Walking — the Miracle Drug

My Top 5 Favourite Manitoba Winter Walks

Remember how we were always warned that we could catch a cold from being out in the cold? Well it turns out that not only is that a myth, but it’s actually the opposite! People who walk just 20 minutes per day have 43% fewer sick days! If we had a drug that could lower your sick days by 43% it would be the top-selling drug of all time. 

Walking has so many benefits! It reduces heart disease, diabetes, symptoms of mental illness, stress hormone levels and even breast cancer. 

Manitoba is under a blanket of fresh snow. C’mon out from under your blankets for a walk in a winter wonderland! 

Worried about the cold? One of the best investments I ever made was a warm parka. What a joy it is to experience winter from inside a toasty jacket. And for those like me who get cold toes, toe warmers are a game-changer. So bundle up, get outside and join me to get moving and gain some serious benefits for your physical and mental health.

Here are my top 5 picks for a winter walk to remember:

1. Nestaweya River Trail is my absolute favoruite place to enjoy winter in Winnipeg. Grab a hot chocolate from Fête and explore this winter wonderland that magically appears each winter. Whether you are skating, walking, running or cross-country skiing, you are surrounded by the beauty of the river and the sounds of joy and laughter from those around you. Head down to The Forks to warm up and enjoy some unique culinary options, local art, artisan shops and many fun events.

2. Assiniboine Forest is one of largest urban nature parks of its kind in Canada, with six trails to try, all located south of Corydon Avenue, north of Wilkes Avenue, west of Shaftesbury and east of Chalfont Road. The nearby Harte Trail is part of the Trans Canada Trail. It’s hard to believe you’re still inside the city of Winnipeg when exploring this forest.

3. Bois-des-Esprits (“Woods Where the Spirits Dwell”) along the Seine River in St. Vital is an artful place for a winter walk, with wooden carvings nestled in the snow along the path. You can see a map of them here.

4. Birds Hill Park is known as home to the Winnipeg Folk Festival, but is a quieter destination for winter activities, including a walk on the Cedar Bog Trail, one of 10 recently highlighted by Travel Manitoba for winter hiking and skating.

5. Around your own block. Getting outside this winter doesn’t have to be a big undertaking. Bring the kids along and for a game of I‑Spy, pointing out the people, objects and pets along the way. Or bring the dog to get some healthy activity for you and your pup. 

Still not sure where to go or want to learn from those more experienced on the trail? Consider taking part in a free group hike with the Manitoba chapter of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society.

Share your favourite place for a winter walk! Tag us at @doc​tors​man​i​to​ba​.ca or me @jossreimer on Instagram.

Learn more:

5 Tips to Make the Most of Time in Nature

Need proof alongside positivity? Here are seven science-backed health reasons to get outside and 5 more surprising benefits of walking.