The province of Manitoba features rolling hills, dense boreal forests, and expansive wetlands. Beyond its incredible wildlife encounters, such as polar bears and belugas, it is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who are seeking diverse terrain to hike.
Despite its predominantly flat terrain, Manitoba’s vast open spaces still provide ample hiking opportunities, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the region.
With that in mind, let’s look at the 5 premier hiking spots that the province has to offer:
Northern Manitoba
The untouched wilderness located north of the 53rd parallel in Manitoba beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its pristine lakes and rugged landscapes.
If you’re an avid hiker, you must visit the Pisew Falls Provincial Park which is located 75 kilometers south of Thompson. Starting from Pisew Falls, you can then embark on a 22-kilometer round-trip trail through dense boreal forest that will take you to the magnificent Kwasitchewan Falls —Manitoba’s highest waterfall at 14 meters.
Riding Mountain National Park
The Riding Mountain National Park is a highly popular destination in Manitoba for outdoor enthusiasts all year round. It has diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities to attract visitors who are seeking outdoor activities and natural beauty.
In the winter, cross-country skiers explore the park’s trails, while during the summer months, the shimmering lakes and extensive hiking network draw boaters, swimmers, fishermen, and kayakers.
If you want to go hiking, there’s a well-maintained 7.2-kilometer loop trail that leads to Kinosao Lake and passes through vibrant wildflowers, aspen, and pine trees.
Churchill
One of the highlights in Churchill is kayaking alongside the estimated 57,000 beluga whales that gather in Hudson Bay during the summer months. However, it also offers leisurely hikes that allow visitors to explore the unique landscapes and appreciate the tranquility of the region.
As the polar bear capital of the world, it is strongly recommended to explore Churchill with a guide, even outside of the polar bear season. There are guided hikes to the SS Ithaka shipwreck, which ran aground in 1960, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s maritime history.
Another guided tour option takes you from Sloop Cove to Prince of Wales Fort, allowing you to discover the sheltered cove’s significance as a resting place for wooden sailboats chartered by the Hudson’s Bay Company in the 1700s.
Whiteshell Provincial Park
Whiteshell Provincial Park is an expansive and diverse park boasting rushing rivers, rugged Precambrian Shield formations, dense boreal forests, and numerous lakes. You will be enticed by trails that wind through enchanting landscapes of black spruce, balsam fir, and aspen trees.
When visiting Whiteshell Provincial Park, the 3.4-kilometer roundtrip Top of the World Trail is a must. As the highest point in the area, the summit provides a breathtaking overlook of Falcon Lake and offers panoramic views that are worth the trek.
Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park
The Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park features approximately 60 kilometers of hiking trails that await exploration. A notable trail in the park is the Grassy Narrows Marsh Trail on the south end of Hecla Island.
This trail follows a channel that connects the island and the mainland, providing an opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife, including beavers, pelicans, herons, terns, and even moose.
Another captivating hike is the five-kilometer out-and-back trail leading to the iconic 1926 Gull Harbour Lighthouse. This leisurely hike along a narrow peninsula offers picturesque views and the chance to immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty.
