Five Outdoor Adventures For The Whole Family

Besides the lush gardens and park space, Kildonan Park is home to some of the oldest and largest trees in the province. Within the 73-acre green space lies an opportunity to step into a fairytale land. Journey into the wooded area north of the Riverview Dr. lot to find The Witch’s Hut, ripped from the pages of the Brothers Grimm’s tale of Hansel and Gretel. This cobblestoned building is one of the most unique treasures hidden within Winnipeg’s parks.

Grab some pals and prepare to paddle at FortWhyte Alive. Located 25 minutes from downtown, this 660-acre nature preserve’s lakes are ready to be explored by canoe or rowboat. Once pushing off on your off-land expedition, listen to the soothing sounds of paddles cutting through water and keep eyes peeled for wildlife and waterfowl that call the area home. Not everywhere is a slice of lake country available just beyond the city limits.

For a wetlands adventure, start by heading north on McPhillips Street. The 36-square kilometre marshland is home to 300 species of birds. Spot the winged wildlife perched in the tall grasses as you stroll down the boardwalk. The tall, grassy maze opens up to the ground squirrel park, located next to a picnic area. Or pack your lunch and head upstairs to the interpretive centre’s grass-covered roof for a bird’s eye view of the wetlands. Wander the property for free or visit the interpretive centre.

The wooded trails, shaded walkways and open paths that wind through the aspen and oak-lined Assiniboine Forest bustle with walkers, runners and cyclists, but serenity can be found at the heart of the 700-acre woodland. Located steps from where the Sagimay Trail intersects with the Aspen Trail is Eve Werier Memorial Pond. Watch waterfowl swim and splash from the boardwalk or venture slightly south to the wooden marsh docks.

With stalks stretching sky high, sightlines beyond the walls of this 10-acre corn maze are obscured and adventurers are left to their own designs to escape this labyrinth that has been built to confuse. Once emerging from the winding halls, take a trip to the petting zoo to get acquainted with some barnyard friends or climb a towering hay-bale pyramid for a lookout over this friendly farm located 10 minutes south of Winnipeg.