Beach Park Loop

Birds Hill Provincial Park is a fascinating mix of natural wonders and cultural heritage, shaped over millennia by glacial forces and human activity. About 10,000 years ago, it was an island in Lake Agassiz, a massive glacial lake that once covered much of Manitoba. As the lake drained, its waves sculpted the sandy ridges and gravel deposits seen today, while melting icebergs left boulders scattered across the landscape. Ancient beach ridges, still visible along trails like Cedar Bog and Chickadee, offer a glimpse into the park’s glacial past.

The park is named after the Bird family, early settlers whose story is central to the region’s history. James Curtis Bird, an officer of the Hudson’s Bay Company, retired in 1824 and was granted 3,000 acres of land, which included what is now the park. His home, known as "the White Cottage," was built on the banks of the Red River, a vital transportation route at the time. James’s descendants, including his son Curtis James Bird—the first Speaker of Manitoba’s Legislative Assembly—played significant roles in shaping the local community.

Over the years, the land served as a refuge for Red River settlers and wildlife during devastating floods and provided essential resources. Timber from the park’s forests was used for construction, while limestone was processed in local kilns for building materials. Fertile soils initially supported crops like rye and potatoes, though farming declined as soil fertility waned in the early 20th century. 

Established as a provincial park in 1964, Birds Hill protects this unique landscape and its layered history. Visitors can explore remnants of early settlements, while enjoying the natural beauty of a place that has served as both a sanctuary and a source of sustenance for generations.

Learn more about the history here.