It’s not surprising we go stir-crazy during Manitoba’s long cold winters. One way to get outside of our houses – and our heads – is to get active. Fortunately, there are plenty of places to go cross-country skiing in Manitoba.
An ideal winter activity for Canadian climates, it’s relatively easy to learn, invigorates your senses, and allows you to absorb the beauty of nature. While at the same time, it offers important benefits for both mental health and fitness.
Fitness benefits of skiingÂ
Cross-country skiing is a total body work-out, and one of the best physical activities you can do. Skiing at a moderate pace can burn 800 calories per hour, while improving circulation, and enhancing balance and coordination. Best of all, it doesn’t require any special skills to get started. However, you will need some gear.
A basic cross-country skiing package can be purchased for as little as $250, and even less for used gear. It’s also quite easy and affordable to rent skis, poles and boots at different places around Winnipeg.
Some of Manitoba’s best trailsÂ
When it comes to rural roaming, Manitoba is indeed a winter wonderland. There are dozens of places to go cross-country skiing in Manitoba. Here are some favourites.
Birds Hill Provincial Park has five different cross-country ski trails totaling 38 kilometers. Grand Beach Provincial Park has 16 kilometers, while Hecla Island tallies in at over 30 kilometers. Seven Sisters Falls has three loops – short, medium, at long – that wind through the bush and pass by the hydro dam. Keep your eyes open here for wildlife spotting!
Whiteshell Provincial Park has at least seven different trails, ranging from a two kilometer-long novice loop at Jessica Lake, to the 6.5 kilometer trail at Pine Point Rapids with an optional short hike up to a viewing peak.
The South Whiteshell Trail region at Falcon Lake and West Hawk Lake makes up part of the Trans Canada Trail system, and offers over 40 kilometers of trails amidst all kinds of terrain.
Wherever you choose to go, be safe, enjoy the ride, and the glide.
