Whether you’re the outdoorsy type or a couch potato, the provincial government would like to give you a reason to get outside and explore this month.
In February only, all provincial parks will provide free entry in order to encourage residents to take advantage of the many winter activities they offer.
“February is a great time to enjoy Manitoba’s provincial parks,” says Environment and Climate Change Minister Tracy Schmidt. “We know affordability is top of mind for many families, so I am pleased to announce we are waiving the entry fee to all provincial parks for the month of February. We encourage all Manitobans to get outdoors and enjoy everything our beautiful provincial parks have to offer.”
Among the thousands of miles of trail systems that meander through Manitoba’s provincial parks, many are groomed for cross-country skiing, fat biking, snowshoeing, or winter hiking.
Parks like Paint Lake, Spruce Woods, and Turtle Mountain offer outdoor skating areas, hockey rinks, and toboggan hills. Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park has ice-fishing shelters on Lake Winnipeg that are free to use.
Asessippi Ski Resort and Falcon Ridge Ski Slopes provide downhill ski and snowboarding experiences, along with equipment rentals. Entrance into their respective parks is free this month.
A variety of guided programs are also being offered in Birds Hill, Spruce Woods, and the Whiteshell. Park interpreters are available to encourage park use while promoting stewardship of the province’s natural resources.
Guided programs include wolf howl hikes, snowshoe treks, ski clinics, quinzhee building, and ice fishing.
Teachers can also book free guided field trips to Birds Hill, Spruce Woods, and Whiteshell provincial parks along with virtual programs that bring park interpreters into classrooms.
The province recommends that residents check trail conditions before heading out to any park. As well, they are asked to use the trails responsibly by keeping pets on leashes and leaving no trace of items that they bring along.
Snopasses are still required for snowmobiles using designated trails.
