Get Outside and Get (Safely!) Social with CPAWS Manitoba
We miss people!
That's why the staff at CPAWS Manitoba are thrilled to be able to resume in-person programming after a long and lonely pandemic.
CPAWS Manitoba’s Nature Club is designed to help Manitobans get outside, make new friends, and appreciate the wonders of nature.
We’ve developed a wide range of activities and programming to help Manitobans of all ages and abilities enjoy the health and wellness benefits of nature.
We are kicking off our Outdoor Fun activities with some low-pressure group hikes.
We’ll be adding on opportunities for group skates and cross-country ski excursions once the snow falls and the river freezes over.
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.
Join Us For Our Upcoming Events
Outdoor Fun Group Hikes
Explore the stunning nature in Manitoba with like-minded people by signing up for one of our hikes!
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.
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.
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, 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 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)
Event Descriptions
Event Ordering
Group Hike at Cedar Bog Trail in Birds Hill Provincial Park
Group Hike at La Barrière Park
Group Hike at St Adolphe Friendship Trail
Morning Group Hike at Stony Mountain Quarry Trail
Group Hike at Beaudry Provincial Park
Group Hike at Pinawa Suspension Bridge
Spooktacular Halloween Hike in Birds Hill
Group Hike at La Barrière Park
Group Hike at St Adolphe Friendship Trail
Read More
Get Inspired to Get Outside
Put Spending Time in Nature on Your New Year’s Resolution List: OP-ED
How Does Spending Time in Nature Improve Our Physical Health and Mental Well-Being?
Tackling Trash: Highlights from CPAWS’ 2023 Student Litter Cleanup Challenge
Safety Protocols
CPAWS Manitoba takes the safety of all program participants seriously.
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. We bring a basic first-aid kit to all in-person events.
All CPAWS Manitoba staff members have cleared a criminal record and vulnerable sector background check with the Winnipeg Police Department.
Supporters
This programming was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Government of Manitoba's Safe At Home Manitoba program, The Winnipeg Foundation and The Conservation Trust, a Manitoba Climate and Green Plan Initiative delivered by the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation.
