6 Best Places to Experience Fall Foliage in Winnipeg That’ll Make You Love Sweater Weather
Have you ever stepped outside in early fall, taken a deep breath, and thought, Ah yes, the season of cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice, and pretending I didn’t just slip on a wet leaf in front of strangers?
Yeah, that’s how I officially know autumn has arrived in Winnipeg. Now, if you’re like me, you don’t just admire fall foliage—you actively chase it down like it owes you money.
There’s something about those fiery reds, deep oranges, and golden yellows that make you want to wrap yourself in a scarf the size of a small blanket and romanticize your life.
Lucky for us, our city puts on a pretty spectacular fall show, and I’ve got the finest spots where you can experience it in all its crunchy-leafed glory.
So grab your coziest flannel, maybe a thermos of something warm (or, let’s be real, a PSL), and let’s talk about the best places to appreciate fall foliage in town!
1. Bois-des-Esprits
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Location: 650 Shorehill Dr
Website: http://www.winnipegtrails.ca/trails-maps/bois-des-esprit/
Hours of operation: Open 24 hours
Bois-des-Esprits—better known to locals as the “Woods Where the Spirits Dwell”—sounds a little mystical, right? But really, it’s just one of Winnipeg’s most stunning urban forests!
Tucked along the Seine River Greenway, this 117-acre stretch of nature has a little bit of everything—river bottom, wetlands, oak and aspen forests, even some open grassland—so the scenery shifts as you walk through.
The main trail runs about 2 kilometers, which is ideal for an easygoing stroll, though you might want to take your time because there’s plenty to see.
Whitetail deer practically own the place, so don’t be surprised if one pauses in the middle of the path like it’s deciding whether to let you pass.
But what makes Bois-des-Esprits special are the wood carvings hidden throughout the forest. Local artists have transformed tree stumps into intricate works of art—there’s a Great Grey Owl, a variety of birds, and a few surprises that almost feel like something out of a fairytale.
If you visit in the fall, the whole scene feels like it’s showing off. The bright golds and deep reds make the trails even more beautiful, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch the morning mist rolling over the river.
2. Assiniboine Forest
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Location: 2595 Roblin Blvd
Website: https://winnipeg.ca/AssiniboineForest.stm
Hours of operation:
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Saturday and Sunday: Closed
Assiniboine Forest isn’t just a patch of trees—it’s the largest urban forest in Canada—yep, bigger than anything you’ll find in Toronto or Vancouver—spanning a massive 285 hectares.
This place is home to all sorts of wildlife, so don’t be surprised if you notice a white-tailed deer casually watching you from the trees or hear the chatter of birds you probably won’t find in your backyard.
And if you’re into plants, you’ll see some pretty rare ones here too!
The trails here seem endless—they stretch about 18 kilometers, but with the winding paths through dense woods, open meadows, and wetlands, it’s easy to lose track of time.
You can walk, run, bike, or if winter’s got a grip on the city, strap on some cross-country skis and glide through the snow-covered landscapes.
Then, there’s the 12-acre pond, which depending on the season, can be a peaceful, reflective oasis or a busy spot for ducks and other critters.
If you come fall, the aspen and oak trees go full-one autumn mode, turning everything into shades of gold, red, and orange—a perfect spot for a leaf-peeping.
3. La Barriere Park
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Location: 4403 Waverley St, La Salle
Website: https://legacy.winnipeg.ca/publicworks/parks/la-barriere.stm
Phone number: +1 877 311 4974
Hours of operation: Monday to Sunday: 8:00 am – 9:00 pm
Spanning 84 hectares, La Barriere Park has winding trails that follow the La Salle River, giving you some of the best scenic views around.
For spotting wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for deer slipping between the trees, birds flitting overhead, and the occasional squirrel that might stop just long enough to judge you before scurrying off.
The main trail is an easy loop—just under 3 km—perfect if you’re not looking for a marathon but still want to stretch your legs.
Just give yourself about an hour at a relaxed pace, maybe a little longer if you’re stopping to admire the scenery (which, let’s be honest, you probably will).
If you can, try to visit in early fall. That’s when the park is at its finest—the air is crispy but not too cold, the crowds thin out, and those trees? They explode into shades of gold and red, making the whole place look like something out of a postcard!
4. Bunn’s Creek Centennial Park
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Location: 365 McIvor Ave
Hours of operation: Monday to Sunday: 7:00 am – 10:00 pm
If you’re going to Bunn’s Creek Centennial Park, great choice! This little gem sprawls over 25.64 hectares, but the real highlight here is the meandering trail that follows Bunn’s Creek through a tight little ravine.
It’s got that cozy, tucked-away feel, with slope embankments and a leafy canopy that makes you forget you’re anywhere near a city.
In the fall, the crunch of leaves underfoot is pure magic—autumn vibes at their finest. Oh, you’re going to love it (for sure!) if you’re goal is to hike or bike!
And if you’re a bird watcher, this is prime real estate for spotting migratory birds. Bring your binoculars because you never know what feathered friends might be making a pit stop!
Bunn’s Creek isn’t just for the active crowd. There are picnic tables scattered around, plus a large sheltered area with washrooms, making it easy to turn a simple visit into a full afternoon getaway.
5. Spruce Woods Provincial Park
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Location: Carberry
Website: https://www.gov.mb.ca/sd/parks/park-maps-and-locations/western/spruce.html
Hours of operation: Open 24 hours
Spruce Woods Provincial Park is one of those places that makes you do a double take—because who expects to find actual dunes in the middle of prairies? But there they are, golden and windswept, rising to 30 meters high at Spirit Sands.
Walking through it, you’d almost think you’re in a desert, except for the fact that it’s also home to the northern prairie skink (our only lizard in Manitoba!) and the adorable mildly dramatic western hognose snake—it’ll puff up and pretend to be all scary, but harmless.
Beyond that, the landscape shifts again, leading you to the Devil’s Punch Bowl. Now, with a name like that, you might expect something out of a ghost story, but in reality, it’s a striking blue-green pond formed by underground streams.
For those who want to longer adventure, the Epinette Creek Trail System offers plenty of options, whether you’re looking for a casual day hike or an overnight backpacking trip.
The Newfoundland Trail, in particular, is worth the trek if you want to escape the city for a while and really soak it all in.
6. Hunt Lake Hiking Trail
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Location: Trans-Canada Hwy, Whiteshell
Website: http://hunt-lake-hiking-trail.poi.place/
Phone number: +1 204 369 3157
Hours of operation: Open 24 hours
Hunt Lake Trail is one of the best (and most challenging) hikes in Whiteshell Provincial Park—about 2 hours east of Winnipeg. This trail isn’t just a casual stroll; it’ll keep you on your toes with its rocky terrain, tree roots, and some solid ups and downs.
But believe me, the effort is worth it because the views of West Hawk Lake are absolutely stunning! Depending on your pace (and how often you stop to appreciate the scenery), the round trip can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours.
Lots of migrating birds pass through, so keep an eye (and ear) out for them. You might even spot some other wildlife along the way!
Now, don’t let the well-marked blue arrows and flagging tape trick you into thinking this is an easy walk. This trail demands proper hiking boots (preferably with ankle support), plenty of water, and enough snacks to keep you fueled.
Also, fair warning: your legs will definitely feel this one, so be ready for that!