Free Group Hikes at Pinawa Suspension Bridge

The Pinawa suspension bridge brings out the child in just about anyone as it bounces freely under your step. Rising 13 ft above the water, it offers an incredible viewpoint for enjoying the colours of fall.

The trail on the other side is well worth the trip. It’s along the farthest western reach of the Canadian Shield with plenty of preCambrian rock to climb but a gentler slope than you’ll find in the Whiteshell. It meanders past lakes, a wetland and inspiring views of the river below. In summer you can see tubers, kayaks, and canoes speeding along the water.

Part of the Great Canadian Trail, this hike can be as long or short as you want it to be. A typical hike would be from the bridge to the old dam, about 5 km there and back. There are several side trails and mini loops along the way so take a moment to pause at junctions to make sure you’re going the right way.

We’ll be starting our hike at the suspension bridge and trekking 2.5 km in and out again. It should take us about an hour. It’s a great hike for families, people who are new to hiking, and experienced outdoorsy types looking for an easy but rewarding trek in the woods.

Outdoor Fun: What to Expect on Your Group Hike

Sometimes we just want to have some fun and enjoy a friendly chat with a stranger.

Our (free!) group hikes are an easy way to get outside and explore Manitoba’s beautiful parks with other people.

CPAWS staff will share their love of nature on a relaxing hike along our favourite trails.

There won’t be any lectures along the way: when we stop for water and snack breaks we’ll keep the conversation casual and light.

If you’ve got questions we’ll do our best to answer them. However, we are not formally trained park interpreters. We encourage people seeking learning opportunities to check out our outdoor learning programming or try an interpretive event offered by Manitoba Parks.

Most hikes will take around two hours to complete and will be moderately challenging. Most will also be close enough to Winnipeg to make a pleasant day trip. Check out the event descriptions for more details.

How to get there

Set your GPS for the Pinawa Cemetery, or follow these directions:

• Take Provincial Trunk Hwy 59 N/MB-59 N toward Grand Beach
• Merge onto Provincial Trunk Hwy 44 E/MB-44 E via the ramp to Beausejour
• Turn right to stay on Provincial Trunk Hwy 44 E/MB-44 E
• Turn left onto Provincial Trunk Hwy 44 E (signs for Vivian)
• Turn left onto MB-11 N (signs for Lac Du Bonnet)
• Turn right onto MB-211 E (signs for Pinawa)
• Turn left at Dorchester Ave

Amenities

• There’s an outhouse at the trailhead.
• There are some great restaurants nearby in the town of Pinawa, including the Pinawa Golf Club Restaurant.
• Several gas stations are along Highway 59.

What to Bring on Your Hike

• Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately! Pack a hat if it’s sunny, a raincoat if it’s going to get wet, and a sweater or jacket if it’s going to be windy or cold. Dress in layers so you can cool off or warm up as needed.
• Bring at least two bottles of water: you can leave one in your vehicle on a cool day; you’ll want both on the hike if it’s hot.
• Bug spray and sunscreen: you can apply in the parking lot so you don’t need to carry them on the hike.
• Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must. You don’t need hiking boots. But sneakers are definitely a better choice than flip flops.
• Snacks are a great way to keep your energy up along the trail. Many trails don’t have restaurants or stores nearby so you may also want to pack a picnic lunch.
• Hand sanitizer (Most trails have outhouses, not modern toilets.)
• Any medication you may need (like your asthma inhaler or an EpiPen)
• A safety whistle and a basic first aid kit (not required, but a good idea any time you’re in the wilderness)

About the CPAWS Manitoba Nature Club

CPAWS Manitoba’s Nature Club is designed to help Manitobans get outside, make new friends, and learn about the wonders of nature.

We’ve developed a wide range of programming and activities to help Manitobans of all ages and abilities enjoy the health and wellness benefits of nature.

Find out more at our website — cpawsmb.org — and be sure to subscribe to our events newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter so you don’t miss out on upcoming events.

Safety Protocols

CPAWS Manitoba takes the safety of all program participants seriously.

All CPAWS Manitoba staff members have cleared a criminal record and vulnerable sector background check with the Winnipeg Police Department.

All CPAWS Manitoba staff members voluntarily disclose that they have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. We adhere to all public health recommendations and guidelines.

CPAWS policy requires that at least one person leading programming that may involve children must be certified in first aid. This applies to staff or to volunteers.

This program is possible thanks to the generous support of The Winnipeg Foundation and the Conservation Trust, a Manitoba Climate and Green Plan Initiative delivered by the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation.