Throughout February, Manitobans can enjoy free access to provincial parks - no vehicle permit required! However, Snopasses are still required for snowmobiles.

How to Participate:
Travel Manitoba’s website has several resources to help you explore the province’s winter trails.
Hiking & Biking Trails
Skiing & Snowboarding
Snowmobiling

Attend a Winter Trails Day event on February 8, 2025:
Bring Your Own Gear (BYOG) or take advantage of rental options available at select locations. Some parks and businesses offer rentals for fat bikes, cross-country skis, skates and snowshoes.

Birds Hill Provincial Park: Join a free snowshoe trek along the Nimowin Trail, where you’ll spot animal tracks and learn about winter wildlife adaptations.
Spruce Woods Provincial Park: Take part in a guided hike on the Epinette Trail and discover the park’s unique landscape.
Winterpeg Equipment Lending: Free winter gear is available at Assiniboine Park in Winnipeg and Larters Golf and Country Club in St. Andrews.
Crow Wing Trail Snowshoe Trek: Join Laura Reeves of Prairie Shore Botanicals for an outdoor adventure featuring marshmallow roasting and skill-building. Registration required via cwta@crowwingtrail.ca.
Brandon Riverbank Festival: Celebrate with horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice fishing, mini-golf hockey and free snowshoe and ski rentals.
Whiteshell Community Club Ski Poker Derby (February 9): Participate in a fun cross-country skiing event.

Winter Trail Etiquette: Sharing the Snow Responsibly

Many of Manitoba’s winter trails are multi-use, which means everyone can enjoy the outdoors if we follow a few simple rules:

Respect Trail Designations: Trails often change in the winter. A summer hiking route might become a ski or snowmobile trail. Pay attention to signs at trailheads to know what activities are allowed.
Do Not Walk On Groomed Ski Tracks: Walking or snowshoeing on ski tracks can damage the trail and create hazards for skiers. On multi-use trails, stick to the designated walking side to keep the tracks intact.
Yield to Others: Skiers and snowmobilers typically move faster. Step aside if you hear “track!” to let them pass safely.
Keep Dogs Leashed: Leashing your dog ensures they don’t disturb wildlife or other trail users.
Pack Out Trash: Carry out anything you bring including food scraps. Even biodegradable items can linger.

Base Layer: Choose fabrics like merino wool or synthetics to wick moisture from your skin.
Middle Layer: Insulation is key - think fleece or down to retain heat.
Outer Layer: Windproof, waterproof shells protect against snow and wind.
Accessories: Don’t forget gloves, a hat and a scarf. Insulated, waterproof boots and wool socks are essential for keeping your feet warm. Hand and foot warmers like Hot Paws or Hot Pockets can provide extra warmth on especially cold days.

Winter Trails in Manitoba

Here are five more trails to add to your winter itinerary:

Nimowin Trail, Birds Hill Provincial Park: A snowshoe-friendly route with quiet forest views and the chance to spot animal tracks.
Epinette Creek Trail, Spruce Woods Provincial Park: A snow-covered escape through the sandhill ecosystem that’s great for snowshoeing.
Falcon Creek Trail, Whiteshell Provincial Park: Walk the footsteps of voyageurs and discover the area’s fur trading history on a snowshoe adventure.
Nestaweya River Trail, The Forks: Skate along the iconic River Trail or explore nearby walking paths with plenty of warm-up huts along the way.
Clear Lake, Riding Mountain National Park: Offering a variety of trails for skiing, fat biking or snowshoeing, Clear Lake is a winter playground. Check out our blog covering eight of their winter trails.

More Trails: Explore more trails with our Manitoba Winter Explorer Guide.

Before heading out, check park winter maps for a full overview of trail designations and permitted uses. An example map for Birds Hill Provincial Park can be found here. Additionally, always check trail conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Indigenous Perspectives on Manitoba’s Trails

Many trails in Manitoba hold deep cultural and historical significance for Indigenous communities. For instance, Falcon Creek Trail highlights traditional winter travel and connections to the land. Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about Indigenous stories and practices.

Another significant trail is the Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail. This wetland has been a sacred area for the Ojibway people for over 300 years. The interpretive signage along the trail highlights the deep cultural connection between the Brokenhead Ojibway Nation and the Brokenhead Wetland. The trail remains open in winter, though the gate is closed, requiring visitors to walk in from the road.

Safety Tips for Winter Adventures

Preparation is key for a safe and enjoyable outing:

Plan Ahead: Check trail conditions and grooming schedules online before you go.
Bring the Basics: Pack water, snacks, a map and a charged phone. In remote areas, a first-aid kit, portable phone charger and whistle are also recommended.
Travel with a Buddy: Share your plans with someone before heading out and avoid going alone.
Stick to Marked Trails: Avoid water crossings as ice conditions can vary.
Respect Wildlife: Give animals plenty of space to avoid adding stress during the challenging winter months.

Manitoba’s winter trails are an invitation to embrace the season, discover new landscapes and connect with nature. Bundle up, get out there and let the beauty of winter in Manitoba take you somewhere unforgettable!