23 January, 2025

Trail Profile: City of Winnipeg, Harte Trail Section

A snowy path winds through a forest of trees along the Harte Trail, creating a serene winter landscape. Un sentier enneigé serpente à travers une forêt d’arbres le long du tronçon Harte Trail, créant un paysage hivernal paisible.

Running for 6.5 kilometres within the city of Winnipeg, the Harte Trail passes by several attractions that are great for the whole family. Not only is it part of an active transportation network that connects to the rest of the city, it’s also a great option for both cold- and warm-weather Trail adventuring – in fact, the trail enjoys priority snow-clearing in the winter!

What we love about this Trail section

• It’s got history! It was built on an old railway bed – the first section of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, built in 1894.

• The Trail section is almost fully treed, protecting it from wind year-round, and providing welcome shade in the summer months.

• It passes right by Assiniboine Forest and connects to a number of hiking and walking trails

• It’s great for a variety of activities in all seasons.

Exploring the first section of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway

Head out for hiking, cycling, running or birding in the warmer months, or hiking and winter biking in colder weather. This Trail section has an interesting origin story: it takes its name from the first section of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, built in 1894. The former railbed is even and flat, appropriate for all ages. Keep an eye out for wildlife en route, including deer, foxes and birds – and in the spring, enjoy the sounds of frogs croaking alongside the Trail!

More trails, please!

The aurora borealis illuminates the Harte Trail, creating a stunning natural display over the winding path. Les aurores boréales illuminent le Harte Trail, offrant un spectacle naturel époustouflant au-dessus du sentier sinueux.

Photo credit: Friends of Harte Trail

If you’re inclined to extend your trail adventuring, you’ll cross several great options on your route: the Thundering Bison Trail, the Preston Trail and the Assiniboine Forest trails are all close to the Harte Trail – and to one another, so why not make a day of it?

A haven at the Van Roon Prairie Garden

Farther west, the Trail passes the Van Roon Prairie Garden, installed by the Friends of Harte Trail in honour of Verna and Len Van Roon, both of whom made significant contributions to preserving the natural and cultural history of the area. The prairie garden is certified as a Pollinator-Friendly Public Garden, and features native foliage and a lovely meeting place.

Check out the zoo, conservatory and much more at Assiniboine Park

A bench positioned along a dirt path on the Harte Trail Section. Un banc installé le long d’un sentier de terre sur le tronçon Harte Trail.

Photo credit: Friends of Harte Trail

The Harte Trail takes you to Preston Trail, which is a connection point with Assiniboine Park – a popular 280-acre nature park. The park features several activities that are sure to please the whole family. In the winter, activities abound! Check out the new sauna, head out on a guided snowshoe experience or stop at the duck pond. In the warmer months, the park offers bike rentals, a steam trail and an outdoor fitness area.

Working to connect Headingley Grand Trunk Trail to Harte Trail

The Friends of Harte Trail are working with the Headingly Grand Trunk Trail Assocation to establish a grade-separated pedestrian and cycling connection between the two trails. In 2024, in part with funding from Trans Canada Trail, a study was undertaken to assess the impact to the local drainage network resulting from the proposed underpass crossing option and recommend mitigation measures. The trail associations continue to work to advocate for a safe passage and seek opportunities to see it develop further.

Thank you to the Friends of Harte Trail

Big thanks go out to the Friends of Harte Trail, whose dedication to maintaining and enhancing the Trail, and to preserving the history and culture in the area, has not gone unnoticed! We appreciate your contribution!