Discover Manitoba's Hidden Gems: Top 10 Hikes

Manitoba may not have the towering peaks of Alberta or British Columbia, but its unique landscapes of lakes, rivers, forests, and prairies offer their own kind of beauty and serenity. Here are the top 10 hikes that showcase the diverse and captivating natural beauty of Manitoba.

1. Spirit Sands and Devil's Punch Bowl, Spruce Woods Provincial Park

   • What to Expect: A unique desert-like landscape in the midst of Manitoba’s prairies with sand dunes and a surprising oasis.
   • Why It's Great: The contrasting landscapes provide a unique hiking experience not found elsewhere in the province.
   • Distance: 10 km loop
   • Difficulty: Moderate
   • Best Time to Visit: May to September
   • Duration: 3-4 hours
   • Special Requirements/Tips: Bring plenty of water and sun protection; the dunes can get very hot.
     
     

2. Mantario Trail, Whiteshell Provincial Park

   • What to Expect: A rugged, remote wilderness trail winding through the Canadian Shield with lakes, forests, and rocky outcrops.
   • Why It's Great: It’s a true wilderness experience, great for those looking to disconnect and immerse in nature.
   • Distance: 63 km one way
   • Difficulty: Difficult
   • Best Time to Visit: June to October
   • Duration: 3-4 days
   • Special Requirements/Tips: Good for experienced hikers; requires preparation and possibly a car shuttle for the one-way trip.
     
     

3. Pisew Falls to Kwasitchewan Falls Trail

   • What to Expect: A trail leading from the dramatic Pisew Falls to Manitoba’s highest waterfall, through boreal forest.
   • Why It's Great: The trail offers an intimate encounter with Manitoba’s rugged northern wilderness and spectacular waterfalls.
   • Distance: 22 km return
   • Difficulty: Difficult
   • Best Time to Visit: June to September
   • Duration: 7-9 hours
   • Special Requirements/Tips: Be bear-aware and prepare for mosquitoes and blackflies in the summer months.
     
     

4. Hecla Grindstone Provincial Park Trails

   • What to Expect: A network of trails offering everything from lakeshore strolls to forested hikes, with rich wildlife and cultural history.
   • Why It's Great: The variety of trails suits all abilities and interests, with beautiful views and historical sites.
   • Distance: Varies (1 km to 10+ km)
   • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
   • Best Time to Visit: Year-round
   • Duration: 30 minutes to 5 hours
   • Special Requirements/Tips: Check out the Grassy Narrows Marsh for bird watching and the historic Hecla Village.
     
     

5. Turtle Mountain Provincial Park Trails

   • What to Expect: Peaceful trails winding through rolling forested hills, lakes, and wetlands.
   • Why It's Great: It offers tranquil scenery and a chance to see diverse wildlife, including moose and deer.
   • Distance: Varies (1 km to 12 km)
   • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
   • Best Time to Visit: May to October
   • Duration: 30 minutes to 4 hours
   • Special Requirements/Tips: The Adam Lake loop is particularly scenic during the fall colors.
     
     

6. Hunt Lake Trail, Whiteshell Provincial Park

   • What to Expect: A challenging trail along the eastern shores of West Hawk Lake, offering lake views and rocky terrain.
   • Why It's Great: Provides stunning views and a challenging hike, great for those looking for a workout with a view.
   • Distance: 12.6 km return
   • Difficulty: Difficult
   • Best Time to Visit: May to October
   • Duration: 5-6 hours
   • Special Requirements/Tips: The trail can be rocky and steep in places; wear sturdy footwear.
     
     

7. Little Limestone Lake Trail, Little Limestone Lake Provincial Park

   • What to Expect: A hike around the world’s largest marl lake, with changing colors from turquoise to milky blue.
   • Why It's Great: The lake’s unique color-changing properties make for a memorable hiking backdrop.
   • Distance: Varies
   • Difficulty: Easy
   • Best Time to Visit: June to September
   • Duration: 1-3 hours
   • Special Requirements/Tips: The lake’s colors are most vibrant on sunny days. Don’t forget your camera!
     
     

8. Pinawa Heritage Sundial Trail

   • What to Expect: An easy walk along the Pinawa Channel featuring a giant functional sundial and scenic views.
   • Why It's Great: Combines natural beauty with an educational experience, perfect for families.
   • Distance: 4 km loop
   • Difficulty: Easy
   • Best Time to Visit: Year-round
   • Duration: 1-2 hours
   • Special Requirements/Tips: Enjoy the nearby old Pinawa Dam Provincial Park for more hiking and historical sites.
     
     

9. Bur Oak Self-Guiding Trail, Birds Hill Provincial Park

   • What to Expect: A peaceful walk through a forest of ancient oak trees, with interpretive signs explaining the area’s natural history.
   • Why It's Great: It’s an easy, family-friendly hike that offers a quick escape into nature.
   • Distance: 2.5 km loop
   • Difficulty: Easy
   • Best Time to Visit: May to October
   • Duration: 1-2 hours
   • Special Requirements/Tips: Visit in late spring or early summer to enjoy the wildflowers.
     
     

10. Falcon Creek Trail, Whiteshell Provincial Park

    • What to Expect: A scenic hike through varied landscapes including rocky ridges, forested areas, and creeks.
    • Why It's Great: Offers beautiful views of Falcon Lake and the surrounding Canadian Shield country.
    • Distance: 10.6 km loop
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Best Time to Visit: May to October
    • Duration: 3-4 hours
    • Special Requirements/Tips: Keep an eye out for blueberries along the trail in late summer.

Each of these hikes offers a unique way to explore Manitoba’s natural landscapes, from tranquil lakes and rivers to dense forests and open prairies. Remember to respect the trails, pack out all your trash, and leave the natural beauty intact for others to enjoy.

Share your experiences with us on social media using #WeAreNorthbound and join our community of explorers and nature lovers. Find all your hiking essentials at Northboundgear.co. Happy hiking!