Explore Sagimay, Traverse and Preston Trail Loop
The Assiniboine Forest in Winnipeg is one of North America’s largest urban forests, offering an oasis of natural beauty and tranquility. It features a network of trails that wind through diverse landscapes, including aspen-oak woodlands, prairie meadows, and wetlands. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Highlights include the Sagimay Trail, a fully accessible path with scenic boardwalks that cross the marshy areas, and the Eve Werier Pond, a peaceful spot perfect for reflection and wildlife observation. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, an invigorating hike, or a chance to immerse yourself in Winnipeg’s natural heritage, Assiniboine Forest provides a serene escape close to the city.
Trail Highlights:
- Length: 3.5 km
- Average Time: 45 mins- 1 hour
- Type: Loop
- Difficulty: ⅕
- Picnic Area: a few benches throughout the trail
- Highlight: Boardwalk and marsh
Accessibility:
- Not fully wheelchair and stroller accessible (the shorter section of Sagimay Trail is paved)
- Bathrooms: No
- Parking: Yes, large parking lot and street parking
- Bus Access: Yes!
- Dogs: Must be leashed.
- Park Pass: Not required
Trail Testimonials
"I appreciate CPAWS organizing these outings. It gives me a chance to explore different areas."
"I really like all the urban hikes because they are convenient. It is also very important to me to preserve wilderness areas that are within urban areas."
"It is absolutely essential to preserve wilderness within urban areas. CPAWS does a great job raising awareness and educating the public about the importance of not only preserving, but increasing wilderness places within the city."
Join us on the Trail!
Assiniboine Forest History
According to the Friends of Assiniboine Forest, Assiniboine Forest is the largest urban forest in Canada with 711 acres of aspen and oak forest, restored tall-grass prairie and wetlands. It is home to white-tailed deer, coyote, songbirds, nesting waterfowl, and 256 species of plants.
The forest is largely undeveloped, aside from 18 kilometres of multi-use trails designed to help residents explore and appreciate its beauty.
Some of those trails were originally roads which were cut in the forest in the early 1920s. Plans for development were shelved due to the Great Depression and the forest remained largely undisturbed for decades.
Local residents began working to protect the forest in the 1960s. They succeeded in 1973 when the City of Winnipeg designated Assiniboine Forest as a municipal nature park.
The Charleswood Rotary Club has helped steward the forest since 1991, raising over $600,000 to support project such as:
- cleaning up an old municipal waste disposal site
- creating a new wetland area
- developing a parking lot and front gate
- building and maintaining an elevated boardwalk
- installing interpretive and directional signage
- and mitigating invasive thistle plants
The club also worked with city officials to develop a comprehensive 355 page planning study to provide clear direction for future forest management.
Resources
Sign a letter here
Learn about it here
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