The 6 Best Winnipeg River Trails That Made Us Fall in Love With the Outdoors
Before I discovered Winnipeg’s river trails, I genuinely thought walking outdoors was just something people pretended to enjoy while secretly counting how many blocks were left.
But then one spring, I gave in to peer pressure—by which I mean my dog stared at me for two hours straight until I grabbed the leash—and that stroll changed everything.
Turns out, these spots aren’t just dirt paths with bonus goose poop. They’re actually peaceful escapes that somehow make you forget about emails, chores, or whatever you left defrosting.
Whether it’s the way the water glints in the late afternoon sun or how the sounds of the city fade just enough to breathe, it’s impossible not to feel a little smitten.
So, if you’re wondering where to go first—or which route might finally convince your indoorsy friend that fresh air won’t kill them—these riverside walks definitely won us over (and gave our calves eternal complaints).
1. Seine River Greenway’s Trail
– Media credit: joysomatics
Address: 650 Shorehill Dr
Website: http://www.winnipegtrails.ca/celebrate-trails-day/seine-river-greenway/
Phone: +1 204 986 4966
Business hours: Open 24 hours
This 3.7 km loop totally surprised me! Walking on the Seine River Greenway’s Trail felt like stepping into a secret forest you’re not supposed to know about.
You’ve got two options here: a wide gravel path that cuts through the woods or a narrower dirt trail that winds along the water, offering some pretty stunning views.
I followed the riverside route, and at one point, I spotted a turtle basking on a log like it was on vacation. Deer sightings aren’t rare either, which makes the whole thing feel even more special.
And then there’s the art—yep, actual carved faces and animal shapes hiding in the trees. Kind of like nature’s version of a scavenger hunt. The most famous one is the “Woody” Spirit Tree, etched on both sides of a full tree trunk.
Pro Tip:
Go in the early morning or late afternoon when it’s quieter. The light filtering through the canopy makes everything feel a little extra dreamy.
2. Sturgeon Creek Park
– Media credit: nilomanalo
Address: 596 Cavalier Dr
Business hours: Open 24 hours
There are plenty of river trails in Winnipeg, but Sturgeon Creek is one of my favorites, especially when I want a quiet walk without having to worry about cars.
Most routes through urban areas make you stop, cross streets, and lose that whole “in nature” vibe. But here, you’re gliding under roads, not across them.
The full loop is 6 km, and it’s an easy stroll—ideal for a quick hour-long reset. Whether you’re birdwatching, jogging, or just walking off last night’s takeout, it works.
That said, don’t expect much help from the signs. Aside from the big map near Grant’s Old Mill, it’s kind of a guessing game. Downloading the guide ahead of time is a smart move.
Pro Tip:
Aim for April through September if you want to see the creek at its prettiest and avoid slipping on surprise snow patches.
3. Churchill Drive Park
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Address: 381 Churchill Dr
Business hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 12 am – 11 pm
- Sunday: 5 am – 11 pm
Churchill Drive Park has a 5 km trail that loops back to where you started. It follows the Red River the entire way, starting with gravel and switching to softwood chips as you pass under the Osborn Bridge.
That second stretch is my favorite: more trees, more shade, and better views of the water. It ends just before you hit BDI (yup, that Bridge Drive-In—perfect excuse for ice cream after!).
What I like most is that it feels peaceful, even though it’s popular. Go early in the morning or later in the evening, and you’ll probably have parts of it all to yourself.
Pro Tip:
It’s dog-friendly, and some areas even allow off-leash, so your pup can enjoy the river breeze too!
4. Crescent Drive Park
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Address: 781 Crescent Dr
Website: http://winnipeg.ca/publicworks/parksOpenSpace/BookableParks/CrescentDrive.stm
Phone: +1 877 311 4974
Business hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 am – 10 pm
Crescent Drive Park Trail isn’t just another quick city loop—it’s a cozy riverside escape located in Fort Garry, where bird calls stifle traffic and winding paths curl gently around the Red River.
The full route is only 2.9 km and usually takes half an hour, but there’s no need to rush. The eastern stretch is the real highlight, hugging the water with soft wood-chip walkways, shaded benches, and lots of spots worth stopping for.
The western side veers more into the trees, with glimpses of nearby yards, but still offers a peaceful, green-lined stroll.
Wildlife watchers, bring your binoculars—this area sees plenty of winged visitors!
Pro Tip:
Leashed dogs are welcome, and the trail doesn’t get too crowded outside peak hours, so early morning or late afternoon walks are your best bet for some solitude.
5. Bison Butte Mountain Bike Course
– Media credit: bisonbuttetrails
Address: FortWhyte Alive
Website: https://www.fortwhyte.org/explore/experiences/bison-butte-recreational-trails/
Phone: +1 204 989 8355
Business hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm
Before going to Bison Butte, I used to think mountain biking just meant riding over some dirt with a few bumps. But this one totally proved me wrong!
The 5.5 km loop is full of sharp turns and enough curves to keep your adrenaline dialed in the whole time.
It’s not overly intense, but definitely not a lazy ride either—a fun mix of effort and flow that makes you want to circle back for one more lap.
Pro Tip:
Some sections are great for beginners—families with kids often enjoy the shorter loops.
6. The Forks National Historic Loop
– Media credit: bradongreen
Address: Forks Market Rd
Website: https://pc.gc.ca/forks?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=forks
Phone: +1 204 785 6050
Business hours: Open 24 hours
I never thought a quick 18-minute stroll could leave such an impression—until The Forks totally changed my mind!
This 1.6 km loop might be short and sweet, but it’s packed with history and views that sneak up on you. One moment you’re admiring the river, the next you’re brushing past 6,000 years of Indigenous culture like it’s no big deal.
The path winds through quiet pockets and interesting landmarks, with an art installation and the sound of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meeting in the background.
Pro Tip:
Bring your dog (on a leash!) and go early in the morning or near sunset—it’s when the light glows on the water, and the city noise feels miles away.