Trail update - Spring 2024

Excited to get out and explore the trails in the RM of Stanley? We are too! With the dry spring, many of our trails are presently rideable and open for hiking. As always, if we experience rain, we ask that you stay off the trail so that ruts don’t develop.

The Trans Canada trail running through the RM of Stanley has several sections that are on gravel roads. An option to enjoy the outdoors (while the trails are drying) is to head out for a bike ride on the gravel road sections of the Trans Canada trail. This map can get you started and there are signs along the way. Staying off of the single track sections of trail will give them a chance to dry out. The sooner they dry, the sooner everyone can enjoy them. If you are on the single track sections and find yourself sliding or leaving deep imprints, then it is too wet to proceed. Please do not travel adjacent to the trail attempting to avoid the wet conditions.

The STA appreciates the donations that it has received in the past. One of the ways that the STA uses donations is to employee rural youth for summer employment to do trail maintenance. This has been a successful approach over the past few years and we plan to continue this in 2024. If you are interested in donating to the STA, click here. Your donation will have a direct impact on the maintenance of the trails.

Happy trails from the STA.

A gravel ride is a great way to enjoy the outdoors in this beautiful part of the province.

New trailhead signs

The STA is pleased to announce that there are six new trailhead signs now installed at the entrances to all of the single track portions of the Stanley trail. Each sign will have a map of the full Stanley trail, a detailed map for its specific section of trail and trail information. The consistent appearance and detail on the signs will make it easier to find and plan your time on the trail.

Thank-you to Trans Canada Trail and to Trails MB for their financial contributions, covering a significant portion of the costs for this project. Thanks to Capital Landscaping for the assistance with the installation. Thanks to the volunteers that fabricated and installed the signs. The signs look great and will be of assistance to trail users for years to come.

Happy trails,

The STA

A new sign at the entrance to a popular section of the Stanley trail.

Each sign includes a full map of the Stanley trail and a detailed map of the specific location.

The consistent appearance of the signs makes them easy to spot along the Stanley trail.

Job well done.

Trails Through Time Video

Sputnik Architecture of Winnipeg in collaboration with Stanley Trail Association and funding from Heritage Manitoba, completed a video entitled Trails Through Time. This video highlights the geological history that makes the area unique.

Minnewasta Trail Report

In 2021, we collected information on the Lake Minnewasta Trail as part of a trail use and condition study. Thanks to Leanna Fehr Wiebe, Doug Kelso and Paul & Valorie Goossen for sharing their knowledge and passion. Minnewasta Trail Report

Donate to the Stanley Trail Association

More than ever, people are enjoying our piece of the Trans Canada Trail and the Minnewasta Lake Trail.  The hard work of our volunteers on maintenance and improvement projects keep the trail ready for your next visit.  This summer, our team will include the next generation of trail enthusiasts. Through the Trans Canada Youth Employment program, your monetary support will be doubled and will allow us to sponsor local and rural youth. With your support, this program will expand our capacity and improve your trail experience. Please consider donating. Additional funding will go towards other projects underway and cover the costs of trail equipment, signage, building materials, etc..

DONATE NOW!

(tax receipts available for donations of $25 or more)

Hear local Golden West radio interview, featuring STA’s trail initiatives.

Winter hiking? Yes, please.

Winter is a beautiful time to enjoy the outdoors. Photos by Jeff Scott

Trail hikes don’t have to stop once the snow arrives.  If you are looking to get out and enjoy the trails, here are a few tips to make your experience a good one.

Trail conditions:

Conditions may vary from packed trails to snow covered to icy/slippery conditions.  Having appropriate footwear can make a huge difference on how enjoyable your hike will be.  Warmth and traction are key.  Consider using traction aids even if there is no ice.  Having good traction will conserve energy and prevent slipping or falling.  Snow shoes also provide improved traction, even on packed trails.  When trails have fresh snow, using snow shoes will help to provide traction and to pack the trail more evenly.

First tracks.

What to wear:

Layering is key to regulating your temperature and moisture.    Choosing to wear several thin layers allows you to add or shed layers while out for extended periods.  Try to dress at level that you will not become overheated and sweating.  Moisture will freeze if you stop to rest.  Add or remove layers as necessary to regulate your temperature.  Carrying a small back-pack allows you to bring along the layers you need without needing to wear all of them.  If you are out for long hikes, consider bringing an extra pair of gloves or hat in case the ones you are wearing becomes wet.   Consider clothing that will wick moisture and is breathable.  

Protect your eyes and face.  The reflection of the sun off the snow can be hard on your eyes.  Wear sunglasses and consider sunscreen.  If conditions are windy, using a barrier cream on exposed skin can prevent wind burn.   

Know your route:

Trails that are easily visible in summer may be more difficult to distinguish once they are covered in snow.  Look for trail markers or consider using a GPS.

Keep in mind that the sun sets earlier in the winter months.  That hike that took a couple of hours in the summer may need more time to finish in the winter.  Budget your time accordingly and set realistic objectives.   Your hike will be less fun if the sun sets, the temperature drops and you are still a long way from your vehicle.

Know your limits:

Winter hiking can be strenuous.  Not everyone in your group may be used to hiking trails in the winter.  Bring food and snacks, take frequent breaks and move at a pace that is comfortable for everyone in your group.

Trail etiquette still applies in the winter.  Go only where you have permission, leave only footprints (take your trash with you) and respect other trail users.

happy trails,

STA

Get Out There!

There's no better way to help than to get out and experience nature for yourself.