north, following the traditional waterways which were used as trading routes by Native people.  During the gold rush of 1925, Hudson boomed overnight when it became the gateway to Red Lake.  People, dogs, mining equipment, explosives, food, alcohol, even airplanes came in by train.  Depending on the season, freight was then forwarded by bushplane, tractor train or scow, to Red Lake and beyond.

Halfway between Hudson and Red Lake, at the northwest end of Lac Seul, was Goldpines.  Here the stampeders could replenish their supplies, play a little poker, and enjoy live entertainment at one of the hotels.  From Goldpines the route followed the English and Chukuni River systems up to Red Lake.  It took five to six days to complete the trip.

The waterway was in operation for 22 years, closing in 1948 when Highway 105 was completed.  Today there are more than 50 tourist camps in operation along the waterway.  Places like Goldpines, Snake Falls and Snowshoe Portage are now tourist camps, where you can still find relics of the gold rush era.

The Red Lake Regional Heritage Centre is a charitable organization, funded by the Municipality of Red Lake and the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Recreation.   Reg # 87315 2714 RR001

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