Location: William Lake Provincial Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.9 km
Ecosystem types: Aspen-Oak Forest, Riparian Forest, Lake, Marsh, Grassland
Climb your way to incredible views on the Turtle's Back summit. This trail takes you up to a prominent hilltop in the Turtle Mountains, a feature once used by travelers to mark progress when traveling east and west. The trail starts by following along the forested shores of William Lake, then loops through aspen-oak dominated hills, before a final steep climb up to the lookout tower and endless tree-top views. Small bridges provide crossings across marshes and creeks, however some portions of the trail are quite wet and muddy due to high water and beaver activity. A small picnic area with tables and fire pits is located beside the lake part way down the trail, and can also be accessed by small watercraft. The trail begins in the park, then crosses into the Turtle Mountain Community Pasture where you may encounter cattle.
More information: http://www.gov.mb.ca/sd/parks/popular_parks/western/william.html
Trail data submitted by Rebekah Neufeld, Isaac Lyons and Philip Varcoe
Trailhead Sign - Photo by Rebekah Neufeld
Directions to trailhead