Spanning over 35 square kilometers, Birds Hill Provincial Park is a unique blend of rolling glacier-formed hills, aspen and oak woodlands, wildflower meadows, sandy beaches, and bogs. With world-class cycling, camping, horseback riding, birdwatching, and swimming, the park serves as a year-round retreat for families, couples, groups, and solo travelers. Beginner to advanced adventurers will find a perfect mix of accessible fun and unspoiled nature.
History of Birds Hill Provincial Park
Birds Hill Provincial Park opened in 1967 as a centennial project to celebrate Canada’s 100th birthday. The area is named after the Bird family, early 19th-century settlers on the Red River, whose stories are interwoven with trails and interpretive signage throughout the park. Natural history here runs deep—ancient ice sheets, glacial meltwaters, and Lake Agassiz left behind ridges, boulders, and unique prairie landscapes, now preserved for recreation and wildlife.
From historic sites like Pine Ridge Cemetery (with connections to Lord Selkirk’s Red River colony and the famed de Meuron Regiment) to the Papal Site—commemorating Pope John Paul II’s 1984 visit—Birds Hill is steeped in both cultural and natural heritage.
Attractions at Birds Hill Provincial Park
Trails for Every Explorer: Over 30 km (18.5 mi) of trails for walking, hiking, cross-country skiing, and nature study. The Lakeview, Oak Ridge, Bluestem, and Chickadee Trails offer options for all skill levels, including self-guided routes with educational panels.
Paved Cycling & Rollerblading: The 7.2 km Lakeview Trail circles the lake and woods, while longer Bluestem and Oak Ridge mountain bike trails provide challenges for more adventurous riders.
Bird Watching and Wildlife: With over 200 bird species plus deer, frogs, toads, garter snakes, and more, the park is wildlife heaven. Dedicated trails and bird feeders help novice and seasoned birders spot horned larks, buntings, sparrows, juncos, and warblers year-round.
Swimming and Beach Days: Cool off at the park’s sandy lake, with a marked swimming area, lifeguards (in summer), change rooms, and concessions.
Campgrounds: Over 450 campsites (unserviced, electrical, and full-service) are available along South Drive—perfect for tents, RVs, or group camping. Picnic sites with shelters and fire pits are scattered throughout.
Horseback Riding: The Birds Hill Park Ranch offers trail rides, wagon rides, and hay rides along hundreds of kilometers of bridle and carriageway trails—an equestrian favorite.
Historic Sites: Pine Ridge Cemetery, Papal Site, and interpretive stops along several self-guided trails.
Winnipeg Folk Festival: Each July, the park transforms for one of North America’s largest music gatherings—live music, international food stalls, craft village, and family fun. In addition to the lively festival atmosphere, there are numerous family activities at Assiniboine Park, making it a perfect destination for all ages. Families can explore the beautiful gardens, participate in engaging workshops, or enjoy a peaceful picnic by the lake. The park offers something for everyone, ensuring memorable experiences for visitors throughout the summer.
Things to Do at Birds Hill Provincial Park
Hike, bike, or ride horseback through diverse terrain ranging from dry prairie to bog wetlands.
Watch wildlife from viewing towers or stroll the Bluestem or Chickadee Trail for elusive deer or migrating songbirds.
Swim, sunbathe, or picnic lakeside.
Camp overnight, roast marshmallows at your site, and stargaze far from city lights.
In winter, enjoy 30 km of cross-country ski, snowshoe, and snowmobile trails, plus a winter festival (with snowshoeing, bannock, and bonfires).
Participate in interpretive and educational programs—guided hikes, campfire storytelling, and nature workshops are available in summer.
Attend special events, from cycling races and polo matches to triathlons and the famous folk festival.
Birds Hill Provincial Park – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
Open year-round, 24 hours a day for day use and camping.
Facilities (beach, summer concessions, rental shops) operate from May/June through September, 9 am–8 pm.
How Long to Spend at Birds Hill Provincial Park
Allocate 3-6 hours for a standard visit to enjoy trails, swimming, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. Campers or event-goers may stay a weekend or week. Families typically plan half- or full-day adventures, especially when attending special events.
How to Get There
By Car: Take Highway 59 north from Winnipeg 24 km (15 mi) to the main west park entrance. Free and paid parking lots throughout.
By Bus: No direct public transit, but city buses (#43, #47, #48) run to nearby East St. Paul; taxi or bike the remaining distance.
By Taxi/Rideshare: About 20–30 minutes from downtown Winnipeg.
Bicycle: Experienced cyclists use the Trans Canada Trail and regional shoulders to reach the park.
By Boat: No waterway access for public entry, but summer lakeside beach rentals available.
Eateries Nearby Birds Hill Provincial Park
On-site Beach Concession: Snacks, hot foods, cold drinks, and ice cream during summer.
Birds Hill Park Ranch Café: Classic family fare for riders and campers.
Half Moon Drive In: Iconic spot in nearby Lockport (5 km), a regional favorite for burgers and ice cream.
Pony Corral Restaurant: Full-service Winnipeg steakhouse within a 15-minute drive.
Bernstein’s Deli: Renowned Winnipeg delicatessen, 20 minutes away.
Red Sun Buffet: Family-oriented Asian buffet, about 6 km west on Dugald Road.
Other Attractions Nearby Birds Hill Provincial Park
Lockport: Historic locks and recreational fishing on the Red River.
Oak Hammock Marsh: World-class wetland with interactive interpretive center, 16 km north.
Rossmere Golf Course: Public golf with scenic backdrops.
St. Andrews Rectory National Historic Site: Early 19th-century fur trade history, 15 minutes east.
Kilcona Park: Dog-friendly green space southeast of Birds Hill.
Birds Hill Provincial Park is one of Manitoba’s premier outdoor destinations, offering visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Located just northeast of Winnipeg, Birds Hill Provincial Park features sprawling forests, rolling hills, and picturesque lakes, making it ideal for hiking, biking, camping, and picnicking. Families and nature enthusiasts flock here for seasonal activities such as swimming, birdwatching, and winter sports like cross-country skiing. With well-maintained trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas, Birds Hill Provincial Park provides a peaceful retreat from city life while showcasing Manitoba’s rich natural heritage.