10 of the Best Hikes Near Dauphin, Manitoba
Less than 10,000 people live in Dauphin, a community that’s known as a warm and welcoming place surrounded by rich farmland. There are a ton of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, so lace up your shoes and get out on these nearby trails.
Rainbow Beach Walking Trail
Length: 2.3 km
Elevation gain: Minimal
Located within Rainbow Beach Provincial Park on the shores of Dauphin Lake, this easy trail is a great option if you’re looking to spend some time in nature without going too far. The gravel path through the woods is well maintained and there are several access points down to the rocky beach. This is a loop trail that’s perfect for all skill levels, and dogs are also welcome on the trail.
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Beach Ridges
Length: 3.5 km
Elevation gain: Minimal
Situated within Riding Mountain National Park, about 68 kilometres from Dauphin, this is a beautiful loop trail that will take you through forested areas. Dogs using this trail must be kept on a leash. Previous hikers have said this trail can get pretty muddy, so be prepared if you’re venturing out not long after it’s rained. There’s a short boardwalk over a marsh on this trail, and chances are good you’ll spot wildlife along the way, so remember to bring your camera.
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Kinosao Lake Trail
Length: 7.2 km
Elevation gain: 167 m
If you’re looking to travel a little further outside Dauphin, it’ll only take you about an hour to reach Kinosao Lake Trail. This is an easy loop trail that will take you right to the dock on Kinosao Lake. The path is well maintained and you’ll travel through wooded areas on your way around. Be sure to bring along bug spray!
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Edward’s Creek
Length: 6.1 km
Elevation gain: 135 m
The Edward’s Creek trail offers wide paths through the forest and there’s some great views along the way. The trail is rated as moderate. There is parking located near the trailhead, just across the highway, and this is also the parking lot for Broadleaf and Crawford Creek trails. Bring bug spray, as previous hikers have said it can be buggy out on this trail.
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Hilton Cross Trail
Length: 13.2 km
Elevation gain: 342 m
The Hilton Cross Trail is located within Riding Mountain National Park, and the trailhead is just off Highway 10. This is an out-and-back trail that’s rated as moderate. In the warmer months, this trail is mainly used by hikers. But in the winter months, you’ll find cross-country skiers using this trail.
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Moon Lake Trail
Length: 9.3 km
Elevation gain: 220 m
Located in Riding Mountain National Park, you’ll be following the trail around Moon Lake—there’s a bridge to cross and a dock on the lake. The trail crosses about 16 small streams, all of which are easily passable, but be sure you’re wearing the appropriate footwear for this one. There’s an excellent chance you’ll see wildlife along the way. The trail is rated as moderate, mostly due to the potential for muddy conditions and the distance.
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Conrad Point Trail
Length: 1.8 km
Elevation gain: Minimal
This short trail is interesting in that you follow a boat channel out into Lake Manitoba. The trail is located within Manipogo Provincial Park and there are several points along the trail that will lead you to the beach. The trail itself is grass and it’s great for all skill levels. Dogs are also welcome on the Conrad Point Trail.
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Bead Lakes Trail
Length: 3.9 km
Elevation gain: 105 m
If you’re looking for a beautiful hike near the water, look no further than this trail. The Bead Lakes Trail will take you past three of the four lakes and the trailhead is just off Highway 10 so it’s easy to get to. There is the possibility that you’ll see bears in the area, so come prepared. This is a loop trail located in Riding Mountain National Park.
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Strathclair Trail
Length: 22.2 km
Elevation gain: 397 m
If you’re looking for a longer, more difficult trail, Strathclair Trail could be the answer. This is a point-to-point trail located in Riding Mountain National Park. There are campgrounds along the way, and you’ll pass by many small lakes if you go the entire length. This trail is primarily used for hiking, camping and backpacking, and the best times to go are from May to September.
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Blue Lakes Trail
Length: 5.3 km
Elevation gain: 106 m
The Blue Lakes Trail is located in Duck Mountain Provincial Park, and this loop trail borders the shores of West Blue and East Blue lakes. The trail will take you over rolling hills and through beautiful woods. Be prepared for some potentially muddy spots if it’s rained recently. There are four picnic areas along the way, so pack a lunch!
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