12 Best Hiking Trails in Winnipeg for Every Mood and Season
Sure, walking on the treadmill or around the city is great for keeping active, but nothing beats the refreshing boost of a good hike for both your body and mind.
There’s just something magical about being surrounded by nature, breathing in fresh air, and soaking in beautiful views that just can’t be replicated indoors.
Luckily for us, Winnipeg is full of incredible hiking trails, from charming riverside paths to gorgeous forest escapes, all waiting to be explored.
So, if you’re a Winnipegger craving some outdoor adventure or just a peaceful escape, here are some of the best hiking trails in and around the city to get you started!
Assiniboine Forest
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Website: https://legacy.winnipeg.ca/AssiniboineForest.stm
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/assiniboine-forest/
Address: 2595 Roblin Blvd
Hours: Mon- Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Assiniboine Forest is a slice of wilderness that makes you forget you’re in an urban hub. As one of Canada’s largest city nature parks, it’s open year-round and completely free!
We just love its web of hiking trails that weave through diverse landscapes, from aspen-oak woodlands to open prairie meadows and even wetlands.
If you’re looking for an easy yet scenic stroll, the all-weather nature trail is a winner. Starting at Chalfont and Grant, it leads you to the Eve Werier Memorial Pond, a charming spot right at the heart of the forest.
For something equally stunning and more accessible, check out the Sagimay Trail. Its boardwalks meander across marshy areas, giving you up-close views of the forest’s unique ecosystem without muddying up your shoes.
| Pro Tip: Bring your camera or binoculars. Assiniboine Forest is home to deer, foxes, and a variety of birds, making it a go-to spot for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. |
FortWhyte Alive
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Website: https://www.tourismwinnipeg.com/things-to-do/attractions/fortwhyte-alive
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fortwhytealive/
Address: 1961 McCreary Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM
Contact: (204) 989-8355
FortWhyte Alive is a paradise for outdoor lovers, with hundreds of acres of nature just waiting to be explored. It’s even connected to the legendary Trans Canada Trail, so if you’re feeling adventurous, you can extend your hike as far as your legs will take you.
One of the coolest things is that if you walk or bike there, your admission is free! That’s right—just another reason to lace up your sneakers or hop on your bike.
Once you’re inside, you’ll find a network of smooth, crushed limestone trails that wind through some of the most stunning landscapes Winnipeg has to offer. Think prairie meadows, marshy wetlands, aspen forests, and even shimmering lakes.
For the ultimate hiking experience, make sure to check out the Lake Devonian Trail. This 3.7-kilometer loop has no elevation gain, so it’s as beginner-friendly as it gets while still offering beautiful views.
| Pro Tip: If you’re a wildlife fan, FortWhyte Alive is your dream destination. We suggest keeping an eye out for bison, whitetail deer, and an array of waterfowl as you explore. |
Kildonan Park
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Website: https://legacy.winnipeg.ca/publicworks/parks/kildonan.stm
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kildonan-park/
Address: 2015 Main St
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: +1 877-311-4974
Kildonan Park is a true gem nestled along the Red River, offering a perfect mix of naturally beautiful hiking trails and charming attractions.
Whether you’re hiking through its lush greenery, marveling at the Rainbow Stage open-air theatre, or stopping by the Witch’s Hut, there’s always something to discover. Even the local ducks by the pond seem to enjoy the park’s peaceful vibe!
Now, the Kildonan Park Loop is a must-try for hikers of all skill levels. With handy park maps, inviting benches, and wheelchair- and stroller-friendly routes, we think it’s accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
And dog owners will be happy to know the trails are pet-friendly, with some areas even allowing off-leash fun. Whether your furry friend loves a gentle walk or a chance to roam free, the park has got you covered.
| Pro Tip: Love flowers and greenery? Make sure to spend extra time in the park’s main gardens. They’re filled with vibrant blooms and are also home to some of the province’s oldest and tallest trees! |
Red River Trail
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Website: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/manitoba/red-river-river-walk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/red-river-mutual-trail
Address: Winnipeg
Hours: Open 24 hours
The Red River Trail is a hiking and biking adventure that takes you on a journey through some of Manitoba’s most scenic and historic areas. It stretches from the northeastern outskirts of Winnipeg all the way to the Great Falls Dam.
As part of the Borders to Beaches Recreational Trail Project, the trail connects the Manitoba-Ontario border to the sandy shores of Lake Winnipeg.
Along the way, you’ll pass through charming communities like East St. Paul, Selkirk, and St. Andrews, with plenty of chances to soak in the sights. And yes, that includes the jaw-dropping river views that run alongside much of the trail.
| Pro Tip: Some sections of the trail follow roadways, so be sure to stick to the shoulder (even if it’s unpaved) and avoid using these sections at night or in bad weather. Daylight hours are your best bet for safety and soaking in the scenery! |
Seine River Greenway’s Trail
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Website: https://winnipegtrails.ca/celebrate-trails-day/seine-river-greenway/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seine-river-trail/recent/
Address: 444 Adsum Dr
Hours: Mon – Fri: 6 AM – 8 PM
Sat: 9 AM – 6 PM
Sun: 11 AM – 6 PM
Contact Details: +1 877-311-4974
The Seine River Greenway Trail is a 3-kilometer loop that follows the scenic Seine River, treating you to beautiful water views and lush greenery. It’s a relaxed and easy route that takes about 40 minutes to complete.
The trail’s crushed gravel and grass paths are gentle on the joints, making it a comfortable choice for hikers of all ages. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to pause, from picnic areas to playgrounds and even small beaches.
Dog lovers (like us!) should know that their furry friends are welcome too, as long as they’re on a leash. And watch out for wildlife as you go—deer are known to wander the forest, and you might spot turtles basking on logs along the river.
Beyond hiking, it’s also a hotspot for birdwatching and mountain biking. And for a little extra charm, don’t miss the tree carvings scattered along the trail, such as the “Woody” Spirit Tree—a carved tree trunk with a face on both sides.
| Pro Tip: For scenic river views, stick to the narrow dirt path that runs closest to the water. But, if you’re after a smoother, more stable trek, the wider gravel trail through the forest center is your best bet—either way, you’re in for a treat! |
Assiniboine Park Conservatory Trails
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Website: https://www.assiniboinepark.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/assiniboine_park/
Address: 55 Pavilion Crescent
Hours: Open 24 hours
Contact: (204) 927-6000
Assiniboine Park offers something for everyone, whether you’re out for a hike, a relaxing stroll, or a day of fun with the family. Start your adventure at the Nature Playground, where you can hike through tunnels made of branches.
For a quieter escape, wander through the English Garden and the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden. These areas are perfect for peaceful hikes, with winding paths surrounded by beautiful blooms and sculptures.
During the summer, the Pavilion is a hub of activity with outdoor programming to keep you entertained. From live music to art displays, there’s always something happening—check the park’s website to see what’s on during your hike.
When it’s time to refuel, head over to the Assiniboine Park Café for a tasty meal. We just love grabbing an all-day breakfast or a hearty lunch on their lovely patio!
| Pro Tip: If you’re looking to add a bit of elevation to your hike, the Assiniboine Park, Wolseley, and Wellington Loop offers 13 meters of total ascent. Plus, the Assiniboine Park – Beaudry Provincial Park trail provides 9 meters of elevation gain. |
Bison Butte
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Website: https://www.fortwhyte.org/bison-butte-recreational-trails/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bisonbuttetrails/
Address: FortWhyte Alive
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (204) 989-8355
Bison Butte is a unique hiking destination, offering a moderately challenging loop trail for hiking, birding, mountain biking, and even snowshoeing in the winter. It also provides sweeping views and prairie landscapes.
This year-round trail is stunning no matter the season, but it’s best to plan your visit based on weather conditions. The soil in the area tends to get mucky and rutted when wet, so wait for dry days before hiking or riding.
Also, keep in mind that dogs aren’t allowed on this trail, so your furry friends will need to sit this one out.
If you’re into winter adventures, this is a fantastic spot for fat biking, though you’ll want to stay alert for other trail users to avoid any accidental collisions. For a quieter hike, you might also want to check out nearby trails.
| Pro Tip: We recommend visiting Bison Butte in the early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing. You might spot deer grazing in the grasslands, hawks soaring overhead, or even a fox trotting across the terrain! |
Birds Hill Provincial Park
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Website: https://gov.mb.ca/sd/parks/park-maps-and-locations/central/birds.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birds-hill-provincial-park/
Address: Oakbank
Hours: Mon – Sun: 7 AM – 11 PM
Contact: +1 204-654-6730
Birds Hill Provincial Park is a playground for outdoor lovers just a short drive from Winnipeg.
This Manitoba gem offers hiking, scenic cycling routes, and even horseback riding adventures. And with 22 hiking trails ranging from easy family strolls to more challenging routes, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
Looking for the best hike? Don’t miss Cedar Bog Trail. This 3.5-km beauty features a manageable 53-meter elevation gain, making it the perfect mix of effort and reward.
Speaking of landscapes, here, you could see ridges, prairies, bogs, and forests collide to create a dynamic environment that feels like a new adventure at every turn of your hike. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, waterfowl, and those oh-so-cheerful songbirds.
| Pro Tip: Plan hikes in July to catch the Winnipeg Folk Festival. It’s one of North America’s biggest folk music events, and trust us, there’s nothing like enjoying soulful tunes surrounded by nature’s finest. |
Little Mountain Park
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Website: https://legacy.winnipeg.ca/publicworks/parks/little-mountain.stm
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little-mountain-park/
Address: 64093 Klimpke Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: 7 AM – 10 PM
Tucked away in Winnipeg’s northwest corner, Little Mountain Park is a charming escape. It’s a place where wildflowers bloom in summer, and in winter, the landscape transforms into a sparkling snowy retreat.
The trails here are the star attraction; at the heart of the park lies a sprawling aspen forest, with smaller paths weaving through it. For a must-try hike, check out the Hartling Loop—2.7 km of scenic beauty with a 75-meter elevation gain.
Prefer something lighter? The Little Mountain Park Loop is an easy 31-minute stroll, perfect for soaking in the scenery without breaking a sweat.
After your adventure, why not settle in for a picnic? The park features three cozy picnic sites, each accommodating up to 25 people—we recommend bringing your favorite snacks and a comfy blanket and kicking back under the trees.
| Pro Tip: Visit in the summer for a wildflower show or during winter for a serene snowy escape—either way, Little Mountain Park delivers unforgettable vibes year-round! |
St. Vital Park
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Website: https://www.winnipeg.ca/publicworks/parks/st-vital.stm
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/st-vital-park/
Address: 190 River Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: 7:30 AM – 10 PM
Contact: +1 877-311-4974
If you’re in South Winnipeg, St. Vital Park is the ultimate go-to for outdoor fun. This place isn’t just for hiking—it’s the perfect combo of trails, recreational vibes, and space to kick back after your adventure.
The park’s 1.6-mile loop trail is a crowd-pleaser. Easy and accessible, it takes just under 30 minutes to complete. Whether you’re into birding, walking, or hiking, it’s got something for everyone.
The trail is also wheelchair accessible, with year-round washrooms and even more amenities in the warmer months.
Plus, wildlife lovers, get your binoculars ready—the park is teeming with birds, from mallards and wood ducks in the summer to cheeky chickadees and striking blue jays year-round—it’s like a living, breathing nature documentary!
| Pro Tip: Book one of the park’s BBQ areas complete with ready-to-go pits. There’s even room for bouncy castles and tents—a top-notch choice after some family hiking fun! |
Bois-des-Esprits
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Website: http://www.winnipegtrails.ca/trails-maps/bois-des-esprit/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bois-des-esprits/
Address: 650 Shorehill Dr
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Bois-des-Esprit is more than just a hiking spot. This urban treasure boasts five distinct ecosystems: river bottom, wetland, oak forest, aspen forest, and grassland.
Part of the 27-km Seine River Greenway, Bois-des-Esprit is often called the “heart and lungs” of the parkway system. What makes it so special is how untouched it feels; despite being surrounded by urban sprawl, this forest remains pristine.
Another cool feature is its oxbows—those U-shaped low spots along the trail that were once part of the river. These abandoned riverbeds are now lush habitats, teeming with vegetation and wildlife—a lovely backdrop for hiking.
And speaking of wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for the 20-30 whitetail deer that call the Bois home. Catching a glimpse of one feels like a little nature jackpot!
| Pro Tip: If you’re driving, parking is super convenient! Use the circle on the west side of John Bruce Bridge or park at the Extra Foods lot at St. Anne’s Rd and Southglen Blvd. |
Bunn’s Creek Centennial Park
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Website: https://legacy.winnipeg.ca/publicworks/parks/bunns-creek.stm
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bunns-creek-centennial-park/
Address: 365 McIvor Ave
Hours: Mon – Sun: 7 AM – 10 PM
With its mowed lawns, naturalized spaces, and winding trails, Bunn’s Creek Centennial Park is where you can switch between manicured beauty and untamed nature.
The park’s signature trail meanders along Bunn’s Creek, cutting through a cozy ravine with sloped embankments and a leafy canopy overhead.
Bird enthusiasts will be in heaven here as well—songbirds and waterfowl abound, filling the air with their melodies. If you’re lucky, you might even spot turtles basking along the creek during your hike.
The hiking trails also lead to the scenic confluence of the Red River and Bunn’s Creek. From here, you can gaze across the Red River to McBeth Park and spot a stand of Plains cottonwood trees, some of the oldest native giants in Winnipeg.
| Pro Tip: Families will love the park’s playground, which is decked out with a sandbox, swings, climbing equipment, and a slide. With picnic tables and a washroom nearby, it’s the perfect place to extend your visit after a hike. |