Top 10 Best Hiking Trails in Manitoba: Long and Short Trails
We all know how much the pandemic has changed the way we spend our free time, where we can go and what we can do. So what fun things can you do while following regulations and keeping yourself safe? Many people have begun spending their time hiking.
We gathered some of the best hiking trails in Manitoba that are definitely worth the trip. It’s a great way to see more of our beautiful province, get outside and get active. Take your pick!
Best Hiking Trails in Manitoba – Unique Trails
1. Pinawa Suspension Bridge
If you’re looking for a trail that is a little more special than the rest, Pinawa Trail is definitely worth your attention. Not only does it have a 650ft suspension bridge spanning across the Pinawa Channel, but it also has 27km of a variety of terrain from grasslands and forests to granite ridges. You can even see the Seven Sisters Falls if you decide to hike the whole thing.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect Instagram photo to add to your story or you just love to take in nature’s beauty, this hike is the perfect way to surround yourself with a variety of landscapes you just don’t see every day.
2. Brule Trail
Brule Trail is one of the best trails for beginners. Hiking can be hard and intimidating at times but this trail is nice and gentle. It’s a quick 4.2km of forest and relatively flat terrain and you’ll eventually reach Lake Kinosao. There’s a dock with seating so if you do want to take a break, or just take in the nature surrounding you, definitely sit back and enjoy.
Even if you do sit back and relax for a while, you could still finish this hike start to finish in under an hour and a half.
Whiteshell Provincial Park Trails
3. Centennial Trail
The Centennial Trail runs just short of 36km and is a must-see if you’re a hiking enthusiast. Not only does it have breathtaking views but you also have a great chance of seeing exciting wildlife at some point during your hike.
This trail was discovered and created by Vern “Skink” Dutton. The Scouts and Girl Guides of Canada helped to develop it further making it the extraordinary trail people love to explore today. It has breathtaking views and is a 36km long hike, so make sure you pack lots of water if you plan on taking this intense trail.
4. Falcon Creek Trail
Falcon Creek Trail offers a different experience from any ordinary hike. Perfect for families, this trail is only 2km long and has a variety of different activities for you and your family to complete along the way. Not only will you get in your physical activity but you’ll also get a chance to connect your children with the nature surrounding them. The pamphlet will tell you everything you need to take along on the hike and will also teach you about different types of rocks you can search for along the way.
We love the Falcon Creek Trail because of its unique factor, but even if you want to just take a short hike, this is the perfect option for you. It is quick and easy to complete, has beautiful views and gives you the opportunity to be surrounded by nature, even if just for a flash.
5. Hunt Lake Trail
If you’re an avid hiker, this trail is one you cannot miss. The Hunt Lake Trail is definitely not for the faint of heart, it is it’s one of the more challenging trails with rugged terrain, lots of rocks and hills over nearly 13km of land. It takes about three hours to complete, but there are places to stop and rest along the way which may lead to it taking longer. It mostly consists of runners and walkers but you may see the occasional leashed dog.
There are a couple of things you might want to consider before taking this trail. Make sure to have well-supported shoes. As we mentioned earlier, it can be quite rugged terrain and you want to ensure you avoid injury by having the right footwear. You also might want to consider bringing a swimsuit and towel if it’s a hot day! Many people like to take a break and swim as there are a few spots to cool off along the trail.
6. McGillivray Falls
We know not everyone wants to spend the entirety of their day hiking, which is why McGillivray Falls is a great option if you’re looking for a bit of an easier, shorter distance. This trail is 4.3km and takes less than an hour to hike. You can bring your dog along (just ensure it’s on a leash) and enjoy seeing nature.
The best time to visit this trail is between March and October, but if what you’re most interested in is the waterfall aspect, we recommend going to see it during the spring or fall months. It’s not uncommon for the falls to dry up in the heat of summer.
Eventually, you’ll reach McGillivray Lake which is beautiful and even has a spot along the trail where you can stop and rest to observe its beauty.
Birds Hill Provincial Park
7. Chickadee Trail
If you’re not so much into hiking but want a trail to ski on, this is the place. The Chickadee Trail is a perfect place to hike in the summer months but if you plan on visiting in the winter, it’s reserved for cross country skiing. This is one of the reasons why we think this trail is so special and worth visiting.
It’s a total of 4km, taking just over an hour to hike. This is a trail everyone can visit and enjoy whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. You will be surrounded by beautiful wildflowers, tall grass and get to really take in the beautiful nature this trail has to offer.
8. Cedar Bog Trail
Looking for a gentle, yet nature-filled trail? Cedar Bog Trail is a great option for you to try out. It’s a 3.5km loop where you can take your dogs, birdwatch, or just enjoy a relaxing walk. Surrounded by trees, the views are stunning and on a hot day, you’ll for sure be able to find some shade.
If you plan on visiting this spring, make sure to bring old shoes as it does get very muddy. This trail is so spectacular because it is beautiful at all times of the year. You can choose to visit in winter and be surrounded by a stunning winter wonderland, or in summer you’ll be engulfed by all the natural beauty and little animals living there.
9. Kingfisher Lakeview Trail
Kingfisher Lakeview Trail is a great option for those who are looking to get their steps in, without the hike being too challenging. This trail is a loop consisting of 5.8km, so it will take you just under 2 hours to complete. The loop wraps around a lake, so you will get some beautiful views looking over the water.
We recommend visiting this trail during the summer months, but you can also get in a good hike during the spring or fall. Visiting during the winter months is possible but beware of snow and ice – it is a bit more dangerous!
Longest Trail in Manitoba
10. Mantario Trail
Calling all adventurers! Mantario Trail is the longest and most challenging trail Manitoba has to offer. It is 63km in length and takes people anywhere from three to five days to complete. You need to be prepared for this hike, should you choose to take it on. Supplies such as a tent, extra clothing, food and water are essential as it is no ordinary walk in the park.
If you aren’t up for a multi-day adventure, we understand. This is what makes this trail even more awesome! There’s a shorter day hike option which is only 7.2km and will only take up to a few hours, rather than a few days.
So there you have it – the best trails that Manitoba has to offer. You can take your pick from long vs short trails, trails that feature beautiful waterfalls, or trails that offer bird watching and other fun activities.
It’s getting warm so make sure you get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather and nature while you still can.
Need a car to get there?
If you hope to visit any of these trails but need a car to get there, Birchwood Credit can help. We understand the pandemic has been hard in many ways, especially financially. Our team can help get you into your new car and will find the best options for you based on what you can afford. Then we’ll create a payment plan unique to you and your financial situation.
If you have bad credit, don’t worry. At Birchwood Credit, you don’t need a perfect credit score to get a new ride. A bad credit car loan will allow you to finance a vehicle on a monthly payment plan and a fixed interest rate.
Contact us today and get into your new ride.
