BY MIRA OBERMAN, COMMUNICATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT MANAGER, CPAWS MANITOBA
Beaudry Provincial Park is the perfect place to introduce kids to the joy of hiking.
It’s close enough to the city to squeeze a hike into a busy Saturday and far enough to escape from traffic noise and enjoy the soothing sounds of nature.
Wide, well-marked paths follow the curve of the Assiniboine River and offer enough gentle slopes to get little legs leaping. On dry days, they’re suitable for strollers and bikes.
The forest is filled with fallen trees to climb and transform into makeshift clubhouses. There’s also plenty of open space in the natural prairie for flying kites on a windy day.
At just 2.5 kilometres, the Wild Grape Trail is short enough for young kids to explore without getting too tired.
This family hike is designed to take around one to two hours to complete, depending on how long your kids stop to climb trees, examine wildflowers or toss sticks into the river.
Families looking for a longer hike can add on the Elm Trail to enjoy another 2.8 kilometres in the woods.
Beaudry has some of the largest basswood, cottonwood, and maple trees in the area. It’s also home to white-tailed deer, fox, owls, raccoons, beaver, muskrat, and a multitude of birds.
The Wild Grape Trail at Beaudry Provincial Park is a great hike for kids. Photo by Mira Oberman.
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 provincial 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.
How to Get There
- Travel west along Roblin Road for about 10 kilometres past the city limits. Be sure to slow down when driving through Headingley.
OR - Travel west along Highway 1. When you get to Headingley turn south (left) onto 334. Then hang a right to go west along 241. Be sure to slow down when driving through Headingley.
- Watch for the sign for Beaudry Provincial Park and turn right into the parking lot.
- Don’t forget your provincial park pass!
Click here to view a park map.
Amenities
- There’s an outhouse and a handful of picnic tables at the trailhead.
- There are gas stations and restaurants in Headingley and plenty of options along Portage Ave just inside the perimeter.
- Our favourite places to stop are Nick’s Inn in Headingley if we take Portage Ave or Crampton’s Market and Shelmerdine’s Garden Centre along Roblin Road.
What to Bring on Your Hike
- A park pass is required for all vehicles entering provincial parks. An annual pass (which can be used in two vehicles) is $44.50. Daily permits are $9.50.
- 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 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.
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.