Winnipeg 
There’s no better way to experience Manitoba’s landscapes than on foot. From open grass prairies and rolling sand dunes to dense forests, wetlands, and river valleys, the province offers a surprising variety of terrain. Whether you’re looking for a short scenic walk, a family-friendly trail, or a multi-day backcountry trek, there’s something here for every level of hiker.
Below are some of the must-do hiking trails across Manitoba—each offering a different perspective of the province’s natural beauty.
- Hiking Trails in and around Winnipeg
- Hiking Trails in and around Brandon
- 25 Outdoor Adventures in Westman Region
Note: Always check trail conditions and advisories before heading out, and plan according to weather and terrain.
1. Spirit Sands & The Devil’s Punchbowl
Located in Spruce Woods Provincial Park, this is one of Manitoba’s most unique hikes. The park’s sand dunes were formed thousands of years ago when glacial meltwater carried sand into what was once Lake Agassiz. As the lake receded, the dunes were left behind—creating a landscape that feels almost desert-like.
The trail begins near Seton Bridge and leads you through rolling dunes shaped by the wind. Some dunes rise up to 30 metres, and if you look closely, you’ll even spot cacti growing in the sand. The hike ends at the Devil’s Punchbowl—a striking, bowl-shaped depression filled with blue-green water.
Interpretive signs along the way explain the geology and ecosystem, and facilities like water pumps, and washrooms are available near the trailhead.
Distance: 4 – 11 km (2 to 4.5 hours) Trail Map
Check out the other hiking trails at Spruce Woods Provincial Park.
2. Pisew Falls to Kwasitchewan Falls Trail
If waterfalls are your thing, this trail should be high on your list. Starting at Pisew Falls Provincial Park, you’ll first encounter Pisew Falls—a powerful 13-metre drop along the Grass River. A short boardwalk leads to viewing platforms where you can take in the full force of the falls.
From there, cross a suspension bridge and continue along the Upper Track Trail, a historic route once used during the fur trade. The trail follows the river through rugged terrain and eventually leads to Kwasitchewan Falls, the highest waterfall in Manitoba.
This is a long and demanding hike, best suited for experienced hikers or those prepared for backcountry conditions.
Campsites are available if you plan to split the hike over two days.
Distance: 22 km (6 to 8 hours) Trail Map
3. Disappearing Lakes Interpretive Trail
Set in Turtle Mountain Provincial Park, this short and scenic trail is perfect for beginners or families. It winds through aspen forests and small prairie lakes that appear and disappear over time—hence the name.
Interpretive signs explain how these shallow lakes are formed and sustained by rainfall, snowmelt, and even beaver activity. Along the way, you might spot waterfowl, beavers, or even moose if you’re lucky.
Distance: 1.5 km (1 hour) Details
4. Pinawa Trail
Part of the Trans Canada Trail system, the Pinawa Trail offers a mix of landscapes, including granite ridges, boreal forest, and river views. Stretching roughly 28 km, it connects the Pinawa Dam to the Seven Sisters Generating Station.
You don’t have to do the entire trail—many hikers choose shorter sections like the Pinawa Channel Heritage Walk or the Ironwood Trail. One highlight is the Alice Chambers Trail, which includes a 650-foot suspension bridge over the Pinawa Channel.
Distance: 28 km. Details
5. Hecla Island Trails
Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park offers a mix of history and nature. The Hecla Village Self-Guiding Trail walks you through the island’s past, with stops at old buildings like the fish station, school, and church.
For nature lovers, the Grassy Narrows Marsh at the south end of the island is a highlight. Boardwalks wind through wetlands that are home to geese, bald eagles, and other wildlife. For a scenic finish, take the Lighthouse Trail to Gull Harbour Lighthouse for views over Lake Winnipeg.
6. Mantario Trail
The Mantario Trail, located in Whiteshell Provincial Park, is the longest and one of the most challenging trails in western Canada. Running 63 km along the Manitoba–Ontario border, it cuts through rugged Canadian Shield terrain—think rocky ridges, dense forest, and remote lakes.
This is a serious backcountry hike that typically takes 3–5 days to complete. If you’re not ready for the full trek, shorter sections near Caddy Lake offer a good introduction to the terrain.
It is highly recommended that you purchase a copy of the Mantario Hiking Trail brochure from Canada Map Sales or the Whiteshell Provincial Park Office at West Hawk Lake.
Distance 7.2 km (3 hours). Details
7. Falcon Creek Trail
Also in Whiteshell Provincial Park, the Falcon Creek Trail is a great option for families. The trail includes educational activities outlined in a pamphlet, making it interactive for kids.
The focus here is on geology—learning how the landscape was shaped over time. It’s a short, engaging hike that combines nature with a bit of hands-on learning.
Distance: 2 km (1.5 hours). Details
8. Gorge Creek Trail
Located in Riding Mountain National Park, this trail is known for its steep climb and rewarding views. It winds through forests of aspen, elm, and birch before climbing about 1,000 feet to overlook the gorge and surrounding plains.
It’s a more challenging hike, but the panoramic views at the top make the effort worthwhile.
Distance: 6.4 km one-way (3 hours). Details
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9. Ancient Valley Interpretive Trail
At Asessippi Provincial Park, this trail offers sweeping views of the Assiniboine and Shell River valleys. These landscapes were shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago, and interpretive signs along the trail explain how erosion continues to shape the land today.
The area is also popular for fishing and other outdoor activities, making it a good stop for a full day outdoors.
Distance: 3 km (1.5 hours). Details
10. Cedar Bog Trail
In Birds Hill Provincial Park, the Cedar Bog Trail is a peaceful loop through grasslands and forest. The trail eventually descends into a cool, shaded cedar bog where the dense canopy creates a noticeably different environment.
The park itself is well known for hosting the Winnipeg Folk Festival and offers plenty of other activities like cycling and horseback riding.
Distance: 3.5 km (1.5 hours). Details
11. Beaudry Park Trails
Just 20 minutes west of Winnipeg, Beaudry Provincial Park is an easy escape into nature. Trails like the Wild Grape Trail and Elm Trail follow the Assiniboine River through forests of cottonwood, maple, and elm.
In summer, grapevines climb high into the trees, and the forest floor is lush with greenery. Keep an eye out for wildlife—deer, foxes, owls, and even muskrats are often spotted here.
Distance: 2 – 5 km. Trail map
12. Grey Owl Trail
Also in Riding Mountain National Park, this trail leads to the former cabin of Grey Owl, one of Canada’s early conservationists.
The hike takes you through mixed forest—poplar, spruce, and jack pine—before reaching the historic cabin near Beaver Lake. Wildlife sightings are common, including deer and coyotes.
Distance: 8.7 km – 17.4 km (5 hours). Details
13. Ancient Mountains Self-guiding Trail
Located in Nopiming Provincial Park, the Ancient Mountains Self-Guiding Trail offers a closer look at the park’s dramatic geological past. Along the route, you’ll see how the forest is slowly regenerating after a major wildfire, alongside exposed rock formations that reveal evidence of ancient mountains that once stood here millions of years ago.
This moderately challenging trail features bedrock sections, short steep climbs, and interpretive posts that explain the landscape along the way.
Distance: 1.4 km. Trail map
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From sand dunes and waterfalls to forests and wetlands, Manitoba’s hiking trails offer far more variety than many expect. Whether you’re heading out for a quick walk or planning a multi-day trek, there’s always a new landscape waiting to be explored.
Mantario trail day hike is 7 kms or so 3 hours each way so 14 kms 6 hours day hike. South end is quite rugged so hiking is slow.