Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail Hike

By Brendan, Communications and Social Media Assistant

Birds and berries and bugs – oh my!

There’s no telling what you’ll find when you hike at Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail. Just follow the boardwalk and enter a mix of boreal forest, calcareous fen, and cedar swamp to discover a wide range of flora and fauna.

CPAWS’ Nature Club Hike at Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail

This past weekend, 25 people joined us on Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail. Our hike was led by Dylan Kensick, Environmental Officer at Brokenhead Ojibway Nation and Taylor Galvin, Co-Chair and Tour Director at Brokenhead Wetlands Interpretive Trail.

On the hike, they shared knowledge of the connection between the Brokenhead Ojibway Nation and the Wetland including spiritual connections present on the trail. These connections influenced the boardwalk’s construction as the trail passes through areas with strong spiritual connections. More information on the trail can be found by taking a tour, so look out for future hikes at Brokenhead Interpretive Trail.

Pitcher plants stole the show on our hike, the carnivorous plants were all along the boardwalk as we entered the open wetland. They were very polite and grew next to the trail for our hikers to capture great pictures. 

Another favourite of ours were the snails posed for us in the water. Dubbed “best friends” by one of the hikers, these two snails emotionally supported each other in the water, so we could see these cuties hanging out and take pictures of our little models.

About the Trail

The boardwalk path of Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail creates a safe and accessible way to immerse yourself in the scenery of the land. The trail is accompanied with displays along the path to give insight to the importance of the land to the local Ojibway and how they used the plantlife for food, medicine, and ceremonies.

The range of ecosystems creates a beautiful blend of biodiversity and features  calcareous fen area, a rare ecosystem in North America. The Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail is home to most of Manitoba’s orchids and carnivorous plants. Signage along the trail helps you identify plants you’re seeing, so you can go home with pictures and fun facts to share with family and friends.

The trail is a 2.7km round trip and takes about two hours to walk. The trail is fully wheelchair accessible and has parking, washrooms, and picnic tables ahead of the trail. It is located roughly 70 km northeast of Winnipeg on the westside of highway 59. It can be tough to spot from the highway, so keep an active eye out so you don’t miss it.

Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail dos and don’ts

Do bring a camera and throw away the lens cap!
You’ll never know when the opportunity for a picture will reveal itself. Animals and insects are unpredictable, so it’s best to be ready.

Don’t forage.
The trail is on a protected ecological reserve which forbids the public from removing plants from the area.

Do bring a friend along.
For safety and yapping, having a friend on any hike helps keep you safe and gives you some nice company while exploring the wilderness.

Don’t bring your dog. 
Unfortunately dogs aren’t allowed on the trail for their own safety. There’s many great places for dogs like parks, open fields, and the CPAWS office, this trail just isn’t one of them.

Do remember to stay on the trail. 
The wetlands can be unpredictable lands and the land is a protected area. Staying on the path ensures safety for you and the plants of the area.

Don’t forget sunscreen and snacks.
Gotta keep that energy up for the hike and snacks are a great way to do so! Also dress for the weather, wear shoes that are comfortable, and remember that you can always leave a sweater in the car if you don’t think you’ll need it.

How to Learn More:

Sign up for our other hikes and events

Learn more about Brokenhead Interpretive trail by following them on Instagram.

Plan your trip and learn more on our Manitoba Trail Page