If you enjoy the changing leaves in fall, you must check out these top walking trails in Winnipeg.

"This weekend and the next few to follow will be ideal for getting out and checking out the changing of the leaves. It's a short window in Manitoba before they fall, but we're right at the prime time," says Jillian Recksiedler, the Senior Content Specialist with Travel Manitoba. 

She shares some of the best places to go for a walk in Winnipeg for families, couples, and photographers who are looking to see all the beauty fall has to offer.

1. Assiniboine Park or Forest

These two spots are located beside each other off Corydon Ave in the id-Western part of Winnipeg. 

"It's always top of mind for anyone who loves to see the changing of the leaves," says Recksiedler.

It offers different attractions which include activities for the whole family. 

"There's always the opportunity to stroll through the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden or the English Garden. If you want to get a little more remote, there's the neighbouring Assiniboine Forest."

2. Kildonan Park

While the performing arts in this park were cancelled this summer due to COVID, there are many areas that are still worthwhile to see and enjoy.

She says, "It's such a lovely park. It's got a beautiful duck pond with some public art and cool lights lining the pond."

3. Fort Whyte Alive

"We all know this nature preserve on the West side of the city. It has many lovely walking trails through the forest. It also has a spectacular mountain biking course for anyone who wants to get out in the forest on their bikes."

Bison Butte in Fort Whyte is the bicycle course that has been leftover from the Canada Summer Games in 2018. 

4. Bois-des-Spirit Trail

This trail is located just off Shorehill Drive in Winnipeg. 

"It's part of the Seine river greenway. It's a large intact forest right along the Seine river. We saw whitetail deer and lots of birds." 

The walk is a good length for families with children as Recksiedler says it's not too long. 

5. La Barriere Park 

This park is on Waverley Street just south of the perimeter highway.

Recksiedler says, "This is my favourite park. It is a city civic park, not a lot of amenities but it is along the La Salle River. There's so much space and trees, and there's a nice red bridge that crosses the river into some small forested trails through the woods."

Related Stories