Make the most of our winter wonderland

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 05/02/2025 (603 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

If you’re going to live in a place that experience several months of winter, then you might as well find ways to enjoy it. Fortunately, there are plenty of activities in Manitoba to entice you to go outside and soak up some sunshine. Here are a few of them.

Just south of Winnipeg, the snow maze near St. Adolphe holds the title of ‘world’s largest snow maze’ from the Guinness Book of World Records. Spanning 2,789 square metres, the meticulously crafted maze invites visitors of all ages to navigate its towering walls. Outside the maze there are snow carvings to discover, snow games to play, a snow mountain for sliding, and even a luge run for adrenaline junkies. Afterwards, you can warm up by the bonfire with hot chocolate, or something from the snow bar.

Ice skating has long been a popular pursuit in Winnipeg, particularly since The Forks began grooming skating paths on urban waterways. This year’s Nestaweya River Trail – named after a Cree word meaning ‘the river’ – stretches from Hugo Docks on the Assiniboine to Churchill Drive on the Red. Measuring in at approximately 5.25 kilometres from one end to the other, the trail features unique warming huts designed by artists from around the world. Skates can be rented inside The Forks Market’s Tower Atrium, and skating assists and lessons are also available for those who need a little extra help staying upright while learning to glide across frozen water.

Ice fishing is another must-try winter pastime with several ways to make that happen. At Gimli Harbour, you’ll find a busy little migrating ice village. If you know what you’re doing and already have gear, simply rent a ‘fiski kofi’ (ice fishing shack) for the day and just do your own thing. If you’re a beginner, fishing guides are available on the weekends to help get you started. Several tour operators out of Gimli also provide customized RVs for overnight fishing adventures on Lake Winnipeg.

In Riding Mountain National Park, the Clear Lake Ice Fishing Village offers prospector-style tent shelters that sleep up to six, with wood stove, LED lighting, seating, pre-drilled fishing holes, and fishing gear for rent. You can also pre-order bannock making kits. There are skating trails nearby, and the town site is a short walking distance away. Don’t forget to pre-purchase your fishing permits, which are required for any and all ice fishing in winter, as well as fishing at any time of year.

Did you know that the Manitoba government has implemented free entry to all provincial parks during the month of February? This recently announced initiative is intended to encourage access to a variety of trails at no-cost, making it more affordable for families and friends to explore our beautiful province.

In addition, Manitoba’s first Winter Trails Day will be Saturday, Feb. 8. This day is meant to celebrate local trails, and recognize those who maintain them. It is set to occur every year from now on the second Saturday of February.

Whether you want to walk, hike, fat-bike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski, there’s no better time than now to get into the outdoors and reap the many benefits. Your body, mind and spirit will thank you.