July 2014
The Secret to Vitality is in Manitoba's Trans Canada Trails
By: Adriana Barros, PHEC.
They say the recipe to longevity is eating nutritious whole foods, paired with exercise and laughter. Personally, I am confident about the foods I eat and the great company I keep ensures my spirits are lifted; however, I could use a push with exercising regularly. And I fear I am not the only one playing hooky.
Going to the gym during the summer months is a struggle for many. During the few warm months we have in the year, I enjoy getting outside for my regular exercise. Hiking trails can be found all over Manitoba and can be enjoyed at any age. You are in control of your pace and you can determine how challenging you make your walk, run or bicycle ride. In this article I will talk about the different Trans Canada Trail locations available in our province, along with great trail side snacks you can pack and bring along with you for the hike.
Western Uplands & Mixed Grass Prairie
Found north of Brandon, along the western side, you can find the Crocus Trail and the Ross burn Subdivision Trail.
These two trails span from 136 kilometres and 172 kms, respectively, in distance, and they are the most westerly part of the Trans Canada Trail in Manitoba. Part of the trail has over 25 bird species that use tree cavities for homes, and there are stunning viewpoints along the way. These are great trails to take a break on while enjoying a high protein snack, like tasty beef jerky, all the while bird watching.
SINCE 1998
The central south area of the trail map is comprised of seven trails that range from 14 to 76 kms in length, with difficulty levels varying from easy to difficult. The numerous walking trails in this area are a feast for the eyes, covering terrain of potato fields, rolling pastures, landscapes of rock-strewn hills, to giant windmills stretched across the prairie sky. The Miami Thompson trail highlights Manitoba’s escarpment, one of the few features on our province’s landscape that predates the lost glacier. In a southeastern direction, the Assiniboine Delta and Pembina Hills Trail ends with shale cliffs, wildflowers, and dramatic views of the Red River Valley. This is a wonderful backdrop to enjoy a trail picnic lunch – mini meatloaves are a great handheld option.
Tall Grass Prairie
There are a number of hiking trails available in southern Manitoba. The Altona/Rhineland/Gretna Trail is 76 kms and travels as far south as the Emerson border. The Crow Wing Trail is 191 kms long and, initially established in the 1800s, offers varied multicultural areas of this region. There is also the historic St. Norbert Heritage Trail that spans just over 30 kms and is designed for walking, cross-country skiing, cycling or canoeing. Enjoy an active afternoon exploring the trails and try fishing leisurely off the riverbank.
Winnipeg & Red River North Trail
The Winnipeg trail, which has a difficulty level of easy, ensures no one has an excuse for not moving! The trail is 81 kms and it spans all areas of the city following the Red, Assiniboine and Seine Rivers.
The Winnipeg trails were designed for walkers, runners, cyclists and rollerbladers; any activity you choose is nearby, even cooling off on the surface of the rivers with an afternoon canoe ride.
Border to Beaches Trail
Border to Beaches is comprised of six trails throughout northeastern Manitoba covering the beautiful Whiteshell area. Trails span from 15 to 110 kms and include breathtaking lake to lake scenery that should be enough to get you moving. There are trails that follow high granite ridges and low areas of boggy boreal forest, and other surrounded by coniferous trees with the opportunity to see wildlife.
Go on, get moving
The outdoor trail adventures you and your family could be having are just one benefit of living in Manitoba and they are truly unique. Be sure to pack a lot of water or juices to stay hydrated, and snacks, such as high protein beef jerky, nuts and dried fruit, for energy while hiking. Also be sure to tell someone your plans for the day, including which trail you will be exploring and when you plan on returning.
If you are looking for an easy summer picnic meal, try Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes, which can be enjoyed hot or cold. In the hot sun food can spoil quickly but using solid ice packs and thermos cooler backpacks can help keep your lunch at a safe temperature. Enjoy a high energy summer by staying active.
*Learn more about all of Manitoba’s trails at www.trailsmanitoba.ca
Assiniboine Delta & Pembina
Hills Trail